In fact,there are two types of famine occurring in the world at this time,material famine is figure of spiritual famine,both are signs of JESUS's coming.
Your post suggests two interestings scenaries for us to meditate.The description below gives us two different aspects of the famine's scenaries.
So,speaking of famine,we can compare how our GOD provides a solution for this terrible event,and how Satan and his partners suggest a solution being them demonic governments,devilish religious guides,idolaters,spiritist/esoterics,among others.
How does our GOD provide the solution for this problem of hunger of bread? Mark 8:11-21:
11The Pharisees came forth and question with JESUS, seeking of him a sign from heaven,tempting Him.
12He sighed deeply in His spirit,and saith,Why doth this generation seek after a sign?verily I say unto you,There shall no sign be given unto this generation.
13And he left them,...
14The disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf.
15JESUS said:Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees,and of the leaven of Herod.
16And they reasoned among themselves,saying,It is because we have no bread.
17JESUS knew it and saith unto them,Why reason ye,because ye have no bread?perceive ye not yet,neither understand?have ye your heart yet hardened?
18Having eyes,see ye not?and having ears,hear ye not?and do ye not remember?
19I brake five loaves among five thousand,how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?They say unto Him,Twelve.
20And the seven among four thousand,how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?they said,Seven.
21JESUS said,How is it that ye do not understand?
ITOH, how does Satan and his partners provide solution for this problem of hunger of bread?
They simply say:Command that stones be made bread.The heart of demonic men are like stone,the world of Devil is full of stones,they suggest for asking for alms,they create beggars. James 5:1-6 combined with Matthew 19:23.
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
Hello Trishkus: I hope it's okay if I respond to some of the "things people have told you" as not being quite right according to the KJB. I want to encourage you not to believe what I or others have told you. In 2 Timothy 2:15 God very plainly tells us to study for ourselves, rightly dividing the truth. If you are a born again child of God the Holy Ghost will give you decrement in understanding His word. You are right about all the modern versions of the bible, like the NKJV, ESV, NIV, etc. They're corrupt. They change doctrine not just the language that people claim they can't understand. There are videos you can see that simply give you a comparison verse by verse. You might also download biblehub.org. It will help you a lot. In response to the first thing you mentioned, I'm not sure what happened, but you are only condemned if you don't accept Jesus as your Savior while on this earth. Perhaps forget about that. If you haven't already, repent and accept Christ into your heart and dedicate your life to Him and, as long as you keep Him in your heart and life, you will not be condemned. Water baptism should be done by you as a testimony that you have accepted Him as your Savior but it's NOT necessary for salvation. It is the blood of Jesus that saves us not His blood AND water. Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, we must put Him first in our life. We must give ourselves to Him in prayer, fasting and study to be always His obedient child. The rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-22, was told by Jesus to sell all his belongings in order to gain heaven but the lesson Jesus was teaching was he needed to love God more then his possessions. The reasons God turned away from the Jews was because they refused to accept Jesus as their Messiah, which would have led them to be a witness for Him to the Gentiles. Most of them continued to do this until they ultimately crucified Him. His church then taught the Jews and Gentiles of salvation through Jesus. God Bless :)
What a great read. Thank you so much for sharing this. You bring up a great point about the man being stoned to death for picking up sticks on the Sabbath. And yes, the Sabbath was given to the children of Israel as a sign between them and God. Have you ever noticed that out of all the 10 Commandments given in the Old Testament (Exodus Chapter 20), only 9 of them are given emphasis in the New Testament ( Matthew 19:18, Romans 13:9).
The commandment to keep the Sabbath day holy seems to be left out of the New Testament. I see no such commandment given to the church. There is no such commandment given to the church to keep the Sabbath day the way the Jews were to keep it. The Sabbath was part of the Old Covenant Law between God and Israel. The church was not in existence when this command was given. As Christians, are we under the Old Covenant law, or are we under God's grace? This is just a general question, no need to provide an answer as I'm sure I know your answer to this one.
To us today, it would seem quite extreme to see someone put to death for something as simple as picking up sticks on the Sabbath. Some say that we must keep the Sabbath day holy, but also say that it's okay to do certain things (even more than just picking up sticks), and that's justified if it's something they need. I wonder how many of today's Sabbath Keepers would be stoned to death today for the things they do on the Sabbath day, if they were to do those same things if they lived during the time the command was given?
We as believers have freedom in Jesus Christ. We are not to judge others regarding their view on keeping the Sabbath, regardless of which view one takes ( Colossians 2:16). And yes, our rest is in Christ Jesus, Amen!
Again, thank you for sharing this. I have been following along in this topic for the past week or so but chose to stay out as it seems to be a very sensitive subject with some. I'll just leave it at that.
Thank you for sharing that Brother Michael Dorsey. I do agree with what you have written, & especially noted, "The only perfect translation You are going to find is to have the Original Manuscripts". I too have used Bible Hub for years, mainly for its Hebrew & Greek Lexicons & found it to be very good & useful in better understanding words (especially those debatable ones) giving me a fuller understanding of the passage. However, one Greek brother who comes on here sometimes, did check me on what I had once written to someone (when giving a meaning of a word). He said that in Greek, my advice given was incorrect & he went further to do research on why that word was used. Apparently, it wasn't taken from the Greek text as given in the Textus Receptus, but from another source. So I say this, as one may need to take care, seeing that Bible Hub doesn't necessarily use the TR/KJB as the source material for publishing its Greek words.
And even here on this Site, a little while ago there has been debate on the word 'perfect', as found in e.g. Matthew 5:48, Matthew 19:21, 1 Corinthians 2:6. This word 'perfect' has been used by some here to denote, 'sinlessness', that we have to be, or even now, are sinless. Not sure of your position on this, but reading the Greek, 'teleios', seems to indicate more towards 'completeness, full-grown, mature'. Now in Matthew 5:48 we have a problem, we see that Jesus gives the command, to "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." So, clearly the absolute perfection that our Father fully has within Himself, cannot be the same that we need to have/strive for on Earth: that is, not towards sinlessness, but towards maturity & completeness. So, I share this just to show how important the original languages are to assist us in understanding God's Word, and especially the KJB (17th Century) which uses language & expressions that sometimes are quite foreign to us here in the 21st Century.
Rev 14:12 there is a word you forgot "AND" ..The commandments of God AND the faith of Jesus"
Jesus never said if you love me keep Moses' commandments. Nope, keep his commandments. The ten commandments are grevious Jesus' aren't. Jesus' commandments 100% conditional love.
John 14:15] If ye love me, keep my commandments.
[16] And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
21] He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
1st John 5:[2] By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.
[3] For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
Rev 22:14] Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
[15] For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
What are Jesus' commandments?
1) Sin not
2) Be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect
3) Love one another as I have loved you
4) Matthew 5:3-48.
Jesus never endorsed Moses' ministry. He laid down the new foundation in Matthew 5.
Matthew 19:[8] He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
9] And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
The commandments of Jesus the law of spirit and life which sets us free from the law of Moses sin and death.
Greetings Stewart, peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.
I understand what you mean, a few people think I'm "crazy" because I take the whole bible literal. I know some passages are symbolic etc. But when Jesus said to the the rich man ( Matthew 19:21) "Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." I took this literal. My PC and TV is all that I own and I only use it to study. Stay off youtube etc. ( Matthew 24:23) "Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not." Instead continue to ( 2 Timothy 2:15) "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
I thought I would start in the Old Testament; realizing of course that the Holy Spirit didn't remain with a man as it does in the New Testament era. There are; nonetheless principles here that need to be addressed. Perhaps an appropriate start is with the story of Saul and the prophets. 1 Samuel 10:10 states "the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them." A similar event happened in 1 Samuel 19:24. When we see the last state of Saul; who the night before his death consulted with a witch to seek his fate ( 1 Samuel 28) and other things that happened once he started pursuing David; we see a man who probably died lost.
The principle here is that God COULD allow certain true manifestations in the Spirit to occur with someone (as we see with Judas Iscariot going out and healing/casting out demons along with the other 11 Disciples in Luke 9:1-2.) The manifestation of the Spirit therefore doesn't guarantee FRUIT of the Spirit which is in all those who have true faith (again as illustrated with the Parable of the Sower and the seed in Matthew 13; and as we see listed in Galatians 5:22-23. We see quite the opposite in Saul; we see jealousy; strife; and a murderous intent; and presence of a tormenting spirit or demon.
Suffering for His name's sake and prioritizing the Lord over everyone and everything else was a challenge the Lord used on many would be disciples such as in Luke 9:57-62 with three men in a row who apparently walked away after being challenged.
Jesus chose His 12 Apostles as Disciples carefully; the 11 who truly believed along with the 12th in the Book of Acts chosen would rule and reign with Christ someday ( Matthew 19:28). This would cost them their lives; however as martyrs except for John. A crown is promised for martyrs ( Rev. 2:10). Others are for pastors; those patiently waiting for His coming; evangelists; and apparently for self control. Many variations exist; let the reader study all passages
You mentioned me in your post above, so I felt that I should respond to you, as you have always been honest, sincere, and open regarding the scriptures.
Jesus informs us and provides us with warnings in the following in scripture:
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Jesus tells us above if we want to enter into life - keep the commandments.
Revelation 22:14"Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
If we want to have the right to the tree of life, and enter through the gates into the city we will do His Commandments. Jesus is stating: will do His Commandments. Who is Jesus referring to when he say His? God.
Both of these verses are spoken by Jesus, and both are commanding us (Christians) to keep God's Commandments if we wish to receive eternal life.
It can't get much clearer than this scripture, and the scripture itself will convict unbelievers.
The only possible argument on the above scripture would be how do we accomplish following God's Commandments. A Born Again Christian is following these Commandments via God's Holy Spirit, not of their own accord. Per this verse: 1 John 3:24
"And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us."
So this really puts to rest the argument by a few on this site; that believe following God's Commandments aren't necessary, or that when we follow them, or encourage others to do so, we are trying to create/work for our own salvation. As you implied, we are living in the Spirt and being obedient to our God. Amen
Jesus/God shines the light for us, all we have to do is believe and follow it!
The scripture below is truth, and it convicts all those that believe as you.
1 John 2: "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Revelation 22:14"Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
Jesus spoke to apostle John in this verse above in Revelation 22:14 approximately 60 years after His death on the cross, and about 18 years after apostle Pauls death. Jesus knew what Paul preached, and he preached the same gospel as Christ! Paul did not cancel any of God's commandments, he and all of the apostles followed them during their lives. Do you really believe you are favored over and above Christ and His apostles, they followed the Commandments but now you and others today feel you don't have to. Really.
Lastly, I do not believe we can continue this discussion as your beliefs conflict with the scripture, and your popular modern day take on salvation 2Tim 4:3 is only deceiving to those that are not living in God's Spirit. 1 John 3:24 God's Salvation is not a buffet to pick and choose what scripture that you believe, and what scripture you will ignore!
I pray that God's Spirit will eventually convict you, and some others here, to actually pick up your cross and follow Christ, which will result in obedience, and a desire to follow Gods Commandments, and turn away from this sinful and deceived world. Matt 16:24
Contrary to what you said; I'm not stating anything surreptitiously. Dictionary meaning of surreptitiously: in a way that attempts to avoid notice or attention;
Actually, I'm shouting Jesus/God's message from scripture: from the rooftops for all to hear!
Yes, I try to follow Jesus/God's directives, including the commands to follow God's commandments and repent from sin that come straight from the bible scripture.
Matthew 19:17
"And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Jesus tells us above if we want to enter into life - keep the commandments.
Jesus tells us again here: Revelation 22:14"Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
Do you want to have the right to the tree of life, and enter through the gates into the city? If you do, you will follow God's/Jesus commandments.
Jesus/God shines the light for all to see, all we have to do is believe, have FAITH and apply his commands to our lives and He will live in us, and us in Him!
It is tragic that most of the major denominations - Roman Catholic and Protestant - embrace an eschatology ("study of last things") that is amillennial : a view that does not envision a literal rule of Christ on the Throne of David on the Planet Earth.
While there are many different, yet defendable, views regarding many aspects of end-time prophecies, this basic divergence - denying a literal Millennium - is particularly dangerous in that it would appear to be an attack on the very character of God! It does violence to His numerous and explicit promises and commitments that pervade both the Old and New Testaments.
The Old Testament is replete with commitments for a literal Messiah ultimately ruling the world through Israel from His throne in Jerusalem. There are at least 1,845 references in the Old Testament and 17 books give prominence to the event. The ancient rabbinical aspirations were dominated by it. In fact, this obsession obscured their recognizing the Messiah when He made His initial appearance.
There are at least 318 references in 216 chapters of the New Testament and 23 of its 27 books give prominence to the event. The early church looked longingly for His promised return as their "Blessed Hope" to rid their desperate world of its evil rulers. How and where did this skepticism known as "Amillennialism" begin?
Origen
Pious, popular, and persuasive, Origen stands out as one of the great figures of the 3rd century church. Even at the age of 18, he stood out spectacularly well as a teacher in Alexandria. (In misguided obedience to Matthew 19:12, he emasculated himself, which he later regretted.) Later, as a prolific writer based in Caesarea, his De Principiis systematically laid out Christian doctrine in terms of Hellenic thinking and set the pattern for most subsequent theological thought for many years.
The kjv is what I use. After a personal study for 5 years on which Bible to use. Read kjv Matthew 19:3-9 Matthew 5:31-321Corinthians 7:15. You are not sinning. I've been divorced 2 times too. Looking at a 3 and final mart now- it's scriptural. God bless you
Back to the use of 'hyperbole' in the Bible, David 0921. Hyperbole, or 'an obvious & intentional exaggeration' (Dictionary), is found throughout the Bible. Here in Psalm 58:3 (a babe speaking lies at birth; the emphasis here is on the depth of wickedness found in some people). Is this God's Word? Yes it is. Can God use such language (through his servants) to communicate to us? Yes He can. Are we required then to believe that a new born child speaks lies, or should we learn from such hyperbolic language of the severity of wicked men?
Lest we think that this is just a rare occasion of such language, we could consider other Scriptures: Deuteronomy 1:28 (cities walled up to the (skies)); Jesus' Own Words: Matthew 19:24 (a camel going through a needle's eye); Luke 14:26 (hating family & one's own life, though 'hate' used as the strongest term for 'total rejection'); Matthew 5:29 (gouging out the eye); John 4:39 (the woman's testimony that Jesus told her every account of her life); and many more.
So all these are given as irrefutable words that God has allowed into it, including hyperbolic language, metaphors, similes. Yet, they are to be understood as such, or else our understanding would take a dangerous divergent turn that can only lead to error. Which hopefully leads us to the 'eternity' question: are the descriptions of hell or an eternal raging fire for all the unrepentant, factual or simply use of hyperbolic language? So here we have the problem: why would Jesus refer to that time using that type of language, as also the apostles did (or alluded to it), when only the grave is the final destiny of the unsaved? Understood, that heaven & an eternal life in all purity & happiness with our Great God & Savior should be the desire of all; but is this wonderful message alone, sufficient to cause sinners to truly repent & yearn for God's forgiveness, rather, as there is an eternity of bliss, so there is also an eternity of woe that Christ came, giving us an escape route?
COMPARING PREMILLENNIAL AND AMILLENNIAL VIEW POINTS.
By way of recap we're comparing the way these two groups interpret the scripture surrounding the Abrahamic and Davidic Covenants.
Part 5.
In Hosea 3:4-5. before the Babylonian captivity, it was predicted: "For the children of Israel shall abide many days without king or Prince...
"Afterward SHALL THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days.
Hosea 3:5
Also;
Amos 9:11.
Zachariah 14:4.
Zachariah 14:9.
This of is not a contradiction of the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant, but is a part of the same picture.
and many more OT references.
LET'S REVIEW THE NEW TESTAMENT.
According to Luke 1:30-33 the angel Gabriel told Mary that she is to be the mother of Christ and Christ will reign on the throne of His father David over the house of Jacob.
To Mary "the house of Jacob" could mean only one thing and that is the descendants of Jacob, namely, the twelve tribes of Israel.
It seems the disciples and others anticipated much the same kind of a literal fulfillment.
Matthew 19:28.
Matthew 20:20-21.
Luke 22:29-30.
Acts 1:6-7. The disciples were still anticipating an earthly kingdom and hoped for its immediately.
Christ did not say that their hope was vain and that there was not going to be a literal fulfillment. He replied: "It is not for you to know the times or seasons, which the Father hath set within his own authority."
But He directs their attention to the immediately task before them, and to the power of the Holyspirit Spirit and proclaim the Gospel to the whole world.
Now this is where the line is drawn from dealing with Israel until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Confirming verses at the council in Jerusalem in Acts 15:13-17.
I may be different, but in my understanding of the Bible, I approach scripture simply and do not try to complicate things with preconceived ideas and let the Bible and the Holy Spirit do the interpretation. To me, a symbol will have a non-symbolic meaning.
A symbol represents something real, a real person, a real thing, or a historical event. When I read, I understand words in a literal sense first, then in a figurative or spiritual sense if the literal doesn't make sense.
Are the Christians now the Israel of God? Have the promises to Israel and the church merged into one common heritage? If so that brings up.
Will the promise of the land given to Abraham's seed, Isaac then Jacob be fulfilled? Isaiah 11:11-12Ezekiel 37:21-25Jeremiah 24:5-6Ezekiel 34:11-12Ezekiel 36:24-26Hosea 3:4-5Micah 4:6-7Zechariah 13:8-9
Will Jesus the Messiah return and reign on the earth, with a rod of iron? Isaiah 2:1-4Isaiah 11:1-4Daniel 2:44Daniel 7:14Zechariah 14:1-4Jeremiah 3:17Revelation 2:26-27Revelation 11:15Revelation 12:5Revelation 19:11-21.
Will there be a literal millennium during which Satan will not deceive the nations and Christ will reign on earth? Revelation 20:1-62 Timothy 2:11-12Isaiah 2:2-4Isaiah 11:5-16Isaiah 65:19-25Isaiah 51:4-5Zechariah 14:16-21Micah 4:1-4Psalms 46:7-11Matthew 19:28.
To me there are too many scriptures that are showing God has not replaced Israel with the Church. We see in Romans 11:24-27 a day when God will again turn to Israel, the day Jesus returns. Forgive me if some of the scriptures do not fit.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. ( Galatians 3:26)
And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. ( Mark 11:22)
Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. ( Mark 9:23)
But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. ( Matthew 19:26)
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. ( Hebrews 13:5)
I hope and pray these scriptures help your faith walk. It's not how we feel its according to our faith (believing and accepting God's word as it is written) and as we believe and accept God's plan of salvation by faith (not by works, Jesus paid that precious price for our salvation), then we can do the works of Christ Jesus and build up our most holy faith by believing, prayer, studying scripture, etc.
I used search words of faith, believe, and possible to find and share some scriptures. You might find searching the word promise to be encouraging, to read and believe all the promises that are for us in God's word. I am happy to hear about your desire to continue your walk with the Lord, stay encouraged and keep the faith in all areas of your life. Nothing is too hard for God, we can begin again. God never stopped loving and forgiving us, just accept it by faith and walk in it.
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I MAY apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count NOT myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, when everything in his life was to end soon he writes,
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
Finally lets go to Matthew 19:28,
"And Jesus said unto them (the 12), Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
Jesus gives a promise to His disciples, including Judas, that they will sit on thrones and judge the 12 tribes of Israel. Did Judas get that promise? No, he didn't. Why not? Because he failed. But that promise was for him as well, wasn't it? But he didn't get it. There is always a condition for one to get the promise of salvation, like Paul wrote above to "have fought a good fight, to have finished the course, to have kept the faith".
He doesn't cause everyone to believe at the same time.
Paul didn't believe until God caused him to believe.
Everything has an APPOINTED TIME; it the works of God, his timetable.
He chose Jacob; and not Esau, before they were ever conceived.
Hebrews 11:20 By faith (by the spirit of Christ) Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, concerning THINGS TO COME.
Jacob; the last, was given dominion over the first.
Genesis 27:37
The first born of flesh is not always the first born of spirit.
Matthew 19:30 ... The first shall be last and the last first ....
After the second resurrection, when Esau stands in his former estate, his flesh, he will be caused to believe and the yoke will be broken from his neck.
Genesis 27:40
All things were maded new by Christ resurrection, but all things have an appoint time to come to TRUTH.
Romans 9:21 Hath not the potter POWER over the clay, of the same lump, to make one a vessel of HONOUR, and the other a vessel of DISHONOUR?
Daniel 4:35 And all the inhabitants of the world are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth, and NONE can stay his hand, or say unto him, what doest thou?
Jeremiah 18:4 And the vessel he made of clay was MARRED in the potter's hand, so he MADE it again ....
Psalms 104:30 Thou sendest forth thy spirit (when he chooses to do so), they are CREATED and thou renewest the face of the earth.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven
Psalms 123:2 ...so our eyes wait upon the lord, UNTIL he have mercy upon us ....
NOT YET are ALL THINGS put under him; BUT, when they are, God will be ALL IN ALL.
Why does God have to send Elijah before Jesus comes the 2 nd time ?....Simple b/c Elijah has to come and turn the hearts of the ppl the fathers to the Children... what Children ?....That Israel of God that are gonna be born in us which are spirits....As Jesus said that which is born of the spirit is spirit....Thats the Children of PROMISE....That manchild the H.G....Remember the cross wd result in multiplication of his seed ....Smite the shepperd and the sheep will be scattered.... Malachi 4:3 kjv...Then i will turn my hand to the lil ones...The CHILDREN OF Promise.....Elijah wants to turn our hearts TO these Children of Promise....Which answer to our new hearts and new spirits ...A new innerman.....The H.G....And thats when Jesus and his kingdom comes....Remember what Jesus said unless you receive the Kingdom of God as a lil Child you will in no wise enter there in....Thats y Elijah is trying to turn the hearts of humanity to these children....Which are baby Christ...Behold me and the Children the lord has given me....Remember i will multiply thy seed as the stars of heaven....The babes and sucklings are the Children the H.G. PLURAL ....But we are the Church the Elect lady....We be just a joint heir with the manchild the H.G....The only real heir. and elect....The Church is just the elect lady....But they are gona be made 1....That was his prayer in John 17...ok
Jesus knew that b/c of his death he wd be multiplied as the stars of heaven.... Matthew 19:28 kjv....Thats y he said blessed are them that follow me in the regeneration....That great multiplication of his seed the contents of the book in the fathers right hand...That New Covenant...Thats y he has to know us which is an intimacy that results in a birth of Christ in US his CHILDREN....Behold me and the Children the lord has given me...I think thats y Jesus is always speaking of the babes and sucklings....In my mind i see them as his Children...That are able to praise God with a perfect praise...gbu
They ask Jesus what shall be the sign of thy coming and the end of the world....Matthews 24:3....And he mentions sorrows....Child birth...b/c i have spoken these words ( his seeds ) sorrows have filled your hearts....A spritual pregnancy...When a woman is in travail she has sorrows but after the Child comes her sorrows are turned into joy....Ye now have sorrows but I will see you again....Whosoever receives one such Child in my name receives me....Its only the H.G. that Child of promise that comes in his name...And he shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the lord will name....Simply b/c Jesus is the father of the Child....As Isaiah refers to Jesus as everlasting father....The Child is the H.G. that Child of PROMISE...Whosoever receiveth one such child in my name receiveth me....Thats y he has to know us...B/c i have spoken these words ( his Seeds ) sorrows have filled your hearts a spiritual pregnancy....The substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen....As the Child is the H.G. That Child of Promise.
......When he breathe on them he was regenerating himself with his breath which was his words his Seeds....That was the great Promise i will multiply thy Seed as the stars of heaven....His Seed is spirit....Thats y he was saying....That which is born of the spirit is spirit which is the new born babe the H.G.....The regeneration of Christ Jesus in humanity.....Blessed are them that follow me in the regeneration.... Matthew 19:28....When the sower will go forth to sow his precious seed in humanity as the field is the world... Matthew 13 :18 kjv....Thats y he always refers to himself as the SON OF MAN....Simply b/c mankind has to bring forth fruit unto God... Rev. 12:5 kjv...She brought forth a man child that is gonna rule all nations....The parable of the sower and his precious seed is about the regeneration of Christ in humanity...And the contents of the book that he wrote with his own blood...That book of life that N.C.....ok lemme go.GBU
The Word of God teaches us in 1 Cor. 2:14 that the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned.
This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).
May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
Please remember, the above words are not our words but from the 'Word of God' and they are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17).
It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4) but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).
Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).
And then will I profess unto themI never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23).
The first prerequisite to start your journey of repentance is to be able to acknowledge that you are a sinner and separated from God. This has been made almost impossible because of people's natural conditioning ( Matthew 19:23-26), as the devil (your natural spirit) has you convinced through man-made teachings and religious doctrines, that you are a child of God ( Matthew 15:7-9).
The Word of God teaches us in 1 Cor. 2:14 that the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned.
This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).
May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
Please remember, the above words are not our words but from the 'Word of God' and they are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17).
It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4) but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).
Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).
And then will I profess unto themI never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23).
The first prerequisite to start your journey of repentance is to be able to acknowledge that you are a sinner and separated from God. This has been made almost impossible because of people's natural conditioning ( Matthew 19:23-26), as the devil (your natural spirit) has you convinced through man-made teachings and religious doctrines, that you are a child of God ( Matthew 15:7-9).
The Word of God teaches us in 1 Cor. 2:14 that the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned.
This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).
May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
Please remember, the above words are not our words but from the 'Word of God' and they are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17).
It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4) but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).
Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).
And then will I profess unto themI never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23).
The first prerequisite to start your journey of repentance is to be able to acknowledge that you are a sinner and separated from God. This has been made almost impossible because of people's natural conditioning ( Matthew 19:23-26), as the devil (your natural spirit) has you convinced through man-made teachings and religious doctrines, that you are a child of God ( Matthew 15:7-9).
Hi James. The command to give honor to our parents is to show the respect, love & readiness to be there for them when they find themselves in need. Yet, in some homes sadly, sexual abuse, drunkenness & disorderly behavior can make the child's desire to love or obey the commandment so much more difficult. Fortunately, there are laws for their protection & removal.
Then, as you quoted Matthew 19:29, and I would also submit Luke 14:26, we read of what seems a departure from giving all due love & respect to parents. However, I don't believe Jesus wants those who wholeheartedly follow Him, in maybe some service that takes them far from home, to stop loving or respecting their parents. It's a matter of priority that the Lord gives: He must always be first in our lives - even before family & self. Those who have the call of the Lord upon their lives, can certainly trust Him to care & provide for his or her family; and the family (parents) should certainly understand the burden upon their 'child' to serve & that the Lord will see to all of their needs.
Not all of our , by that I mean gentiles / none Jews , mothers and fathers are Christians . Or even religious at all . The commandment was given to the Israelites and is part of the covenant of Moses , we are not under that covenant , we are part of the new covenant , Christians . We can still honour our parents , even if they are not Christians , we can still treat them with kindness and affection and respect . We , as Christians , should treat everyone with kindness and respect , but , who is King in our hearts ? If our mom or dad said to any of us : I don't want you in my house if you are a Christian ! Give it up or get out ! What would we do ? What do we think God would want us to do ? Would we do it ? So , it's just about treating everyone with kindness and respect but keeping Jesus enthroned in our hearts and anyone who doesn't want to know us because of our faith ? Stay friendly if possible ? If not , so what ? Prioritise , that's all .
What is good and evil? To get a definition we must first adhere to God's standards rather than our own; while acknowledging that His ways are higher than ours. For instance; we are not commanded to fight against the whole world of wicked man and the Antichrist and False Prophet and usher in God's Kingdom. There are some Dominionists who seem to go pretty far in that direction though; acting like Christ coming in vengeance ( Isaiah 63:3) is going to somehow be preceded by a red carpet welcoming mat of a world that is subjugated to Christianity. That isn't even what Post Mil reformers are saying! In any case a mass slaughter of most of the surviving earth at the end of the Tribulation isn't something that would be classified as good for anyone but the King of Kings. No doubt; of course Antichrist will beforehand attempt to justify his wars of conquest as a "man of peace" and when that is proven to be wrong; as the only one who can fight God who will be; to put it mildly called unjust.
To the world; Psalm 2 will seem like a way to "loosen their fetters" so to speak; this will seem like the ultimate revolutionary act to do for the world against those "aliens" attempting to invade the earth!
The other side of the coin; of course is the concept of what exactly "good" is. We know that God Himself can do no wrong; and is love itself ( Job 34:12; 1 John 4:8). We know that no one does good and all are estranged from the womb ( Romans 3:12; Psalms 14:3). Christ mentions this with those who are "evil" that give good gifts to their children. ( Luke 11:13). Therefore; the action may be the same among the regenerate and unsaved; but the motivations will be different; for instance pride of self or family; or an attempt to appease God and men through behaviors. This may be why the young man wasn't disputed when he said that he obeyed certain things since a youth. ( Matthew 19:20 and elsewhere). Hidden covetousness was thus exposed.
10 His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.
11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.
12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it. -( Matthew 19: 10-12)
NOW concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.
2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment.
7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.
8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
10 And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband:
11 But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.
-( I Corinthians 7:1-17, but I ran out of room) Unless your son cannot contain his flesh, please cease from pressuring him esteemed brother or sister of the faith. He is able to focus. If he marries, and his wife beareth seed: Matthew 24:19!
In fact,there are two types of famine occurring in the world at this time,material famine is figure of spiritual famine,both are signs of JESUS's coming.
Your post suggests two interestings scenaries for us to meditate.The description below gives us two different aspects of the famine's scenaries.
So,speaking of famine,we can compare how our GOD provides a solution for this terrible event,and how Satan and his partners suggest a solution being them demonic governments,devilish religious guides,idolaters,spiritist/esoterics,among others.
How does our GOD provide the solution for this problem of hunger of bread? Mark 8:11-21:
11The Pharisees came forth and question with JESUS, seeking of him a sign from heaven,tempting Him.
12He sighed deeply in His spirit,and saith,Why doth this generation seek after a sign?verily I say unto you,There shall no sign be given unto this generation.
13And he left them,...
14The disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf.
15JESUS said:Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees,and of the leaven of Herod.
16And they reasoned among themselves,saying,It is because we have no bread.
17JESUS knew it and saith unto them,Why reason ye,because ye have no bread?perceive ye not yet,neither understand?have ye your heart yet hardened?
18Having eyes,see ye not?and having ears,hear ye not?and do ye not remember?
19I brake five loaves among five thousand,how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?They say unto Him,Twelve.
20And the seven among four thousand,how many baskets full of fragments took ye up?they said,Seven.
21JESUS said,How is it that ye do not understand?
ITOH, how does Satan and his partners provide solution for this problem of hunger of bread?
They simply say:Command that stones be made bread.The heart of demonic men are like stone,the world of Devil is full of stones,they suggest for asking for alms,they create beggars. James 5:1-6 combined with Matthew 19:23.
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
What a great read. Thank you so much for sharing this. You bring up a great point about the man being stoned to death for picking up sticks on the Sabbath. And yes, the Sabbath was given to the children of Israel as a sign between them and God. Have you ever noticed that out of all the 10 Commandments given in the Old Testament (Exodus Chapter 20), only 9 of them are given emphasis in the New Testament ( Matthew 19:18, Romans 13:9).
The commandment to keep the Sabbath day holy seems to be left out of the New Testament. I see no such commandment given to the church. There is no such commandment given to the church to keep the Sabbath day the way the Jews were to keep it. The Sabbath was part of the Old Covenant Law between God and Israel. The church was not in existence when this command was given. As Christians, are we under the Old Covenant law, or are we under God's grace? This is just a general question, no need to provide an answer as I'm sure I know your answer to this one.
To us today, it would seem quite extreme to see someone put to death for something as simple as picking up sticks on the Sabbath. Some say that we must keep the Sabbath day holy, but also say that it's okay to do certain things (even more than just picking up sticks), and that's justified if it's something they need. I wonder how many of today's Sabbath Keepers would be stoned to death today for the things they do on the Sabbath day, if they were to do those same things if they lived during the time the command was given?
We as believers have freedom in Jesus Christ. We are not to judge others regarding their view on keeping the Sabbath, regardless of which view one takes ( Colossians 2:16). And yes, our rest is in Christ Jesus, Amen!
Again, thank you for sharing this. I have been following along in this topic for the past week or so but chose to stay out as it seems to be a very sensitive subject with some. I'll just leave it at that.
Blessings!!!
And even here on this Site, a little while ago there has been debate on the word 'perfect', as found in e.g. Matthew 5:48, Matthew 19:21, 1 Corinthians 2:6. This word 'perfect' has been used by some here to denote, 'sinlessness', that we have to be, or even now, are sinless. Not sure of your position on this, but reading the Greek, 'teleios', seems to indicate more towards 'completeness, full-grown, mature'. Now in Matthew 5:48 we have a problem, we see that Jesus gives the command, to "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." So, clearly the absolute perfection that our Father fully has within Himself, cannot be the same that we need to have/strive for on Earth: that is, not towards sinlessness, but towards maturity & completeness. So, I share this just to show how important the original languages are to assist us in understanding God's Word, and especially the KJB (17th Century) which uses language & expressions that sometimes are quite foreign to us here in the 21st Century.
Jesus never said if you love me keep Moses' commandments. Nope, keep his commandments. The ten commandments are grevious Jesus' aren't. Jesus' commandments 100% conditional love.
John 14:15] If ye love me, keep my commandments.
[16] And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
21] He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
1st John 5:[2] By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.
[3] For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
Rev 22:14] Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
[15] For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
What are Jesus' commandments?
1) Sin not
2) Be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect
3) Love one another as I have loved you
4) Matthew 5:3-48.
Jesus never endorsed Moses' ministry. He laid down the new foundation in Matthew 5.
Matthew 19:[8] He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
9] And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
The commandments of Jesus the law of spirit and life which sets us free from the law of Moses sin and death.
There is only ONE church, Christ.
Revelation 21:22 And I saw no temple therein, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb, are the temple thereof.
2 Corinthians 6:16 ... ye are the temple of God .....
Matthew 19:6 Wherefore THEY (you and Christ) are no more TWAIN, but ONE flesh....
This happen at Christ's resurrection, you were made a JOINT HEIR, you and Christ arose as ONE flesh, the new creation, the TRUE church.
God Bless YOU!
I understand what you mean, a few people think I'm "crazy" because I take the whole bible literal. I know some passages are symbolic etc. But when Jesus said to the the rich man ( Matthew 19:21) "Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." I took this literal. My PC and TV is all that I own and I only use it to study. Stay off youtube etc. ( Matthew 24:23) "Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not." Instead continue to ( 2 Timothy 2:15) "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
I thought I would start in the Old Testament; realizing of course that the Holy Spirit didn't remain with a man as it does in the New Testament era. There are; nonetheless principles here that need to be addressed. Perhaps an appropriate start is with the story of Saul and the prophets. 1 Samuel 10:10 states "the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them." A similar event happened in 1 Samuel 19:24. When we see the last state of Saul; who the night before his death consulted with a witch to seek his fate ( 1 Samuel 28) and other things that happened once he started pursuing David; we see a man who probably died lost.
The principle here is that God COULD allow certain true manifestations in the Spirit to occur with someone (as we see with Judas Iscariot going out and healing/casting out demons along with the other 11 Disciples in Luke 9:1-2.) The manifestation of the Spirit therefore doesn't guarantee FRUIT of the Spirit which is in all those who have true faith (again as illustrated with the Parable of the Sower and the seed in Matthew 13; and as we see listed in Galatians 5:22-23. We see quite the opposite in Saul; we see jealousy; strife; and a murderous intent; and presence of a tormenting spirit or demon.
Suffering for His name's sake and prioritizing the Lord over everyone and everything else was a challenge the Lord used on many would be disciples such as in Luke 9:57-62 with three men in a row who apparently walked away after being challenged.
Jesus chose His 12 Apostles as Disciples carefully; the 11 who truly believed along with the 12th in the Book of Acts chosen would rule and reign with Christ someday ( Matthew 19:28). This would cost them their lives; however as martyrs except for John. A crown is promised for martyrs ( Rev. 2:10). Others are for pastors; those patiently waiting for His coming; evangelists; and apparently for self control. Many variations exist; let the reader study all passages
You mentioned me in your post above, so I felt that I should respond to you, as you have always been honest, sincere, and open regarding the scriptures.
Jesus informs us and provides us with warnings in the following in scripture:
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Jesus tells us above if we want to enter into life - keep the commandments.
Revelation 22:14"Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
If we want to have the right to the tree of life, and enter through the gates into the city we will do His Commandments. Jesus is stating: will do His Commandments. Who is Jesus referring to when he say His? God.
Both of these verses are spoken by Jesus, and both are commanding us (Christians) to keep God's Commandments if we wish to receive eternal life.
It can't get much clearer than this scripture, and the scripture itself will convict unbelievers.
The only possible argument on the above scripture would be how do we accomplish following God's Commandments. A Born Again Christian is following these Commandments via God's Holy Spirit, not of their own accord. Per this verse: 1 John 3:24
"And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us."
So this really puts to rest the argument by a few on this site; that believe following God's Commandments aren't necessary, or that when we follow them, or encourage others to do so, we are trying to create/work for our own salvation. As you implied, we are living in the Spirt and being obedient to our God. Amen
Jesus/God shines the light for us, all we have to do is believe and follow it!
GBU
The scripture below is truth, and it convicts all those that believe as you.
1 John 2: "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Revelation 22:14"Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
Jesus spoke to apostle John in this verse above in Revelation 22:14 approximately 60 years after His death on the cross, and about 18 years after apostle Pauls death. Jesus knew what Paul preached, and he preached the same gospel as Christ! Paul did not cancel any of God's commandments, he and all of the apostles followed them during their lives. Do you really believe you are favored over and above Christ and His apostles, they followed the Commandments but now you and others today feel you don't have to. Really.
Lastly, I do not believe we can continue this discussion as your beliefs conflict with the scripture, and your popular modern day take on salvation 2Tim 4:3 is only deceiving to those that are not living in God's Spirit. 1 John 3:24 God's Salvation is not a buffet to pick and choose what scripture that you believe, and what scripture you will ignore!
I pray that God's Spirit will eventually convict you, and some others here, to actually pick up your cross and follow Christ, which will result in obedience, and a desire to follow Gods Commandments, and turn away from this sinful and deceived world. Matt 16:24
Contrary to what you said; I'm not stating anything surreptitiously. Dictionary meaning of surreptitiously: in a way that attempts to avoid notice or attention;
Actually, I'm shouting Jesus/God's message from scripture: from the rooftops for all to hear!
Yes, I try to follow Jesus/God's directives, including the commands to follow God's commandments and repent from sin that come straight from the bible scripture.
Matthew 19:17
"And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Jesus tells us above if we want to enter into life - keep the commandments.
Jesus tells us again here: Revelation 22:14"Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
Do you want to have the right to the tree of life, and enter through the gates into the city? If you do, you will follow God's/Jesus commandments.
Jesus/God shines the light for all to see, all we have to do is believe, have FAITH and apply his commands to our lives and He will live in us, and us in Him!
GBU
by Chuck Missler
Part 1
It is tragic that most of the major denominations - Roman Catholic and Protestant - embrace an eschatology ("study of last things") that is amillennial : a view that does not envision a literal rule of Christ on the Throne of David on the Planet Earth.
While there are many different, yet defendable, views regarding many aspects of end-time prophecies, this basic divergence - denying a literal Millennium - is particularly dangerous in that it would appear to be an attack on the very character of God! It does violence to His numerous and explicit promises and commitments that pervade both the Old and New Testaments.
The Old Testament is replete with commitments for a literal Messiah ultimately ruling the world through Israel from His throne in Jerusalem. There are at least 1,845 references in the Old Testament and 17 books give prominence to the event. The ancient rabbinical aspirations were dominated by it. In fact, this obsession obscured their recognizing the Messiah when He made His initial appearance.
There are at least 318 references in 216 chapters of the New Testament and 23 of its 27 books give prominence to the event. The early church looked longingly for His promised return as their "Blessed Hope" to rid their desperate world of its evil rulers. How and where did this skepticism known as "Amillennialism" begin?
Origen
Pious, popular, and persuasive, Origen stands out as one of the great figures of the 3rd century church. Even at the age of 18, he stood out spectacularly well as a teacher in Alexandria. (In misguided obedience to Matthew 19:12, he emasculated himself, which he later regretted.) Later, as a prolific writer based in Caesarea, his De Principiis systematically laid out Christian doctrine in terms of Hellenic thinking and set the pattern for most subsequent theological thought for many years.
See Part 2.
Lest we think that this is just a rare occasion of such language, we could consider other Scriptures: Deuteronomy 1:28 (cities walled up to the (skies)); Jesus' Own Words: Matthew 19:24 (a camel going through a needle's eye); Luke 14:26 (hating family & one's own life, though 'hate' used as the strongest term for 'total rejection'); Matthew 5:29 (gouging out the eye); John 4:39 (the woman's testimony that Jesus told her every account of her life); and many more.
So all these are given as irrefutable words that God has allowed into it, including hyperbolic language, metaphors, similes. Yet, they are to be understood as such, or else our understanding would take a dangerous divergent turn that can only lead to error. Which hopefully leads us to the 'eternity' question: are the descriptions of hell or an eternal raging fire for all the unrepentant, factual or simply use of hyperbolic language? So here we have the problem: why would Jesus refer to that time using that type of language, as also the apostles did (or alluded to it), when only the grave is the final destiny of the unsaved? Understood, that heaven & an eternal life in all purity & happiness with our Great God & Savior should be the desire of all; but is this wonderful message alone, sufficient to cause sinners to truly repent & yearn for God's forgiveness, rather, as there is an eternity of bliss, so there is also an eternity of woe that Christ came, giving us an escape route?
By way of recap we're comparing the way these two groups interpret the scripture surrounding the Abrahamic and Davidic Covenants.
Part 5.
In Hosea 3:4-5. before the Babylonian captivity, it was predicted: "For the children of Israel shall abide many days without king or Prince...
"Afterward SHALL THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days.
Hosea 3:5
Also;
Amos 9:11.
Zachariah 14:4.
Zachariah 14:9.
This of is not a contradiction of the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant, but is a part of the same picture.
and many more OT references.
LET'S REVIEW THE NEW TESTAMENT.
According to Luke 1:30-33 the angel Gabriel told Mary that she is to be the mother of Christ and Christ will reign on the throne of His father David over the house of Jacob.
To Mary "the house of Jacob" could mean only one thing and that is the descendants of Jacob, namely, the twelve tribes of Israel.
It seems the disciples and others anticipated much the same kind of a literal fulfillment.
Matthew 19:28.
Matthew 20:20-21.
Luke 22:29-30.
Acts 1:6-7. The disciples were still anticipating an earthly kingdom and hoped for its immediately.
Christ did not say that their hope was vain and that there was not going to be a literal fulfillment. He replied: "It is not for you to know the times or seasons, which the Father hath set within his own authority."
But He directs their attention to the immediately task before them, and to the power of the Holyspirit Spirit and proclaim the Gospel to the whole world.
Now this is where the line is drawn from dealing with Israel until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Confirming verses at the council in Jerusalem in Acts 15:13-17.
More on this later.
God bless.
I may be different, but in my understanding of the Bible, I approach scripture simply and do not try to complicate things with preconceived ideas and let the Bible and the Holy Spirit do the interpretation. To me, a symbol will have a non-symbolic meaning.
A symbol represents something real, a real person, a real thing, or a historical event. When I read, I understand words in a literal sense first, then in a figurative or spiritual sense if the literal doesn't make sense.
Are the Christians now the Israel of God? Have the promises to Israel and the church merged into one common heritage? If so that brings up.
Will the promise of the land given to Abraham's seed, Isaac then Jacob be fulfilled? Isaiah 11:11-12 Ezekiel 37:21-25 Jeremiah 24:5-6 Ezekiel 34:11-12 Ezekiel 36:24-26 Hosea 3:4-5 Micah 4:6-7 Zechariah 13:8-9
Will Jesus the Messiah return and reign on the earth, with a rod of iron? Isaiah 2:1-4 Isaiah 11:1-4 Daniel 2:44 Daniel 7:14 Zechariah 14:1-4 Jeremiah 3:17 Revelation 2:26-27 Revelation 11:15 Revelation 12:5 Revelation 19:11-21.
Will there be a literal millennium during which Satan will not deceive the nations and Christ will reign on earth? Revelation 20:1-6 2 Timothy 2:11-12 Isaiah 2:2-4 Isaiah 11:5-16 Isaiah 65:19-25 Isaiah 51:4-5 Zechariah 14:16-21 Micah 4:1-4 Psalms 46:7-11 Matthew 19:28.
To me there are too many scriptures that are showing God has not replaced Israel with the Church. We see in Romans 11:24-27 a day when God will again turn to Israel, the day Jesus returns. Forgive me if some of the scriptures do not fit.
God bless,
RLW
And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. ( Mark 11:22)
Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. ( Mark 9:23)
But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. ( Matthew 19:26)
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. ( Hebrews 13:5)
I hope and pray these scriptures help your faith walk. It's not how we feel its according to our faith (believing and accepting God's word as it is written) and as we believe and accept God's plan of salvation by faith (not by works, Jesus paid that precious price for our salvation), then we can do the works of Christ Jesus and build up our most holy faith by believing, prayer, studying scripture, etc.
I used search words of faith, believe, and possible to find and share some scriptures. You might find searching the word promise to be encouraging, to read and believe all the promises that are for us in God's word. I am happy to hear about your desire to continue your walk with the Lord, stay encouraged and keep the faith in all areas of your life. Nothing is too hard for God, we can begin again. God never stopped loving and forgiving us, just accept it by faith and walk in it.
Jesse
In Philippians 3:12-14 Paul talks about himself,
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I MAY apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count NOT myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, when everything in his life was to end soon he writes,
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
Finally lets go to Matthew 19:28,
"And Jesus said unto them (the 12), Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel."
Jesus gives a promise to His disciples, including Judas, that they will sit on thrones and judge the 12 tribes of Israel. Did Judas get that promise? No, he didn't. Why not? Because he failed. But that promise was for him as well, wasn't it? But he didn't get it. There is always a condition for one to get the promise of salvation, like Paul wrote above to "have fought a good fight, to have finished the course, to have kept the faith".
GBU
I quoted you scripture.
You believe: because God CAUSES you to believe.
His WORKS.
He doesn't cause everyone to believe at the same time.
Paul didn't believe until God caused him to believe.
Everything has an APPOINTED TIME; it the works of God, his timetable.
He chose Jacob; and not Esau, before they were ever conceived.
Hebrews 11:20 By faith (by the spirit of Christ) Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, concerning THINGS TO COME.
Jacob; the last, was given dominion over the first.
Genesis 27:37
The first born of flesh is not always the first born of spirit.
Matthew 19:30 ... The first shall be last and the last first ....
After the second resurrection, when Esau stands in his former estate, his flesh, he will be caused to believe and the yoke will be broken from his neck.
Genesis 27:40
All things were maded new by Christ resurrection, but all things have an appoint time to come to TRUTH.
Romans 9:21 Hath not the potter POWER over the clay, of the same lump, to make one a vessel of HONOUR, and the other a vessel of DISHONOUR?
Daniel 4:35 And all the inhabitants of the world are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth, and NONE can stay his hand, or say unto him, what doest thou?
Jeremiah 18:4 And the vessel he made of clay was MARRED in the potter's hand, so he MADE it again ....
Psalms 104:30 Thou sendest forth thy spirit (when he chooses to do so), they are CREATED and thou renewest the face of the earth.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven
Psalms 123:2 ...so our eyes wait upon the lord, UNTIL he have mercy upon us ....
NOT YET are ALL THINGS put under him; BUT, when they are, God will be ALL IN ALL.
God Bless you, my brother in Christ.
Jesus knew that b/c of his death he wd be multiplied as the stars of heaven.... Matthew 19:28 kjv....Thats y he said blessed are them that follow me in the regeneration....That great multiplication of his seed the contents of the book in the fathers right hand...That New Covenant...Thats y he has to know us which is an intimacy that results in a birth of Christ in US his CHILDREN....Behold me and the Children the lord has given me...I think thats y Jesus is always speaking of the babes and sucklings....In my mind i see them as his Children...That are able to praise God with a perfect praise...gbu
......When he breathe on them he was regenerating himself with his breath which was his words his Seeds....That was the great Promise i will multiply thy Seed as the stars of heaven....His Seed is spirit....Thats y he was saying....That which is born of the spirit is spirit which is the new born babe the H.G.....The regeneration of Christ Jesus in humanity.....Blessed are them that follow me in the regeneration.... Matthew 19:28....When the sower will go forth to sow his precious seed in humanity as the field is the world... Matthew 13 :18 kjv....Thats y he always refers to himself as the SON OF MAN....Simply b/c mankind has to bring forth fruit unto God... Rev. 12:5 kjv...She brought forth a man child that is gonna rule all nations....The parable of the sower and his precious seed is about the regeneration of Christ in humanity...And the contents of the book that he wrote with his own blood...That book of life that N.C.....ok lemme go.GBU
The Word of God teaches us in 1 Cor. 2:14 that the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned.
This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).
May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
Please remember, the above words are not our words but from the 'Word of God' and they are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17).
It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4) but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).
Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).
And then will I profess unto themI never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23).
The first prerequisite to start your journey of repentance is to be able to acknowledge that you are a sinner and separated from God. This has been made almost impossible because of people's natural conditioning ( Matthew 19:23-26), as the devil (your natural spirit) has you convinced through man-made teachings and religious doctrines, that you are a child of God ( Matthew 15:7-9).
This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).
May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
Please remember, the above words are not our words but from the 'Word of God' and they are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17).
It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4) but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).
Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).
And then will I profess unto themI never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23).
The first prerequisite to start your journey of repentance is to be able to acknowledge that you are a sinner and separated from God. This has been made almost impossible because of people's natural conditioning ( Matthew 19:23-26), as the devil (your natural spirit) has you convinced through man-made teachings and religious doctrines, that you are a child of God ( Matthew 15:7-9).
This is why those communicating their messages in this 'forum' so often use the word 'discerning' while the 'Word of God' is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). This is why it also teaches; that anyone that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
Furthermore, the Spirit of truth cannot be received by this world ( John 14:17) as this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9).
May we suggest you search the words 'a world deceived' an learn how you may know the difference between the 'natural' and the 'spiritual' body ( 1 Cor. 15:44).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
Please remember, the above words are not our words but from the 'Word of God' and they are according to the 'Spirit of Truth' ( John 14:17).
It is God's will for all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth ( 1 Timothy 2:4) but not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven ( Matthew 7:21).
Many will say unto me that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? ( Matthew 7:22).
And then will I profess unto themI never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity ( Matthew 7:23).
The first prerequisite to start your journey of repentance is to be able to acknowledge that you are a sinner and separated from God. This has been made almost impossible because of people's natural conditioning ( Matthew 19:23-26), as the devil (your natural spirit) has you convinced through man-made teachings and religious doctrines, that you are a child of God ( Matthew 15:7-9).
Then, as you quoted Matthew 19:29, and I would also submit Luke 14:26, we read of what seems a departure from giving all due love & respect to parents. However, I don't believe Jesus wants those who wholeheartedly follow Him, in maybe some service that takes them far from home, to stop loving or respecting their parents. It's a matter of priority that the Lord gives: He must always be first in our lives - even before family & self. Those who have the call of the Lord upon their lives, can certainly trust Him to care & provide for his or her family; and the family (parents) should certainly understand the burden upon their 'child' to serve & that the Lord will see to all of their needs.
Jesus restates in Matthew 15:4 the importance of this commandment as well as Paul in Ephesians.
What is good and evil? To get a definition we must first adhere to God's standards rather than our own; while acknowledging that His ways are higher than ours. For instance; we are not commanded to fight against the whole world of wicked man and the Antichrist and False Prophet and usher in God's Kingdom. There are some Dominionists who seem to go pretty far in that direction though; acting like Christ coming in vengeance ( Isaiah 63:3) is going to somehow be preceded by a red carpet welcoming mat of a world that is subjugated to Christianity. That isn't even what Post Mil reformers are saying! In any case a mass slaughter of most of the surviving earth at the end of the Tribulation isn't something that would be classified as good for anyone but the King of Kings. No doubt; of course Antichrist will beforehand attempt to justify his wars of conquest as a "man of peace" and when that is proven to be wrong; as the only one who can fight God who will be; to put it mildly called unjust.
To the world; Psalm 2 will seem like a way to "loosen their fetters" so to speak; this will seem like the ultimate revolutionary act to do for the world against those "aliens" attempting to invade the earth!
The other side of the coin; of course is the concept of what exactly "good" is. We know that God Himself can do no wrong; and is love itself ( Job 34:12; 1 John 4:8). We know that no one does good and all are estranged from the womb ( Romans 3:12; Psalms 14:3). Christ mentions this with those who are "evil" that give good gifts to their children. ( Luke 11:13). Therefore; the action may be the same among the regenerate and unsaved; but the motivations will be different; for instance pride of self or family; or an attempt to appease God and men through behaviors. This may be why the young man wasn't disputed when he said that he obeyed certain things since a youth. ( Matthew 19:20 and elsewhere). Hidden covetousness was thus exposed.
11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.
12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it. -( Matthew 19: 10-12)
NOW concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.
2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment.
7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.
8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
10 And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband:
11 But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.
-( I Corinthians 7:1-17, but I ran out of room) Unless your son cannot contain his flesh, please cease from pressuring him esteemed brother or sister of the faith. He is able to focus. If he marries, and his wife beareth seed: Matthew 24:19!