Some would argue once Christ saved us it's up to us to remain saved. My question to that group is can you do that and How?
By doing what wasn't accepted in the Law? Can self righteousness clean evil thoughts? If you refuse the only complete sacrifice and insist sanctification is left up to you, Can you present yourself as the perfect covering/Atonement? In this erred thinking you're misunderstanding what HID IN CHRIST MEANS AND ATONEMENT.
There's some believe Christ died for our sins but we want know if we are saved until we are judged. We'll that don't sound like this group have faith in Christ or their methods of continuous self reconciliation.
And without faith we cannot please God.
I believe in the keeping power and advocate mentioned in the previous scriptures given in Part 1.
Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Philippians 2:12-13. 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.
FOR IT IS GOD WHICH WORKETH IN YOU BOTH TO WILL AND TO DO OF HIS GOOD PLEASURE.
It is God in you that ( WILLS ) you to work out your own salvation and to do of his good pleasure.
PS. This is a Message on Sanctification by the Spirit and fruit barring which follows Salvation.
Brother Dan. If I may enter here briefly. I doubt if any one can state that the truths in the Decalogue have no value to those now in Christ. It becomes a matter of how we look at it in relation to the meaning of the Cross & giving of the Holy Spirit to those who believe. If anyone believes that the keeping of the Law is necessary to be saved, or that both the Cross & strict obedience to the Law is required to be saved, then a clear problem exists. Both are in opposition to each other; the Cross demands faith to work - the Law demands total obedience without any deviation from it to work.
Therefore, cleaving to the Cross & cleaving to the Law simply cannot work. The Law will always condemn us & we will fail from God's Grace. And the vice versa is true: God's Grace & the keeping of the Law negates salvation through faith. Romans 8:1-5. There is a Law after the flesh & there is a Law after the Spirit. I believe that whenever we read of believers obeying God's Laws in the NT, it can never refer to the Letter that kills, but to the Laws imputed in our hearts by the Spirit. And His Laws are far greater in volume & personal application than what any Law given to Israel could ever do. If I restrict my obedience to the Decalogue, then I'm subject to it & I remain in my sins without hope of salvation. Every blessing brother.
Hello Brother in Christ. A few meditations within this subject.
Sanctification has a couple of parts:
1) To (being) set apart for a sacred purpose- This part is imputed
Separated by faith and repentance of sin, man becomes converted, born again and justified and knows peace by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
2) To cleanse from all impurities- This part is is imparted. The Holy Ghost will purify, as the believer by faith allows the same to bring to mind an obedience even an obedience to suffering where Grace will be provided.
This inward renewal and cleansing is received and not achieved by faith that the Potter will shape the vessel for His good purpose. The flesh is mostly opposed to this imparting, it wants to blame the world when it is the world. The flesh is opposed to suffering because, it cannot know the Peace of the Spirit of God and understand the Grace provided. The Spiritual man in the Body of Christ can understand that this suffering in the flesh is part of the understanding of the the suffering of Christ in the flesh.
It is not a Work to deny the flesh (world) to allow a greater sanctification of the Spirit of a born again believer. We are yoked to His Work at Calvary thereby yoked to His suffering which is Grace and Peace towards us.
The Word is Truth, it will sanctify, that is, if we understand the Spiritual Body and deny the world and accept God's Grace in our daily lives while being pilgrims and strangers in the body of the world.
Thank you for taking your time to respond, and I appreciate your comments, and related scripture.
You stated: "If anyone believes that the keeping of the Law is necessary to be saved, or that both the Cross & strict obedience to the Law is required to be saved, then a clear problem exists."
What is your definition of strict obedience of the law? Is trying our best to adhere to God's 10 commandments too strict? Jesus asks us to keep the commandments. John 14:15. The apostles strived to kept the commandments 1John 5:3. I believe that as good Christians we must also strive to keep God's commandments and in doing so, will help us, to produce the good works that are acceptable to God.
So, I believe that with our Faith, we will be blessed with Grace, and it should lead us toward obedience to God. I believe we agree on this. Where we may disagree is: Faith alone will not assure being saved. Many Christians today believe they can say they have faith and believe, but continue to live in their worldly sin, and they still expect that they will inherit the kingdom of God.
I believe, Jesus says otherwise in scripture, and here again emphasizes keeping the commandments, and producing good work if wanting to enter the kingdom of heaven.
Revelation 12:12-14
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.
Brother Chris, you and I will not be the judge, Jesus will be, and he is telling us right here in scripture plainly, what is required of us, to gain entry in through the gates into the city! In essence, we have the Judge telling us before he judges us - what he will be looking for in us!
The Law was given only to Israel & coupled with sacrifices, were to point them to God's Mercy upon them. At Jesus' crucifixion, the Law which only brought condemnation & death was annulled, as Christ ushered in the New Covenant in His Blood. Hebrews 7:7-13, where the old has gone & the new has come in, where the Law is now written in their hearts & minds ( Jeremiah 31:31-34). And Paul takes this up in Romans 8:1-4: "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." The Decalogue could never give this ability & freedom to fully obey God in all respects.
Therefore, I don't believe that the apostles or the Church were instructed to obey the Ten Commandments, that which was given under the Old Covenant & only brought death. Under the New Covenant, the indwelling Spirit instructs us to all of God's requirements for us & enables us to be alert to them & keep them.
And finally to your other point, those who say they have faith & continue to "live in worldly sin" are fooling themselves with spurious faith - none with the Holy Spirit can live that way, bringing shame to our Lord. Blessings.
Colossians 2:10-15. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:
Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
Great Scriptures, brother S. Spencer. Indeed, the NT is replete with verses revealing to us that the Jewish believers "are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter." ( Romans 7:6).
It is my perception, that many of us have been tutored from a young age to memorize the 10 Commandments & to endeavour to live by them. But when those of 'strong meat-eating' age arrive at the Scriptures, & bring all of it together to properly understand this subject, we still tend to hang on to the first oracles, somehow syncretizing them with the new. And this cannot work as brother Earl gave a good example in Luke chapter 5, where the workings of Grace through Faith is totally incompatible to that of the Law, which could only reveal the extent of our sin, condemn us & ultimately slay us. Our inner ear must always be inclined to the Holy Spirit within, revealing all that God requires of us to live lives that are wholly pleasing to Him. Thank you brother for those thoughts.
Galatians 3:5-14 (KJV) He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.
Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.
So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.
Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Galatians 3:16-29. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Indeed brother Earl. Jesus likened the Scribes & Pharisees as those preferring the "old wine"; for their rigidness to the Law & particularly their own man-made laws & regulations imposed upon the people.
Jesus took them to task in this chapter ( Luke 5) for their lack of consideration for the needy (vv 30-32); for their insistence on fasting & prayers even when the 'bridegroom' was before them - which should have rather brought them joy (vv 33-35); and for their rejection of the wonders of Grace (the new wine) afforded to those who turned to the Messiah, rather preferring the "old wine" that can have no part in "new wineskins" (vv36-39).
Chris , I agree with you , Christians are not bound by any laws other than the laws of love , love God , love Jesus and love each other .His Grace is sufficient for us .
Jesus said in John 14:15, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." So, if someone says anything that seems contrary to scripture I won't believe it, but believe God's Word. When I hear those saying things like obeying God is bad or following any law is bad, I think some nuances of the meaning are missed from Romans 6:15-18 which says not to yield to sin that you were servants to sin, but now are to be servants/slaves to righteousness. Being "free" from sin isn't a free pass to sin. John 8:11. I feel a moral duty to post scripture about this, because Christians hear this in church then go out and get drunk, do drugs, have sex outside of marriage, party, and enjoy following the world. They do that, because they are under the assumption that it's ok, because people (including pastors) keep telling them it's ok since they're "not under the law"- that they're free and can do whatever they want with no consequence. The problem is the Bible doesn't say that. Jesus says you should be concerned and fear the one who can send you to hell. According to Jesus, Christians and anyone else following the world of sin instead of Jesus should be afraid. Luke 12:5. Those who don't obey Jesus don't love Him. Those who don't love Him may not have to spend eternity with Him. God bless.
Amen. I agree, and if I could pick only one scripture from the entire bible that summarizes what God really wants from us, it is Jesus speaking to us in this Scripture!
John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
I would not want to look Jesus in the eyes on judgement day and tell him (Jesus Christ) who will be the Judge, that I ignored his request! We all need to think about this.
Here is Jesus speaking to us thru apostle John 30-40 years after his death on the cross - in Revelation below:
Revelation 22:12-14
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.
Here is Jesus still saying the same thing to us 30-40 years after his death! Keep his commandments, and we will be judged for our good or bad works.
So the argument that the apostle Paul and others can teach anything different than what Jesus taught throughout the ENTIRE BIBLE, is debunked by Jesus himself in the above scripture!
Brother Dan, I have not responded to this particular post from you, as I believe my other comment to you answers your questions: "What is your definition of strict obedience of the law? Is trying our best to adhere to God's 10 commandments too strict?"
If we make any appeal to the Ten Commandments for righteous living, then the Cross of Christ will have no effect to the earnest soul. As the apostle wrote, "For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good." ( Romans 7:11,12).
What is this Commandment that he speaks of? All the Law that God had brought forth to His people, which included the Decalogue. What was the purpose of those Holy Laws? Romans 7:13: "Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful".
God's Laws not only revealed to Israel what He required of them, but that they might learn how sinful they can be & how their inability to obey the Law can separate them from a Holy God. As the apostle stated, that Law brought the prospect of death to him, finally slaying him. But only in Christ he could find release & the ability to obey God correctly.
Brother Dan. Firstly, apologies for my comment appearing in the wrong spot in this thread; I did post it under your name, so not sure what went wrong.
Secondly, an example I can use in respect to what we're discussing is found in Matthew 19:16-22, in reference to the rich young man & his meticulous adherence to the Decalogue. I see this encounter between Jesus & this man as a transition from having 10 rules to follow to the letter, to a fuller understanding of the given Law, which is demanded by the Law-Giver.
Jesus needed to show him that as commendable his obedience to the Law was, his carefulness still failed to meet the full requirements of the Law. His wealth got in the way of a true love & service to God, hence his inability to follow Jesus.
So what was missing & a cure for this dilemma that would affect all Jews, even those who had this young man's zeal for obedience? I believe Jesus was introducing what would occur after His death & resurrection & the impartation of the Holy Spirit. The time would come when reference to the Decalogue would no longer be necessary or relevant; that the Cross separated the Law which brought condemnation & death & usher in the Law of the Spirit which took hold of all of God's demands as given earlier, with the fuller meaning & application that only the Spirit could impute in the believer.
Therefore, I see no bearing of the Decalogue to the believer, rather obedience to the Spirit within us Who speaks to our hearts ALL that God demands from His blood-bought. If I referred to the Decalogue as a measure of my obedience, I might tend to find satisfaction from ticking off all the boxes & then to my dismay find another Law working in me bringing me into bondage & condemnation. Therefore, my subjection is wholly to the Spirit & not to the Law. God bless you brother.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on these important issues, and the scripture that you shared regarding the wealthy young man, who let his money and material wealth get in the way of his Salvation, again stated here below:
Matthew 9:21
21Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.
This scripture is so pertinent today, and hopefully very teachable! Many of us struggle with these same material issues! I confess to struggling with this myself, and pray that I can overcome this too! In addition to the money/materiel issues, if we turn our backs or ignore any of the other instructions that Jesus gives us in scripture, we are forewarned that we will suffer consequences.
As Christians we may have different interpretations of scripture but in the end we will all face the same judgement:
2 Corinthians 5:10
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad."
I remember once seeing a horse team pulling a large plow up a steep hill with one young horse being crafted to the work but not equally yoked to the plow. This is how it is in the Present Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus is yoked to the fulfillment of the law, it was his burden to bear the work, but the born again believer is now tied to him without the weight of the burden and yet is now part of his work by relationship. We can be trained in this new life of peace by our light yoke to Jesus at the Cross. It is His works and we are his craftsmanship.
Thank you brother S. Spencer for your very worthy comments & the Scriptures you cited. Indeed, our salvation is all of Grace, only through His Blood, & we're kept secure till we see our Saviour; 1 Peter 1:5, "Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Our obedience & faith-generating works are manifest by the indwelling, out-working Holy Spirit. Romans 8:1; Galatians 5:16, 25.
You ask: "Some would argue once Christ saved us it's up to us to remain saved. My question to that group is can you do that and How?"
I will let Jesus and apostle John answer your question(s). Yes, we need to commit as Christians to walk with Christ and are instructed to in many various scripture throughout the bible. Here is apostle John below:
1 John 2:3-6
3And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. 6He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
Regarding Christians producing good works/good fruit, here below Jesus tells us in no uncertain terms that he will reward us accordingly for our good work:
Revelation 22:12-14
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
So, Jesus says above: I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man ACCORDING AS HIS WORK SHALL BE!
Blessed are they that do HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and MAY ENTER in through the gates into the city!
To deny the above scripture is to argue with Jesus/God. We must take ACTIVE participation toward our salvation!
quoting you: "Yes, we need to commit as Christians to walk with Christ and are instructed to in many various scripture throughout the bible." WHERE DID YOU GET THE IDEA I HAVE AN ISSUE WITH THAT?
The portion you pulled out of my comment was the first sentence of part 2. You should have considered the 1st sentence of part 1 as well then we would be keeping the discussion in a direct orderly fashion.
Here is the opening sentence of part 1. Is our atonement forever or once Christ freed us it's up to us to Atone for ourselves? Here is part 2. Some would argue once Christ saved us it's up to us to remain saved. My question to that group is can you do that and How? The emphasis here is if Christ offered the perfect sacrifice "ONCE" and for all to atone for our sins, If one believes the atonement isn't once and for all and sins again "which we all do"
How do he re-atone himself when there is no more sacrifice? Can he offer Good works when works of the law could never cleans you. Brother Dan I posted a lot of Scripture that you seem to bypass, If those scriptures doesn't mean what I seem to believe why don't you start off with each one of them and tell us what they do mean.
you've posted 2 scriptures, I will deal with Revelation 22:12-14. first.
HERE IS THE WORK.
John 6:28-29. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?
Jesus answered and said unto them, ( This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.)
When that's done then this happens. Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
NOW 1 JOHN 2:3-6. This is not the 10 commandments, If so consider Galatians 5:3-4. and if you are under the law you'll need the temple built to do vain sacrifices that could never save.
A few further comments on your specific scripture that you presented.
I originally quoted: Revelation 22:12-14. Your answer is: John 6:28-29. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, ( This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.)
I will agree with you " that we must believe on him whom he hath sent - Jesus." I believe this scripture! So, if we are to believe in Jesus we should also believe what he is telling us numerous times throughout the bible that we must produce good work and good fruit, and we will ultimately be judged accordingly as in:
Revelation 22:12
"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
Do you believe this scripture?
On to your other scripture: Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
I believe and agree with the scripture that you quoted in Philippians! God will work within the faithful believer to help to bring about good work/and produce good fruit.
But in the end it is up to the believer who still has "free will" to work toward their salvation by being faithful to Jesus and God's Commandments and by producing the good work that is required throughout scripture.
God Bless.
When that's done then this happens. Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh
Sorry so late getting back to you, I'm traveling..
Now Addressing your questions to me. Yes I believe in the 10 Commandments and it seems I take them more seriously than you think, Maybe more seriously than you. I believe they are required and if you break even one of them once you are guilty of them all!! I also know no one ever have been able to keep them,
NOW WE COME TO CHRIST AND THE FINISHEDWORK ON THE CROSS.
In the context of my post did the Cross put an (total end )of sin in your life externally AND internally or Positionally? God is Holy and your righteous works have to be perfect!!
And yes every facet of the law with all ordinances and Commandments went together, It was called the ministration of Death, Study 2 Corinthians 3:6-18.
In true repentance you are admitting you fall short, A born again Christian has renewed desires to keep them, ( And by the Spirit he works towards doing so.)
But if we think one fraction of our filthy rags is atonement for our sins you just spotted your Garments!! ( White raiments).
Without Christ atonement you best not even lust in your heart and break one Commandment. AND THAT YOU CANNOT DO!.
The law pointed towards Christ because the 10 Commandments could never Change the inner Man.
Here's the center of the Lords Commandments. John 13:34-35.
Study John ch 13, 14, and 15.
When you get to Ch 15 The Lord opens up with ( I AM THE "TRUE" VINE.) Contuary to Israel who was the vine that was supposed to bare fruit and who the law was written to.
Note:
Matthew 22:36-40. Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
This is the first and great commandment.
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. YOU CAN'T DO THIS APART FROM CHRIST.
God bless. I will continue when I get back in town.
Nice to hear from you. I'm glad to hear you say that you believe in the 10 commandments, and that you take them seriously. It's what God wants from us!
I agree, none of us will be able to be perfect, and keep the 10 commandments at all times, or remain perfectly sin free. That doesn't relieve us from trying, and when we fail, we can ask God for forgiveness through his son Jesus Christ. His sacrifice on the cross, is God's gift to us to allow us to obtain forgiveness of sin, not an excuse to say I believe and continue to sin!
You offer up this scripture: Matthew 22:36-40, and John 13:34-35, I agree, this is Jesus summarizing the 10 commandments, to Love God, and Love our nieghbor. So, if we believe these verses, then it's only logical that we should also believe all of the other scripture related to Jesus asking us to observe and try our best to keep the 10 commandments!
Many Christians today, including some on this site, seem to NOT believe they will be judged for keeping God's commandments and producing good works. I've previously submitted this scripture in some of my previous posts on this site. This scripture is (very powerful and enlightening) from Jesus speaking approximately 40 years after his death:
Revelation 22:12-14
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.
A simple question Brother Spencer, Do you believe this scripture above? Yes, or No?
Yes I believe that scripture but I believe we have a difference in interpretation.
I thought we covered it already, however I will elaborate further.
My Quote:
you've posted 2 scriptures, I will deal with Revelation 22:12-14. first.
HERE IS THE WORK.
John 6:28-29. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?
Jesus answered and said unto them, ( This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.)
When that's done then this happens. Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Furthering on.
In Revelation 22:14-15. we have 2 groups here. Verse 14 THOSE SAVED FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW, ( CHRIST BEING A CURSE for us.)
Verse 15 by its description of the group is those who NEVER Received Christ and washed by the blood. You and I was apart of that group also. Christ plus the Law didn't save us, It was Christ alone.
The 10 Commandments wasn't given to us to keep or "Try" to keep for salvation, It was given to Israel while God carried them on eagles wings to show the world it was in need of a savior. The law couldn't change the inner Man. Only the outer parts of the vessel. Here's a n example.
Mathew 23:25-26.
Burnt works, Still saved.
1 Corinthians 3:11-15.For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
If any man's work shall be burned, HE SHALL SUFFER LOSS: BUT HE HIMSELF SHALL BE SAVED; YET SO AS BY FIRE.
I'm glad to hear that you believe in the scripture Revelation 22:12-14. I too, believe it, and feel that this scripture speaks for itself! You related that we evidently have a different interpretation of the scripture, and that is very evident.
I pray that God's Holy Sprit will guide both of us toward the proper understanding of not only this scripture, but all scripture.
I enjoyed the interaction, and until we can talk again, Peace, and God Bless.
Brother Dan, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and understanding.
You quoted: Revelation 22:12-14
I believe you are not applying the pronouns in the verse to the correct person.
Revelation 22:12 And, behold, I (CHRIST)(SPIRIT)(TRUTH)(LIFE) come quickly (during each persons fleshly life span), and my (Christ's) reward (Spirit, Truth, Life)(the gift of God) is with me (Christ), TO GIVE (Spirit, Truth, Life) ever man according as HIS (Christ's) WORK shall be.
Revelation 22:13 I (Christ) AM Alpha and Omega, the beginning (of creation) and the ending (of creation), the first (of creation) and the last (of creation). The first man BORN OF SPIRIT (truth and life) and the last man BORN OF SPIRIT (truth and life).
There is ONLY ONE BODY (Christ) and ONLY ONE SPIRIT (the Father). Being born of TRUTH (the word(s) of GOD) will result; at the end of SUFFERING in the flesh, you BEING MARRIED (BECOME ONE) with CHRIST.
He who is born of FLESH is FLESH.
He who is born of SPIRIT is SPIRIT.
God is SPIRIT; thus you become a FULL BROTHER TO CHRIST. A SON OF GOD, and all that implies.
Remember, you DIED with Christ and was resurrected to HIS LIFE AND WORKS.
You can not add YOUR WORKS.
Revelation 22:14 Blessed are they (those alive in Christ) and that do HIS commandments (Christ; now you life, never broke a commandment of God), that he (new creation in Christ) may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates (Christ and those married to him) into the city (OF RIGHTEOUSNESS).
Thanks for your input regarding this scripture, even though we don't see it eye to eye.
Revelation 22:12-14
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.
I believe this scripture is plainly spoken, and easily understood. I believe Jesus says what he means, and means what he says.
I enjoy our dialogue on scripture although we my have differences in the interpretation.
You state: NOW 1 JOHN 2:3-6. This is not the 10 commandments,
I see it clearly as the 10 Commandments.
You state: If so consider Galatians 5:3-4. and if you are under the law you'll need the temple built to do vain sacrifices that could never save.
The 10 commandments DO NOT include the old laws such as circumcision and temple sacrifice.
So in essence you seem to say that you do not believe that you need to follow God's 10 commandments. Is this true? Please consider the following scripture of Jesus coming to judge all of us.
Revelation 22:12-16
And, 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
So, Jesus says:" Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city". Do you believe this scripture?
Some would argue once Christ saved us it's up to us to remain saved. My question to that group is can you do that and How?
By doing what wasn't accepted in the Law? Can self righteousness clean evil thoughts? If you refuse the only complete sacrifice and insist sanctification is left up to you, Can you present yourself as the perfect covering/Atonement? In this erred thinking you're misunderstanding what HID IN CHRIST MEANS AND ATONEMENT.
There's some believe Christ died for our sins but we want know if we are saved until we are judged. We'll that don't sound like this group have faith in Christ or their methods of continuous self reconciliation.
And without faith we cannot please God.
I believe in the keeping power and advocate mentioned in the previous scriptures given in Part 1.
Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Philippians 2:12-13. 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.
FOR IT IS GOD WHICH WORKETH IN YOU BOTH TO WILL AND TO DO OF HIS GOOD PLEASURE.
It is God in you that ( WILLS ) you to work out your own salvation and to do of his good pleasure.
PS. This is a Message on Sanctification by the Spirit and fruit barring which follows Salvation.
God bless.
Therefore, cleaving to the Cross & cleaving to the Law simply cannot work. The Law will always condemn us & we will fail from God's Grace. And the vice versa is true: God's Grace & the keeping of the Law negates salvation through faith. Romans 8:1-5. There is a Law after the flesh & there is a Law after the Spirit. I believe that whenever we read of believers obeying God's Laws in the NT, it can never refer to the Letter that kills, but to the Laws imputed in our hearts by the Spirit. And His Laws are far greater in volume & personal application than what any Law given to Israel could ever do. If I restrict my obedience to the Decalogue, then I'm subject to it & I remain in my sins without hope of salvation. Every blessing brother.
Thanks for that wonderful declaration.
God bless.
Sanctification has a couple of parts:
1) To (being) set apart for a sacred purpose- This part is imputed
Separated by faith and repentance of sin, man becomes converted, born again and justified and knows peace by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
2) To cleanse from all impurities- This part is is imparted. The Holy Ghost will purify, as the believer by faith allows the same to bring to mind an obedience even an obedience to suffering where Grace will be provided.
This inward renewal and cleansing is received and not achieved by faith that the Potter will shape the vessel for His good purpose. The flesh is mostly opposed to this imparting, it wants to blame the world when it is the world. The flesh is opposed to suffering because, it cannot know the Peace of the Spirit of God and understand the Grace provided. The Spiritual man in the Body of Christ can understand that this suffering in the flesh is part of the understanding of the the suffering of Christ in the flesh.
It is not a Work to deny the flesh (world) to allow a greater sanctification of the Spirit of a born again believer. We are yoked to His Work at Calvary thereby yoked to His suffering which is Grace and Peace towards us.
The Word is Truth, it will sanctify, that is, if we understand the Spiritual Body and deny the world and accept God's Grace in our daily lives while being pilgrims and strangers in the body of the world.
Thank you for taking your time to respond, and I appreciate your comments, and related scripture.
You stated: "If anyone believes that the keeping of the Law is necessary to be saved, or that both the Cross & strict obedience to the Law is required to be saved, then a clear problem exists."
What is your definition of strict obedience of the law? Is trying our best to adhere to God's 10 commandments too strict? Jesus asks us to keep the commandments. John 14:15. The apostles strived to kept the commandments 1John 5:3. I believe that as good Christians we must also strive to keep God's commandments and in doing so, will help us, to produce the good works that are acceptable to God.
So, I believe that with our Faith, we will be blessed with Grace, and it should lead us toward obedience to God. I believe we agree on this. Where we may disagree is: Faith alone will not assure being saved. Many Christians today believe they can say they have faith and believe, but continue to live in their worldly sin, and they still expect that they will inherit the kingdom of God.
I believe, Jesus says otherwise in scripture, and here again emphasizes keeping the commandments, and producing good work if wanting to enter the kingdom of heaven.
Revelation 12:12-14
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.
Brother Chris, you and I will not be the judge, Jesus will be, and he is telling us right here in scripture plainly, what is required of us, to gain entry in through the gates into the city! In essence, we have the Judge telling us before he judges us - what he will be looking for in us!
Peace, and God Bless.
The Law was given only to Israel & coupled with sacrifices, were to point them to God's Mercy upon them. At Jesus' crucifixion, the Law which only brought condemnation & death was annulled, as Christ ushered in the New Covenant in His Blood. Hebrews 7:7-13, where the old has gone & the new has come in, where the Law is now written in their hearts & minds ( Jeremiah 31:31-34). And Paul takes this up in Romans 8:1-4: "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." The Decalogue could never give this ability & freedom to fully obey God in all respects.
Therefore, I don't believe that the apostles or the Church were instructed to obey the Ten Commandments, that which was given under the Old Covenant & only brought death. Under the New Covenant, the indwelling Spirit instructs us to all of God's requirements for us & enables us to be alert to them & keep them.
And finally to your other point, those who say they have faith & continue to "live in worldly sin" are fooling themselves with spurious faith - none with the Holy Spirit can live that way, bringing shame to our Lord. Blessings.
part 3
Colossians 2:10-15. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:
Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
It is my perception, that many of us have been tutored from a young age to memorize the 10 Commandments & to endeavour to live by them. But when those of 'strong meat-eating' age arrive at the Scriptures, & bring all of it together to properly understand this subject, we still tend to hang on to the first oracles, somehow syncretizing them with the new. And this cannot work as brother Earl gave a good example in Luke chapter 5, where the workings of Grace through Faith is totally incompatible to that of the Law, which could only reveal the extent of our sin, condemn us & ultimately slay us. Our inner ear must always be inclined to the Holy Spirit within, revealing all that God requires of us to live lives that are wholly pleasing to Him. Thank you brother for those thoughts.
Part 2.
Galatians 3:5-14 (KJV) He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.
Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.
So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.
Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Good night and
God bless.
Here's some parallel verses. Part 1.
Galatians 3:16-29. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Hebrews 6:13-19.
Genesis 15:5-12.
( Genesis 15:6. )
Galatians 3:26-29.
Jesus took them to task in this chapter ( Luke 5) for their lack of consideration for the needy (vv 30-32); for their insistence on fasting & prayers even when the 'bridegroom' was before them - which should have rather brought them joy (vv 33-35); and for their rejection of the wonders of Grace (the new wine) afforded to those who turned to the Messiah, rather preferring the "old wine" that can have no part in "new wineskins" (vv36-39).
Amen. I agree, and if I could pick only one scripture from the entire bible that summarizes what God really wants from us, it is Jesus speaking to us in this Scripture!
John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
I would not want to look Jesus in the eyes on judgement day and tell him (Jesus Christ) who will be the Judge, that I ignored his request! We all need to think about this.
Here is Jesus speaking to us thru apostle John 30-40 years after his death on the cross - in Revelation below:
Revelation 22:12-14
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.
Here is Jesus still saying the same thing to us 30-40 years after his death! Keep his commandments, and we will be judged for our good or bad works.
So the argument that the apostle Paul and others can teach anything different than what Jesus taught throughout the ENTIRE BIBLE, is debunked by Jesus himself in the above scripture!
God Bless.
Brother Dan, I have not responded to this particular post from you, as I believe my other comment to you answers your questions: "What is your definition of strict obedience of the law? Is trying our best to adhere to God's 10 commandments too strict?"
If we make any appeal to the Ten Commandments for righteous living, then the Cross of Christ will have no effect to the earnest soul. As the apostle wrote, "For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good." ( Romans 7:11,12).
What is this Commandment that he speaks of? All the Law that God had brought forth to His people, which included the Decalogue. What was the purpose of those Holy Laws? Romans 7:13: "Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful".
God's Laws not only revealed to Israel what He required of them, but that they might learn how sinful they can be & how their inability to obey the Law can separate them from a Holy God. As the apostle stated, that Law brought the prospect of death to him, finally slaying him. But only in Christ he could find release & the ability to obey God correctly.
Secondly, an example I can use in respect to what we're discussing is found in Matthew 19:16-22, in reference to the rich young man & his meticulous adherence to the Decalogue. I see this encounter between Jesus & this man as a transition from having 10 rules to follow to the letter, to a fuller understanding of the given Law, which is demanded by the Law-Giver.
Jesus needed to show him that as commendable his obedience to the Law was, his carefulness still failed to meet the full requirements of the Law. His wealth got in the way of a true love & service to God, hence his inability to follow Jesus.
So what was missing & a cure for this dilemma that would affect all Jews, even those who had this young man's zeal for obedience? I believe Jesus was introducing what would occur after His death & resurrection & the impartation of the Holy Spirit. The time would come when reference to the Decalogue would no longer be necessary or relevant; that the Cross separated the Law which brought condemnation & death & usher in the Law of the Spirit which took hold of all of God's demands as given earlier, with the fuller meaning & application that only the Spirit could impute in the believer.
Therefore, I see no bearing of the Decalogue to the believer, rather obedience to the Spirit within us Who speaks to our hearts ALL that God demands from His blood-bought. If I referred to the Decalogue as a measure of my obedience, I might tend to find satisfaction from ticking off all the boxes & then to my dismay find another Law working in me bringing me into bondage & condemnation. Therefore, my subjection is wholly to the Spirit & not to the Law. God bless you brother.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on these important issues, and the scripture that you shared regarding the wealthy young man, who let his money and material wealth get in the way of his Salvation, again stated here below:
Matthew 9:21
21Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.
This scripture is so pertinent today, and hopefully very teachable! Many of us struggle with these same material issues! I confess to struggling with this myself, and pray that I can overcome this too! In addition to the money/materiel issues, if we turn our backs or ignore any of the other instructions that Jesus gives us in scripture, we are forewarned that we will suffer consequences.
As Christians we may have different interpretations of scripture but in the end we will all face the same judgement:
2 Corinthians 5:10
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad."
Striving to grow in Christ!
God Bless.
Great Comment!
God bless.
Our obedience & faith-generating works are manifest by the indwelling, out-working Holy Spirit. Romans 8:1; Galatians 5:16, 25.
Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
you would think that is all one need.
God Bless
You ask: "Some would argue once Christ saved us it's up to us to remain saved. My question to that group is can you do that and How?"
I will let Jesus and apostle John answer your question(s). Yes, we need to commit as Christians to walk with Christ and are instructed to in many various scripture throughout the bible. Here is apostle John below:
1 John 2:3-6
3And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. 6He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
Regarding Christians producing good works/good fruit, here below Jesus tells us in no uncertain terms that he will reward us accordingly for our good work:
Revelation 22:12-14
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
So, Jesus says above: I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man ACCORDING AS HIS WORK SHALL BE!
Blessed are they that do HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and MAY ENTER in through the gates into the city!
To deny the above scripture is to argue with Jesus/God. We must take ACTIVE participation toward our salvation!
God Bless.
quoting you: "Yes, we need to commit as Christians to walk with Christ and are instructed to in many various scripture throughout the bible." WHERE DID YOU GET THE IDEA I HAVE AN ISSUE WITH THAT?
The portion you pulled out of my comment was the first sentence of part 2. You should have considered the 1st sentence of part 1 as well then we would be keeping the discussion in a direct orderly fashion.
Here is the opening sentence of part 1. Is our atonement forever or once Christ freed us it's up to us to Atone for ourselves? Here is part 2. Some would argue once Christ saved us it's up to us to remain saved. My question to that group is can you do that and How? The emphasis here is if Christ offered the perfect sacrifice "ONCE" and for all to atone for our sins, If one believes the atonement isn't once and for all and sins again "which we all do"
How do he re-atone himself when there is no more sacrifice? Can he offer Good works when works of the law could never cleans you. Brother Dan I posted a lot of Scripture that you seem to bypass, If those scriptures doesn't mean what I seem to believe why don't you start off with each one of them and tell us what they do mean.
you've posted 2 scriptures, I will deal with Revelation 22:12-14. first.
HERE IS THE WORK.
John 6:28-29. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?
Jesus answered and said unto them, ( This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.)
When that's done then this happens. Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
NOW 1 JOHN 2:3-6. This is not the 10 commandments, If so consider Galatians 5:3-4. and if you are under the law you'll need the temple built to do vain sacrifices that could never save.
God bless.
I've gotten the notice on my email from your reply, haven't had time to sit down visit them yet. I love the dialog, I will reach out to you later
Thanks God bless.
A few further comments on your specific scripture that you presented.
I originally quoted: Revelation 22:12-14. Your answer is: John 6:28-29. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, ( This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.)
I will agree with you " that we must believe on him whom he hath sent - Jesus." I believe this scripture! So, if we are to believe in Jesus we should also believe what he is telling us numerous times throughout the bible that we must produce good work and good fruit, and we will ultimately be judged accordingly as in:
Revelation 22:12
"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
Do you believe this scripture?
On to your other scripture: Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
I believe and agree with the scripture that you quoted in Philippians! God will work within the faithful believer to help to bring about good work/and produce good fruit.
But in the end it is up to the believer who still has "free will" to work toward their salvation by being faithful to Jesus and God's Commandments and by producing the good work that is required throughout scripture.
God Bless.
When that's done then this happens. Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh
Sorry so late getting back to you, I'm traveling..
Now Addressing your questions to me. Yes I believe in the 10 Commandments and it seems I take them more seriously than you think, Maybe more seriously than you. I believe they are required and if you break even one of them once you are guilty of them all!! I also know no one ever have been able to keep them,
NOW WE COME TO CHRIST AND THE FINISHEDWORK ON THE CROSS.
In the context of my post did the Cross put an (total end )of sin in your life externally AND internally or Positionally? God is Holy and your righteous works have to be perfect!!
And yes every facet of the law with all ordinances and Commandments went together, It was called the ministration of Death, Study 2 Corinthians 3:6-18.
In true repentance you are admitting you fall short, A born again Christian has renewed desires to keep them, ( And by the Spirit he works towards doing so.)
But if we think one fraction of our filthy rags is atonement for our sins you just spotted your Garments!! ( White raiments).
Without Christ atonement you best not even lust in your heart and break one Commandment. AND THAT YOU CANNOT DO!.
The law pointed towards Christ because the 10 Commandments could never Change the inner Man.
Here's the center of the Lords Commandments. John 13:34-35.
Study John ch 13, 14, and 15.
When you get to Ch 15 The Lord opens up with ( I AM THE "TRUE" VINE.) Contuary to Israel who was the vine that was supposed to bare fruit and who the law was written to.
Note:
Matthew 22:36-40. Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
This is the first and great commandment.
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. YOU CAN'T DO THIS APART FROM CHRIST.
God bless. I will continue when I get back in town.
Nice to hear from you. I'm glad to hear you say that you believe in the 10 commandments, and that you take them seriously. It's what God wants from us!
I agree, none of us will be able to be perfect, and keep the 10 commandments at all times, or remain perfectly sin free. That doesn't relieve us from trying, and when we fail, we can ask God for forgiveness through his son Jesus Christ. His sacrifice on the cross, is God's gift to us to allow us to obtain forgiveness of sin, not an excuse to say I believe and continue to sin!
You offer up this scripture: Matthew 22:36-40, and John 13:34-35, I agree, this is Jesus summarizing the 10 commandments, to Love God, and Love our nieghbor. So, if we believe these verses, then it's only logical that we should also believe all of the other scripture related to Jesus asking us to observe and try our best to keep the 10 commandments!
Many Christians today, including some on this site, seem to NOT believe they will be judged for keeping God's commandments and producing good works. I've previously submitted this scripture in some of my previous posts on this site. This scripture is (very powerful and enlightening) from Jesus speaking approximately 40 years after his death:
Revelation 22:12-14
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.
A simple question Brother Spencer, Do you believe this scripture above? Yes, or No?
God Bless.
Yes I believe that scripture but I believe we have a difference in interpretation.
I thought we covered it already, however I will elaborate further.
My Quote:
you've posted 2 scriptures, I will deal with Revelation 22:12-14. first.
HERE IS THE WORK.
John 6:28-29. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?
Jesus answered and said unto them, ( This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.)
When that's done then this happens. Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
And this. Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Furthering on.
In Revelation 22:14-15. we have 2 groups here. Verse 14 THOSE SAVED FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW, ( CHRIST BEING A CURSE for us.)
Verse 15 by its description of the group is those who NEVER Received Christ and washed by the blood. You and I was apart of that group also. Christ plus the Law didn't save us, It was Christ alone.
The 10 Commandments wasn't given to us to keep or "Try" to keep for salvation, It was given to Israel while God carried them on eagles wings to show the world it was in need of a savior. The law couldn't change the inner Man. Only the outer parts of the vessel. Here's a n example.
Mathew 23:25-26.
Burnt works, Still saved.
1 Corinthians 3:11-15.For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
If any man's work shall be burned, HE SHALL SUFFER LOSS: BUT HE HIMSELF SHALL BE SAVED; YET SO AS BY FIRE.
G.B.
I'm glad to hear that you believe in the scripture Revelation 22:12-14. I too, believe it, and feel that this scripture speaks for itself! You related that we evidently have a different interpretation of the scripture, and that is very evident.
I pray that God's Holy Sprit will guide both of us toward the proper understanding of not only this scripture, but all scripture.
I enjoyed the interaction, and until we can talk again, Peace, and God Bless.
You quoted: Revelation 22:12-14
I believe you are not applying the pronouns in the verse to the correct person.
Revelation 22:12 And, behold, I (CHRIST)(SPIRIT)(TRUTH)(LIFE) come quickly (during each persons fleshly life span), and my (Christ's) reward (Spirit, Truth, Life)(the gift of God) is with me (Christ), TO GIVE (Spirit, Truth, Life) ever man according as HIS (Christ's) WORK shall be.
Revelation 22:13 I (Christ) AM Alpha and Omega, the beginning (of creation) and the ending (of creation), the first (of creation) and the last (of creation). The first man BORN OF SPIRIT (truth and life) and the last man BORN OF SPIRIT (truth and life).
There is ONLY ONE BODY (Christ) and ONLY ONE SPIRIT (the Father). Being born of TRUTH (the word(s) of GOD) will result; at the end of SUFFERING in the flesh, you BEING MARRIED (BECOME ONE) with CHRIST.
He who is born of FLESH is FLESH.
He who is born of SPIRIT is SPIRIT.
God is SPIRIT; thus you become a FULL BROTHER TO CHRIST. A SON OF GOD, and all that implies.
Remember, you DIED with Christ and was resurrected to HIS LIFE AND WORKS.
You can not add YOUR WORKS.
Revelation 22:14 Blessed are they (those alive in Christ) and that do HIS commandments (Christ; now you life, never broke a commandment of God), that he (new creation in Christ) may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates (Christ and those married to him) into the city (OF RIGHTEOUSNESS).
Thanks for your input regarding this scripture, even though we don't see it eye to eye.
Revelation 22:12-14
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.
I believe this scripture is plainly spoken, and easily understood. I believe Jesus says what he means, and means what he says.
God Bless.
I enjoy our dialogue on scripture although we my have differences in the interpretation.
You state: NOW 1 JOHN 2:3-6. This is not the 10 commandments,
I see it clearly as the 10 Commandments.
You state: If so consider Galatians 5:3-4. and if you are under the law you'll need the temple built to do vain sacrifices that could never save.
The 10 commandments DO NOT include the old laws such as circumcision and temple sacrifice.
So in essence you seem to say that you do not believe that you need to follow God's 10 commandments. Is this true? Please consider the following scripture of Jesus coming to judge all of us.
Revelation 22:12-16
And, 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
So, Jesus says:" Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city". Do you believe this scripture?
God Bless.
We are just A POT, a pot can do NOTHING of itself.
All is of GOD (Spirit, truth, life).