A brother in Christ-Les Brewer-wrote about a*SUPERNATURAL TRANSFORMATION*in friendsofjesus.proboard,quoting 1Samuel 17:45"You come to me with a sword,with a spear,and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts,the GOD of the armies of Israel,whom you have defied."
We all,with unveiled face,beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord,are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Christ-occupation makes you bold but not superior,humble but not inferior.When our minds are occupied with Jesus,we don't have to try to be humble.In the presence of the Servant-King,our hearts become supernaturally transformed,and we will carry His servant heart.ITOH,when you dwell and spend time with Jesus,all that He is will rub off on you.Your thoughts and your words will be full of the fragrance of His sweet presence and grace.All your inferiority and insecurities will melt away in His marvelous love for you.It takes people who are truly secure in Christ to be able to bow down and serve others with genuine humility".
In my understand,more than ever, GOD's people need to receive and hear messages like the one posted above by our brother in Christ Les Brewer.The Word of GOD-the Word is GOD-warned us saying"This know also,that in the last days perilous times shall come"-2Ti.3:1- ITOH,there will be a battle,a spiritual War-Rev.12 combined with Rev.11:15-18 -,and the red Dragon will manifest himself"having great wrath,because he knows that he has but a short time"- Rev. 12:12.
JESUS left revealed that"Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles,until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled"- Luke 21:24 combined with Rev.11:2-"the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months",and the red dragon will"give to the Beast of sea-Rev.3:1(ruler/guide of the apostate Church of Rome-RCC,which rides upon the Beast),yeah,will give his Power,and his Seat(in the holy city-Jerusalem),and great Authority-Rev.13:2.
Yes, as JESUS revealed,"when unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places seeking rest". The dry places where the unclean spirit walks are the men made by the dust in the belly of the Serpent( John 8:44-45), and are without the Spirit of GOD, without the Spirit of Christ, as was Israel, the clay, the dry land. The unclean spirit finds none among them which were born again from GOD and really remain in the body of Christ. 1John 5:18-19->18 We know that whosoever is born of GOD sinneth not; but he that is begotten of GOD keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. 19 And we know that we are of GOD, and the WHOLE WORLD lieth in wickedness.(Because they live in the belly of the Serpent,and only within them the unclean spirit finds rest.)
The unclean spirit saith: I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished./ Then goeth the unclean spirit, and taketh with himself (7) seven other spirits more wicked than himself,
1Peter 5:8-9
8 Be sober,be vigilant;because your adversary the Devil(the old Serpent),as a roaring lion,WALKETH about, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
Job 1:6-There was a Day when the sons of GOD came to present themselves before the Lord,and Satan(the Old Serpent)came also among them.(By the way,we are entering the Day of the Lord,the last millennium)
Reevelation 11:15-18
15 - The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
...
The battle is against three unclean spirits like frogs: Revelation 16:13-15
13 I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon,and out of the mouth of the beast,and out of the mouth of the false prophet.
14 They are the spirits of devils, working miracles...
In yesterday's posts; I listed categories of "left vs right" and a lawless mindset as characterizing two things which we now face as we race toward the Lord's return and the Tribulation. Since the "lawless" one is setting the stage for arrival; we can see how either political side has similar agendas leading to an endgame. ( 2 Thess. 2:8-12).
Throughout history; we see two approaches toward the church by either the left leaning leadership (such as under Communist China today) or the right leaning totalitarian dictatorship (Hitler). We see infiltration of the church by the state to constrain and monitor what is taught; or we see the leader himself taken up with a Messianic type adoration who is to be worshipped more or less as a savior. The other option is widespread persecution; looting and burning of houses of worship and executions of believers. Either extreme politically brings about lawlessness eventually; from the revolutions and overthrow of the establishment that is encouraged from the outset; to mock trials which never adhere to even the written codes for justice; to vast excesses with leadership who live in luxury while the rest of society struggles to survive. When Antichrist arrives he will claim to be God to some extent; but be "self made" and deny the father and the son ( 1 John 2:22-23).
When the Daniel 9:27 covenant is made; clearly we see other related verses describing a "man of intrigue" ( Dan. 11:21) who divides the land for gain ( Daniel 11:39) understanding "dark sentences" ( Dan. 8:23); i.e. occult mindset. Money and power broker status has always been the driving force for those in the elite to control the world and enrich themselves. It is clear that we are near an agreement or confirming that covenant with many which will allow the Temple to function and give Israel what seems like a peace arrangement with surrounding nations. At the appointed time it will happen; but also end seven years later
Beast rules for 1260 days ( Rev. 12:14; Daniel 12:7; Daniel 7:25). We are not in the Tribulation yet; for it will be held back (man of sin) until Restrainer is removed ( 2 Thess. 2:6) then the wicked one is revealed ( 2 Thess. 2:8).
God gives us His Spirit and it is His Spirit that produces the faith the Bible speaks of. We do not have the capacity to produce the faith we read about. Now, both believers and nonbelievers alike can produce human faith, but this type of faith is different than the faith the Bible speaks of. Only Gods Spirit can produce spiritual faith, or saving faith ( Galatians 5:22).
As far as Philippians 1:29, here is my understanding:
It says, "For unto you it is given," and by the way, the word given is the word graced. God has blessed you, favored you, in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake;
Isn't that good news? It's God's will! Just like Peter says in his letter, why are you so surprised for the fiery trials that come up against you?
It's God's will that not only you believe, but that you suffer for the sake of Christ.
But check out what it says in the next verse ( Philippians 1:30):
Having the same conflict, and that's the word agony. Having the same agony which you saw in me, and now you hear to be in me.
Paul says, you want to know what it looks like, what I just told you about believing and suffering? It's the same agony that you see in my life, as I, like an athlete battle with the opponent all day long.
That's not just God's will for Paul. That's for every believer!
Jimbob, I said that my reason for not answering was not because I do not know that answer, but because I do not wish to engage with you on this topic. So, respectfully, you can stop accusing me of not knowing the answer. Just as you did not wish to offend me, neither did I wish to offend you. I just wanted to share my feelings on why I think it is best for me to not discuss this topic with you. I can see that you are offended by that. Just as you think you have spoken truth to me, I think I have spoken truth to you. So, I hope you have a blessed night. I pray for you often and look forward to talking with you on another topic.
This loss and trauma are terrible even if it has been decades since your brother's passing. I cannot read God's mind on this one as to why He allowed your brother to die so young. He knew that you and your mom would endure much pain and sorrow of this. may He continue to comfort you in the best way.
But I will have to say that I do not know God's reasons and don't wish to speculate on it. I can only encourage you to lean on Jesus. He will comfort you and lead you. You can be assured that God does not do evil. He is wholly good. But in His great surpassing wisdom, He allows sin, evil, sickness, and accidents, and traumas to occur for purposes we may not ever know in this life.
As to the other question concerning our guilt in the death of Jesus. Yes, all have sinned, therefore all humans have a part in His death because, though He chose to die for us out of love, it was our sin that He took to the cross to bear the wrath of the offense of sin for God once and for all. We can accept our part and confess that we our own sinful choices are the reason for the Holy Son of God's death. And then we can also agree with God that Jesus' death accomplished completely the purpose for His coming=to save us from our sins and give us eternal life. Therefore, we can be thankful to God for this immeasurable sacrifice and gift of salvation AND continue in belief in our Lord and in the Father and in the Spirit as the God we worship and no other. We can commit to growing in our knowledge of who God is and how He has worked in the world, history and in our lives. This knowledge will deepen our faith and commitment to serving only Him and no other made-up god that our minds create.
One eighty. Thank you for these questions. I don't think I gave very good answers, but I hope that others will chime in.
Mat.5:5-Blessed are the meek:for they shall inherit the earth.
Rev.5:10-And has made us unto our GOD kings and priests:and we shall reign on the earth.
How can the meek inherit the earth?
Zechariah 4:1-6
1-And the angel that talked with me came again,and waked me, as a MAN that is wakened out of his sleep.
2-And said unto me,What seest thou?I have looked,and behold
(1)a candlestick all of gold
(2)with a bowl upon the top of it, and
(3)his seven lamps thereon, and
(4)seven pipes to the seven lamps,which are upon the top thereof:
3-And two olive trees by it,one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof.
Interpreting the above Scriptures:
1-Candlestick is the Church(Rev.1:19)of the LORD-His body;
2-with a bowl upon the top of it:-the bowl is for storing and conserving the oil produced by the two olive trees to the Candlestick-that is for the anointed Church of the LORD;
3-and his seven lamps thereon:the seven lamps are the seven Spirits of GOD-Rev.4:5;
4-and seven pipes to the seven lamps which are upon the top thereof(the 7 lamps are 7 spirits of GOD-they are placed on the top of the pipes to enlighten the Church of the LORD,mainly in this time of Apocalypse-END of the times,and establishment of GOD's Kingdom: but NOT by might,nor by power(not by human power),but by my Spirit,saith the Lord of hosts,as is written in Mat.5:5 combined with Rev.5:10)
4-So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying,What are these,my lord?
5-Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me,Knowest thou not what these be?And I said,No,my lord.
6-Then he answered and spake unto me,saying,This is the Word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel,saying,Not by might,nor by power,but by my Spirit,saith the Lord of hosts.
Revelation 11:15-18
15And the seventh angel sounded;and there were great voices in heaven,saying,The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord,and of his Christ;and he shall reign for ever and ever.
what does Paul mean in 1 Philippians 1:29 when he says it is a privilege granted to us to believe in Christ? does that mean that saving faith is something given to us from God or is it something we produce on our own? I'd love to hear all your thoughts!
I hope all is well with you. Thank you for your kind reply.
See, my objective was only and only to remind you of what is written: GOD the Father is greater than JESUS, GOD the Son, as JESUS Himself said - John 14:28.
For your knowledge and other posters, I live in the city of Joinville, south of Brazil, close to Argentina, so according to the time zone of the Greenwich laboratory, I think there is a difference of 4 hours based on the schedule indicated in the message on the website.
second half of the tribulation?.. ok where are we at according to scripture?... hey, I gotta ask, lol.. half, and how long is this, according to scripture please.
Concluding thoughts on national sovereignty vs one world order
In the end; he who lives by the sword dies by the sword. ( Matt. 26:52; also see Revelation 13:10). As Christians we are to remain as salt and light to resist the decay that the current world system under Satanic influence is headed toward. Similarly; we should not cede to others things that are inalienable rights that our forefathers fought so hard for and is enacted in our Constitution and other important legal documents as to how a Republic is to be run. We shouldn't; however make that our priority; as His Kingdom is not of this world ( John 18:36). We see ways; for instance with certain bitcoin currencies how we can be in an internationally accepted means of exchange (for now) which is an alternative to the electronic cash and other efforts governments and private banks are attempting to control the narrative and our lives. It is hard to say if we do have a sort of one world government how far it will progress before the Tribulation; peace is taken from the earth at the 2nd Seal; that leaves us to wonder if it is just a type of peace that is in effect since just the first seal or if it has lasted a while.
One world religion again is something that is developing; we are responsible to hold onto the Philadelphian type church and patiently endure as Revelation 3:10 states until the Lord comes back to receive our reward even with little strength. We must avoid any false revival and not expect mass conversions at a time when many are said to fall away if we are indeed in the last days ( 1 Timothy 4:1 and also see Matthew 24:10). If we live in a world system where we have to pay taxes then of course we need wisdom. The plans are clear from the "powers that be" (without having to name the source) that in a few short years we are supposed to be content losing property and any private ownership. So be it; if the Gospel is preached we can let go these temporal things for His Name's sake.
Ronald.. 1 cor 9:27, has there ever been a more clearer verse?.. Castaway, same word as reprobate, don't know why they translated it "castaway".. nevertheless.. reprobate.. serious stuff there. The meaning is as "decisive" as it gets.
One world government needs to be discussed at present. There are alliances as I said before that could be considered part of the divided Roman empire of the last days such as expressed in Daniel 2:40-41. This kingdom will have the strength of iron but be divided and not cling as clay and historically; of course we see Rome as being the western capital; and Constantinople being the eastern capital. Part of this involves the Papal authority and Eastern; Greek and or Russian Orthodox church in charge of the other "leg" so to speak if that is interpreted correctly. This final beast is going to take over the whole world; that is pretty clear from verses in Daniel and Revelation 13. It would seem pitting nations against one another would allow the final 10 nations to rule one hour with Antichrist (see the 3 subdued in Daniel 7:24). This is the final religious; and economic world government under the "Mystery Babylon" rule when the woman rides the Beast ( Rev. 17:13); then later in the second half of the Tribulation ANtichrist destroys the system and its ruling city with fire ( Rev. 17:16). The religious center starting this year in Abu Dhabi and other such concepts has allowed all monotheistic faiths to be at one facility. It seems clear through cooperative efforts today with the Saudi's and even some effort by Turkey in the background that the Temple will be rebuilt with some international agreement on control of the Temple Mount.
For now; we must be aware what is going on but continue to be the salt and light of the world; warning about the conflagration to come. The net that all nations will be led into the seive of destruction is coming. ( Isaiah 30:28). It is a trap coming for the whole world ( Luke 21:24) and we need to remain focused and not be taken aback at His sudden return to take His church home; praying always to be worthy to escape all the things to come and stand before the Son of Man ( Luke 21:36).
In my last post; I explained briefly how there is a divide between Eastern and Western nations and their alliances. As to an opinion on the matter; it is easy to be myopic and insist that our country can do no wrong or the opposite as seems politically expedient today; we excoriate all those who until recent years were heralded as honorable forefathers of our nation. This same mindset can skew the big picture; those of the old school think of Russia today as communist when it is in reality a nationalist mindset and has supported the church by and large. In all due respect it is heavily skewed toward the Eastern or Russian Orthodox; and very recently has started showing blowback and persecution to those in the church that do not support the political agenda.
Those we consider "enemies" used to be friends; case in point Russia who was our ally during World War Two (albeit we basically gave them much of Eastern Europe at the end of the war when allowing them to be the first to invade German territory). Japan has gone from being part of the "Axis of Evil" to our best ally in the last 50 years or so. Afghanistan was our ally as well; and we even supported Bin Laden (I believe he was on Newsweek as man of the year or something to that affect; much like Hitler was in the 1930's. Many of us are naive as to history; so of course it repeats itself (or as Ecclesiastes 1:9 says there is nothing new under the sun). Of course there are allies (take India for example) where persecution of Christians is some of the worst in the world; in this case by Hindus; not the Muslims who also are persecuting believers with our allies such as Saudi Arabia; Turkey and many other nations.
In these issues; we need to be careful to honor covenant agreements in the past with sovereign nations and their boundaries. The desire to eliminate ancient boundaries is dangerous ( Prov. 22:28)
Thank you, I know we agree on many things and sometimes in the minority. I don't know if I would say I explain it better. I feel many times I come up short.
Some things to consider as we wait for the Lord's arrival.
Major issues: National sovereignty vs one world government. The inexorable pull towards one world government is still being largely played out by Western nations; with the Eastern block having their own economic (BRICS) and military alliances. This issue involves complex alliances and questionable international boundaries hence determining right and wrong may not always be as easy as our media would like us to think in their mantras.
Left vs. Right: We have what is left of Christianity today being demolished by left wing ideology; but this doesn't eliminate the threat from right wing extremists. We have the churches in almost all nations today being monitored by totalitarian regimes; or harassed by increasingly intolerant moves toward acceptance of deviant lifestyles in western nations in particular. The resulting chaos makes it hard to differentiate between the two; with a chameleon affect developing frequently with riots and demonstrations which has influences from both sides so it is hard to find out who is to blame in some cases.
Acceptance of a lawless society. In the name of human freedom and to allow for "sensitivities" our society and much of Europe has succumbed to a mob rule; where death penalties and any serious punishment for crimes has become more the exception than the rule. Everyone is seen as a "victim" and thus a responsible work ethic and stable family unit has been steadily broken down in recent years; especially since the pandemic. We have grown to be a spoiled society who demands instant gratification and dumbed down to a social life dominated by electronic communication in a virtual world; which has blurred the difference between reality and fantasy.
I will attempt to break down each of these topics in detail in future posts. We all need to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves ( Matt. 10:16) and trust He is still in control even as things spin toward chaos.
I didn't take your answer as a dedate. I was actually glad that somebody noticed and answered my posts. I did a general statement.
About "Hades". Luke the evangelist and Paul the apostle used that term with full knowledge of what the greeks meant with that and what they thought of it, but still used it. Why, as long as they would definitely know that they would mislead people to a false impression? Or unless they used that term because it resembled to what they believed that Sheol represented.
About Jesus' Kingdom, I agree with you that He will set a literal kingdom on earth during the millenium, but not together with the nation Israel that some claim. The Rev says together with those slained during that last 7 year period and if we take into account the parable of the talents given to the bondservants by their Lord, then all saved people all over the time will rule together with Him and probably the saints of the OT are also included. This is how I understand it brother.
I understand, years ago I traveled in my work, and it takes a lot to be away from home. I will go over what you have sent, wow you have put in some time, and I know that is special. It will take me a few days I am not a young man anymore.
My reply was not to debate it was just my understanding, it is just good to see posts like yours that inspire study for truth. I agree that the belief in an afterlife was worldwide but when the Church began the largest influence was Greek. At the time Jesus first came many of the people in Judea, spoke and read Greek. They had the Septuagint and the Greek meaning of some words like Sheol with its main meaning to be the grave became Hades a place of bodiless souls, and the meaning of death that was sleep, became a separation of the soul from the body.
Your question on the kingdom; we may differ on this, my understanding does not include a rapture as taught, the Church being taken to heaven and a 7-year tribulation. Jesus's second coming is a onetime event, not two. When Jesus returns, the first resurrection of the chosen, and faithful. He will set up the kingdom with those chosen and faithful and will reign over this earth from Jerusalem for 1000 years.
When that time is up the last battle with Satan and his army and then the final judgement and all will be made new.
Thank you again, discussion is good if we inspire to study.
you have not understood what I wrote. No; I do not agree with your interpretation of these Scriptures. I do agree with your understanding of these modernization of the Scriptures.
It's only God's Spirit that can lead us into the riches of the treasures of God's Wisdom & Understanding for His Name Sake.
This is by Grace / Light 2Cor 4:6,7
This is what Jesus meant in John 12:44-50John 6:63Rev 19:10
The Word of God speaking in the heart, that's near us, the Word of Faith that Paul preached.
Who rides a white horse, who is Faithful & True, with a two edged sword coming out of His mouth, & in Rightousness He doth judge & make war against the principalities & powers of darkness in heavenly places within our heart.
And whosoever receive Him in this manner, receive power to become the sons & daughters of God.
and whosoever don't will remain in their sins, no matter how high a profession or form of godliness without the Power.
"Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen (relatives), and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me."
So Paul had relatives who were in Christ before him. I believe that they were certainly praying for him. I believe that God answered their prayers and saved Paul.
In Galatians 1:15-16 Paul writes, "15 But when it pleased God, who separated me(Paul) from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen..."
Here Paul claims that God had chosen him from his mother's womb to send him to preach about Christ.
SO which one is true? Was Paul saved because some people were praying for him OR because that was God's plan before Paul was born?
The answer is, both.
Lets examine it. It was Jesus who appeared to Paul on his way to Damascus. Later God called him to go and preach to the gentiles together with Barnabas, and led them to all the places He intented them to go ( Acts 13:2-4).
So one expects that God gave them His grace to complete their ministry, doesn't he?
But lets read Ephessians 6:19, "And (pray) for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel," Somewhere else Paul asks for prayers for him to be freed from his enemies.
So the question is. Why is Paul asking his fellow christians to pray for him to be given words of preaching? Wasn't God who sent him to preach? Wasn't God going to give him words to do what He asked him for?
Yes it was God who sent him BUT God is expecting us to cooperate with Him. God will not do anything unless we cooperate with Him. He asks for our cooperation, whatever that is, prayers, testimonies, preachings, helping others, ...
Lets not expect for God to do all things on His own while we are laying lazely on our couches. HE WILL NOT. He demands our cooperation, the offering of ourselves for His purposes. And prayers are very significant. So... lets go.
The reason I posted those posts is that I wanted to share some things I notice when reading the Bible, and bring some considerations to fellow christians about some topics. I don't really like getting into debates. Firstly they tire me, that is why I usually post 1- 2 answers and then stop. Secondly I tend to use a sharp language sometimes and people get offended, not good from my side, is it?
About the "living sacrifice", the way I understand it is that a sacrifice simply means an offering to God here. A living sacrifice is our life which we offer to God. If we wish that God accepts/likes our life as an offering, this has to be "holy", otherwise God will not accept it. "Holy" includes repentance, includes asking for forgiveness, includes a strive to live righteously.
About immortal souls. The belief that a soul is immortal was not introduced by ancient Greeks. Thousands of years before them, the Egyptians, Sumerians, Assyrians etc believed in an afterlife. Even in the primitive age, in the stone age, people were believing in afterlife. Burials of stone age people that have been found contain cooking pottery and clothes and precious stones and metals for them to use as money in the afterlife. That was always the belief of mankind no matter nation or age, which means that the memory of the afterlife was left to all people since the beginning, otherwise it can not be explained how people dispersed all over the world from America to China in an age that there was no transportation and contacts between tribes and nations, they were all believing the same thing, the afterlife.
About the Kingdom of Jesus, if we mean a kingdom where Jesus together with Israel will rule over all the earth, my question is "when is that going to happen?". It will not happen before rapture, neither after when the antichrist will rule, neither in the millenium when all those slained during those 7 years will rule. So When?
Thanks for your answer brother, much appreciated. Blessings
A question for you: Why do think God took my brother at age 10, which caused my mother and me to live a life full of sorrow, suffering, and grief; without any real healing? My mother was a devout Christian, and from what I was told, my brother was
a very loving and sweet child. As I mentioned to you before (I think), I was 3 years old, and I'm left with very few memories of him. Sadly, the one that is predominant is witnessing his death and my mother's frantic but futile attempt to revive him. I still cry over her pain.
I realize this is probably a difficult question to answer.
One more question, not directly related to the above: Should a Christian feel responsible and guilty and remain in that mode, for the crucifxion of Jesus? How SHOULD I feel?
Please, please be assured, I am not being contentious with these questions. If anyone else wants to chime in, I welcome that.
Thank you Bro dan, Hammer 63, Fredscanlan, and Frankie J for your thoughtful replies. I will continue with an open mind to absorb what you have spoken. My prayer is we experience how wide, how long, how high, and how deep is the love of Christ. In Jesus Name. Amen
Frankie J thank you for your comment. We have all these modern version bibles that are corrupt, it sounds like you do see that.
If a person believes the Word of God is preserved for ever like God promised us in ( Ps 12:6-7) that person will more than likely say that the KJB translators were moved by the Holy Ghost to bring the prophecy of the scripture to this final generation to preserve His Word. When did this happen according to the Bible? ( 2 Pet 1:19-21) Now if you don't believe the Word of God was preserved for ever then you will say the holy men of God were not the KJB translators.
Does it make sense that God would preserve His Word in the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts that we have absolutely no chance of reading, with zero chance of studying today?
Jesus said in ( Jn 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.
The words Jesus spoke are spirit and life!
In ( Heb 4:12) "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart".
The word (quick) is 2198; it means to live, (a)-live.
( 2 Tim 3:16) "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness". Inspiration = God breathed.
Jesus said in ( Jn 12:46-50) v48 "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not ((my words)), hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day". (The words that Jesus spoke will be the judge in the last day, do you not think we have those Words to study before the judgment at last day?)
( 2 Tim 2:15) Here we are told to "Study" to shew thyself approved of God, and to rightly divide the word of truth.
Wouldn't we have the word of truth if God wants us to Study it, and rightly divide it?
We all,with unveiled face,beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord,are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Christ-occupation makes you bold but not superior,humble but not inferior.When our minds are occupied with Jesus,we don't have to try to be humble.In the presence of the Servant-King,our hearts become supernaturally transformed,and we will carry His servant heart.ITOH,when you dwell and spend time with Jesus,all that He is will rub off on you.Your thoughts and your words will be full of the fragrance of His sweet presence and grace.All your inferiority and insecurities will melt away in His marvelous love for you.It takes people who are truly secure in Christ to be able to bow down and serve others with genuine humility".
In my understand,more than ever, GOD's people need to receive and hear messages like the one posted above by our brother in Christ Les Brewer.The Word of GOD-the Word is GOD-warned us saying"This know also,that in the last days perilous times shall come"-2Ti.3:1- ITOH,there will be a battle,a spiritual War-Rev.12 combined with Rev.11:15-18 -,and the red Dragon will manifest himself"having great wrath,because he knows that he has but a short time"- Rev. 12:12.
JESUS left revealed that"Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles,until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled"- Luke 21:24 combined with Rev.11:2-"the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months",and the red dragon will"give to the Beast of sea-Rev.3:1(ruler/guide of the apostate Church of Rome-RCC,which rides upon the Beast),yeah,will give his Power,and his Seat(in the holy city-Jerusalem),and great Authority-Rev.13:2.
Yes, as JESUS revealed,"when unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places seeking rest". The dry places where the unclean spirit walks are the men made by the dust in the belly of the Serpent( John 8:44-45), and are without the Spirit of GOD, without the Spirit of Christ, as was Israel, the clay, the dry land. The unclean spirit finds none among them which were born again from GOD and really remain in the body of Christ. 1John 5:18-19->18 We know that whosoever is born of GOD sinneth not; but he that is begotten of GOD keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. 19 And we know that we are of GOD, and the WHOLE WORLD lieth in wickedness.(Because they live in the belly of the Serpent,and only within them the unclean spirit finds rest.)
The unclean spirit saith: I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished./ Then goeth the unclean spirit, and taketh with himself (7) seven other spirits more wicked than himself,
1Peter 5:8-9
8 Be sober,be vigilant;because your adversary the Devil(the old Serpent),as a roaring lion,WALKETH about, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
Job 1:6-There was a Day when the sons of GOD came to present themselves before the Lord,and Satan(the Old Serpent)came also among them.(By the way,we are entering the Day of the Lord,the last millennium)
Reevelation 11:15-18
15 - The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
...
The battle is against three unclean spirits like frogs: Revelation 16:13-15
13 I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon,and out of the mouth of the beast,and out of the mouth of the false prophet.
14 They are the spirits of devils, working miracles...
15 Behold, I come as a thief. ...
Throughout history; we see two approaches toward the church by either the left leaning leadership (such as under Communist China today) or the right leaning totalitarian dictatorship (Hitler). We see infiltration of the church by the state to constrain and monitor what is taught; or we see the leader himself taken up with a Messianic type adoration who is to be worshipped more or less as a savior. The other option is widespread persecution; looting and burning of houses of worship and executions of believers. Either extreme politically brings about lawlessness eventually; from the revolutions and overthrow of the establishment that is encouraged from the outset; to mock trials which never adhere to even the written codes for justice; to vast excesses with leadership who live in luxury while the rest of society struggles to survive. When Antichrist arrives he will claim to be God to some extent; but be "self made" and deny the father and the son ( 1 John 2:22-23).
When the Daniel 9:27 covenant is made; clearly we see other related verses describing a "man of intrigue" ( Dan. 11:21) who divides the land for gain ( Daniel 11:39) understanding "dark sentences" ( Dan. 8:23); i.e. occult mindset. Money and power broker status has always been the driving force for those in the elite to control the world and enrich themselves. It is clear that we are near an agreement or confirming that covenant with many which will allow the Temple to function and give Israel what seems like a peace arrangement with surrounding nations. At the appointed time it will happen; but also end seven years later
( Daniel 7:26).
Agape. RIch P
God gives us His Spirit and it is His Spirit that produces the faith the Bible speaks of. We do not have the capacity to produce the faith we read about. Now, both believers and nonbelievers alike can produce human faith, but this type of faith is different than the faith the Bible speaks of. Only Gods Spirit can produce spiritual faith, or saving faith ( Galatians 5:22).
As far as Philippians 1:29, here is my understanding:
It says, "For unto you it is given," and by the way, the word given is the word graced. God has blessed you, favored you, in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake;
Isn't that good news? It's God's will! Just like Peter says in his letter, why are you so surprised for the fiery trials that come up against you?
It's God's will that not only you believe, but that you suffer for the sake of Christ.
But check out what it says in the next verse ( Philippians 1:30):
Having the same conflict, and that's the word agony. Having the same agony which you saw in me, and now you hear to be in me.
Paul says, you want to know what it looks like, what I just told you about believing and suffering? It's the same agony that you see in my life, as I, like an athlete battle with the opponent all day long.
That's not just God's will for Paul. That's for every believer!
Blessings to you in Christ!
This loss and trauma are terrible even if it has been decades since your brother's passing. I cannot read God's mind on this one as to why He allowed your brother to die so young. He knew that you and your mom would endure much pain and sorrow of this. may He continue to comfort you in the best way.
But I will have to say that I do not know God's reasons and don't wish to speculate on it. I can only encourage you to lean on Jesus. He will comfort you and lead you. You can be assured that God does not do evil. He is wholly good. But in His great surpassing wisdom, He allows sin, evil, sickness, and accidents, and traumas to occur for purposes we may not ever know in this life.
As to the other question concerning our guilt in the death of Jesus. Yes, all have sinned, therefore all humans have a part in His death because, though He chose to die for us out of love, it was our sin that He took to the cross to bear the wrath of the offense of sin for God once and for all. We can accept our part and confess that we our own sinful choices are the reason for the Holy Son of God's death. And then we can also agree with God that Jesus' death accomplished completely the purpose for His coming=to save us from our sins and give us eternal life. Therefore, we can be thankful to God for this immeasurable sacrifice and gift of salvation AND continue in belief in our Lord and in the Father and in the Spirit as the God we worship and no other. We can commit to growing in our knowledge of who God is and how He has worked in the world, history and in our lives. This knowledge will deepen our faith and commitment to serving only Him and no other made-up god that our minds create.
One eighty. Thank you for these questions. I don't think I gave very good answers, but I hope that others will chime in.
I'll leave you this verse:
Ephesians 1:15-17
Rev.5:10-And has made us unto our GOD kings and priests:and we shall reign on the earth.
How can the meek inherit the earth?
Zechariah 4:1-6
1-And the angel that talked with me came again,and waked me, as a MAN that is wakened out of his sleep.
2-And said unto me,What seest thou?I have looked,and behold
(1)a candlestick all of gold
(2)with a bowl upon the top of it, and
(3)his seven lamps thereon, and
(4)seven pipes to the seven lamps,which are upon the top thereof:
3-And two olive trees by it,one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof.
Interpreting the above Scriptures:
1-Candlestick is the Church(Rev.1:19)of the LORD-His body;
2-with a bowl upon the top of it:-the bowl is for storing and conserving the oil produced by the two olive trees to the Candlestick-that is for the anointed Church of the LORD;
3-and his seven lamps thereon:the seven lamps are the seven Spirits of GOD-Rev.4:5;
4-and seven pipes to the seven lamps which are upon the top thereof(the 7 lamps are 7 spirits of GOD-they are placed on the top of the pipes to enlighten the Church of the LORD,mainly in this time of Apocalypse-END of the times,and establishment of GOD's Kingdom: but NOT by might,nor by power(not by human power),but by my Spirit,saith the Lord of hosts,as is written in Mat.5:5 combined with Rev.5:10)
4-So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying,What are these,my lord?
5-Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me,Knowest thou not what these be?And I said,No,my lord.
6-Then he answered and spake unto me,saying,This is the Word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel,saying,Not by might,nor by power,but by my Spirit,saith the Lord of hosts.
Revelation 11:15-18
15And the seventh angel sounded;and there were great voices in heaven,saying,The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord,and of his Christ;and he shall reign for ever and ever.
Thank you, I do agree.
God bless,
RLW
I hope all is well with you. Thank you for your kind reply.
See, my objective was only and only to remind you of what is written: GOD the Father is greater than JESUS, GOD the Son, as JESUS Himself said - John 14:28.
For your knowledge and other posters, I live in the city of Joinville, south of Brazil, close to Argentina, so according to the time zone of the Greenwich laboratory, I think there is a difference of 4 hours based on the schedule indicated in the message on the website.
Now here it is 10:10 at night (pm)
Blesssings
In the end; he who lives by the sword dies by the sword. ( Matt. 26:52; also see Revelation 13:10). As Christians we are to remain as salt and light to resist the decay that the current world system under Satanic influence is headed toward. Similarly; we should not cede to others things that are inalienable rights that our forefathers fought so hard for and is enacted in our Constitution and other important legal documents as to how a Republic is to be run. We shouldn't; however make that our priority; as His Kingdom is not of this world ( John 18:36). We see ways; for instance with certain bitcoin currencies how we can be in an internationally accepted means of exchange (for now) which is an alternative to the electronic cash and other efforts governments and private banks are attempting to control the narrative and our lives. It is hard to say if we do have a sort of one world government how far it will progress before the Tribulation; peace is taken from the earth at the 2nd Seal; that leaves us to wonder if it is just a type of peace that is in effect since just the first seal or if it has lasted a while.
One world religion again is something that is developing; we are responsible to hold onto the Philadelphian type church and patiently endure as Revelation 3:10 states until the Lord comes back to receive our reward even with little strength. We must avoid any false revival and not expect mass conversions at a time when many are said to fall away if we are indeed in the last days ( 1 Timothy 4:1 and also see Matthew 24:10). If we live in a world system where we have to pay taxes then of course we need wisdom. The plans are clear from the "powers that be" (without having to name the source) that in a few short years we are supposed to be content losing property and any private ownership. So be it; if the Gospel is preached we can let go these temporal things for His Name's sake.
One world government needs to be discussed at present. There are alliances as I said before that could be considered part of the divided Roman empire of the last days such as expressed in Daniel 2:40-41. This kingdom will have the strength of iron but be divided and not cling as clay and historically; of course we see Rome as being the western capital; and Constantinople being the eastern capital. Part of this involves the Papal authority and Eastern; Greek and or Russian Orthodox church in charge of the other "leg" so to speak if that is interpreted correctly. This final beast is going to take over the whole world; that is pretty clear from verses in Daniel and Revelation 13. It would seem pitting nations against one another would allow the final 10 nations to rule one hour with Antichrist (see the 3 subdued in Daniel 7:24). This is the final religious; and economic world government under the "Mystery Babylon" rule when the woman rides the Beast ( Rev. 17:13); then later in the second half of the Tribulation ANtichrist destroys the system and its ruling city with fire ( Rev. 17:16). The religious center starting this year in Abu Dhabi and other such concepts has allowed all monotheistic faiths to be at one facility. It seems clear through cooperative efforts today with the Saudi's and even some effort by Turkey in the background that the Temple will be rebuilt with some international agreement on control of the Temple Mount.
For now; we must be aware what is going on but continue to be the salt and light of the world; warning about the conflagration to come. The net that all nations will be led into the seive of destruction is coming. ( Isaiah 30:28). It is a trap coming for the whole world ( Luke 21:24) and we need to remain focused and not be taken aback at His sudden return to take His church home; praying always to be worthy to escape all the things to come and stand before the Son of Man ( Luke 21:36).
National soverignty vs one world government
In my last post; I explained briefly how there is a divide between Eastern and Western nations and their alliances. As to an opinion on the matter; it is easy to be myopic and insist that our country can do no wrong or the opposite as seems politically expedient today; we excoriate all those who until recent years were heralded as honorable forefathers of our nation. This same mindset can skew the big picture; those of the old school think of Russia today as communist when it is in reality a nationalist mindset and has supported the church by and large. In all due respect it is heavily skewed toward the Eastern or Russian Orthodox; and very recently has started showing blowback and persecution to those in the church that do not support the political agenda.
Those we consider "enemies" used to be friends; case in point Russia who was our ally during World War Two (albeit we basically gave them much of Eastern Europe at the end of the war when allowing them to be the first to invade German territory). Japan has gone from being part of the "Axis of Evil" to our best ally in the last 50 years or so. Afghanistan was our ally as well; and we even supported Bin Laden (I believe he was on Newsweek as man of the year or something to that affect; much like Hitler was in the 1930's. Many of us are naive as to history; so of course it repeats itself (or as Ecclesiastes 1:9 says there is nothing new under the sun). Of course there are allies (take India for example) where persecution of Christians is some of the worst in the world; in this case by Hindus; not the Muslims who also are persecuting believers with our allies such as Saudi Arabia; Turkey and many other nations.
In these issues; we need to be careful to honor covenant agreements in the past with sovereign nations and their boundaries. The desire to eliminate ancient boundaries is dangerous ( Prov. 22:28)
Thank you, I know we agree on many things and sometimes in the minority. I don't know if I would say I explain it better. I feel many times I come up short.
God bless,
RLW
Major issues: National sovereignty vs one world government. The inexorable pull towards one world government is still being largely played out by Western nations; with the Eastern block having their own economic (BRICS) and military alliances. This issue involves complex alliances and questionable international boundaries hence determining right and wrong may not always be as easy as our media would like us to think in their mantras.
Left vs. Right: We have what is left of Christianity today being demolished by left wing ideology; but this doesn't eliminate the threat from right wing extremists. We have the churches in almost all nations today being monitored by totalitarian regimes; or harassed by increasingly intolerant moves toward acceptance of deviant lifestyles in western nations in particular. The resulting chaos makes it hard to differentiate between the two; with a chameleon affect developing frequently with riots and demonstrations which has influences from both sides so it is hard to find out who is to blame in some cases.
Acceptance of a lawless society. In the name of human freedom and to allow for "sensitivities" our society and much of Europe has succumbed to a mob rule; where death penalties and any serious punishment for crimes has become more the exception than the rule. Everyone is seen as a "victim" and thus a responsible work ethic and stable family unit has been steadily broken down in recent years; especially since the pandemic. We have grown to be a spoiled society who demands instant gratification and dumbed down to a social life dominated by electronic communication in a virtual world; which has blurred the difference between reality and fantasy.
I will attempt to break down each of these topics in detail in future posts. We all need to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves ( Matt. 10:16) and trust He is still in control even as things spin toward chaos.
I didn't take your answer as a dedate. I was actually glad that somebody noticed and answered my posts. I did a general statement.
About "Hades". Luke the evangelist and Paul the apostle used that term with full knowledge of what the greeks meant with that and what they thought of it, but still used it. Why, as long as they would definitely know that they would mislead people to a false impression? Or unless they used that term because it resembled to what they believed that Sheol represented.
About Jesus' Kingdom, I agree with you that He will set a literal kingdom on earth during the millenium, but not together with the nation Israel that some claim. The Rev says together with those slained during that last 7 year period and if we take into account the parable of the talents given to the bondservants by their Lord, then all saved people all over the time will rule together with Him and probably the saints of the OT are also included. This is how I understand it brother.
I understand, years ago I traveled in my work, and it takes a lot to be away from home. I will go over what you have sent, wow you have put in some time, and I know that is special. It will take me a few days I am not a young man anymore.
Have a good and safe week.
God bless,
RLW
My reply was not to debate it was just my understanding, it is just good to see posts like yours that inspire study for truth. I agree that the belief in an afterlife was worldwide but when the Church began the largest influence was Greek. At the time Jesus first came many of the people in Judea, spoke and read Greek. They had the Septuagint and the Greek meaning of some words like Sheol with its main meaning to be the grave became Hades a place of bodiless souls, and the meaning of death that was sleep, became a separation of the soul from the body.
Your question on the kingdom; we may differ on this, my understanding does not include a rapture as taught, the Church being taken to heaven and a 7-year tribulation. Jesus's second coming is a onetime event, not two. When Jesus returns, the first resurrection of the chosen, and faithful. He will set up the kingdom with those chosen and faithful and will reign over this earth from Jerusalem for 1000 years.
When that time is up the last battle with Satan and his army and then the final judgement and all will be made new.
Thank you again, discussion is good if we inspire to study.
God bless,
RLW
you have not understood what I wrote. No; I do not agree with your interpretation of these Scriptures. I do agree with your understanding of these modernization of the Scriptures.
It's only God's Spirit that can lead us into the riches of the treasures of God's Wisdom & Understanding for His Name Sake.
This is by Grace / Light 2Cor 4:6,7
This is what Jesus meant in John 12:44-50 John 6:63 Rev 19:10
The Word of God speaking in the heart, that's near us, the Word of Faith that Paul preached.
Who rides a white horse, who is Faithful & True, with a two edged sword coming out of His mouth, & in Rightousness He doth judge & make war against the principalities & powers of darkness in heavenly places within our heart.
And whosoever receive Him in this manner, receive power to become the sons & daughters of God.
and whosoever don't will remain in their sins, no matter how high a profession or form of godliness without the Power.
I haven't forgoten you. I will answer to your post tomorrow. Have a blessed day (or night, depending on where you live).
Blessings.
"Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen (relatives), and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me."
So Paul had relatives who were in Christ before him. I believe that they were certainly praying for him. I believe that God answered their prayers and saved Paul.
In Galatians 1:15-16 Paul writes, "15 But when it pleased God, who separated me(Paul) from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, 16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen..."
Here Paul claims that God had chosen him from his mother's womb to send him to preach about Christ.
SO which one is true? Was Paul saved because some people were praying for him OR because that was God's plan before Paul was born?
The answer is, both.
Lets examine it. It was Jesus who appeared to Paul on his way to Damascus. Later God called him to go and preach to the gentiles together with Barnabas, and led them to all the places He intented them to go ( Acts 13:2-4).
So one expects that God gave them His grace to complete their ministry, doesn't he?
But lets read Ephessians 6:19, "And (pray) for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel," Somewhere else Paul asks for prayers for him to be freed from his enemies.
So the question is. Why is Paul asking his fellow christians to pray for him to be given words of preaching? Wasn't God who sent him to preach? Wasn't God going to give him words to do what He asked him for?
Yes it was God who sent him BUT God is expecting us to cooperate with Him. God will not do anything unless we cooperate with Him. He asks for our cooperation, whatever that is, prayers, testimonies, preachings, helping others, ...
Lets not expect for God to do all things on His own while we are laying lazely on our couches. HE WILL NOT. He demands our cooperation, the offering of ourselves for His purposes. And prayers are very significant. So... lets go.
The reason I posted those posts is that I wanted to share some things I notice when reading the Bible, and bring some considerations to fellow christians about some topics. I don't really like getting into debates. Firstly they tire me, that is why I usually post 1- 2 answers and then stop. Secondly I tend to use a sharp language sometimes and people get offended, not good from my side, is it?
About the "living sacrifice", the way I understand it is that a sacrifice simply means an offering to God here. A living sacrifice is our life which we offer to God. If we wish that God accepts/likes our life as an offering, this has to be "holy", otherwise God will not accept it. "Holy" includes repentance, includes asking for forgiveness, includes a strive to live righteously.
About immortal souls. The belief that a soul is immortal was not introduced by ancient Greeks. Thousands of years before them, the Egyptians, Sumerians, Assyrians etc believed in an afterlife. Even in the primitive age, in the stone age, people were believing in afterlife. Burials of stone age people that have been found contain cooking pottery and clothes and precious stones and metals for them to use as money in the afterlife. That was always the belief of mankind no matter nation or age, which means that the memory of the afterlife was left to all people since the beginning, otherwise it can not be explained how people dispersed all over the world from America to China in an age that there was no transportation and contacts between tribes and nations, they were all believing the same thing, the afterlife.
About the Kingdom of Jesus, if we mean a kingdom where Jesus together with Israel will rule over all the earth, my question is "when is that going to happen?". It will not happen before rapture, neither after when the antichrist will rule, neither in the millenium when all those slained during those 7 years will rule. So When?
Thanks for your answer brother, much appreciated. Blessings
A question for you: Why do think God took my brother at age 10, which caused my mother and me to live a life full of sorrow, suffering, and grief; without any real healing? My mother was a devout Christian, and from what I was told, my brother was
a very loving and sweet child. As I mentioned to you before (I think), I was 3 years old, and I'm left with very few memories of him. Sadly, the one that is predominant is witnessing his death and my mother's frantic but futile attempt to revive him. I still cry over her pain.
I realize this is probably a difficult question to answer.
One more question, not directly related to the above: Should a Christian feel responsible and guilty and remain in that mode, for the crucifxion of Jesus? How SHOULD I feel?
Please, please be assured, I am not being contentious with these questions. If anyone else wants to chime in, I welcome that.
Peace be with you
Thank you Bro dan, Hammer 63, Fredscanlan, and Frankie J for your thoughtful replies. I will continue with an open mind to absorb what you have spoken. My prayer is we experience how wide, how long, how high, and how deep is the love of Christ. In Jesus Name. Amen
If a person believes the Word of God is preserved for ever like God promised us in ( Ps 12:6-7) that person will more than likely say that the KJB translators were moved by the Holy Ghost to bring the prophecy of the scripture to this final generation to preserve His Word. When did this happen according to the Bible? ( 2 Pet 1:19-21) Now if you don't believe the Word of God was preserved for ever then you will say the holy men of God were not the KJB translators.
Does it make sense that God would preserve His Word in the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts that we have absolutely no chance of reading, with zero chance of studying today?
Jesus said in ( Jn 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.
The words Jesus spoke are spirit and life!
In ( Heb 4:12) "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart".
The word (quick) is 2198; it means to live, (a)-live.
( 2 Tim 3:16) "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness". Inspiration = God breathed.
Jesus said in ( Jn 12:46-50) v48 "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not ((my words)), hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day". (The words that Jesus spoke will be the judge in the last day, do you not think we have those Words to study before the judgment at last day?)
( 2 Tim 2:15) Here we are told to "Study" to shew thyself approved of God, and to rightly divide the word of truth.
Wouldn't we have the word of truth if God wants us to Study it, and rightly divide it?
Blessings to you.