Further insights on propetic significance of blessing descendants
Genesis 12:3 shows a blessing from God to Abraham and his descendants which affects all those who bless Israel with a blessing; and curses those with a curse. This effectively puts us all in a position to reap blessings from being part of God's family even if not in the bloodline of Abraham. Romans 9:6-7 shows that is not bloodline that guarantees eternal inheritance and John 8:33-35 makes this clear and the punchline as it were is in verse 44 where Jesus tells them point blank that they are in reality sons of the Devil. They would literally spit in the face of the one who came to save all mankind; including those Gentiles they despised.
It is very interesting to me that there were no punches pulled with any of the Patriarchs in assessing the true condition and resulting destiny of their descendants; indeed it proves inspiration from God. There was never any argument as to the bad news so to speak as to the validity of the message; only anger in the case of Esau of a blessing lost to a usurper brother.
It does seem Esau mellowed out after being in a position where he likely would have killed his brother if his mother didn't have the wisdom to send him away. Eventually there was some restitution of family ties.
I highly recommend Hebrews 11 and 12 for further insight on the saints of God and admonitions for those who profess to be Christians. Here we see how tenacity was ineffective for Esau due to his generally sinful lifestyle; but also we can see Jacob's tenacity wrestling God all night long in Genesis 32 starting in verse 22. He was preparing to meet Esau and sent his family ahead; thus alone in the wilderness and God granted the blessing. Part of it no doubt was an attitude of humility toward his brother who accepted his gift and then he separated from him. Joseph's blessing no doubt validated the dream of his youth and was proven by his humbling as a slave and exaltation.
Introdution: According to 1 Thessalonians 5:9 we are not appointed to wrath. Romans 9:22 seems to indicate that there are indeed "vessels of wrath" doomed for destruction which seems to fulfill what some call "double predestination" or wicked destined for hell. We do know that all those who are NOT written in the Book of Life before the foundation of the world will accept the Mark of the Beast and in fact worship him. ( Rev. 13:8; 17:8 and also in chapter 20). Whether we just play out what is already determined; or God knows ahead of time what we will choose is something we can argue about.
Since this Antichrist is indeed the "man of sin" ( 2 Thess. 2:3) and we can also call the son of perdition in John 17:12 as representing Judas Iscariot who also was destined to betray God and be lost according to the prophecy in Psalm 55 along with the same fate for this Beast from these and other passages; we once again see God's hand in this. God is the one according to Thessalonians that sends "strong delusion" ( 2 Thess. 2:11). That is because people loved sin so much that they didn't want to repent; and we see this with the behaviors that occur during the Trumpet judgments in particular.
These facts are sobering; we know that if it weren't for His grace we would never see clearly our sin nature and hence we all would fall for this false Messiah. This world system has nothing to offer; nor does any man who is unregenerate to give lasting peace. Neither sacrifices of animals or man's own sufferings procure any justification or forgiveness of sins; and God is not impressed with any of our accomplishments. Self gratification no doubt will be a large part of the universal appeal; along with self preservation that eventually leads to the acceptance of this infamous mark. Luke 12:12 may have double fulfillment; both for the Apostles facing martyrdom and the end time saints who refuse the mark.
Romans 2:9 states: There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile..
(NIV); but says tribulation and anguish in the KJV. There is another verse stating that judgment begins at the house of God. ( 1 Peter 4:17).
Just as not all Israel is Israel ( Romans 9:6); not all the "professing" church is the possessing church; that is possessing the Holy Spirit and true salvation. Jesus made that perfectly clear to those who thought because they were the physical descendants of Abraham that gave them some sort of benefit were sadly mistaken ( John 8:39-44). Those who had seen Christ; knew the prophecies about the Messiah and yet rejected Him would in fact be worse off than Sodom and Gomorrah in their punishment. ( Matt. 11:21-24). We see similar warnings for those who have knowledge of the truth and become reprobate; in that it would be better not to have known it in the first place ( 2 Peter 2:21).
Testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith is sadly lacking today among professing believers; or we would see a reality check in the fruits of many lives. ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). We can glibly see this example as a carnal bunch of people and think that being steeped in our own religious training or theology that we are automatically exempt from this test. I have said before that there are dangers in any extreme that is lacking the balancing attribute; such as with loving people and warning them of judgment to come ( John 16:8). We see in the Ephesian church everything being done properly but their first love somehow becoming distant in their hearts. Look at 1 Corinthians 13:6; love rejoices in the truth. The basic fact that man's heart is desperately wicked ( Jeremiah 17:9) and that our sin makes us enemies of God ( James 4:4) means that there is a wall between opposing parties and yes God is angry with the wicked (i.e. us) every day. ( Psalm 7:11). Having our heads in the sand doesn't help anyone.
The subject of prophecy never seems to be an issue in one regard among those who generally hold to proper scriptural interpretation in one sense; that is of PAST fulfillment. A Reformed church and many other traditional denominational assemblies hold onto belief that the Prophets accurately predicted specific events; in particular relating to the first coming of Christ. When it comes to future prophecies related to the nation of Israel and the Millennium there is often confusion as to what is taken literally and what is meant figuratively. Thus; again sometimes it is claimed that we can't understand certain things; or perhaps more insidious that because of an isolated doctrinal stance we can't pigeonhole something being literally fulfilled because it threatens that doctrine. Needless to say if our doctrines are truly Biblical and we take scripture literally unless clearly indicated as figurative we can make a lot more sense of things.
We need to remind ourselves that when Christ came the first time He was; by and large not received by His own ( John 1:11). We also need to realize that no matter how much prophecy we read if we are not written in the Book of life we are ultimately going to be deceived to the point that ALL who aren't there will worship the Antichrist (Beast) mentioned in Revelation 13:8.
As I have commented numerous times in the past few years at this site; by the sixth seal it is clear there are no more Atheists; nonetheless many will continue to live in open rebellion and follow Satan to their doom at Armageddon after damning themselves and taking the Mark of the Beast. Despite these factors; there are some who have reservations as to the Eschatology of a Millennium period; for example who I still fellowship with despite disagreeing with their interpretations.
A bigger issue is those who think God is done with Israel; a common verse used is Romans 9:6 as well as Galatians 3:7.
God as a jealous God: Looking deeper into the covenant with Israel
All men were created according to God's purposes and therefore are subject to God who is the Lord over the whole earth. Psalm 139 discusses how man was "fearfully and wonderfully made" so therefore before the fall we had the capacity to walk in perfect innocence before the Lord. The capacity or potential for evil and sin was present; however and we see that occurring with Lucifer as well as Adam and Eve in the garden (although with the angelic beings there may have been a longer period of time for their fall). In a sense it "rains upon the just and the unjust" ( Matt. 5:45) so that in this life there is a restraint of judgment on sin.
The Lord chastises all those who are His own; therefore this principle applies to individuals as well as those who were part of those He brought forth in the Exodus up until the Israel of the present day. Being on the side of God as opposed to the pagans doesn't give room for justification of pride; and being a recipient of blessings around us for a season doesn't guarantee our own salvation either ( Romans 9:6-7). This passage shows a bloodline who were in God's geneology didn't guarantee anything either.
Yesterday I considered the incident starting in Numbers 16 with the rebellion of the sons of Korah. Mercifully; there are Psalms from their descendants who survived that seem to bring hope that some were repentant after this terrifying judgment. The complaints the next day after the 250 were sucked down into the earth (which was directed to Moses) of somehow fomenting God's anger resulted in a plague. The incidents of rebellion among the exiles are too many tomention here; it is noteworthy to note that only Joshua and Caleb from that original generation were allowed to cross the Jordan after nearly 40 years wandering around in the desert. Moses surely was a child of God but couldn't make it due to one specific incident striking a stone in anger.
You stated, "The Old Testament is the foundation; the NT builds on that foundation.
Testament means covenant.
Here I will highlight some verses in Hebrews 9:1-28.
8) The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
23) It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
24) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Verse 11 says, "not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building.
I will use that verse to springboard us onto the foundation which we build on that was prophesied in the OT but was rejected because of Israel blindness.
Isaiah 8:14
1 Peter 2:6-8
1 Corinthians 3:11
Ephesians 2:20
Romans 9:31-33.
When a building is being erected the corner stone is the first stone layed and where everything is squared and leveled.
Those who was saved in the OT also rested on this foundation.
15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be(combined with Daniel 12:1-3 and Revelation 12:7-12).
22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved( Romans 9:28): but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ ( John 5:43-47), or there; BELIEVE IT NOT.
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets( Isaiah 9:15-16 combined with Revelation 12:3-4), and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. - 25 Behold, I have told you before.
Luke 6:36 "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
James 2:13 "For He shall have judgement without mercy, that have shoed no mercy, and mercy rejoiceth against judgment."
Here we see how mercy triumphs over judgment, so we should be careful to show mercy, being patient with others who are sinners as we are."
Romans 9:22-23 "What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known. endured with much long-suffering the vessels fit for destruction: And that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of His mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory!"
We all can say like Paul, 1 Tim. 1:15-16 "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners: of whom I am the chief. Howbeit for this cause (to save sinners) I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering (His unlimited patience), for a pattern (example) to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting." 2Pet. 3:9
When we wonder why God allows evil things to continue to happen in this world and in our lives, we can, like Peter, affirm that "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but His long-suffering (long on patience) to us-ward, not willing that any (elect) shall perish, but that all (elect) will come to repentance.
The Lord's tarrying in unlimited patience is for the benefit of all who will be our brethren in eternal life to come to salvation, even though He knows that no matter how much time is allowed mankind, many will never come to Him for salvation.
When we see evil abounding all around us, we still can rejoice, knowing that there are still more elected ones to be saved to add to our joy in our fellowship with our Savior. Every person counts who is to come to salvation, until then, the church is incomplete until the last elected one comes to salvation. see pt. 3
Daniel 9:18-20 show how Daniel asked the Lord to remember the state of Jerusalem being in desolation and His promises (as seen in the book of Jeremiah) of reoccupation and return of the Jews after 70 years of exile (see Jeremiah 29:10). The sins of the people in question were something Daniel took on as a burden to himself in his prayers; fasting and supplications.
In terms of blessings of a general sort there is that of those who find a wife ( Prov. 18:22). There is also the offspring; or fruit of the womb that is specifically stated to be a blessing ( Deut. 7:13; and several passages in Psalms). Deuteronomy lists blessings for those who obey God's statutes and cursings for those who don't in extensive passages in Deuteronomy 28. As we look at God's chosen people in Exodus; clearly the Lord showed favor in physically delivering the Jews from Egypt; but as Romans 9:6 states not everyone benefitted from it. In fact only Joshua and Caleb survived from the first generation; even Moses was unable to enter the land but saw it from afar due to an isolated sin on his part ( Deut. 3:23 and following verses).
What we can count on in our sanctification and ultimate glorification ( Romans 8:30). All the prophetic scriptures will be fulfilled to the letter. This includes Israel being restored; the earth being renewed; Christ ruling in the Millennium; wars ending throughout the world; extended lifespans; etc.
The blessings of financial matters is promised for those who are living by faith (we see the example of Abraham in Genesis 13:2 as the first demonstration of this in scripture although technically the text of Job may be older as an example of God's financial blessings (see Job 1:16 and subsequent verses). Satan was well aware of God's provisions and favor and therefore we can be certain that he will attempt to thwart OR substitute God's blessings with his own which end up being dead ends and illusions.
Jeremiah 5:30-31 declares: "A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?"
1 Thessalonians 5:3 "For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape."
I know that I am a sinner, so what can I do to be saved? The answer is, there is nothing that I, being DEAD in trespasses and sins, can do to affect my salvation!
Ephesians 2:1 "And you hath he quickened [made alive], who were DEAD in trespasses and sins;"
John 6:29 "This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent."
Galatians 2:16 "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST..."
Romans 9:15-16 "For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy."
So what about the churches that say, we will show you how to become saved, or, you must be baptized in water and partake of the Lord's supper? Virtually every church promotes a do-it-yourself salvation, which is not that of the Bible! The baptism that is required is the washing away of our sins, which only God can perform. When we meditate on the word of God with a view to being obedient to it, we are feeding on the flesh and drinking the blood of the Lord Jesus.
John 6:63 "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."
Salvation is 100% the work of God. If we are trusting in any work that we do for Salvation, we are trusting in a FALSE GOSPEL that cannot save.
Visit ZionInTravail on youtube and the web to lean more about the True Gospel of Salvation and the Day in which we are living.
1 Corinthians 10:4 talks about everyone drinking from the same spiritual rock and the Rock was Christ. God made a covenant with His chosen people and delivered them after 400 years of bondage in Egypt; passing them through the Red Sea. Not all Israel is Israel however. ( Romans 9:6-7). Some argue this represents Baptism; holding those under the covenant parents make on behalf of their children at infancy. Whatever the case; when we become church members; we make a vow or covenant as to our service toward other believers. In fact when we first come to Christ; it should be looked at as a Covenant. Christ has fulfilled everything in the finished work on the cross on our behalf; but is only EFFECTIVE if we are truly saved. God makes us willing ( Psalm 110:3) and He gives the gift of repentance. ( 2 Timothy 2:25 and several other references). If we truly are saved we will love God and of course keep His commandments ( John 14:15). This involves obedience toward Christ and Him being Lord Savior AND Master of our lives.
When we make a church vow as members we affirm our faith in Christ; and our commitment to the body of Christ (prayer and fellowship). In Pittsburgh one of the things my pastor did annually was print out our vow as a reminder which I think is a good thing. This naturally encompasses the discipline of rebuking a brother and going through necessary disciplinary measures if personal resolution cannot be accomplished. If leadership is guilty and the congregation doesn't corroborate clearly evident apostasy or sin then we must disfellowship. I went through a specific issue that I won't elaborate on now with an elder after discussion with the Pastor in a previous church; eventually I left; so I've been there. This as with a marriage involves the same principal; we always seek reconciliation but separation may be needed at times. We are all part of covenant fellowship with all true Christians.
I have made several comment that says Christ is the Kingdom of God, and he is.
Christ is the high priest in the Kingdom.
He is calling out a priesthood to server under him, and during the (1000 year, ONE DAY, now 2000 years) going on NOW, we will be ministering spirit, as is Christ during this AGE.
When he has gathered all his priest, he will resurrect the dead back to their flesh and blood bodies.
Blessed are the ones who believe without seeing.
All the UNBELIEVING Thomas will LITERALLY SEE, and TOUCH the nail prints in his body, and BE ASHAMED.
We will also be given HIS BODY, and bear those scars, being crucified with him.
When the trumpet sounds an army of ONE FLESH will appear.
Seeing is believing.
ALL judgement has been given to Christ, so by his resurrection, he made his judges flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone so they could judge in truth and mercy.
Romans 9:23 That he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels if mercy, which he hath afore prepared for glory.
Romans 11:32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy on all.
Romans 11:31 .... that through your mercy they my also obtain mercy ...
You say"the third heaven is the dwelling of God'',but what does the Word of GOD say? Ps.148:4-Praise GOD,ye heavens of heavens(highest heavens),and ye waters that be above the heavens(peoples,and nations,and multitudes of all tongues; so,those which will be above the heavens are them which will be caught up out of the FIRE and be placed in the 3rd Heaven,for the 1st and 2nd heavens will be DISSOLVED- 2Peter 3:12-13,as follow:
12Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the Day of GOD(the LORD's Day),wherein the HEAVENS(the 1st and 2nd heavens-THE CELESTIAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS)being on FIRE shall be DISSOLVED,and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?How?Yes, how?It is revealed and explained in Isaiah 33:10-14 combined with Hebrews 12:29 and 10:27.Take a look.
13Nevertheless we,according to GOD's promise,look for New Heavens(the next is the 3rd heaven- Luke 20:35-36.Take a look) and a new earth(new Israel),wherein dwels righteousness.
As you know,the Word is GOD,self-executing. Romans 9:28-31:
-->28For GOD WILL FINISH the work(the finish of GOD's work is from now on according to the WRATH OF GOD described in Revelation 11:15-18),and He shall cut it short in RIGHTEOUSNESS: because a SHORT WORK will the Lord make upon the earth(even now, from now on, in the last week divided in two halfs of severe and terrible chastisements),as JESUS warned in Matthew 24:22,saying:"Except those days should be SHORTENED,there should no flesh be saved:but for the elect's sake those days shall be SHORTENED
Verse 29-And as Esaias said before,Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed,we had been as Sodoma(as is written in Luke 17:29-30),and been made like unto Gomorrha
30What shall we say then?That the Gentiles,which followed not after righteousness,have attained to righteousness,even the righteousness which is of faith
31But Israel,which followed after the Law of righteousness,has not attained to the law of righteousness
Daniel 4:35 .... and God 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.
Romans 9:21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the SAME LUMP, to make one vessel unto honour, and one vessel unto dishonour.
The dogs without are the vessels of DISHONOUR.
No man has a CHOICE of what he is, it's all GOD"S WORK.
There, but by the grace of GOD go I, a vessel of dishonour.
The EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT had a specific time to begin it, that is this current time of Apocalypse, NEVER to END, but NEVER, it's for ever and ever.
Hope that all of GOD's people be ready, for there shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be, and except these days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. As is written, GOD will finish the work(in this current time), and cut it short in Righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth, as prophesied Paul Apostle- Romans 9:28. Be careful and get ready
29 And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.
Get ready, the Word is GOD, self-executing, understand?
John 3:34-37KJV
34 For he whom GOD hath sent speaketh the words of GOD: for GOD giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hand.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the WRATH of GOD abideth on him. ---> (Terrible, very terrible, as Isaiah prophesied: "The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings?- Isaiah 33:14
Romans 9:28-33 combined with Matthew 24:22 & Daniel 12:10
28GOD will finish the work,and cut it short in righteousness:because a SHORT WORK will the Lord make upon the earth( Matthew 24:22-And except those days should be shortened,there should no flesh be saved:but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened)
29And as Esaias said before,Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed,we had been as Sodoma,and been made like unto Gomorrha.
30What shall we say then?That the Gentiles,which followed not after righteousness,have attained to righteousness,even the righteousness which is of faith.
31But Israel,which followed after the law of righteousness,hath not attained to the law of righteousness.
32Wherefore?Because they sought it not by faith,but as it were by the works of the law.For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;
33As it is written,Behold,I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence:and whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed ( Daniel 12:10-Many shall be purified,and made white,and tried;but the wicked shall do wickedly:and none of the WICKED shall understand; but the WISE shall understand)
Revelation 22:11-17
11He that is unjust,let him be unjust still:and he which is filthy,let him be filthy still:and he that is righteous,let him be righteous still:and he that is holy,let him be holy still.
12And, behold,I come quickly; and my reward is with me,to give every man according as his work shall be.
13I am Alpha and Omega,the beginning and the end,the first and the last.
14Blessed 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.
15Without are dogs,and sorcerers,and whoremongers,and murderers,and idolaters,and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
16I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches.
17And the Spirit and the bride say,Come.Let him that heareth say, Come.And whosoever will,let him take the water of life freely.
1 Peter 5:7 says that we should cast all our cares on Him because He cares for us. Several passages in Psalms discuss God's compassion and or mercy. Romans 9:15 states that He will have mercy on whom He will have mercy; and compassion on whom He will have compassion. Ultimately; of course that involves those who come to saving faith in Christ; but of course for now it rains on the just and the unjust. ( Matthew 5:45). Luke 18:38 shows how Bartimaeus asked for mercy and Christ healed his blindness.
According to Lamentations 3:22 his compassions they fail not; and that is due to His mercy that we are not consumed. The theme there is the destruction of the Babylonians with the horrible famine in particular focus. This verse could be taken as physical survival of the ordeal but also spiritual preservation of the soul. God always preserves a remnant; and God honors His covenants and that is through the remnant that is purged in various trials.
God's Attributes: Covenants
I have discussed covenants in particular focus on the marriage covenant in previous posts. I have given at least an outline of the (imlied) covenant with Adam and the first one in scripture regarding the rainbow and God preserving the world from another global flood; the Abrahamic Covenant; the Mosaic Covenant; and finally the new covenant that Christ has given His people under the blood and how it is even more stringent with thoughts and intentions than the previous one (see Matthew 5:20 on exceeding the righteousness of the Pharisees). I will reinforce the fact that except for the abrogation of the Old Covenant in terms of the law and righeousness for the New under Christ; covenants in God's eyes are eternal; or at least as far as the terms made between men and God or even between men as to the length (in marriage it is until "death do us part" which fits in with 1 Corinthians 7:39.) We are not to take a vow flippantly ( Ecc. 5:4-6).
"That is, They which are the children of the flesh(Israel), these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed."
Romans 9:6-8,
"6 Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: 7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.
Galatians 4:28,
"Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise."
Galatians 3:29,
"And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise (of the eternal life)."
15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.
16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.
18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.
Your use of Matthew 7:14 is misinterpreted because TRUE, few will find The Way but what does finding the way have to do with Election? For Election is NOT about works (finding The Way), but Election is ALL about God Choosing! Look at Rom. Ch.11, the whole chapter. It's all about God "cutting off" His Chosen for the sake of those NOT chosen. There are two types of elect; there are those Chosen before the foundation of the world, Ephesians 1:4. And those chosen, only because His Chosen were "cut off"! Romans 11:11-12. The Jews (Hebrew) for the Gentile, the vessels of wrath for the vessels of mercy, Romans 9:21-23 and Christ for the world, Matthew 27:46. This is a Pattern, a plummet line, a way for us to "measure" the things of God.
Colossians 2:4 "And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words."
1 John 2:1 "My little children these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sins we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:"
Ephesians 2:3 "But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ."
Exodus 25:13
Hebrews 9:5 "And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy seat; of which we cannot now speak particularly."
John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."
1 Peter 2:25 "For ye were as sheep gone astray; but now are returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."
Isaiah 42:1 "Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring judgement to the Gentiles."
John 8:28- 29 "Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak those things. And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always these things that please him."
1 Timothy 2:8 "I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."
Romans 9:5 "Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen."
Psalms 45:7 "Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, Thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows."
John 17:1 "And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through Thine own name those whom thou has given me, that they may be one, as we are."
David, I didn't give you my definition of Church. I gave you the Strongs definition of Church.
ekklsia
Pronunciation: ek-klay-see'-ah
Definition: From a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564; a calling out that is (concretely) a popular meeting especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both): - assembly church.
Christ said upon this rock he will build "HIS" Church. It's His calling out or Gathering, It's not by Church membership. It's the Holyspirit the puts the true believers in the body of Christ, "By faith.
We will have to agree to disagree on the Church issue.
David, Concerning the rock.
You said.
The "rock" is Christ Himself. It is not what I describe.
Yes, the rock is Christ! Thats exactly what I described!
David Israel stumbled at that rock, this was not Christ church in the wilderness.
Isaiah 8:14. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
Acts 4:10-11. Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
Study these verses also.
Matthew 21:33-43
1 Peter 2:6-9.
Romans 9:31-33.
See Part 2
Davtid you have said over and over again
"There is one and only one Judgment and Salvation Program for Mankind throughout time. And that Program, the Gospel, is circumscribed by the Bible Alone and in its Entirety.
Who's debating that?
I agree and been saying that exclusively since I have been on this site!
However, I don't even recall THAT being a part of this conversation!
In Romans Chapter 4, it's the principles of justification. And in Romans 5, we have the privileges of justification. When you read Chapter 4 and study about faith, it's like it hits you right between the eyes!
Impartation - The Doctrine of Sanctification ( Romans 6:1-8:39)
Then the impartation, that which is given, the doctrine of sanctification. That will be Romans 6:1 to the end of Chapter 8 and it will cover the power over sin, the problem of the flesh, and the provision of God's Spirit. Sanctification means to be set apart. When God gives us His Spirit, we are set apart and protected as His possession.
Romans 6 - The Power Over Sin
Romans 7 - The Problem of the Flesh
Romans 8 - The Provision of the Spirit
Then there's the inspiration, the doctrine of election in Romans 9 through 11. Chapter 9 talks about the Jews, the past history of Israel. Chapter 10 gives us the present condition of Israel. Chapter 11 is the promise of the future of Israel.
Inspiration - The Doctrine of Election ( Romans 9:1-11-11:36)
Romans 9 - The Past History of Israel
Romans 10 - The Present Condition of Israel
Romans 11 - The Promise of the Future of Israel
And then we get to the second part of the book of Romans which is Chapters 12 through 16 which gives us the description of the Christian life. This is all doctrine! I have heard people present it and say that Chapters 1 through 11 is all doctrine, and then Chapters 12 to 16 is practical application. It too is doctrine. But it is not about the Christian faith but about the Christian life, life after you are saved.
EL-OLAM [el-oh-lahm]: "Everlasting God" ( Psalm 90:1-3) - God's nature is without beginning or end, free from all constraints of time, and He contains within Himself the very cause of time itself. "From everlasting to everlasting, You are God" ( Psalm 90:2).
EL-GIBHOR [el-ghee-bohr]: "Mighty God" ( Isaiah 9:6) - the name describing the Messiah, Christ Jesus, in this prophetic portion of Isaiah. As a powerful and mighty warrior, the Messiah, the Mighty God, will accomplish the destruction of God's enemies and rule with a rod of iron ( Revelation 19:15).
Those are just perhaps a few of the names of GOD.
Here's another article that might help.
Who is God? - The Fact
The fact of God's existence is so conspicuous, both through creation and through man's conscience, that the Bible calls the atheist a "fool" ( Psalm 14:1). Accordingly, the Bible never attempts to prove the existence of God; rather, it assumes His existence from the very beginning ( Genesis 1:1). What the Bible does is reveal the nature, character, and work of God.
Who is God? - The Definition
Thinking correctly about God is of utmost importance because a false idea about God is idolatry. In Psalm 50:21, God reproves the wicked man with this accusation: "You thought I was altogether like you." To start with, a good summary definition of God is "the Supreme Being; the Creator and Ruler of all that is; the Self-existent One who is perfect in power, goodness, and wisdom."
Who is God? - His Character
Here are some of God's characteristics as revealed in the Bible: God is just ( Acts 17:31), loving ( Ephesians 2:4-5), truthful ( John 14:6), and holy ( 1 John 1:5). God shows compassion ( 2 Corinthians 1:3), mercy ( Romans 9:15), and grace ( Romans 5:17). God judges sin ( Psalm 5:5) but also offers forgiveness ( Psalm 130:4).
Christian Greetings! We can be thankful that we live in the day of grace and salvation! Even the day of the Gentiles.
"What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith." Romans 9:30 KJV
There are many scriptures to look up using this website (Thank you) regarding "in Christ" that speak to our lives of obedience in Christ.
And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. (PHillipians 1:28)."
And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath. ( Joshua 2:11).
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ( Proverbs 9:10). Continuing with some ideas from my previous post; it seems that when it comes to supposed testimonies of hell; the fear of the Lord and a sense of it being His wrath as a great part of the terror is lost in accounts of suffering. The same thing makes us even more suspect with those testimonies about heaven; even Moses who knew God unlike any other man at the time ( Exodus 33:11) and spoke to Him as a friend still had fear when He appeared in all His glory ( Deut. 9:19). WE ALL SHOULD TAKE THIS ADMONITION SERIOUSLY as to fear and AWE of Him no matter how long we have been believers (sorry but I felt caps were needed here).
The assurance of salvation and the evident blessings being present on someone brings meaning to the first quote from Philippians; and the fact that we will return with Him ( Rev. 19:14) will strike fear in those whose eyes are now opened;
along with the fear of judgment to come.
The concept of our enemies also needs to be addressed along with our own enmity toward God that we now have reconciled.
Romans 11:28 shows how the unbeliving Jews were enemies in one sense; yet Paul wished that he himself could be accursed to save them ( Romans 9:3). We are to love our enemies; but not fraternize to gain reputation as the world does; for what is honorable among men is an abomination to God ( Luke 16:15 also could be "highly esteemed"). We should have no part fellowshipping with those who preach a false Gospel; and in no uncertain terms testify to the peril the unsaved is in apart from repentance.
I haven't been able to get away to participate by reading the bulk of the posts and replies on the 10 commandment topic.
I would like to mention a misunderstanding in the communication between the several views on this topic.
There's a difference in the 10 commandments being Holy and being justified by keeping them.
We say Israel failed to be a witness but is that totally accurate?
How did they fail? By not keeping the law?
Before anyone answer that I would like for us to consider a few things.
1) Israel keeps the Law far better than any nation ever has!!
2) The law was given to Israel. Romans 9:4. So they had a ministry to minister to the Whole world as "fleshly" Children of an active, living, Holy God.
This ministry was called ministration of death..
2 Corinthians 3:6-9.
They were examples for us and this is written to us.
They successfully showed the world what Paul stated in Romans 7:5-14.
The world is unable to be Justified by the Law.
3) To say Israel failed for not keeping the law is not exactly correct.
They failed by thinking they were justified by the law.( Not just the 10 commandments ) after all there were articles for certain sins.
They failed because they stumbled at that stumblingstone!
That's where they failed!!
Romans 9:31-33.
They all didn't fail, there was a remnant according to the election of grace and still is.
Romans 11:4-8.
vs 5) Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant (ACCORDING TO THE ELECTION OF GRACE!)
This election is not determined by works.
In other words works wasn't elected as God's way to justify his people.
Romans 9:11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;
Yes the law is Holy and we all fail to be Justified by it, so we were all dead in trespasses and sins.
Romans 9:6-7 seems to bolster what you are saying. Also Galatians 6:16 as to both believing parties being part of the true church. There are; admittedly certain verses that would seem to suggest that final prophetic fulfillment of O.T. prophecies fit into the church Age; particularly in the Book of Acts. Many of these promises only appear partially fulfilled; that would be demonstrated in those verses coming from Joel; or Psalm 1 which will not be completed until the Tribulation and Second Coming of Christ. Because of this; I sort of see a Covenant as well as Dispensational aspect to scripture. Most prophecy has multiple fulfillments with one final one in scripture; some don't like to attest to that reality to pinpoint their own eschatological or other doctrinal stance. I try to take these principles in my comments with many other facets of the Word; such as predestination and the fact that God works through man's "free will" to bring His plans about; clearly seen with Christ's crucifixion.
Rightly dividing the Word takes maturity and much practice and study. That affects our view of the "once saved always saved" concept vs the many warnings about falling away; for example.
As to Israel vs the church; a careful reading of scripture shows us that there are certain conditional and unconditional promises in either example. An eternal God of covenants has eternal things in His heart; thus the only thing that has passed away was the old covenant of the law which God Himself had; in His wisdom designed to eventually be replaced by Christ's atoning sacrifice instituting the New Covenant. The "great parenthesis" between the O.T. and Revelation (or between Daniel's 69th and 70th week) is partially hidden; therefore with certain aspects being revealed as related to the church in this "dispensation". There are already a few Gentiles who come to faith in the O.T.; just like signs today in Israel that show a shadow of what is to come in the future.
Genesis 12:3 shows a blessing from God to Abraham and his descendants which affects all those who bless Israel with a blessing; and curses those with a curse. This effectively puts us all in a position to reap blessings from being part of God's family even if not in the bloodline of Abraham. Romans 9:6-7 shows that is not bloodline that guarantees eternal inheritance and John 8:33-35 makes this clear and the punchline as it were is in verse 44 where Jesus tells them point blank that they are in reality sons of the Devil. They would literally spit in the face of the one who came to save all mankind; including those Gentiles they despised.
It is very interesting to me that there were no punches pulled with any of the Patriarchs in assessing the true condition and resulting destiny of their descendants; indeed it proves inspiration from God. There was never any argument as to the bad news so to speak as to the validity of the message; only anger in the case of Esau of a blessing lost to a usurper brother.
It does seem Esau mellowed out after being in a position where he likely would have killed his brother if his mother didn't have the wisdom to send him away. Eventually there was some restitution of family ties.
I highly recommend Hebrews 11 and 12 for further insight on the saints of God and admonitions for those who profess to be Christians. Here we see how tenacity was ineffective for Esau due to his generally sinful lifestyle; but also we can see Jacob's tenacity wrestling God all night long in Genesis 32 starting in verse 22. He was preparing to meet Esau and sent his family ahead; thus alone in the wilderness and God granted the blessing. Part of it no doubt was an attitude of humility toward his brother who accepted his gift and then he separated from him. Joseph's blessing no doubt validated the dream of his youth and was proven by his humbling as a slave and exaltation.
Introdution: According to 1 Thessalonians 5:9 we are not appointed to wrath. Romans 9:22 seems to indicate that there are indeed "vessels of wrath" doomed for destruction which seems to fulfill what some call "double predestination" or wicked destined for hell. We do know that all those who are NOT written in the Book of Life before the foundation of the world will accept the Mark of the Beast and in fact worship him. ( Rev. 13:8; 17:8 and also in chapter 20). Whether we just play out what is already determined; or God knows ahead of time what we will choose is something we can argue about.
Since this Antichrist is indeed the "man of sin" ( 2 Thess. 2:3) and we can also call the son of perdition in John 17:12 as representing Judas Iscariot who also was destined to betray God and be lost according to the prophecy in Psalm 55 along with the same fate for this Beast from these and other passages; we once again see God's hand in this. God is the one according to Thessalonians that sends "strong delusion" ( 2 Thess. 2:11). That is because people loved sin so much that they didn't want to repent; and we see this with the behaviors that occur during the Trumpet judgments in particular.
These facts are sobering; we know that if it weren't for His grace we would never see clearly our sin nature and hence we all would fall for this false Messiah. This world system has nothing to offer; nor does any man who is unregenerate to give lasting peace. Neither sacrifices of animals or man's own sufferings procure any justification or forgiveness of sins; and God is not impressed with any of our accomplishments. Self gratification no doubt will be a large part of the universal appeal; along with self preservation that eventually leads to the acceptance of this infamous mark. Luke 12:12 may have double fulfillment; both for the Apostles facing martyrdom and the end time saints who refuse the mark.
(NIV); but says tribulation and anguish in the KJV. There is another verse stating that judgment begins at the house of God. ( 1 Peter 4:17).
Just as not all Israel is Israel ( Romans 9:6); not all the "professing" church is the possessing church; that is possessing the Holy Spirit and true salvation. Jesus made that perfectly clear to those who thought because they were the physical descendants of Abraham that gave them some sort of benefit were sadly mistaken ( John 8:39-44). Those who had seen Christ; knew the prophecies about the Messiah and yet rejected Him would in fact be worse off than Sodom and Gomorrah in their punishment. ( Matt. 11:21-24). We see similar warnings for those who have knowledge of the truth and become reprobate; in that it would be better not to have known it in the first place ( 2 Peter 2:21).
Testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith is sadly lacking today among professing believers; or we would see a reality check in the fruits of many lives. ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). We can glibly see this example as a carnal bunch of people and think that being steeped in our own religious training or theology that we are automatically exempt from this test. I have said before that there are dangers in any extreme that is lacking the balancing attribute; such as with loving people and warning them of judgment to come ( John 16:8). We see in the Ephesian church everything being done properly but their first love somehow becoming distant in their hearts. Look at 1 Corinthians 13:6; love rejoices in the truth. The basic fact that man's heart is desperately wicked ( Jeremiah 17:9) and that our sin makes us enemies of God ( James 4:4) means that there is a wall between opposing parties and yes God is angry with the wicked (i.e. us) every day. ( Psalm 7:11). Having our heads in the sand doesn't help anyone.
The subject of prophecy never seems to be an issue in one regard among those who generally hold to proper scriptural interpretation in one sense; that is of PAST fulfillment. A Reformed church and many other traditional denominational assemblies hold onto belief that the Prophets accurately predicted specific events; in particular relating to the first coming of Christ. When it comes to future prophecies related to the nation of Israel and the Millennium there is often confusion as to what is taken literally and what is meant figuratively. Thus; again sometimes it is claimed that we can't understand certain things; or perhaps more insidious that because of an isolated doctrinal stance we can't pigeonhole something being literally fulfilled because it threatens that doctrine. Needless to say if our doctrines are truly Biblical and we take scripture literally unless clearly indicated as figurative we can make a lot more sense of things.
We need to remind ourselves that when Christ came the first time He was; by and large not received by His own ( John 1:11). We also need to realize that no matter how much prophecy we read if we are not written in the Book of life we are ultimately going to be deceived to the point that ALL who aren't there will worship the Antichrist (Beast) mentioned in Revelation 13:8.
As I have commented numerous times in the past few years at this site; by the sixth seal it is clear there are no more Atheists; nonetheless many will continue to live in open rebellion and follow Satan to their doom at Armageddon after damning themselves and taking the Mark of the Beast. Despite these factors; there are some who have reservations as to the Eschatology of a Millennium period; for example who I still fellowship with despite disagreeing with their interpretations.
A bigger issue is those who think God is done with Israel; a common verse used is Romans 9:6 as well as Galatians 3:7.
I will discuss this further.
All men were created according to God's purposes and therefore are subject to God who is the Lord over the whole earth. Psalm 139 discusses how man was "fearfully and wonderfully made" so therefore before the fall we had the capacity to walk in perfect innocence before the Lord. The capacity or potential for evil and sin was present; however and we see that occurring with Lucifer as well as Adam and Eve in the garden (although with the angelic beings there may have been a longer period of time for their fall). In a sense it "rains upon the just and the unjust" ( Matt. 5:45) so that in this life there is a restraint of judgment on sin.
The Lord chastises all those who are His own; therefore this principle applies to individuals as well as those who were part of those He brought forth in the Exodus up until the Israel of the present day. Being on the side of God as opposed to the pagans doesn't give room for justification of pride; and being a recipient of blessings around us for a season doesn't guarantee our own salvation either ( Romans 9:6-7). This passage shows a bloodline who were in God's geneology didn't guarantee anything either.
Yesterday I considered the incident starting in Numbers 16 with the rebellion of the sons of Korah. Mercifully; there are Psalms from their descendants who survived that seem to bring hope that some were repentant after this terrifying judgment. The complaints the next day after the 250 were sucked down into the earth (which was directed to Moses) of somehow fomenting God's anger resulted in a plague. The incidents of rebellion among the exiles are too many tomention here; it is noteworthy to note that only Joshua and Caleb from that original generation were allowed to cross the Jordan after nearly 40 years wandering around in the desert. Moses surely was a child of God but couldn't make it due to one specific incident striking a stone in anger.
You stated, "The Old Testament is the foundation; the NT builds on that foundation.
Testament means covenant.
Here I will highlight some verses in Hebrews 9:1-28.
8) The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;
10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
23) It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.
24) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Verse 11 says, "not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building.
I will use that verse to springboard us onto the foundation which we build on that was prophesied in the OT but was rejected because of Israel blindness.
Isaiah 8:14
1 Peter 2:6-8
1 Corinthians 3:11
Ephesians 2:20
Romans 9:31-33.
When a building is being erected the corner stone is the first stone layed and where everything is squared and leveled.
Those who was saved in the OT also rested on this foundation.
God bless.
15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be(combined with Daniel 12:1-3 and Revelation 12:7-12).
22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved( Romans 9:28): but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ ( John 5:43-47), or there; BELIEVE IT NOT.
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets( Isaiah 9:15-16 combined with Revelation 12:3-4), and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. - 25 Behold, I have told you before.
There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
PT. 2
Luke 6:36 "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
James 2:13 "For He shall have judgement without mercy, that have shoed no mercy, and mercy rejoiceth against judgment."
Here we see how mercy triumphs over judgment, so we should be careful to show mercy, being patient with others who are sinners as we are."
Romans 9:22-23 "What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known. endured with much long-suffering the vessels fit for destruction: And that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of His mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory!"
We all can say like Paul, 1 Tim. 1:15-16 "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners: of whom I am the chief. Howbeit for this cause (to save sinners) I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long-suffering (His unlimited patience), for a pattern (example) to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting." 2Pet. 3:9
When we wonder why God allows evil things to continue to happen in this world and in our lives, we can, like Peter, affirm that "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but His long-suffering (long on patience) to us-ward, not willing that any (elect) shall perish, but that all (elect) will come to repentance.
The Lord's tarrying in unlimited patience is for the benefit of all who will be our brethren in eternal life to come to salvation, even though He knows that no matter how much time is allowed mankind, many will never come to Him for salvation.
When we see evil abounding all around us, we still can rejoice, knowing that there are still more elected ones to be saved to add to our joy in our fellowship with our Savior. Every person counts who is to come to salvation, until then, the church is incomplete until the last elected one comes to salvation. see pt. 3
Daniel 9:18-20 show how Daniel asked the Lord to remember the state of Jerusalem being in desolation and His promises (as seen in the book of Jeremiah) of reoccupation and return of the Jews after 70 years of exile (see Jeremiah 29:10). The sins of the people in question were something Daniel took on as a burden to himself in his prayers; fasting and supplications.
In terms of blessings of a general sort there is that of those who find a wife ( Prov. 18:22). There is also the offspring; or fruit of the womb that is specifically stated to be a blessing ( Deut. 7:13; and several passages in Psalms). Deuteronomy lists blessings for those who obey God's statutes and cursings for those who don't in extensive passages in Deuteronomy 28. As we look at God's chosen people in Exodus; clearly the Lord showed favor in physically delivering the Jews from Egypt; but as Romans 9:6 states not everyone benefitted from it. In fact only Joshua and Caleb survived from the first generation; even Moses was unable to enter the land but saw it from afar due to an isolated sin on his part ( Deut. 3:23 and following verses).
What we can count on in our sanctification and ultimate glorification ( Romans 8:30). All the prophetic scriptures will be fulfilled to the letter. This includes Israel being restored; the earth being renewed; Christ ruling in the Millennium; wars ending throughout the world; extended lifespans; etc.
The blessings of financial matters is promised for those who are living by faith (we see the example of Abraham in Genesis 13:2 as the first demonstration of this in scripture although technically the text of Job may be older as an example of God's financial blessings (see Job 1:16 and subsequent verses). Satan was well aware of God's provisions and favor and therefore we can be certain that he will attempt to thwart OR substitute God's blessings with his own which end up being dead ends and illusions.
( 1 Peter 5:8).
Jeremiah 5:30-31 declares: "A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?"
1 Thessalonians 5:3 "For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape."
I know that I am a sinner, so what can I do to be saved? The answer is, there is nothing that I, being DEAD in trespasses and sins, can do to affect my salvation!
Ephesians 2:1 "And you hath he quickened [made alive], who were DEAD in trespasses and sins;"
John 6:29 "This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent."
Galatians 2:16 "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST..."
Romans 9:15-16 "For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy."
So what about the churches that say, we will show you how to become saved, or, you must be baptized in water and partake of the Lord's supper? Virtually every church promotes a do-it-yourself salvation, which is not that of the Bible! The baptism that is required is the washing away of our sins, which only God can perform. When we meditate on the word of God with a view to being obedient to it, we are feeding on the flesh and drinking the blood of the Lord Jesus.
John 6:63 "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."
Salvation is 100% the work of God. If we are trusting in any work that we do for Salvation, we are trusting in a FALSE GOSPEL that cannot save.
Visit ZionInTravail on youtube and the web to lean more about the True Gospel of Salvation and the Day in which we are living.
1 Corinthians 10:4 talks about everyone drinking from the same spiritual rock and the Rock was Christ. God made a covenant with His chosen people and delivered them after 400 years of bondage in Egypt; passing them through the Red Sea. Not all Israel is Israel however. ( Romans 9:6-7). Some argue this represents Baptism; holding those under the covenant parents make on behalf of their children at infancy. Whatever the case; when we become church members; we make a vow or covenant as to our service toward other believers. In fact when we first come to Christ; it should be looked at as a Covenant. Christ has fulfilled everything in the finished work on the cross on our behalf; but is only EFFECTIVE if we are truly saved. God makes us willing ( Psalm 110:3) and He gives the gift of repentance. ( 2 Timothy 2:25 and several other references). If we truly are saved we will love God and of course keep His commandments ( John 14:15). This involves obedience toward Christ and Him being Lord Savior AND Master of our lives.
When we make a church vow as members we affirm our faith in Christ; and our commitment to the body of Christ (prayer and fellowship). In Pittsburgh one of the things my pastor did annually was print out our vow as a reminder which I think is a good thing. This naturally encompasses the discipline of rebuking a brother and going through necessary disciplinary measures if personal resolution cannot be accomplished. If leadership is guilty and the congregation doesn't corroborate clearly evident apostasy or sin then we must disfellowship. I went through a specific issue that I won't elaborate on now with an elder after discussion with the Pastor in a previous church; eventually I left; so I've been there. This as with a marriage involves the same principal; we always seek reconciliation but separation may be needed at times. We are all part of covenant fellowship with all true Christians.
I know you read all the comments.
I have made several comment that says Christ is the Kingdom of God, and he is.
Christ is the high priest in the Kingdom.
He is calling out a priesthood to server under him, and during the (1000 year, ONE DAY, now 2000 years) going on NOW, we will be ministering spirit, as is Christ during this AGE.
When he has gathered all his priest, he will resurrect the dead back to their flesh and blood bodies.
Blessed are the ones who believe without seeing.
All the UNBELIEVING Thomas will LITERALLY SEE, and TOUCH the nail prints in his body, and BE ASHAMED.
We will also be given HIS BODY, and bear those scars, being crucified with him.
When the trumpet sounds an army of ONE FLESH will appear.
Seeing is believing.
ALL judgement has been given to Christ, so by his resurrection, he made his judges flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone so they could judge in truth and mercy.
Romans 9:23 That he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels if mercy, which he hath afore prepared for glory.
Romans 11:32 For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy on all.
Romans 11:31 .... that through your mercy they my also obtain mercy ...
God Bless YOU!
You say"the third heaven is the dwelling of God'',but what does the Word of GOD say? Ps.148:4-Praise GOD,ye heavens of heavens(highest heavens),and ye waters that be above the heavens(peoples,and nations,and multitudes of all tongues; so,those which will be above the heavens are them which will be caught up out of the FIRE and be placed in the 3rd Heaven,for the 1st and 2nd heavens will be DISSOLVED- 2Peter 3:12-13,as follow:
12Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the Day of GOD(the LORD's Day),wherein the HEAVENS(the 1st and 2nd heavens-THE CELESTIAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS)being on FIRE shall be DISSOLVED,and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?How?Yes, how?It is revealed and explained in Isaiah 33:10-14 combined with Hebrews 12:29 and 10:27.Take a look.
13Nevertheless we,according to GOD's promise,look for New Heavens(the next is the 3rd heaven- Luke 20:35-36.Take a look) and a new earth(new Israel),wherein dwels righteousness.
As you know,the Word is GOD,self-executing. Romans 9:28-31:
-->28For GOD WILL FINISH the work(the finish of GOD's work is from now on according to the WRATH OF GOD described in Revelation 11:15-18),and He shall cut it short in RIGHTEOUSNESS: because a SHORT WORK will the Lord make upon the earth(even now, from now on, in the last week divided in two halfs of severe and terrible chastisements),as JESUS warned in Matthew 24:22,saying:"Except those days should be SHORTENED,there should no flesh be saved:but for the elect's sake those days shall be SHORTENED
Verse 29-And as Esaias said before,Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed,we had been as Sodoma(as is written in Luke 17:29-30),and been made like unto Gomorrha
30What shall we say then?That the Gentiles,which followed not after righteousness,have attained to righteousness,even the righteousness which is of faith
31But Israel,which followed after the Law of righteousness,has not attained to the law of righteousness
That said Get ready
Daniel 4:35 .... and God 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.
Romans 9:21 Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the SAME LUMP, to make one vessel unto honour, and one vessel unto dishonour.
The dogs without are the vessels of DISHONOUR.
No man has a CHOICE of what he is, it's all GOD"S WORK.
There, but by the grace of GOD go I, a vessel of dishonour.
God BLESS YOU!
Hope that all of GOD's people be ready, for there shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be, and except these days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. As is written, GOD will finish the work(in this current time), and cut it short in Righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth, as prophesied Paul Apostle- Romans 9:28. Be careful and get ready
29 And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.
Get ready, the Word is GOD, self-executing, understand?
John 3:34-37KJV
34 For he whom GOD hath sent speaketh the words of GOD: for GOD giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hand.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the WRATH of GOD abideth on him. ---> (Terrible, very terrible, as Isaiah prophesied: "The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings?- Isaiah 33:14
The Word is GOD, self-executing, understand?
28GOD will finish the work,and cut it short in righteousness:because a SHORT WORK will the Lord make upon the earth( Matthew 24:22-And except those days should be shortened,there should no flesh be saved:but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened)
29And as Esaias said before,Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed,we had been as Sodoma,and been made like unto Gomorrha.
30What shall we say then?That the Gentiles,which followed not after righteousness,have attained to righteousness,even the righteousness which is of faith.
31But Israel,which followed after the law of righteousness,hath not attained to the law of righteousness.
32Wherefore?Because they sought it not by faith,but as it were by the works of the law.For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;
33As it is written,Behold,I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence:and whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed ( Daniel 12:10-Many shall be purified,and made white,and tried;but the wicked shall do wickedly:and none of the WICKED shall understand; but the WISE shall understand)
Revelation 22:11-17
11He that is unjust,let him be unjust still:and he which is filthy,let him be filthy still:and he that is righteous,let him be righteous still:and he that is holy,let him be holy still.
12And, behold,I come quickly; and my reward is with me,to give every man according as his work shall be.
13I am Alpha and Omega,the beginning and the end,the first and the last.
14Blessed 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.
15Without are dogs,and sorcerers,and whoremongers,and murderers,and idolaters,and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
16I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches.
17And the Spirit and the bride say,Come.Let him that heareth say, Come.And whosoever will,let him take the water of life freely.
1 Peter 5:7 says that we should cast all our cares on Him because He cares for us. Several passages in Psalms discuss God's compassion and or mercy. Romans 9:15 states that He will have mercy on whom He will have mercy; and compassion on whom He will have compassion. Ultimately; of course that involves those who come to saving faith in Christ; but of course for now it rains on the just and the unjust. ( Matthew 5:45). Luke 18:38 shows how Bartimaeus asked for mercy and Christ healed his blindness.
According to Lamentations 3:22 his compassions they fail not; and that is due to His mercy that we are not consumed. The theme there is the destruction of the Babylonians with the horrible famine in particular focus. This verse could be taken as physical survival of the ordeal but also spiritual preservation of the soul. God always preserves a remnant; and God honors His covenants and that is through the remnant that is purged in various trials.
God's Attributes: Covenants
I have discussed covenants in particular focus on the marriage covenant in previous posts. I have given at least an outline of the (imlied) covenant with Adam and the first one in scripture regarding the rainbow and God preserving the world from another global flood; the Abrahamic Covenant; the Mosaic Covenant; and finally the new covenant that Christ has given His people under the blood and how it is even more stringent with thoughts and intentions than the previous one (see Matthew 5:20 on exceeding the righteousness of the Pharisees). I will reinforce the fact that except for the abrogation of the Old Covenant in terms of the law and righeousness for the New under Christ; covenants in God's eyes are eternal; or at least as far as the terms made between men and God or even between men as to the length (in marriage it is until "death do us part" which fits in with 1 Corinthians 7:39.) We are not to take a vow flippantly ( Ecc. 5:4-6).
"That is, They which are the children of the flesh(Israel), these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed."
Romans 9:6-8,
"6 Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: 7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.
Galatians 4:28,
"Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise."
Galatians 3:29,
"And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise (of the eternal life)."
"Whose(Israel) are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen."
A better translation of "who is over all, God blessed for ever" is given by the NIV, "... who is God over all, forever praised! Amen."
The NIV makes clearer the divinity of Jesus. It agrees with how the grk text is understood.
I am not you adversary, just a living stone, as are you, in the HOUSE God BUILT.
You comments in first two paragraphs were DEAD ON, GOD'S PURPOSE, being fulfilled.
Yet, in your third paragraph, you attribute the demise of the Amorites to THEIR FREE WILL, instead of GOD'S PURPOSE.
Proverbs 16:4 The LORD hath made all things FOR HIMSELF, yea, EVEN the WICKED for the day of evil.
They had no FREE WILL to do anything other than the APPOINTED WILL of GOD.
Romans 9:17 For the scriptures SAITH UNTO PHARAOH, for this PURPOSE have I raised you up ......
Isaiah 44:8 That saith of Cyrus, you are my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure .....
Amazing to think about all these things.
In LOVE, for the truth God has PURPOSED for us.
God Bless YOU!
Jonah ran from God
Peter was quick to anger
David committed fornication
Noah got drunk
Thomas was a doubter
Abraham was old
Lazarus was DEAD!
God uses whom He chooses.....
Romans 9:15-18-King James Version
15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.
16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.
18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.
Your use of Matthew 7:14 is misinterpreted because TRUE, few will find The Way but what does finding the way have to do with Election? For Election is NOT about works (finding The Way), but Election is ALL about God Choosing! Look at Rom. Ch.11, the whole chapter. It's all about God "cutting off" His Chosen for the sake of those NOT chosen. There are two types of elect; there are those Chosen before the foundation of the world, Ephesians 1:4. And those chosen, only because His Chosen were "cut off"! Romans 11:11-12. The Jews (Hebrew) for the Gentile, the vessels of wrath for the vessels of mercy, Romans 9:21-23 and Christ for the world, Matthew 27:46. This is a Pattern, a plummet line, a way for us to "measure" the things of God.
Colossians 2:4 "And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words."
1 John 2:1 "My little children these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sins we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:"
Ephesians 2:3 "But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ."
Exodus 25:13
Hebrews 9:5 "And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercy seat; of which we cannot now speak particularly."
John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."
1 Peter 2:25 "For ye were as sheep gone astray; but now are returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."
Isaiah 42:1 "Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring judgement to the Gentiles."
John 8:28- 29 "Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak those things. And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always these things that please him."
1 Timothy 2:8 "I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."
Romans 9:5 "Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen."
Psalms 45:7 "Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, Thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows."
John 17:1 "And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through Thine own name those whom thou has given me, that they may be one, as we are."
P4 follows
Part 1
David, I didn't give you my definition of Church. I gave you the Strongs definition of Church.
ekklsia
Pronunciation: ek-klay-see'-ah
Definition: From a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564; a calling out that is (concretely) a popular meeting especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both): - assembly church.
Christ said upon this rock he will build "HIS" Church. It's His calling out or Gathering, It's not by Church membership. It's the Holyspirit the puts the true believers in the body of Christ, "By faith.
We will have to agree to disagree on the Church issue.
David, Concerning the rock.
You said.
The "rock" is Christ Himself. It is not what I describe.
Yes, the rock is Christ! Thats exactly what I described!
David Israel stumbled at that rock, this was not Christ church in the wilderness.
Isaiah 8:14. And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
Acts 4:10-11. Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
Study these verses also.
Matthew 21:33-43
1 Peter 2:6-9.
Romans 9:31-33.
See Part 2
Davtid you have said over and over again
"There is one and only one Judgment and Salvation Program for Mankind throughout time. And that Program, the Gospel, is circumscribed by the Bible Alone and in its Entirety.
Who's debating that?
I agree and been saying that exclusively since I have been on this site!
However, I don't even recall THAT being a part of this conversation!
At least not from me.
In Romans Chapter 4, it's the principles of justification. And in Romans 5, we have the privileges of justification. When you read Chapter 4 and study about faith, it's like it hits you right between the eyes!
Impartation - The Doctrine of Sanctification ( Romans 6:1-8:39)
Then the impartation, that which is given, the doctrine of sanctification. That will be Romans 6:1 to the end of Chapter 8 and it will cover the power over sin, the problem of the flesh, and the provision of God's Spirit. Sanctification means to be set apart. When God gives us His Spirit, we are set apart and protected as His possession.
Romans 6 - The Power Over Sin
Romans 7 - The Problem of the Flesh
Romans 8 - The Provision of the Spirit
Then there's the inspiration, the doctrine of election in Romans 9 through 11. Chapter 9 talks about the Jews, the past history of Israel. Chapter 10 gives us the present condition of Israel. Chapter 11 is the promise of the future of Israel.
Inspiration - The Doctrine of Election ( Romans 9:1-11-11:36)
Romans 9 - The Past History of Israel
Romans 10 - The Present Condition of Israel
Romans 11 - The Promise of the Future of Israel
And then we get to the second part of the book of Romans which is Chapters 12 through 16 which gives us the description of the Christian life. This is all doctrine! I have heard people present it and say that Chapters 1 through 11 is all doctrine, and then Chapters 12 to 16 is practical application. It too is doctrine. But it is not about the Christian faith but about the Christian life, life after you are saved.
Part 4.
EL-OLAM [el-oh-lahm]: "Everlasting God" ( Psalm 90:1-3) - God's nature is without beginning or end, free from all constraints of time, and He contains within Himself the very cause of time itself. "From everlasting to everlasting, You are God" ( Psalm 90:2).
EL-GIBHOR [el-ghee-bohr]: "Mighty God" ( Isaiah 9:6) - the name describing the Messiah, Christ Jesus, in this prophetic portion of Isaiah. As a powerful and mighty warrior, the Messiah, the Mighty God, will accomplish the destruction of God's enemies and rule with a rod of iron ( Revelation 19:15).
Those are just perhaps a few of the names of GOD.
Here's another article that might help.
Who is God? - The Fact
The fact of God's existence is so conspicuous, both through creation and through man's conscience, that the Bible calls the atheist a "fool" ( Psalm 14:1). Accordingly, the Bible never attempts to prove the existence of God; rather, it assumes His existence from the very beginning ( Genesis 1:1). What the Bible does is reveal the nature, character, and work of God.
Who is God? - The Definition
Thinking correctly about God is of utmost importance because a false idea about God is idolatry. In Psalm 50:21, God reproves the wicked man with this accusation: "You thought I was altogether like you." To start with, a good summary definition of God is "the Supreme Being; the Creator and Ruler of all that is; the Self-existent One who is perfect in power, goodness, and wisdom."
Who is God? - His Character
Here are some of God's characteristics as revealed in the Bible: God is just ( Acts 17:31), loving ( Ephesians 2:4-5), truthful ( John 14:6), and holy ( 1 John 1:5). God shows compassion ( 2 Corinthians 1:3), mercy ( Romans 9:15), and grace ( Romans 5:17). God judges sin ( Psalm 5:5) but also offers forgiveness ( Psalm 130:4).
See Part 5.
"What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith." Romans 9:30 KJV
There are many scriptures to look up using this website (Thank you) regarding "in Christ" that speak to our lives of obedience in Christ.
And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. (PHillipians 1:28)."
And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath. ( Joshua 2:11).
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ( Proverbs 9:10). Continuing with some ideas from my previous post; it seems that when it comes to supposed testimonies of hell; the fear of the Lord and a sense of it being His wrath as a great part of the terror is lost in accounts of suffering. The same thing makes us even more suspect with those testimonies about heaven; even Moses who knew God unlike any other man at the time ( Exodus 33:11) and spoke to Him as a friend still had fear when He appeared in all His glory ( Deut. 9:19). WE ALL SHOULD TAKE THIS ADMONITION SERIOUSLY as to fear and AWE of Him no matter how long we have been believers (sorry but I felt caps were needed here).
The assurance of salvation and the evident blessings being present on someone brings meaning to the first quote from Philippians; and the fact that we will return with Him ( Rev. 19:14) will strike fear in those whose eyes are now opened;
along with the fear of judgment to come.
The concept of our enemies also needs to be addressed along with our own enmity toward God that we now have reconciled.
Romans 11:28 shows how the unbeliving Jews were enemies in one sense; yet Paul wished that he himself could be accursed to save them ( Romans 9:3). We are to love our enemies; but not fraternize to gain reputation as the world does; for what is honorable among men is an abomination to God ( Luke 16:15 also could be "highly esteemed"). We should have no part fellowshipping with those who preach a false Gospel; and in no uncertain terms testify to the peril the unsaved is in apart from repentance.
I haven't been able to get away to participate by reading the bulk of the posts and replies on the 10 commandment topic.
I would like to mention a misunderstanding in the communication between the several views on this topic.
There's a difference in the 10 commandments being Holy and being justified by keeping them.
We say Israel failed to be a witness but is that totally accurate?
How did they fail? By not keeping the law?
Before anyone answer that I would like for us to consider a few things.
1) Israel keeps the Law far better than any nation ever has!!
2) The law was given to Israel. Romans 9:4. So they had a ministry to minister to the Whole world as "fleshly" Children of an active, living, Holy God.
This ministry was called ministration of death..
2 Corinthians 3:6-9.
They were examples for us and this is written to us.
They successfully showed the world what Paul stated in Romans 7:5-14.
The world is unable to be Justified by the Law.
3) To say Israel failed for not keeping the law is not exactly correct.
They failed by thinking they were justified by the law.( Not just the 10 commandments ) after all there were articles for certain sins.
They failed because they stumbled at that stumblingstone!
That's where they failed!!
Romans 9:31-33.
They all didn't fail, there was a remnant according to the election of grace and still is.
Romans 11:4-8.
vs 5) Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant (ACCORDING TO THE ELECTION OF GRACE!)
This election is not determined by works.
In other words works wasn't elected as God's way to justify his people.
Romans 9:11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;
Yes the law is Holy and we all fail to be Justified by it, so we were all dead in trespasses and sins.
This is where the cross comes in.
Ephesians 2:1-5.
God bless.
Rightly dividing the Word takes maturity and much practice and study. That affects our view of the "once saved always saved" concept vs the many warnings about falling away; for example.
As to Israel vs the church; a careful reading of scripture shows us that there are certain conditional and unconditional promises in either example. An eternal God of covenants has eternal things in His heart; thus the only thing that has passed away was the old covenant of the law which God Himself had; in His wisdom designed to eventually be replaced by Christ's atoning sacrifice instituting the New Covenant. The "great parenthesis" between the O.T. and Revelation (or between Daniel's 69th and 70th week) is partially hidden; therefore with certain aspects being revealed as related to the church in this "dispensation". There are already a few Gentiles who come to faith in the O.T.; just like signs today in Israel that show a shadow of what is to come in the future.