--The origins of Christmas can be traced back to the ancient Roman and Norse civilizations. In fact, 25th December was not even Jesus' date of birth. The early Christians appropriated what was originally a pagan holiday because it was convenient. Before that, the people of ancient Europe had celebrations of the pagan god Saturn or even Odin at the end of December to mark the shortest day of the year. Indeed, many of the Christmas traditions we have today come from these ancient festivals. Examples of this include kissing under the mistletoe and decorating trees.
----History Cooperative: The Pagan Origins of Christmas: Saturnalia, Yule, and Other Pre-Christian Traditions
(In the above read "early Christians" as Roman Catholic, and those that fail to fully break away from them.)
82% of those identifying as born-again Christian believe Christ Jesus even existed. According to the Cultural Research Center of Arizona University. I am sure most of the 18% that do not celebrate Xmas. It is way past time that the true believers (those that believe Jesus was the virgin-born Son of God, that he died for the sins of the world, was buried, and rose again the third day) quit being lukewarm ( Rev 3:15-16), study God's word, adhere to it precisely, and make manifest the CINOs (Christian in Name Only) to the world.
-- Titus 1:11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.
As stated prior to this post, each individual saint must decide how important their salvation is.
-- Philippians 2:12 WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING.
How many are lost because we want the comfort of looking and acting like the deceivers of this world?
Till we meet at the Judgment Seat of Christ. ( 2Co 5:10, 1Co 3:11-15)
In Hebrews 13 vs 5 the Lord said "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee"
Thank God the staying power is in the hands of Jesus who also says in John 10:27-28 "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
Jesus is that Great Shepherd that leaves the ninety nine sheep and goes after the one lost in the wilderness illustrating God's immense love and pursuit of every individual, even when many are already safe; He prioritizes the lost one,
Jesus is that solid rock foundation!
If we built on him we will never stray!
If one final destiny is hell he built on sand and was never of the sheep fold!
He's one of those mentioned in Matthew 7 where Jesus says "I never knew you"
These postings of mine doesn't go out to any certain denomination, it goes out to the individual!
We must examine ourselves!
Salvation isn't defined or authenticated by what we know or even what we are doing on the outside!
It's what's cleaned on the inside!
It's a new birth!
It's not whether you "accepted Christ"
It's did you "RECEIVE" Christ!
If you have received Christ, "it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13.
Therefore, James 2:24, "Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only", is not referencing anything to do with the Law, but that justification by faith would be spurious unless that faith produced resulting works. And James gives examples of such works: as in the treatment of impoverished believers, and of Abraham & Rahab, where in all cases the Law was absent but their works arose out of faith alone.
As James then summarizes, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also" ( James 2:26): that faith alone saves, but if works is absent from that faith, then that faith is dead. And this very thing Paul also writes about (in Galatians 5:6; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians 2:12); though I agree that both apostles were addressing different groups that needed to hear the message according to their understanding. Blessings.
But Paul goes on immediately in the next verse: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." ( Ephesians 2:10).
Works are not the root of salvation, but they are the fruit of salvation.
The Spirit of God produces love, service, and obedience in the believer's life ( Galatians 5:22-23; Titus 3:8).
Works are a demonstration of faith, not the basis of it.
The Right Perspective
Works should follow after salvation. But they do not secure salvation, nor do they keep it. They simply manifest the new life we already have in Christ ( 2 Corinthians 5:17).
We are not saved by good works, but we are saved unto good works.
"saved unto good works" is a short phrase with a lot of depth.
1. The Source of Salvation
When Paul says in Ephesians 2:8-9 that salvation is by grace through faith and not of works, he's setting the foundation:
We contribute nothing to earn salvation.
It's God's gift, given freely because of Christ's finished work on the cross.
2. The Purpose of Salvation
Right after that, Paul explains in Ephesians 2:10:
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
This means that once God saves us, He also equips us for a new kind of life - a life that reflects His grace, truth, and righteousness.
"Unto good works" means we are saved for the purpose of living out the good things God intended.
3. The Role of Good Works
Not the cause, but the result: Works don't save us, but they are the evidence that we are saved ( Romans 6:4; Titus 3:8).
Spirit-enabled, not self-made: The works are produced as the Spirit lives through us ( Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:13).
Witness to others: Good works demonstrate Christ's life in us to a watching world ( Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15).
The last question, are we saved by grace alone or Grace plus works?
Hello Cordellwbeesr, just to share with you my understanding of the relationship between God the Father and Jesus His Son. And to state, this is one of those impossible 'concepts' to understand, simply because we can only (and rightly) read and understand such things based on our ability with human limitatons. Many have tried to illustrate this 'strange' relationship using earthly imagery, such as using the three aspects of the sun or an egg, but even these fail to correctly show us the Truth of divine things.
What Jesus Himself declared to us should be strongly regarded; verses such as John 16:27,28 (Jesus came out from God - out from God's Being); John 17:5 (Jesus had all of God's Glory from the beginning); and John 1:1-14 (God took His Word and gave it flesh; and this was for the purpose of God's Love being shown in offering the perfect & only Sacrifice that could atone for our sins). And there are many other Scriptures that others have given you, which should show us that this Jesus was not just an ordinary human being born with human parents in sin, but was indeed the "second man, the Lord from Heaven" ( 1 Corinthians 15:47) and also called the "last Adam, a quickening (life-giving) spirit" ( 1 Corinthians 15:45).
Yes, Jesus came forth from the Person of God and given flesh for the purpose of being the only Sacrifice that could redeem us back to God. So how does Jesus have "free will" or even "prays to God". Remember, God gave His Word to be made human, so as a Human, Jesus encountered everything we have to face in life, and as a Human, the Glory He had ( John 17:5) had to be laid aside so that He could be like us, suffer and die (for God cannot die); see Philippians 2:5-11 (He was God's equal, He emptied Himself (Gk. kenosis) & took on humanity. Jesus now became God's Son in His Humanity, so He had free will and as a Son prayed to His Father. How can God pray to God, is often asked? These verses quoted should help you in knowing this Truth. GBU.
If your "battle" is with believing that Jesus is God, may I suggest the following scriptures for your consideration:
Genesis 1:1 along with John 1:1-3, Revelation 19:13, Colossians 1:15-17, Matthew 1:23, John 10:30, John 14:9, Mark 2:5-7, John 8:58, John 20:28, Isaiah 9:6, Philippians 2:5-7, Colossians 2:9, 1 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 1:8, 2 Peter 1:1, Revelation 1:8, John 5:18, 1 John 5:20, Luke 24:52, John 9:38, Acts 10:25-26, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 1:3, Revelation 22:13, Micah 5:2, John 17:5, John 1:14. There are more, but these should suffice.
You mention that "Christians say that there is no separation between Christ and God," and that the bible shows otherwise. Jesus said I and my Father are one, and He also said that if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father. This may not mean anything to you, but in the book of Hebrews, Jesus is described as the APOUGASMA (the out beam) of God's glory, God projecting Himself through the time/space factor in the person of Christ. Jesus Christ, being God, was never separated from the source. This is why Jesus can say if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father.
The best example I can give would be taking a flashlight in a dark room and shining it on a wall. The flashlight is the source, and the light is projected on the wall from the source. There is no separation unless the flashlight is turned off. Now, imagine the flashlight being God, and the light shining on the wall is Jesus, again, no separation. Jesus is said to be the true light which came down from heaven, the APOUGASMA of God.
If you are sincerely struggling with the deity of Jesus Christ (Him being God), I hope these scriptures I've provided might help. Also, if you would like, I can share my personal understanding on Matthew 26:39 and Luke 22:42 and why Christ would ask this.
If I may ask, are you a Christian? If so, who do you say Jesus is?
I earlier gave the example ( James 2:14-17) where one can say that he has great faith but when a brother or sister is in dire need, he does nothing. And James goes on ( James 2:21-24), citing Abraham's faith. When his faith was tested in the offering up of Isaac on the altar, Abraham came forth shining, for his faith was proven by his works (obedience). How would the genuineness of a Gentile's salvation & faith be proven, if not by his sensitivity and obedience to God's Spirit? If that is not there, then should we not regard him as a phony? And maybe this gives rise to some 'Christians' believing: 'I am saved, so how I live my life (i.e. works from faith) matters not'. Yet, Paul's plea to the Philippians ( Philippians 2:12), "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling", is worth noting; salvation is not a 'given', unless the new spirit and renewed life produces fruit (works) that must be the evidence of a new birth.
I can understand what you shared, that their respective readerships were different and one was under & guided by God's prophetic program, but when the Gospel is given to anyone, it must be the same or it's not the true Gospel that saves. So this is why, if we are to believe that James was faithful to the Gospel that saves, but his audience was different, then James 2:28 must mean that justification is by faith alone, but where works are absent, then that faith was spurious. But if it doesn't mean that, then James preached a false Gospel, for there can only be one Gospel for all men.
Thank you again brother for this good discussion as I've tried to restrict myself here to only a couple of your points that needed examination. Blessings.
Thanks brother Jesse for sharing these precious thoughts and promises from God's Word - all given to Christ's own, assuring us of our secure position in Him, simply because salvation is all of Him & not of ourselves. If we had contributed in any way to secure or even to maintain our security in salvation, then indeed, we would have much to fear & be tossed about. As one old missionary often stated (in reference to Philippians 2:12): 'God has given you His salvation, now work it out in your life in great earnestness and care'; let us not ever consider this undeserved Work of Love in us with carelessness or frivolity.
I perceive that the major problems that cause some believers to think that Christians can lose their salvation are, not understanding the perfect eternal Work of God's Spirit (that He makes no mistakes in choosing to indwell the truly repentant); the true meaning of 'Christian', the one who has been changed by the Spirit, following Jesus & living a Christ-centered life; and God's special act of Adoption into His family (He cannot 'un-adopt' us). All these Truths should confirm in our hearts, that absolutely nothing can "separate us from the Love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord", and certainly not from our own choosing to do so - would a believer who has been so regenerated and blessed in life & in hope for all that is to come, even want to turn from such a loving and merciful God? His Spirit in us will carry us through every situation we face in this life: in joy or sorrow, in persecution or death. His ministry in us is continuous - we may at times falter but He doesn't; He raises us up every time to continue our walk Heaven-ward. Every blessing brother.
We see two places where angels are chained in darkness: 2 Peter 2:4-5 and Jude 1:6. To me, this is a prison, a confinement area, as we see in Revelation 9, 11, 17, and 20. These angels did not keep their original estate or position and left their own dwelling place. These angels were disobedient to God, as seen in Genesis 6:1-2. There are fallen angels, demons, and devils on this earth, but what these angels did was so terrible that God locked them in the bottomless pit until the great day of judgment.
In Ephesians 4:8-10, there is another reference; verses 9-10 are debated depending on the manuscript. They say that before Jesus ascended to heaven, He first descended to the lower parts of the earth. Paul quotes Psalm 68:18, which describes the ark ascending to Mount Zion, leading captivity captive, symbolizing deliverance. Also, in Judges 5:12, part of Deborah's song, it states, "led thy captivity captive," meaning victory over oppression.
The same theme appears in Ephesians 4:8, victory over sin, death, and the grave through the life, sacrifice, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as referenced in Galatians 1:4 and 1 Corinthians 15:52-55. We also see the gifts given in Ephesians 4:11, Romans 12:4-8, and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
When Jesus was resurrected, God placed Him above all, as shown in Philippians 2:9-11, Ephesians 1:19-21, and 1 Peter 3:22. Satan, just like the leaders of Jerusalem, thought that when the Messiah came, He would immediately deliver them and establish His kingdom at that time, the expectation not yet fulfilled. When Satan influenced Judas to betray Jesus to death, he thought he had won.
However, when Jesus was resurrected in His glorified body, He defeated and triumphed over death and the grave, Satan, and all principalities and powers. Colossians 2:15 describes how Jesus openly made a spectacle of them. I believe this was part of the celebration of the victory when Jesus, through the Spirit, went to the angels chained in darkness, made a spectacle of them, showing that He had triumphed over them and that they are eternally defeated.
I wonder if they bowed a knee to Him then or will have to in the Great Day, as said in Philippians 2:10, "things/those under the earth".
I will leave it here. I understand some may not agree, but this is my understanding of this. May our study be for the truth.
Hi JCcruiser. Apart from the many verses in the NT that show that Jesus was worshiped, the main one to answer your question specifically would be found in Philippians 2:9-11.
The closest I can see to healing as a spiritual gift is in relation to the power that certain objects had such as Acts 19:12 with Peter's handkerchief or apron other than 1 Corinthians 12:9. If this occurs than what is the need for elders to pray for healing and anoint the sick with oil in James 5:14? It either supplements God's procurement of healing; or it indicates that elders had a particular unction of healing; or both. Certainly prayer is crucial in either case for the Spirit to work effectively.
Many want to disparage this gift of healing who don't regularly perform this action as prescribed; as it were in the Bible.
There are no doubt several reasons for illness. We can't dogmatically say with Paul's thorn in the flesh and the case of Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:27 who nearly died from sickness that the natural effects of living in a sinful and fallen world aren't a factor that affect both believer and unbeliever in some capacity. In the second case we see how overwork can lead to this situation which could have caused an early demise if Paul hadn't cautioned for his care in that church. We need to take a sober look at those who bear the heaviest burdens particularly fulfilling the Great Commission around us and keep them in prayer. I know of one Messianic Jewish couple who are elderly yet spreading the Gospel who just got back from Israel after enduring the war there shortly after arrival. They mentioned others too who are hard pressed serving in various capacities of the ministry. Let us not forget material support financially as well as prayer for these individuals whenever possible.
There are times when demonic influences can also cause ailments; both physical and mental. This is why those discerning the spirits are vital to differentiate when this is a direct (possession) or indirect (oppression) situation as well as discerning when it is emotional trauma apart from such influence happens.
So, work out your own salvation. It is God who works. Be where He wants you to be, live the lifestyle He wants you to live, to be on a schedule. And we'll see that when we get into Chapter 3 which gives us the priorities of the believer's life. So, if we understand Paul in Philippians 2:12-13, Peter is saying the same thing, add to your faith.
Now here's the catch phrase:
The word add in Verse 5 EPICHOREGESATE, and in Verse 11 where it says ministered EPICHOREGETHESETAI, add and ministered are the same words, and it means to supply. In Verse 11 it says for so an entrance shall be supplied to you, whereas back in Verse 5 it says supply to your faith. These are catch phrases because Verse 11 is going to make reference back to Verse 5 about our entrance into heaven. That's very important!
So, in Verse 5, it says on account of this, that is, you have become partakers of the divine nature, having provided all priority, supply in, it's not "to" but in your faith. What is faith? You see, faith is a catch phrase back to Verse 1, the Christian faith. My participation with the divine nature, Peter calls a like precious faith. Faith is the word that describes the interaction between myself and the Lord. It's invisible, but He's active, He's persuading, and He's ministering.
So, he's saying by being a partaker of the divine nature, you are now of the faith. So now that you are interacting with the divine nature, I want you to supply something, that is, make sure that this interaction and participation supplies something.
Here are some details that you're going to need to know as we go through this:
Instead of the word "to," in Verses 5 through 7, in the Greek text it is the word "in." Why is that important? Because in the Greek text, it shows the location in which the growth process takes place. You're not adding to something. You're growing in a phase. There are seven stages.
2 Peter 1:5 - And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
And beside this, or literally, on account of this. On account of what? You became partakers of the divine nature. If you are a partaker of the divine nature, then there are changes taking place within you as you're influenced by the very nature and quality of God Himself.
So, the first phrase there is making reference back to Verse 4. And there's where you bring the first phase into the second. Next, which would be the third thing, it says giving all diligence. And this is a phrase that indicates for me my responsibility in this growth process. It's diligence, which means top priority. It is my decision making and my responsibility to make spiritual growth in Christ the top priority of my life.
Fourthly: And here's where we get into a crunch of words. Add to your faith. What in the world does that mean? First of all, here's an explanation of how Paul said it, because Peter is saying the same thing. In Philippians 2:12-13, Paul says wherefore my beloved as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
But you can't stop there. It says in Verse 13, for it is God which works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. There are people who stop at Verse 12 and say "See, that's what we're supposed to do in our efforts. We're supposed to work out our own salvation." No! Our responsibility is that our salvation should be being worked out in us in a growth process. That is my responsibility, but I don't do the work. That's why is says for it is God who works in you.
I believe your inquiry is what did I mean by this part of my post.
(It's not a demonstrative works trip we put ourselves on, it is a demonstration of power from God that works in us.
A believers should ask themselves, "Am I doing this for me? Is it organic or natural?
The lack of God's faith would put one on a works trip.
I believe the love of Christ in us accomplishes the activity of God in our lives)
However, I didn't say "Am I doing this for God?"
I believe any Spiritual good that we do, it is God doing it THROUGH us. "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13.
We ask what is our motives, WHO ARE GLORYFYING? Ourselves or God?
Am I trying to PRODUCE my own fruit?
In John 15 Jesus said "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for WITHOUT ME YOU CAN DO NOTHING.
Also.
I stated, "The lack of God's faith would put one on a works trip'.
Are we doing what we do to be sure of salvation? Or are we doing it because we are saved?
I believe God saves us and it is he that sanctifies us.
Matthews 7:22-23 reads Many will say to me in 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?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Have you noticed this passage of scripture is not pointing out the sins in these people, life that is hindering them.
The emphasis is on all the good they thought they were doing in Jesus name.
Here we have a person doing things in the flesh and not being led by the spirit because Christ was NEVER in them.
now that i "know" christ's love Ephesians 2:19 Corinthians 3:4-7 and the whole book of Colossians
Shall we analyse?
Remember the song
Christ is the portrait of God - Colossians 1:15
Before he was born
He did justice and in himself he died
Supremacy and thrones are
They are yours - Colossians 1: 16-17
And that thread that broke
From my soul to God - Colossians 1:21
The holy blood sewed
Christ and his lines of love - Colossians 1: 20
And now a man made I
Can in man see God
Have peace, live, walk and be
Made me a friend in his pouring out - John 15:15
When we were targets of God's wrath now we have Peace with God - Romans 5:1
I have a doubt that you probably theologians (formal or deep self-taught), show me if there is something I missed.
to go to church or not to go to church?
1 Thessalonians 5:11, 1 Peter 4:9, Psalms 133:1-3, Galatians 5:13. all these chapters do not speak of the church that is of my generation, Hebrews 10:24-25 this verse speaks of the mutual congregation.
continuing Romans 12:10, Ephesians 4:32, Acts 2:41-47, 1 John 1:6-7, 2 Corinthians 13:11, 1 Peter 1:22, Colossians 3:16, Philippians 2:1-2, John 13:34, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Psalm 55:14. I keep reading and re-reading Romans 12 and I wonder if it's in everyday life or gathered with the church.
Hello Nstew. I believe you're referring to one or both instances recorded in Matthew 16:27,28 and Luke 9:26,27. I have to admit that this is a very difficult portion to properly understand, since nothing more is recorded about it or referencing back to these Words of Jesus to His disciples.
My own understanding: is that Jesus was instructing His disciples of what would be a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God. Soon after (within a week or so), three of Jesus' disciples saw Jesus transfigured (or, transformed) revealing His Glory ( Matthew 17:1,2; Luke 9:28,29); that Glory which He would receive back after laying it aside for humanity's sake ( Philippians 2:5-9). That would have been the first taste given to His disciples of the coming Kingdom of God.
Then of course, through His Death, Resurrection & Ascension into Heaven, the disciples had further confirmation of both the Truth of Jesus' Words (while He taught them) and the institution of God's Kingdom. It is true, that what we would normally understand and expect of the Kingdom of God (i.e. when Jesus returns to the World in His second Coming) didn't happen then as it hasn't happened till now, we can still see that His disciples were given a foretaste of that coming Kingdom which would never end until Christ comes - and beyond.
They saw His Glory at the mount, they were witnesses of His resurrection ( Luke 24:24-40), and they were witnesses of His Ascension ( Luke 24:50-53). And the disciples (and also to all those who love the Lord Jesus & would serve Him), would receive power to live the Christ-centered, Christ-crucified life, declaring to all that truly God had now visited sinful man & offered him so great salvation through His Son. Yes, the Kingdom of God is potentially within all mankind ( Luke 17:20,21), where, even if those unbelieving Pharisees would only put their faith in Jesus, the reality of the God's Kingdom could also be theirs when God would do a new work in them ( Ezekiel 11:19,20). GBU.
Hi GiGi, thank you for your response. I didn't direct this at you; I was studying it and felt compelled to share. I understand we don't see eye to eye on this, and I appreciate your considerate reply.
I agree; "That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."
I also agree that Scripture is the word of God, and His Spirit is our guide to truth.
Philippians 2:9-11 God the Father has exalted Jesus above all, and we are to worship Jesus as Lord for the glory of God the Father.
5, And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.
On the surface, it can be seen that Jesus is asking to be glorified by the Father with the glory He shared before creation, indicating the eternal nature of Christ, who existed before time began. Does Philippians 2:6-8 justify this request? Jesus, for His obedient earthly ministry, He rightfully deserves?
Does all of Scripture agree with this? We have these verses with similar wording. Were the things in these verses physically present before the world was? Were they all in the mind, thoughts, and the plan of God? Can we say some were and some were not? Are they confirmation of God's eternal plan and foreknowledge?
Verses that say before the world was, before the world, and before the foundation of the world. God's foreknowledge, purpose, and plan were before creation.
1 Corinthians 2:7 This wisdom is the gospel of Jesus Christ, hidden in the thoughts of God from before the world was. It was ordained from before the world that would be revealed in the fullness of time, as stated in Ephesians 1:10 and Colossians 1:26-27. There are hints of it throughout the Old Testament, but hidden from the Gentile world, it is now revealed through the preaching of the apostles who were with Jesus from the beginning of His three-and-a-half-year ministry, and Paul, after the leaders of Jerusalem said no to Jesus being the Messiah and killed Stephen, Acts 7:54-60.
2 Timothy 1:9 Our calling and salvation are given not by anything we have done or can do to earn. It is according to God's grace and for His purpose. This grace, which was given to us in Jesus, is part of God's plan before the world began, as we see in Ephesians 2:8-10 and Romans 8:28-29.
Salvation through Jesus Christ is available to everyone who accepts it, it is received by faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God alone.
2, As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.
Jesus confirms that the Father has given Him power over all humanity and that, through His redemptive work, God grants eternal life to all those whom He has given to Jesus. Jesus understood the Scriptures, including what had been said about Him and what He would do and suffer, as illustrated in Isaiah 53:1-12. This indicates that all of humanity has been entrusted to
Christ, beginning with the lost sheep of Israel, and that anyone who believes in Jesus will not perish but will have eternal life.
This was God's plan to make salvation possible, man had to pay the penalty, the only way humanity can be reconciled to Him, as indicated in John 14:6. The word " power " is derived from the Greek word " exousia, " meaning authority. Through the Spirit of God, He granted His power and authority to Jesus Christ over humanity, John 3:34-35, John 5:26-27, Acts 10:38.
The Holy Spirit enabled Jesus to speak the words the Father had given him to speak, John 14:24. After God raised Jesus from the dead, the Father placed all heaven and earth under Jesus, Matthew 28:18, Ephesians 1:19-23, and Philippians 2:9-11.
Jesus's mission was to do the will of the Father. In John 5:19-23, Jesus says He can do nothing by Himself, same in John 5:30. God has committed all judgment unto the Son. The word committed is the Greek word didmi, to give, to grant, to bestow; it was deliberately transferred to Jesus to do the will of the Father who sent Him.
This highlights God's plan being fulfilled, emphasizing Jesus' role as the Messiah appointed and given authority by the Father.
You stated, "the Spirit of Christ does not refer to the Holy Spirit. It is the mind/mindset, the way Jesus was thinking and consequently acting.
And you referenced Philippians 2:5-8 to show the mindset that is to be obedient to God's commandements as Christ was.
I agree that we are to have the mind of Christ and to know and love God's commandments.
I don't believe the passage you used in Philippians is the best scripture to use to drive home your point.
Isn't Philippians 2:5-8 a lesson for believers to esteem other better than themselves?
( Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.) Philippians 2:3-4.
Again, I agree that we are to have the mind of Christ but is it possible to have the mind of Christ apart from Christ Spirit being IN us?
1 Corinthians 2:7-12 reads.
"But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, BUT THE SPIRIT WHICH IS OF GOD; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
I believe Romans 8:9 is showing the contrast of one in the flesh and one born of God's Spirit when considering the following verses.
What is "fear of God". Should we, His children, "fear God?"
In the past I was troubled by having two different feelings. One feeling that says that God is your dear Father who loves till death and a feeling that says that God is a fearsome, powerful God, with whom one should keep a distance from. After all He is God, not a man. Two opposite feelings.
One time as I was trying one more time to think what is the proper way to approach and think of God, I just asked my wife what she thinks of it. And she said something very simple to me," how would you like your son to see you and approach you?" And I said that I would like my son to love me, to appreciate what I have done for him, to trust me that I want the best for him and to respect me as a father. I would never liked that my son fears me, I would feel like a failed father if that had happened. So she said it is the same with God. Love Him, trust in Him, appreciate what He has done and doing for you and respect Him like a Father but do not fear Him. He wouldn't like this. Fear God means respect God as a Father.
So we should not fear God BUT we should fear about our salvation and be very serious about it. Philippians 2:12, "12Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Let us obey God, let us not play games with sin, be careful, stay away from anything that could turn us to a different direction than that of the narrow way, along Jesus' footprints, which ends up in Heaven, Every other way leads somewhere else, not in Heaven.
Apostle Paul explains why we are not laying hands to heal sickness. We can pray to the Father in Heaven, but it's through prayer only and then waiting. Remember covid-19.
Now we are using wine to feel better.
1 Timothy 5:23
Drink no longer water, but use a littlewinefor thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.
note: things were changing, no more hands on healing.
Only God can heal the sick in prayer.
Philippians 2:27
For indeed he wassicknigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
Apostle Paul just couldn't lay hands for healing anymore, God has changed it all for the Bible.
2 Timothy 4:20
Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletumsick.
Now that we have the completed Bible written, we don't need signs and wonders. All we do is rely on the Holy Spirit to teach us the Word of Truth.
1 Corinthians 13: 8-10
8Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
9For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
May we all understand that the book of Acts was a transitional book and God made Apostle Paul the leader of the gospel of grace.
1 Corinthians 15:10
But by thegraceofGodI am what I am: and hisgracewhich was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but thegraceofGodwhich was with me
Apostle Paul always writes to believers. Remember, Jesus Christ is ascended in Heaven. If Jesus Christ didn't have the Godhead, he couldn't of died on the cross, it would of been impossible.
Philippians 2:5-6
5Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Because of the sinful flesh Jesus Christ had, God was in Christ Jesus as one.
2 Corinthians 5:19
To wit, thatGodwas in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us thewordofreconciliation.
Jesus Christ was the voice and Word in Genesis .
Genesis 3:14-15
14And theLordGod said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life:
15And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
Jesus Christ spoke in Genesis about bruising Satan's heel.
Romans 16:20
And the God of peace shallbruiseSatan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
Jesus Christ was always the Son of God and took on flesh by the virgin Mary.
John 1:14
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Jesus Christ is our Saviour God.
Titus 1:3
But hath in due times manifested hiswordthrough preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandmentofGodour Saviour;
Jesus Christ is the Word.
1 John 5:7
For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, theWord, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
May we all believe that Jesus Christ is a Man, Sevant, King , Saviour, and our God in three persons.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 BELIEVE ONLY
To me, God's Love is overpoweringly expressed & seen, as when God gave His Own Life for us because He loved us so much to do so, rather than bringing forth an animal or even another human being to be slaughtered for us. There's no love in this - at least not the indescribable Love of God. I could easily urge someone else to run into a burning inferno to save a child from certain death rather than do it myself: is that love? - maybe a genuine concern & anguish, but not the Love the Bible speaks of. It took God to send forth Himself (& He chose to send His Word) to instruct & warn His people Israel & then to ultimately to lay down His Life for us. Had Jesus refused or failed to complete this Work, because of sin or fear of people or death, God had no other plan for salvation - this was His only Plan that could save sinners; or else we all remain condemned & destined for the punishment we deserve - eternal separation in agonizing pain.
When I see Jesus in the Bible, I see Him as God Himself, as the Word made flesh, for the suffering of death; for God is Spirit & can never be affected by the limitations, weaknesses, & death that the flesh can be. To be our Sacrifice, the supreme Sacrifice, God had to reveal Himself in Jesus His begotten Son, for the purpose of displaying His Love for us & then executing that Love in Sacrifice. And Paul reminds us clearly in Philippians 2:5-11, that this Jesus was in the very Form of God, i.e. in the Personhood of God, having God's Nature, His Power, His Will, etc; but in receiving human flesh, did not cling onto that Divine Nature, rather laid aside His Divinity, taking on human form, becoming a servant of men humbling Himself (how great must have been that humbling?) to even allow His Life to be put to a most horrifying ignoble death. God didn't deserve this - but His Love compelled Him to go all the way to the Cross for us. I well up in tears just thinking of such undeserved love for a wretch as me. Onto Page 4
4rth question:If Jesus is God who was Jesus praying to?
Answer: The Word, a part of Godhead, became a man like us, named Jesus. He was born by the Holy sprit and Mary so His father was God and His mother was Mary. So He was a Son of God but also a Son of Man. Now we have to understand that Jesus' aim was to represent humanity on the cross, that is to be punished by death instead of all of us who commit sins. So He had to be a man, a perfect man, like any other man. That means that he could NOT use His divine powers to do anything but He had to pray to His Father God to do all the miracles. He had to live like any other common man. So that He did. This is what is meant in Philippians 2:5-8, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:6Who, BEING IN THE FORM OF GOD, thought it not robbery (like satan tried to do) to be equal with God:7But made himself of no reputation, and TOOK UPON HIM THE FORM OF A SERVANT, and WAS MADE IN THE LIKENESS OF MEN:"
----History Cooperative: The Pagan Origins of Christmas: Saturnalia, Yule, and Other Pre-Christian Traditions
(In the above read "early Christians" as Roman Catholic, and those that fail to fully break away from them.)
82% of those identifying as born-again Christian believe Christ Jesus even existed. According to the Cultural Research Center of Arizona University. I am sure most of the 18% that do not celebrate Xmas. It is way past time that the true believers (those that believe Jesus was the virgin-born Son of God, that he died for the sins of the world, was buried, and rose again the third day) quit being lukewarm ( Rev 3:15-16), study God's word, adhere to it precisely, and make manifest the CINOs (Christian in Name Only) to the world.
-- Titus 1:11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.
As stated prior to this post, each individual saint must decide how important their salvation is.
-- Philippians 2:12 WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING.
How many are lost because we want the comfort of looking and acting like the deceivers of this world?
Till we meet at the Judgment Seat of Christ. ( 2Co 5:10, 1Co 3:11-15)
Thanks for responding!
You said "Stay close to Jesus and live'.
In Hebrews 13 vs 5 the Lord said "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee"
Thank God the staying power is in the hands of Jesus who also says in John 10:27-28 "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
Jesus is that Great Shepherd that leaves the ninety nine sheep and goes after the one lost in the wilderness illustrating God's immense love and pursuit of every individual, even when many are already safe; He prioritizes the lost one,
Jesus is that solid rock foundation!
If we built on him we will never stray!
If one final destiny is hell he built on sand and was never of the sheep fold!
He's one of those mentioned in Matthew 7 where Jesus says "I never knew you"
These postings of mine doesn't go out to any certain denomination, it goes out to the individual!
We must examine ourselves!
Salvation isn't defined or authenticated by what we know or even what we are doing on the outside!
It's what's cleaned on the inside!
It's a new birth!
It's not whether you "accepted Christ"
It's did you "RECEIVE" Christ!
If you have received Christ, "it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13.
God bless.
Therefore, James 2:24, "Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only", is not referencing anything to do with the Law, but that justification by faith would be spurious unless that faith produced resulting works. And James gives examples of such works: as in the treatment of impoverished believers, and of Abraham & Rahab, where in all cases the Law was absent but their works arose out of faith alone.
As James then summarizes, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also" ( James 2:26): that faith alone saves, but if works is absent from that faith, then that faith is dead. And this very thing Paul also writes about (in Galatians 5:6; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians 2:12); though I agree that both apostles were addressing different groups that needed to hear the message according to their understanding. Blessings.
Works Come After Salvation
But Paul goes on immediately in the next verse: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." ( Ephesians 2:10).
Works are not the root of salvation, but they are the fruit of salvation.
The Spirit of God produces love, service, and obedience in the believer's life ( Galatians 5:22-23; Titus 3:8).
Works are a demonstration of faith, not the basis of it.
The Right Perspective
Works should follow after salvation. But they do not secure salvation, nor do they keep it. They simply manifest the new life we already have in Christ ( 2 Corinthians 5:17).
We are not saved by good works, but we are saved unto good works.
"saved unto good works" is a short phrase with a lot of depth.
1. The Source of Salvation
When Paul says in Ephesians 2:8-9 that salvation is by grace through faith and not of works, he's setting the foundation:
We contribute nothing to earn salvation.
It's God's gift, given freely because of Christ's finished work on the cross.
2. The Purpose of Salvation
Right after that, Paul explains in Ephesians 2:10:
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
This means that once God saves us, He also equips us for a new kind of life - a life that reflects His grace, truth, and righteousness.
"Unto good works" means we are saved for the purpose of living out the good things God intended.
3. The Role of Good Works
Not the cause, but the result: Works don't save us, but they are the evidence that we are saved ( Romans 6:4; Titus 3:8).
Spirit-enabled, not self-made: The works are produced as the Spirit lives through us ( Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:13).
Witness to others: Good works demonstrate Christ's life in us to a watching world ( Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15).
The last question, are we saved by grace alone or Grace plus works?
G&P
Philippians 2:3 "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."
Blessings
What Jesus Himself declared to us should be strongly regarded; verses such as John 16:27,28 (Jesus came out from God - out from God's Being); John 17:5 (Jesus had all of God's Glory from the beginning); and John 1:1-14 (God took His Word and gave it flesh; and this was for the purpose of God's Love being shown in offering the perfect & only Sacrifice that could atone for our sins). And there are many other Scriptures that others have given you, which should show us that this Jesus was not just an ordinary human being born with human parents in sin, but was indeed the "second man, the Lord from Heaven" ( 1 Corinthians 15:47) and also called the "last Adam, a quickening (life-giving) spirit" ( 1 Corinthians 15:45).
Yes, Jesus came forth from the Person of God and given flesh for the purpose of being the only Sacrifice that could redeem us back to God. So how does Jesus have "free will" or even "prays to God". Remember, God gave His Word to be made human, so as a Human, Jesus encountered everything we have to face in life, and as a Human, the Glory He had ( John 17:5) had to be laid aside so that He could be like us, suffer and die (for God cannot die); see Philippians 2:5-11 (He was God's equal, He emptied Himself (Gk. kenosis) & took on humanity. Jesus now became God's Son in His Humanity, so He had free will and as a Son prayed to His Father. How can God pray to God, is often asked? These verses quoted should help you in knowing this Truth. GBU.
If your "battle" is with believing that Jesus is God, may I suggest the following scriptures for your consideration:
Genesis 1:1 along with John 1:1-3, Revelation 19:13, Colossians 1:15-17, Matthew 1:23, John 10:30, John 14:9, Mark 2:5-7, John 8:58, John 20:28, Isaiah 9:6, Philippians 2:5-7, Colossians 2:9, 1 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 1:8, 2 Peter 1:1, Revelation 1:8, John 5:18, 1 John 5:20, Luke 24:52, John 9:38, Acts 10:25-26, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 1:3, Revelation 22:13, Micah 5:2, John 17:5, John 1:14. There are more, but these should suffice.
You mention that "Christians say that there is no separation between Christ and God," and that the bible shows otherwise. Jesus said I and my Father are one, and He also said that if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father. This may not mean anything to you, but in the book of Hebrews, Jesus is described as the APOUGASMA (the out beam) of God's glory, God projecting Himself through the time/space factor in the person of Christ. Jesus Christ, being God, was never separated from the source. This is why Jesus can say if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father.
The best example I can give would be taking a flashlight in a dark room and shining it on a wall. The flashlight is the source, and the light is projected on the wall from the source. There is no separation unless the flashlight is turned off. Now, imagine the flashlight being God, and the light shining on the wall is Jesus, again, no separation. Jesus is said to be the true light which came down from heaven, the APOUGASMA of God.
If you are sincerely struggling with the deity of Jesus Christ (Him being God), I hope these scriptures I've provided might help. Also, if you would like, I can share my personal understanding on Matthew 26:39 and Luke 22:42 and why Christ would ask this.
If I may ask, are you a Christian? If so, who do you say Jesus is?
I earlier gave the example ( James 2:14-17) where one can say that he has great faith but when a brother or sister is in dire need, he does nothing. And James goes on ( James 2:21-24), citing Abraham's faith. When his faith was tested in the offering up of Isaac on the altar, Abraham came forth shining, for his faith was proven by his works (obedience). How would the genuineness of a Gentile's salvation & faith be proven, if not by his sensitivity and obedience to God's Spirit? If that is not there, then should we not regard him as a phony? And maybe this gives rise to some 'Christians' believing: 'I am saved, so how I live my life (i.e. works from faith) matters not'. Yet, Paul's plea to the Philippians ( Philippians 2:12), "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling", is worth noting; salvation is not a 'given', unless the new spirit and renewed life produces fruit (works) that must be the evidence of a new birth.
I can understand what you shared, that their respective readerships were different and one was under & guided by God's prophetic program, but when the Gospel is given to anyone, it must be the same or it's not the true Gospel that saves. So this is why, if we are to believe that James was faithful to the Gospel that saves, but his audience was different, then James 2:28 must mean that justification is by faith alone, but where works are absent, then that faith was spurious. But if it doesn't mean that, then James preached a false Gospel, for there can only be one Gospel for all men.
Thank you again brother for this good discussion as I've tried to restrict myself here to only a couple of your points that needed examination. Blessings.
Blessings
I perceive that the major problems that cause some believers to think that Christians can lose their salvation are, not understanding the perfect eternal Work of God's Spirit (that He makes no mistakes in choosing to indwell the truly repentant); the true meaning of 'Christian', the one who has been changed by the Spirit, following Jesus & living a Christ-centered life; and God's special act of Adoption into His family (He cannot 'un-adopt' us). All these Truths should confirm in our hearts, that absolutely nothing can "separate us from the Love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord", and certainly not from our own choosing to do so - would a believer who has been so regenerated and blessed in life & in hope for all that is to come, even want to turn from such a loving and merciful God? His Spirit in us will carry us through every situation we face in this life: in joy or sorrow, in persecution or death. His ministry in us is continuous - we may at times falter but He doesn't; He raises us up every time to continue our walk Heaven-ward. Every blessing brother.
We see two places where angels are chained in darkness: 2 Peter 2:4-5 and Jude 1:6. To me, this is a prison, a confinement area, as we see in Revelation 9, 11, 17, and 20. These angels did not keep their original estate or position and left their own dwelling place. These angels were disobedient to God, as seen in Genesis 6:1-2. There are fallen angels, demons, and devils on this earth, but what these angels did was so terrible that God locked them in the bottomless pit until the great day of judgment.
In Ephesians 4:8-10, there is another reference; verses 9-10 are debated depending on the manuscript. They say that before Jesus ascended to heaven, He first descended to the lower parts of the earth. Paul quotes Psalm 68:18, which describes the ark ascending to Mount Zion, leading captivity captive, symbolizing deliverance. Also, in Judges 5:12, part of Deborah's song, it states, "led thy captivity captive," meaning victory over oppression.
The same theme appears in Ephesians 4:8, victory over sin, death, and the grave through the life, sacrifice, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as referenced in Galatians 1:4 and 1 Corinthians 15:52-55. We also see the gifts given in Ephesians 4:11, Romans 12:4-8, and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
When Jesus was resurrected, God placed Him above all, as shown in Philippians 2:9-11, Ephesians 1:19-21, and 1 Peter 3:22. Satan, just like the leaders of Jerusalem, thought that when the Messiah came, He would immediately deliver them and establish His kingdom at that time, the expectation not yet fulfilled. When Satan influenced Judas to betray Jesus to death, he thought he had won.
See part 3
However, when Jesus was resurrected in His glorified body, He defeated and triumphed over death and the grave, Satan, and all principalities and powers. Colossians 2:15 describes how Jesus openly made a spectacle of them. I believe this was part of the celebration of the victory when Jesus, through the Spirit, went to the angels chained in darkness, made a spectacle of them, showing that He had triumphed over them and that they are eternally defeated.
I wonder if they bowed a knee to Him then or will have to in the Great Day, as said in Philippians 2:10, "things/those under the earth".
I will leave it here. I understand some may not agree, but this is my understanding of this. May our study be for the truth.
God bless,
RLW
The closest I can see to healing as a spiritual gift is in relation to the power that certain objects had such as Acts 19:12 with Peter's handkerchief or apron other than 1 Corinthians 12:9. If this occurs than what is the need for elders to pray for healing and anoint the sick with oil in James 5:14? It either supplements God's procurement of healing; or it indicates that elders had a particular unction of healing; or both. Certainly prayer is crucial in either case for the Spirit to work effectively.
Many want to disparage this gift of healing who don't regularly perform this action as prescribed; as it were in the Bible.
There are no doubt several reasons for illness. We can't dogmatically say with Paul's thorn in the flesh and the case of Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:27 who nearly died from sickness that the natural effects of living in a sinful and fallen world aren't a factor that affect both believer and unbeliever in some capacity. In the second case we see how overwork can lead to this situation which could have caused an early demise if Paul hadn't cautioned for his care in that church. We need to take a sober look at those who bear the heaviest burdens particularly fulfilling the Great Commission around us and keep them in prayer. I know of one Messianic Jewish couple who are elderly yet spreading the Gospel who just got back from Israel after enduring the war there shortly after arrival. They mentioned others too who are hard pressed serving in various capacities of the ministry. Let us not forget material support financially as well as prayer for these individuals whenever possible.
There are times when demonic influences can also cause ailments; both physical and mental. This is why those discerning the spirits are vital to differentiate when this is a direct (possession) or indirect (oppression) situation as well as discerning when it is emotional trauma apart from such influence happens.
and to do of his good pleasure.
2 Peter 1:5 Continued
So, work out your own salvation. It is God who works. Be where He wants you to be, live the lifestyle He wants you to live, to be on a schedule. And we'll see that when we get into Chapter 3 which gives us the priorities of the believer's life. So, if we understand Paul in Philippians 2:12-13, Peter is saying the same thing, add to your faith.
Now here's the catch phrase:
The word add in Verse 5 EPICHOREGESATE, and in Verse 11 where it says ministered EPICHOREGETHESETAI, add and ministered are the same words, and it means to supply. In Verse 11 it says for so an entrance shall be supplied to you, whereas back in Verse 5 it says supply to your faith. These are catch phrases because Verse 11 is going to make reference back to Verse 5 about our entrance into heaven. That's very important!
So, in Verse 5, it says on account of this, that is, you have become partakers of the divine nature, having provided all priority, supply in, it's not "to" but in your faith. What is faith? You see, faith is a catch phrase back to Verse 1, the Christian faith. My participation with the divine nature, Peter calls a like precious faith. Faith is the word that describes the interaction between myself and the Lord. It's invisible, but He's active, He's persuading, and He's ministering.
So, he's saying by being a partaker of the divine nature, you are now of the faith. So now that you are interacting with the divine nature, I want you to supply something, that is, make sure that this interaction and participation supplies something.
Here are some details that you're going to need to know as we go through this:
Instead of the word "to," in Verses 5 through 7, in the Greek text it is the word "in." Why is that important? Because in the Greek text, it shows the location in which the growth process takes place. You're not adding to something. You're growing in a phase. There are seven stages.
2 Peter 1:5 - And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
And beside this, or literally, on account of this. On account of what? You became partakers of the divine nature. If you are a partaker of the divine nature, then there are changes taking place within you as you're influenced by the very nature and quality of God Himself.
So, the first phrase there is making reference back to Verse 4. And there's where you bring the first phase into the second. Next, which would be the third thing, it says giving all diligence. And this is a phrase that indicates for me my responsibility in this growth process. It's diligence, which means top priority. It is my decision making and my responsibility to make spiritual growth in Christ the top priority of my life.
Fourthly: And here's where we get into a crunch of words. Add to your faith. What in the world does that mean? First of all, here's an explanation of how Paul said it, because Peter is saying the same thing. In Philippians 2:12-13, Paul says wherefore my beloved as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
But you can't stop there. It says in Verse 13, for it is God which works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. There are people who stop at Verse 12 and say "See, that's what we're supposed to do in our efforts. We're supposed to work out our own salvation." No! Our responsibility is that our salvation should be being worked out in us in a growth process. That is my responsibility, but I don't do the work. That's why is says for it is God who works in you.
Thanks for responding.
I believe your inquiry is what did I mean by this part of my post.
(It's not a demonstrative works trip we put ourselves on, it is a demonstration of power from God that works in us.
A believers should ask themselves, "Am I doing this for me? Is it organic or natural?
The lack of God's faith would put one on a works trip.
I believe the love of Christ in us accomplishes the activity of God in our lives)
However, I didn't say "Am I doing this for God?"
I believe any Spiritual good that we do, it is God doing it THROUGH us. "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13.
We ask what is our motives, WHO ARE GLORYFYING? Ourselves or God?
Am I trying to PRODUCE my own fruit?
In John 15 Jesus said "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for WITHOUT ME YOU CAN DO NOTHING.
Also.
I stated, "The lack of God's faith would put one on a works trip'.
Are we doing what we do to be sure of salvation? Or are we doing it because we are saved?
I believe God saves us and it is he that sanctifies us.
Matthews 7:22-23 reads Many will say to me in 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?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Have you noticed this passage of scripture is not pointing out the sins in these people, life that is hindering them.
The emphasis is on all the good they thought they were doing in Jesus name.
Here we have a person doing things in the flesh and not being led by the spirit because Christ was NEVER in them.
God bless.
Shall we analyse?
Remember the song
Christ is the portrait of God - Colossians 1:15
Before he was born
He did justice and in himself he died
Supremacy and thrones are
They are yours - Colossians 1: 16-17
And that thread that broke
From my soul to God - Colossians 1:21
The holy blood sewed
Christ and his lines of love - Colossians 1: 20
And now a man made I
Can in man see God
Have peace, live, walk and be
Made me a friend in his pouring out - John 15:15
When we were targets of God's wrath now we have Peace with God - Romans 5:1
I have a doubt that you probably theologians (formal or deep self-taught), show me if there is something I missed.
to go to church or not to go to church?
1 Thessalonians 5:11, 1 Peter 4:9, Psalms 133:1-3, Galatians 5:13. all these chapters do not speak of the church that is of my generation, Hebrews 10:24-25 this verse speaks of the mutual congregation.
continuing Romans 12:10, Ephesians 4:32, Acts 2:41-47, 1 John 1:6-7, 2 Corinthians 13:11, 1 Peter 1:22, Colossians 3:16, Philippians 2:1-2, John 13:34, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Psalm 55:14. I keep reading and re-reading Romans 12 and I wonder if it's in everyday life or gathered with the church.
Thank you very much!
My own understanding: is that Jesus was instructing His disciples of what would be a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God. Soon after (within a week or so), three of Jesus' disciples saw Jesus transfigured (or, transformed) revealing His Glory ( Matthew 17:1,2; Luke 9:28,29); that Glory which He would receive back after laying it aside for humanity's sake ( Philippians 2:5-9). That would have been the first taste given to His disciples of the coming Kingdom of God.
Then of course, through His Death, Resurrection & Ascension into Heaven, the disciples had further confirmation of both the Truth of Jesus' Words (while He taught them) and the institution of God's Kingdom. It is true, that what we would normally understand and expect of the Kingdom of God (i.e. when Jesus returns to the World in His second Coming) didn't happen then as it hasn't happened till now, we can still see that His disciples were given a foretaste of that coming Kingdom which would never end until Christ comes - and beyond.
They saw His Glory at the mount, they were witnesses of His resurrection ( Luke 24:24-40), and they were witnesses of His Ascension ( Luke 24:50-53). And the disciples (and also to all those who love the Lord Jesus & would serve Him), would receive power to live the Christ-centered, Christ-crucified life, declaring to all that truly God had now visited sinful man & offered him so great salvation through His Son. Yes, the Kingdom of God is potentially within all mankind ( Luke 17:20,21), where, even if those unbelieving Pharisees would only put their faith in Jesus, the reality of the God's Kingdom could also be theirs when God would do a new work in them ( Ezekiel 11:19,20). GBU.
I agree; "That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."
I also agree that Scripture is the word of God, and His Spirit is our guide to truth.
Philippians 2:9-11 God the Father has exalted Jesus above all, and we are to worship Jesus as Lord for the glory of God the Father.
God bless,
RLW
Part 5.
5, And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.
On the surface, it can be seen that Jesus is asking to be glorified by the Father with the glory He shared before creation, indicating the eternal nature of Christ, who existed before time began. Does Philippians 2:6-8 justify this request? Jesus, for His obedient earthly ministry, He rightfully deserves?
Does all of Scripture agree with this? We have these verses with similar wording. Were the things in these verses physically present before the world was? Were they all in the mind, thoughts, and the plan of God? Can we say some were and some were not? Are they confirmation of God's eternal plan and foreknowledge?
Verses that say before the world was, before the world, and before the foundation of the world. God's foreknowledge, purpose, and plan were before creation.
1 Corinthians 2:7 This wisdom is the gospel of Jesus Christ, hidden in the thoughts of God from before the world was. It was ordained from before the world that would be revealed in the fullness of time, as stated in Ephesians 1:10 and Colossians 1:26-27. There are hints of it throughout the Old Testament, but hidden from the Gentile world, it is now revealed through the preaching of the apostles who were with Jesus from the beginning of His three-and-a-half-year ministry, and Paul, after the leaders of Jerusalem said no to Jesus being the Messiah and killed Stephen, Acts 7:54-60.
2 Timothy 1:9 Our calling and salvation are given not by anything we have done or can do to earn. It is according to God's grace and for His purpose. This grace, which was given to us in Jesus, is part of God's plan before the world began, as we see in Ephesians 2:8-10 and Romans 8:28-29.
Salvation through Jesus Christ is available to everyone who accepts it, it is received by faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God alone.
See part 6.
Part 2.
2, As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.
Jesus confirms that the Father has given Him power over all humanity and that, through His redemptive work, God grants eternal life to all those whom He has given to Jesus. Jesus understood the Scriptures, including what had been said about Him and what He would do and suffer, as illustrated in Isaiah 53:1-12. This indicates that all of humanity has been entrusted to
Christ, beginning with the lost sheep of Israel, and that anyone who believes in Jesus will not perish but will have eternal life.
This was God's plan to make salvation possible, man had to pay the penalty, the only way humanity can be reconciled to Him, as indicated in John 14:6. The word " power " is derived from the Greek word " exousia, " meaning authority. Through the Spirit of God, He granted His power and authority to Jesus Christ over humanity, John 3:34-35, John 5:26-27, Acts 10:38.
The Holy Spirit enabled Jesus to speak the words the Father had given him to speak, John 14:24. After God raised Jesus from the dead, the Father placed all heaven and earth under Jesus, Matthew 28:18, Ephesians 1:19-23, and Philippians 2:9-11.
Jesus's mission was to do the will of the Father. In John 5:19-23, Jesus says He can do nothing by Himself, same in John 5:30. God has committed all judgment unto the Son. The word committed is the Greek word didmi, to give, to grant, to bestow; it was deliberately transferred to Jesus to do the will of the Father who sent Him.
This highlights God's plan being fulfilled, emphasizing Jesus' role as the Messiah appointed and given authority by the Father.
See part 3.
You stated, "the Spirit of Christ does not refer to the Holy Spirit. It is the mind/mindset, the way Jesus was thinking and consequently acting.
And you referenced Philippians 2:5-8 to show the mindset that is to be obedient to God's commandements as Christ was.
I agree that we are to have the mind of Christ and to know and love God's commandments.
I don't believe the passage you used in Philippians is the best scripture to use to drive home your point.
Isn't Philippians 2:5-8 a lesson for believers to esteem other better than themselves?
( Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.) Philippians 2:3-4.
Again, I agree that we are to have the mind of Christ but is it possible to have the mind of Christ apart from Christ Spirit being IN us?
1 Corinthians 2:7-12 reads.
"But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, BUT THE SPIRIT WHICH IS OF GOD; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
I believe Romans 8:9 is showing the contrast of one in the flesh and one born of God's Spirit when considering the following verses.
( Romans 8:10-11. )
Blessings.
In the past I was troubled by having two different feelings. One feeling that says that God is your dear Father who loves till death and a feeling that says that God is a fearsome, powerful God, with whom one should keep a distance from. After all He is God, not a man. Two opposite feelings.
One time as I was trying one more time to think what is the proper way to approach and think of God, I just asked my wife what she thinks of it. And she said something very simple to me," how would you like your son to see you and approach you?" And I said that I would like my son to love me, to appreciate what I have done for him, to trust me that I want the best for him and to respect me as a father. I would never liked that my son fears me, I would feel like a failed father if that had happened. So she said it is the same with God. Love Him, trust in Him, appreciate what He has done and doing for you and respect Him like a Father but do not fear Him. He wouldn't like this. Fear God means respect God as a Father.
So we should not fear God BUT we should fear about our salvation and be very serious about it. Philippians 2:12, "12Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Let us obey God, let us not play games with sin, be careful, stay away from anything that could turn us to a different direction than that of the narrow way, along Jesus' footprints, which ends up in Heaven, Every other way leads somewhere else, not in Heaven.
Philippians 2:1-11
1If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
2Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
3Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
4Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
5Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
7But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
8And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
9Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
10That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
11And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
May we all be in Christ....
Now we are using wine to feel better.
1 Timothy 5:23
Drink no longer water, but use a littlewinefor thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.
note: things were changing, no more hands on healing.
Only God can heal the sick in prayer.
Philippians 2:27
For indeed he wassicknigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
Apostle Paul just couldn't lay hands for healing anymore, God has changed it all for the Bible.
2 Timothy 4:20
Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletumsick.
Now that we have the completed Bible written, we don't need signs and wonders. All we do is rely on the Holy Spirit to teach us the Word of Truth.
1 Corinthians 13: 8-10
8Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
9For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
May we all understand that the book of Acts was a transitional book and God made Apostle Paul the leader of the gospel of grace.
1 Corinthians 15:10
But by thegraceofGodI am what I am: and hisgracewhich was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but thegraceofGodwhich was with me
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
The gospel of grace for to day.
Philippians 2:5-6
5Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Because of the sinful flesh Jesus Christ had, God was in Christ Jesus as one.
2 Corinthians 5:19
To wit, thatGodwas in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us thewordofreconciliation.
Jesus Christ was the voice and Word in Genesis .
Genesis 3:14-15
14And theLordGod said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life:
15And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
Jesus Christ spoke in Genesis about bruising Satan's heel.
Romans 16:20
And the God of peace shallbruiseSatan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
Jesus Christ was always the Son of God and took on flesh by the virgin Mary.
John 1:14
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Jesus Christ is our Saviour God.
Titus 1:3
But hath in due times manifested hiswordthrough preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandmentofGodour Saviour;
Jesus Christ is the Word.
1 John 5:7
For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, theWord, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
May we all believe that Jesus Christ is a Man, Sevant, King , Saviour, and our God in three persons.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 BELIEVE ONLY
To me, God's Love is overpoweringly expressed & seen, as when God gave His Own Life for us because He loved us so much to do so, rather than bringing forth an animal or even another human being to be slaughtered for us. There's no love in this - at least not the indescribable Love of God. I could easily urge someone else to run into a burning inferno to save a child from certain death rather than do it myself: is that love? - maybe a genuine concern & anguish, but not the Love the Bible speaks of. It took God to send forth Himself (& He chose to send His Word) to instruct & warn His people Israel & then to ultimately to lay down His Life for us. Had Jesus refused or failed to complete this Work, because of sin or fear of people or death, God had no other plan for salvation - this was His only Plan that could save sinners; or else we all remain condemned & destined for the punishment we deserve - eternal separation in agonizing pain.
When I see Jesus in the Bible, I see Him as God Himself, as the Word made flesh, for the suffering of death; for God is Spirit & can never be affected by the limitations, weaknesses, & death that the flesh can be. To be our Sacrifice, the supreme Sacrifice, God had to reveal Himself in Jesus His begotten Son, for the purpose of displaying His Love for us & then executing that Love in Sacrifice. And Paul reminds us clearly in Philippians 2:5-11, that this Jesus was in the very Form of God, i.e. in the Personhood of God, having God's Nature, His Power, His Will, etc; but in receiving human flesh, did not cling onto that Divine Nature, rather laid aside His Divinity, taking on human form, becoming a servant of men humbling Himself (how great must have been that humbling?) to even allow His Life to be put to a most horrifying ignoble death. God didn't deserve this - but His Love compelled Him to go all the way to the Cross for us. I well up in tears just thinking of such undeserved love for a wretch as me. Onto Page 4
4rth question:If Jesus is God who was Jesus praying to?
Answer: The Word, a part of Godhead, became a man like us, named Jesus. He was born by the Holy sprit and Mary so His father was God and His mother was Mary. So He was a Son of God but also a Son of Man. Now we have to understand that Jesus' aim was to represent humanity on the cross, that is to be punished by death instead of all of us who commit sins. So He had to be a man, a perfect man, like any other man. That means that he could NOT use His divine powers to do anything but He had to pray to His Father God to do all the miracles. He had to live like any other common man. So that He did. This is what is meant in Philippians 2:5-8, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:6Who, BEING IN THE FORM OF GOD, thought it not robbery (like satan tried to do) to be equal with God:7But made himself of no reputation, and TOOK UPON HIM THE FORM OF A SERVANT, and WAS MADE IN THE LIKENESS OF MEN:"
GBU