Discuss Matthew 16 Page 3

Knowing God vs knowing about Him: reflections on Good Friday

John 14:9 shows how Christ rather emphatically questions Philip as to his compression of God the Father when in the presence of His Son. This verse is by no means isolated where He states what seems to be obvious as to His inevitable death on the cross; as well as His divinity. Matthew 16:17 shows what seems to be an incredible swing in Peter's life from supernatural wisdom from the Spirit; to being influenced by Satan himself just a few verses later in Matthew 16:23 when Jesus says "get behind me Satan."

Mark 10:33 as well as an equivalent passage in Luke and others in Mark 9 make it clear that Jesus repeatedly explained His fate.

This should serve as a warning to us; along with of course Peter's prophesied betrayal and denial of Christ (which BTW also was what the other disciples did; without making such a bold proclamation of loyalty as Peter did).

The Pharisees; clearly should have known who Christ was; as well as those residents of Chorazin; Bethsaida and Capernium ( Matt. 11:21-22) whose judgments were to be greater than Sodom and Gomorrah who apparently would have repented seeing such things. This is; to say the least a sobering statement. Clearly apart from Divine Revelation we all are blinded.

Romans 5:7-8 shows how although someone may die for a righteous man; for wicked rebels as us who would want to do so?

But the Father from the beginning had some who would be called His own; and chosen (see John 6:37 and many other verses in John on the subject of Predestination also some of my segments on that subject in discussing John).

As the Spirit strives against the flesh ( Galatians 5:17); we realize that we don't love God in our old nature once the Spirit takes residence. We understand not only consequences of our sin; but that we don't want to grieve the Spirit ( Ephesians 4:30). It must be love which leads us to obedience ( John 14:15). Apart from grace our efforts are in vain.

Thoughts on Christ's sacrifice and how it should mirror our own journey as pilgrims on the earth ( 1 Peter 2:11).

The Lord along with at least 2 Apostles lived with an understanding of their time of death approaching (Paul after being warned what would come to pass in Jerusalem; and Peter after Christ's questioning his love for Him). There was always care to the disciples in the case of Christ; and the church in regard to Paul's ministry in particular but certainly Peter and others as well which superceded their own sufferings. This takes Spirit filled living of course; as well as loving our enemies ( Matt. 5:44). Jesus showed the ultimate example of concern at the cross (See John 19:26-27) when John brought Mary into his home (indicating; of course that Joseph had passed away by this point along with his absence in this passage).

Our natural inclination would be to react as Matthew 16:22 as Peter did to the thought of Christ going to the cross if we are honest. Good Friday is only good to us if we go beyond some ritual commemorating suffering without understanding His substitutionary death results in our atonement and ultimately commenced in victory at the Resurrection. This is how ugly our sins were and of course it demonstrates how we were yet sinners and Christ died for us; His enemies ( Romans 5:8). Christ; of course chose to do the Father's will; He was in one sense the victim of circumstances; but these were predestined to bring us to glory. The Father in Isaiah 53:10 was pleased to crush His Son; we cannot comprehend this as to the Godhead; or as to how great His love is for us.

Therefore let us commit our whole lives to patiently serving God; and believing that He is a rewarder of those who do good and diligently serve Him. ( Heb. 11:6). May we minister to the Body as we are all adopted sons; and no longer of this world. Isaiah 53:11 shows how Christ will enjoy the result of His suffering; Psalm 91:16 may apply to our future as well.

(Part 1): They shall not taste of death.

Lisalou,

If I may offer another perspective on this, we see Jesus saying this also in Matthew 16:28, and Mark 9:1. If you notice, after all three presentations, it immediately goes into the transfiguration of Christ. Matthew ends at Verse 28, but as soon as you go to Matthew 17:1, it talks about the transfiguration. It's the same thing right after Mark 9:1 and Luke 9:27.

When Jesus said, "there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God," I believe He was speaking of Peter, James, and John. They were the ones who Jesus took with Him up into the mountain to pray. They were the ones that were there to witness the transfiguration of Jesus.

Luke 9:29 tells us that as he was praying, the fashion (literally outward appearance) of his countenance (or face), was altered. In the Greek text, it just uses the word HETEROS. His face became different. But even with the Greek word HETEROS, meaning different in kind than He was before, it wasn't a physical change. It was a physical change into a spiritual change. Matthew uses the word metamorphosis, meaning completely transformed. In the Greek text, it just uses the word HETEROS. His face became different.

Now in Matthew Chapter 16, it is unfortunate that Verse 28 was placed in Chapter 16 because Verse 28 goes with Verse 1. Sometimes bible commentaries will stop at the end of Chapter 16 and do a five-page presentation of what Verse 28 means. All they had to do is say go to Verse 1, that there are some standing here that will not taste of death until they see the Son of Man coming.

Walking in the Spirit (part 7).

There is a clear warning between Matthew 16:17 and Matthew 16:23 and in regard to the about face Christ had from praise of revelation from God in regard to Peter and then suddenly telling Satan to get behind Him after he had gained a foothold over Peter so quickly afterwards. This is quite shocking and should serve us as with all scriptures with an example of just how quickly we could all be overtaken by evil when we think we stand (see 1 Cor. 10:12).

In both cases Peter was being used as a vessel for spiritual possession; as it were. It could be argued that the Spirit wasn't residing with him permanently; nonetheless Jesus' comment that only the Father could have revealed to Peter who He was clearly showed him as a saved individual. Also Satan may not have directly possessed him as it stated it was later on for Judas Iscariot; but nonetheless his mind was being controlled by the "thoughts of men" which Satan placed in his mind. That would probably imply that his natural inclination and desire to protect Christ and not see harm come to him was taking precedent over God's plan and purpose for Christ to die for atonement of the sins of all He has chosen (including on Peter's behalf as well).

Clearly Christ wasn't surprised by these things; and later on as I explained in a recent discussion Christ predicted his martyrdom and his restoration after the denial was prophesied as well to Peter. Lest we upbraid Peter we should remember that he was the only one with the "audacity" to walk on the water as well as to ask questions others no doubt pondered but were too afraid to mention out loud.

When we recognize our own weaknesses and frailty it certainly can't be that we will be carried away by such things if we stand on guard against the wiles of the devil (see James 4:7). We can't take our eyes off of Him though for Satan can and will use any opportunity given to him to blindside us; harass, torment, distract and mess us up.

The attempt to forestall the inevitable.

It seems; at least from much of my personal experience that kicking that perverbial can down the road is a rather common tactic for the unbeliever; namely that of death and judgment before our maker. Of course there are many other techniques as well; such as minimalizing the true hopelessness of our sin nature; attempting to steer all conversation on the evils of the world apart from our own accountability and sometimes obvious vices.

One of the blinders that we often embrace from our youth is some sentimental view of those of our own family or friends who have passed on; as being somehow in a better place. We do ourselves no favors here; for Jesus Himself didn't demonstrate any mercy for the rich man with the very real tale of the Lazarus Parable. It is the Lord which works in us who shine forth as the stars as part of the Body of believers which is the significant part of every saint of God that lasts on into eternity; albeit with different levels of glory and each being uniquely created to represent a particular blend of characteristics. We see this in the spiritual giftings in this life. Lest we "hyperspiritualize" any of this stuff; ALL aspects of a redeemed life from work to family to recreation as well as our "spiritual" duties such as witnessing; scripture reading; prayer; etc. are called to be a representative display of Christ's character in our lives.

Another important point here is that Christ was a man of sorrows ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as all other characteristics that chapter describes in great detail. There were many who admired him as a great teacher or prophet ( Matthew 16:13-20); but only those that understood that He was the Son of God (or the "I am") were truly saved. This shows why many didn't remain with Him; He wasn't afraid to challenge those would be disciples ( 2 Timothy 4:10; Luke 18:23; Matt. 19:22).

Another problem exists when we are afraid to confront national sins. See part 2)

Very nicely laid out brother Chris!

Now look at the chronological order here in 2 Thessalonians 2:7-8."For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.

"AND THEN SHALL THAT WICKED BE REVEALED", whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:

This is the Holyspirit being removed and "then" the Antichrist shall be revealed!

The Holyspirit dwells in the body of believers unlike the way He worked and moved under the old covenant.

Jeremiah 31:31-34 and

Hebrews 10:16.

Mathew 28:18-20 says something interesting that we can tie into 2 Thessalonians 2:7-8.

"And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, BAPTIZING THEM in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I AM WITH YOU ALWAY, EVEN UNTO THE END OF THE WORLD. Amen.

a) We're put into the body of believers "IDENTIFIED" With Christ.

Satan has ministers amongst us but Satan has no power over the Church!

Genesis 3:15. ( We are baptized into him that will bruise Satan's head.)

1 John 4:4. ( We have already overcome what's coming upon the world!)

Matthew 16:18. ( Gates in scripture is always used as defense. So who's on the offence and overcomes? The Church!! )

b) "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen"

WE ARE BAPTIZED IN CHRIST AND HE WILL NEVER LEAVE US.

Unlike Judaism the Church is not looking for their Messiah. .

We have him with and in us!!

The deception performed by the Antichrist is one coming as their Messiah, and he will deceive many!!

That can't happen while the Church is in the world.

1 John 2:20-28.

Thanks Brother!

We're learning a lot from your teachings.

God bless you.

1st Peter 3:21, "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us {not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,} by the resurrection of Jesus Christ". [Bible also says even 8 souls were saved by water in the days of Noah & the ark].

Colossians 21:12, "Buried w him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen w him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead".

Mark 16:16, " He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned".

Mark 16:17, "And these signs which will follow them that believe, In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues".



Ask the Lord to fill you with the Holy Ghost. Then we must walk in the Spirit & be led by the Spirit. So many say they have the Holy Ghost & they do not. If we dont love this truth, we will be deceived.

We must OBEY the gospel, not just read it. The epistles are not written to the world. It is written to the brethren, to the people that came from the book of Acts. They were water baptized in Jesus name, filled w the Holy Ghost & were a saved people.

There was no such thing as a triune God. It is a devil lie.

The Lord our God is one Lord.

Jesus gave Peter the keys to the kingdom of heaven in Matthew.

Matthew 16:19, "And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven:and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven:and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven".

There is a remnant that will be saved.

We must continue to grow in the Lord . Never be comfortable.

Dont be like the 5 foolish virgins that did not keep their oil burning.They were not keeping the Holy Ghost full in their hearts. In the end, they were not allowed into the door.

Be full of the Holy Ghost & love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind & strength & love thy neighbor as thyself. With love, this is how we obey his commandments.

Hallelujah and amen

Skiman,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Acts 10, read what the Lord told Peter when he was on the rooftop in a vision. It was not about water baptism. And we know it was not about food.

Acts 10:17, " Now while peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate",

V18, " And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there."

V19, "While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee".

V20, "Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing:for I have sent them".

V21, "Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ya are come?"

V22, " And they said, Cornelius the centurion, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear the words of thee."

I do not see anywhere in the bible where the Lord was upset at Peter speaking or preaching water baptism.

Show me.

Also, the Lord gave Peter the keys to the kingdom in Matthew 16:19,

"And I will give unto thee the keys to the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven". Peter preached Acts 2:38 & he was not in error doing so.

Hello Curious T.,

No, I don't believe we're supposed to wear crosses. Leviticus 26:1, nowhere does it say wear a cross, as jewelry. However it does say not to make idols.

Recently I thought, if a person had a friend that was killed by gunshot & had a miraculous recovery. How would he feel, if when he returned to his friends & family, they had an image of the gun or bullet around their neck, to honor him. I would think it would be upsetting to say the least. Wouldn't he say, "your missing the main point." isn't it the life lived?Jesus himself being the example of a loving life, helping others in need? & the hope & promise of resurrection. John 5:21-29, 1Corinthians 15:42-58, John 11:25, Ecclesiastes 5:15, 1Timothy 6:7,

Bare your cross: Luke 14, looking at context, whole chapter Jesus in doing the better thing by healing, suffered rejection, hate, wrongful judgement.

A cross is painful, it's obvious, on view for everyone to see, not something we can hide in our pocket. It causes ridicule & even division. Luke 14:11, Luke 14:12-14, Luke 14:17-20,24, Luke 14:26,27, also Matthew 10, note Matthew 10:36, Matthew 10:17,18, Matthew 10:21, Matthew 10:22, please read in context Matthew 10, Matthew 10:32-42, & Luke 9:22-26, also Matthew 16:21-28, Mark 8:29-38, Mark 10:14-52,

Philippians 2:1-15, Colossians 1:10-29 ,

Matthew 25:31-46, James 1:5,

Hopefully these are helpful

Part 2 of earlier posting.

This form of self-transformation is also referred to as self-righteousness ( Romans 10-3), while in truth you follow after a image of a false god and a false Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Gal. 4:8; Rev. 12:9). This is how Satan has transformed himself into an angel of light ( 2 Cor. 11:13-15) and deceived the whole world ( Rev. 12:9), as people by nature are in fact children of the devil ( Acts 13:10).

Gal. 1:11,12. The gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ ( Daniel 12:4,9; Amos 3:7; Matthew 16:17; Luke 2:26; Romans 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:10; Gal. 1:16; Eph. 3:3,5; Rev. 1:1).

The Word of God is God ( John 1:1) and the scriptural references we use serve as confirmation that it is not us that speak, but the Spirit of our Father that speaketh in us ( 2 Samuel 23:2; Matthew 10:20; Acts 4:8; 6:10).

Narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it ( Matthew 7:14).

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

Amen Gigi!!

Well stated, The Church is built on a rock!!

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

Isaiah 28:16.

THAT ROCK IS THE LORD JESUS.

The Lord is going to judge his Church BUT the Church is not backed into a corner by the adversary screaming for help!

Matthew 16:18 is not a picture of the Church on defense! It's hell needs the Gates.

We march straight forward with the truth! THE WORD OF GOD.

We're not of the world where we compromise it.

We're separated and the Lord done the separating!

And by his word the climax of victory shall be seen.

I Love what you said! Christ is the HEAD OF THE CHURCH.

How could someone supposedly having the Spirit of God come against it?

If you have not the Spirit of God you're none of his.

We're not all Brothern!

The difference in the Gospels speaks for itself.

If that sounds harsh listen to Paul in

Galatians 1:6-10.

I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

Did Paul say let him be accursed?

Lord help anyone else that says that!

The scripture is to sharp!

If I left out scripture and used secular definition here's what I come up with.

IMPOSTER; a person who pretends to be someone else in order to deceive others, especially for fraudulent gain.

I'll stick to scripture.

God bless.

I was just going back over Questions to see if we missed answering any.

We will all give account Romans 14:12, 1Peter 4, Jude 1, Matthew 16:27,

Also says Work out your own salvation with fear & trembling Philippians 2, Matthew 25:31-46,

Please notice context to What's being said, Luke 13:24,30, Matthew 24, Luke 18:24, Luke 18:9-43,

like Malachi 3:5, James 1,26,27, James 1, Luke 12, Luke 12:42-48,

I see within all of these, it's very important how we treat others especially those in deepest need, fatherless, widows, orphans etc.

1John 1:9, James 1:5

Hopefully this is helpful

Holy Spirit. Having introduced concepts of the Spirit vs the flesh and given some scriptural base (especially from Corinthians) on how it is to apply to the Body of Christ; I thought that I would examine the Spirit of God itself to show how it is unique from other spirits in this world as well as similarities.

Probably a basic distinction that can be made stems off from the previous discussion. Spirit beings whose source are from fallen angels and demonic entities rely on human sins to establish a foothold and more or less have men as puppets on a string. This becomes crucial in understanding why Christians must have an Ephesians 6 mentality. I have been affected myself in sleep particularly when whatever I think is God's protection seems to be of no avail from attacks. God is; in reality determining how much He will discipline us at all times; but if God could use a "messenger from Satan" against Paul ( 2 Cor. 12:7) and in fact allow Satan to affect Peter's mind to teach him to utterly depend on God ( Matthew 16:23); we certainly should be proactive ourselves. Our sinful nature as well as expressions of such give Satan and his minions legal action to either oppress or in some cases possess individuals. I am not about to debate if a Christian can be possessed outright but we certainly will be attacked.

The Holy Spirit of course confirms with our spirit that we are indeed "children of God" ( Romans 8:16 roughly translated).

Of course the obvious distinction of God is His "omni" everything (time; presence and authority). God in Isaiah 40:28 makes it clear that He never grows weary. Of course Christ did when He was in human form but in the Spirit He was always awake and alert; but now as in Psalm 121:4 "He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep."

I had thought that 1 Peter 5:8 says Satan doesn't sleep but it advises us to be ever vigilant. Spirit beings; however show no evidence of being tired in scripture. More in my nest installment.

Leaven and Tares

Part 1.

Leviticus 23:17.

Matthew 13:31-33.

What does these scriptures have in common?

Leaven in the Bible always represents evil and corruption.

Why is ir mentioned in these particular passages?

Leviticus 23:17.

Ye shall bring out of your habitations two wave loaves of two tenth deals: they shall be of fine flour; they shall be baken with LEAVEN; they are the firstfruits unto the LORD.

Matthew 13:31-33.

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:

Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.

Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto LEAVEN, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was LEAVENED.

In the OT leaven was a type of sin, evil, or corruption. When the two angels visited Lot in Sodom they were invited to eat "unleavened bread" ( Gen. 19:3). In connection with Israel's redemption from Egypt they were to eat the Passover with "unleavened bread" ( Ex. 12:8). Leaven was to be excluded from all blood offerings and sacrificial offerings made by fire.

In Leviticus 7:13 the leaven is present in the offering because sin is still present in the offerer! Leaven was permitted in the two wave loaves of Leviticus 23:17 because they represent two classes, the Jew and Gentile who are now made one in Christ. Although saved, the old nature is still present. When bread typifies Christ, it is unleavened; when bread typifies man, it is always leavened.

Jesus warned the disciples to "beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees" ( Matthew 16:6; and Luke 12:1).

See part 2.

In Matthew 16:4 while addressing the Pharisees and Sadducees what does Jesus mean by saying "they are wicked and look for miraculous signs but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah"- what is the sign of Jonah mean here?

Hi Donna.

I've noticed I've left out this info for more clarity in the way I interpret the verse.

The Church is given responsibility or charge to present the Gospel and how it is received will be accounted for in Heaven.

"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." Matthew 16:19.

God bless.

Hi Donna.

We also see this mentioned in Matthew 16:18-19. "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

To answer your question.

Let's take it from vs 15 of Matthew 18:15-18 'Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

( If a person wrongs another, and refuses to repent, that person who was wronged should return with one or two others and then take the issue to the church or assembly. If repentance never happens, that person should be treated as an outsider.)

The offender is binded by that offense if he doesn't repent.

If the offender does repent he will be loosed.

This is the keys mentioned in Matthew 16:19 "AND I WILL GIVE UNTO THEE THE KEYS OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN:" and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

To bind and to loose means

to forbid by an indisputable authority and to permit by an indisputable authority.

Bind=forbid.

loose=Permit.

I hope this helps.

God bless.

John 1:5 conclusion. When we read John 13:30; we see Judas Iscariot going out "immediately" after given the "sop" which was given traditionally to an honored guest. The narrative continues into John 14 and 15 all the way to John 15:16 which mentions the Disciples being called; chosen AND ordained (sans the traitor). The "fruit production" comes to those God has enabled to do this.

They have promises therefore of inheriting eternal life and the glories of heaven ( John 14:2).

The cost of being a disciple of course was soon to be revealed; namely in Peter's fall. In Luke 22:32 the word "converted" is used in order to describe what would soon happen. Christ knew all; of course that Peter was one of His own (as He would give nicknames to emphasize characteristics of the Apostles). In John 1:42 Jesus said that he would be called Cephus or the rock; later on in Matthew 16:16 we see that Christ was revealed to Peter as to who He was. Therefore the word converted here would mean to be restored spiritually after the fall; but it showed the effects of true repentance. Peter until this point was impetuous and immature in many ways as a child in his walk; so the meaning here is when Peter's outward behavior would represent a radical transfomation and involved dying to self. This made him ready after the Resurrection to take on what he knew would end up in martyrdom ( John 21:18). It also gave him boldness in the Book of Acts despite a realistic fear of his own persecution.

Let us therefore take heed; that we are slow to speak as well as swift to hear and slow to wrath (mixed up interpretation of James 1:19). We need to look out for false teachers as well; who self identify as believers; but show no evidence of true faith and producing good fruit.

Some things can't be understood. I have a few thoughts here in regard to Satan's creation and fall that may be helpful.

Satan himself was created as all things as God desired; origimally as we can see from both Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28 as a "Cherubim" and song worship position to glorify God in heaven. He clearly had free will; and also clearly saw spiritual realities so that he chose to rebel after becoming proud; then drew 1/3 of the angels after him ( Rev. 12:4).

God foreknew the need for the adversary for one clear reason; to test His saints as to their loyalties. Job apparently was unaware of the heavenly discussions going on with Satan and God and that Satan was the source of his troubles. Nonetheless; He tested what Satan had accused Job of; namely cursing God when things didn't go well as well as when his body was afflicted with boils.

This testing of character could also be evident when the "thorn in the flesh" that Paul had WAS clear as to its source; nonetheless GSod's grace was sufficient and He was NOT granted the healing he prayed for 3 times. ( 2 Cor. 12:7-10).

Secondly; it is necessary to lay down our lives sacrificially for the Lord or "carry our crosses daily." ( Luke 9:23). God used Satan to bring forth the "son of Perdition" with Judas Iscariot ( John 17:12 prophesied in Psalms 109:8 and elsewhere); as well as testing Peter in Matthew 16:23. Since Satan has been granted temporary authority in this world; He has been allowed both with false doctrines and outward persecution to test the saints; and ultimately; of course the Antichrist will be used when the whole world goes through its trial ( Rev. 3:10). As God draws all men to Himself (that are His sheep); He uses Satan as a "dragnet" to draw the whole world to eventually fight Christ ( Psalm 2; Rev. 19) as well as take the Mark of the Beast and worship him.

Rewards for the saints; therefore are procured through a conflict and resistance. Spiritual warfare is where victories are won.

Amen Giannis and Gerald.

Matthew 16:16-18

16) And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.

17)And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my

18)Father which is in heaven.

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

I believe Jesus is saying Peter what you declared in verse 16 is the rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

and Peter preached that on Pentecost.

I like the way you put that Giannis!

All three applies.

God bless.

Hello Spencer

Matthew 16:18

"And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.."

Lets read the above like a greek person reads it.

"You are Petros (a masculine name from the feminine noun "Petra" which means "stone, rock") and upon this rock I will build my church". So what Jesus actually says is "You are rock and upon this rock I will build my church".

So the question is, what does the Lord mean with that?

!. The Rock is Peter himself. It makes sence since there is a continuity in the text. The most possible explanation is that on Peter's preaching on the day of Pentecost the church was initiated and established.

2. The Rock is the declaration Peter did in verse 16, "And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.". On that declaration the church was supported and founded.

3. The Rock is Jesus Chist Himself, since He is the cornerstone of the spiritual building which is the church, as you said.

All 3 are possible. But I don't think anything changes really if one chooses any one of those.

GBU

Continuation from previous reply.

Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Do you notice who's doing the building? The Lord himself! PRECIOUS STONE!

Our own efforts can only build straw houses. ( Wood hay and stubble)

Hi. Allelee.

The Apostles lais the foundation in which we are to build upon.

Jesus is the Cornerstone. ( In building the Cornerstone is the first and most important part of the foundation. The rest of the building depends on It's perfection. afterwards the foundation is layed. (THE APOSTLES)

Then the comes the building. (US.)

Once the building has started there is no need of another foundation. This is what Christ was saying in Matthew 16:18. " upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."

HE was speaking of himself referencing Peters answer. ( Matthew 16:16 "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Ephesians 2:19-22. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

And are built upon the FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, Jesus Christ himself being the chief CORNER STONE;

In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

In whom YE ALSO ARE BUILDED TOGETHER FOR AN HABITATION of God through the Spirit.

Also see.

1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (KJV) According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

God bless.

Hello Bob. The Greek word for 'Church' (as in Matthew 18:17), is "ekklesia", which applies to a Church congregation, or even an assembly of people.

In Acts 19:38,39, we read, "Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another. But if ye enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful ASSEMBLY (ekklesia)." So here, we see the other use of the word, which the Bible translators correctly understood as not applying to the 'Church', but to a non-Church (legal) assembly.

But in Matthew chapter 18, Jesus is speaking to His disciples (verse 1), so as GiGi has shared, it can be accurately understood that this discourse given by Him, was a little insight to the future, i.e. in the administration of His Church, or Assembly, as the Holy Spirit had (or, was given) control & believers were added to it. When we look at this chapter, advice on conversion, humility, sin, conflict between the brethren & prayer are the topics the Lord brings up. Even as the Lord spoke to Peter in Matthew 16:18, that "upon this rock (the body of Truth) I will build my ekklesia".

Signs of the times..Discernment

Discernment is listed in regard to knowledge of the spirit world as a spiritual gift ( 1 Cor. 12:10) and apparently is listed in Hebrews in understanding between good and evil. Many of us for several reasons are sorely deficient in that area today.

Red flag #1: "Dumbing down scripture". The lack of TRUST in God's revealed and living Word is the basis for all sorts of evils.

It seems rather evident that many aren't even concerned about studying history and also having a fair and impartial study of scripture itself to see how it fits into a whole picture. We have all sorts of ways that we like to "cherry pick" certain verses that fit whatever doctrine is politically correct at the time. If the foundations be destroyed; what can the righteous do? ( Psalm 11:3). Once the "anchor of the soul" ( Heb. 6:19) is taken out as a basic element of our faith then of course we aren't able or willing to see a lie when it is presented.

Red flag #2: Eschatological error. Often referred to as a "secondary issue" once again when scripture isn't literally taken (unless the context and explanation within the text clearly indicates otherwise; we can be in dangerous waters. If; for instance we deliberately ignore verses such as 2 Timothy 3 on many falling away in the last days then we have some idea that a great revival will occur or must occur before He calls His church upward. This is confusing what is written in Revelation and Joel to name two places where a great number come to faith. Revelation makes it clear starting in the 5th Seal that mass martyrdom will be the result of this faith. Persecution is already abounding but for now the gates of hell will not prevail against the church. ( Matthew 16:18). According to Daniel the saints WILL by and large be overcome in the Tribulation ( Daniel 7:21).

Is this the expectation of those who preach of revival today? By and large; no.

to be continued...

In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.

The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, THAT ALL MEN THROUGH HIM MIGHT BELIEVE.

He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

That was the true Light, WHICH LIGHTEST EVERY MAN THAT COMETH INTO THE WORLD. John 1:4-9.

2 Corinthians 4:3-4. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

NO MAN CAN COME TO ME, EXCEPT THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT ME DRAW HIM: and I will raise him up at the last day. John 6:44.

(It is the spirit of God that draws man to the Lord.)

John 6:60-65.

Matthew 16:17.

1 Peter 1:10-11.

1 Corinthians 2:9-11.

1 Corinthians 2:12-16.

1 Corinthians 12:3.

God bless.

Hello Peggy. You could look up the following Scriptures on Jesus Christ's Deity (i.e. God's fullness found in Jesus ( Colossians 2:9) & in His Holy Spirit). Jesus' Deity is proved by:

a. His Names: Hebrews 1:8, John 20:28 (God); Matthew 16:16, Matthew 26:61-65 (the Son of God); Matthew 22:41-46 (Lord); Revelation 19:13 (Word of God); Revelation 19:16 (King of kings and Lord of lords).

b. His Characteristics: Matthew 28:18 (Omnipotence: all powerful); Luke 6:8, John 2:24,25, John 13:11 (Omniscience: all knowing); Matthew 18:20 (Omnipresence: present in any place); John 1:4 (Life); John 14:6 (Truth); Hebrews 13:8 (Immutability: unchanging); 1 Timothy 3:16, John 1:1-14 (God manifest in the flesh in Jesus).

c. His Works: John 1:3, Colossians 1:16 (creates); Colossians 1:17 (sustains); Luke 7:48,49 (forgives sin); John 11:41-44 (raises the dead); John 5:27 (judges); John 15:26 (sends the Holy Spirit).

d. His receiving Worship: Hebrews 1:6 (from angels); Revelation 5:11-13 (from other heavenly beings); Matthew 14:33 (from men); Philippians 2:10 (from all).

e. His equality within the Triune God: John 14:23, John 10:30-33 (with the Father); Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14 (with the Father and the Spirit).

I hope you can see from these few Scriptures that Jesus was not just a special Man or Prophet sent by God, but truly was "God manifested in the flesh". No other man before Jesus' coming, during, or after His leaving this Earth, could ever fully reflect God's Glory, Wisdom & Power. Only God could - and He did this by sending us His Word, made Him a Man, so that He could give His Life as full payment for our sins - but only to those who believe this & place their trust in Him. To some, the 'Trinity' teaching is abominable. But man's salvation depends on the Divine Person of the Lord Jesus Christ - that God could accept no other Sacrifice to redeem & secure people to Himself - only by giving fully of Himself, which is true love for all.

Page 1.

Just a few thoughts on what you've shared GiGi. I'm considering the three passages: Matthew 16:24,25; Matthew 11:28-30; Galatians 2:20.

a. Matthew 16:24,25. "Discipleship". Discipleship is costly, more costly than most of us can imagine or have even experienced. To put everything pertaining to life behind one (family, possessions, ambitions, reliance on the material), equates to denying oneself. And to take up one's cross, would be the cumulative effect of that denial/casting aside which one must be prepared to carry for the journey ahead. And this must also include whatever unknowns may lie ahead (of hunger, shelter, loneliness, rejection & persecution). I would think that very few have submitted so fully to the Lord, though the disciples, to whom these words were directly spoken, joyfully apprehended it when "endued with power from on high".

b. Matthew 11:28-30. "Under Grace". Though this passage can accurately be applied to the Lord's gracious Ministry to all, I believe that He is particularly referring to the religious leaders who exacted much much more from the people than what the Law demanded. In Matthew 23:1-4, Jesus spoke of those leaders who correctly brought out Moses' Law, but then He chided them because they added their own "heavy burdens" upon the people, making obedience to the Law wearisome coupled with fear for the penalty if their rules were broken. Therefore, Jesus calls all those that are so burdened & yoked to pharisaical rules to turn to Him, He Whose "yoke" is undergirded with Grace & Truth.

Ephesians 3:5, Matthew 1, Luke 1, Luke 2, Mark 1, Psalms 22, Isaiah 53, Isaiah 11:2, Zechariah 13:6,

Matthew 16:13-17, Luke 4:40,41, Matthew 15:29-38, Isaiah 42:1-7, Matthew 12:17-23,

Luke 24:6,7,15,16,27, in context Luke 24, Luke 23,

Hopefully these are helpful