In my previous post this AM; I highlighted what I consider an important doctrinal foundation in regard to Predestination (or the Doctrine of Election). Understanding that others have various views on the subject as to where they are on the subject of "free will" on one end of the spectrum and 5 Point Calvanists on the other I am certainly not going to make overly broad generalizations here at least in terms of salvation of an individual based on their viewpoints on this subject. My aim as I hopefully mentioned when doing the Book of John in a chapter by chapter review based on this subject was to show what scripture states on the subject. I can prove my point in the fact that I (sort of) excoriated my fellow brethren (hopefully with a proper zeal) when I challenged them by pointing out that someone can understand ALL the 5 points intellectually of the "TULIP" concept but still not be saved. (Needless to say my response wasn't exactly rosy).
I brought out the point earlier today that those who would state that believers who followed these concepts would have little interest in witnessing to others are largely disproven by the Reformers; and in fact most people I have known in my circle of friends that are actually out there witnessing on a regular basis. We are called to follow the Great Commission; admittedly there are some who take this idea to an extreme at least historically that don't evangelize for precisely that reason that it is a "waste of time" for the non elect. A couple facts here before I move on to other cautions; one the main reason we witness is because we are commanded to do so and it is NOT for conversion but to honor God by proclaiming His truth. We also should consider that it edifies other believers when we are obedient to the call. Paul's imprisonment allowed others to have courage to boldly proclaim the Gospel; surely SOME would do this more if they could just see others doing the same.
Hi Donna, I agree with S Spencer's reply in the context of discipline for the purpose of repentance and forgiveness and keeping the sheep in the flock not having to cut off a hand or foot, or pluck out an eye, Matt. 18:8-9.
This is just another view of Matt. 16:19 some say Peter was the only one Jesus gave the keys to but in Matt. 18, we see it was for all the disciples not just Peter. Jesus entrusted them to continue His work, and from them to us, that we see start in Acts 2.
Jesus told Peter He will give him the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Luke 11:52 the key of knowledge, so these keys that were given to the disciples are the knowledge of the gospel of Jesus that will allow them and all who accept the good news, the way of entering the kingdom of heaven/God.
The keys are thus the gospel message, the teaching from Jesus that will be conveyed by the Holy Spirit, which gives us access to the kingdom of God, salvation, and eternal life only by our Lord Jesus Christ and the grace of God. Those who reject the gospel, bound, are forbidden to enter the kingdom (resurrection of damnation) and those who accept the gospel, loosed, are permitted into the kingdom (resurrection of life).
Eph. 2:5-6 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
I've noticed I've left out this info for more clarity in the way I interpret the verse.
The Church is given responsibility or charge to present the Gospel and how it is received will be accounted for in Heaven.
"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." Matthew 16:19.
We also see this mentioned in Matthew 16:18-19. "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
To answer your question.
Let's take it from vs 15 of Matthew 18:15-18 'Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
( If a person wrongs another, and refuses to repent, that person who was wronged should return with one or two others and then take the issue to the church or assembly. If repentance never happens, that person should be treated as an outsider.)
The offender is binded by that offense if he doesn't repent.
If the offender does repent he will be loosed.
This is the keys mentioned in Matthew 16:19 "AND I WILL GIVE UNTO THEE THE KEYS OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN:" and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
To bind and to loose means
to forbid by an indisputable authority and to permit by an indisputable authority.
This brief forum is clearly insufficient to cover any comprehensive study on this subject--at least without hogging this space with an inordinate amount of comments on my part. I will briefly list a couple points of caution as well as the general assurance which a proper dividing of the Word on this subject should give to those of us in the faith.
I will begin with the positive first. There are numerous voluminous studies on the subject which was originally postulated by Calvin and Luther and probably many other Reformers around the same time period. My focus has always been on the Word itself so I would recommend reading the book of John specifically for the words of Christ Himself on those who the Father chooses to be revealed through the Son; for example. God's choosing is by no means isolated to there; or in fact to the New Testament. He chose Jeremiah; for instance before he was born to be a Prophet; and much could be said the same in regard to John the Baptist and of course Christ Himself.
As believers; we can be assured that if we sow the seed of preaching the Word; there will be a harvest. (See Isaiah 55:11 in particular). He who "sows in tears shall reap in joy" ( Psalm 126:5-6). This should keep us from frustration when those who we share with for many years ultimately never respond. We can't perform what is known as "decisional regeneration". (James Adams a Reformer was said to come up with that term). In other words; we are responsible for sounding the trumpet and warning as the Watchman is supposed to do lest blood be on our hands. ( Ezekiel 33:1-5). That is a good segway to the cautionary part of the Doctrine of Election.
Based on the knowledge that we possess we are responsible for decisions made in our personal lives and for being faithful to fulfilling the Great Commission. In my experience normally this isn't the biggest weakness with those who are "Calvinist" in their doctrinal views.
Revelation Chapter 1 tells us that the seven Spirits was the sevenfold Spirit of God. Revelation 4:5, along with Revelation 5:6 tells us that the sevenfold Spirit of God represent His eyes, the all- knowing and the all-seeing God.
Also, in Zechariah 4:10, it tells us that the seven Spirits are the seven eyes of God.
He that has the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars, from Verses 4 and 16 of Chapter 1.
Once again; we see Asaph as he does quite often give a prophetic statement as to the fate of the earth in the end with several cross references of interest.
Verse 2 seems to be a veiled reference to the Rapture; or possibly those who are Jews that believe and survive to the end of the Tribulation in the reference to "when I shall receive the congregation I will judge uprightly. (see 2 Cor. 5:10; Exodus 20:35-38 in the context of Exodus 20:34 as a future event of gathering from the nations).
Verse 3 reminds us of heaven and earth passing away in Revelation 21:1-4 and Matthew 24:35).
Verses 4 through 7 remind us of the "little horn" ( Dan. 7:8) who is Antichrist himself. God allows Satan and his throne in the Tribulation to suit his purposes; ultimately to separate wheat from chaff; and to draw everyone together at Armageddon ( Rev. 19; Psalm 2).
Revelation 14:10 is much like verse 8 referring to the "wine of the wrath of God". That theme is also seen in Jeremiah 25:15-17; and similar themes in Isaiah and without a doubt in other scriptures.
Again the end of this Psalm shows that only praising God is worthwhile (v. 9) and right wins out in the end. That is basically a big theme in all of scripture; the meek shall inherit the earth ( Matt. 5:5).
Assuming your question is how do you KNOW if God is calling you...
Obviously; we have to objectively look at our plans to make sure there isn't an obvious conflict with God's Word and we aren't attempting to "consume it upon our lusts" as James 4:3 states.
When we pray we should ask for doors to open if something is His will; or to close. An example this week was with a brother who I had discussed starting leading a small group with with the stipulation that prayer with him would precede it. There were some mitigating circumstances where he didn't get back to me; and since I kind of went through this process with him before last summer I can see that it isn't God's will at present to pursue this.
I have found from my experience that being around those who aren't messing about but proclaiming the Good News on a regular basis; are "desperate for prayer" (as one of my Pittsburgh brothers was when he started a group early in the morning in the park) and aren't overly distracted by the world (most of my friends in Pittsburgh didn't own TV's or were VERY limited in selection and time spent on these type distractions) are the type of people around which most opportunities to serve God come about. This situation; sadly isn't common in the established church leadership and it's many associated traditions and expected roles. As for a brother of mine who was searching for a wife; we saw an answer within 2 days when he met someone he is now married to. You want to be around people such as another brother in that group I mentioned before who stated that for every hour witnessing he would spend an hour in prayer. I just don't buy what many in church claim when they say that they are "too busy" for such things as my friends have large families and their kids are involved in their Bible studies.
It is good; finally to be around those who sharpen us; and exhort us. Those are people who understand that there is no good in man apart from Christ in us.
I'm in agreement with many of Mishaels comments except her stand on a "rapture". I believe there will be a great "caught up"
At the end of this age as we know it. At the final trump of God when our Lord Jesus returns. Please be careful with posting things that are based on opinion rather than God's Word. May God keep us strong and true to His word.
Sybilr, great comment. Yes God created us male and female to be coupled together. The woman as a helpmeet as you have said and to reproduce and replenish the Earth.
Genesis 3:16
"Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee."
Hi Mara, it's because that's what the Bible says. For example, the Word is Jesus and John 1:1 clearly says the Word was God. Scripture says he's always existed and is a creator among many other powers.
The frequently asked questions page has this as one of it for lots of scripture references on this topic:
This is prime example that no matter how much money we give to churches, we cannot enter in Heaven unless we are born again. Cain was living sinful life; therefore, God rejected his offering.
Please , don't allow that small annoyance to dissuade you from reading the Bible . You don't need to know and understand everyone's name , I've been reading the Bible for very many years and I don't know everyone's name and all the meanings of them and it has in no way hindered my enjoyment and instruction . My honest opinion ? If you are that easily put off then maybe you weren't that commited in the first place ? I'm sorry if that feels like a criticism , it wasn't meant to be one . Reading the Bible once might give you a basic understanding , for me though it's a life long relationship . Once you pick it up on one day , you will be picking it up every day for the rest of your life so there's no drastic rush to understand it all first time round . Be patient , relax and enjoy it , take your time over it and think about what you have read every day after you have finished reading it . It really is a treasure to be kept close to your heart .
In my previous post this AM; I highlighted what I consider an important doctrinal foundation in regard to Predestination (or the Doctrine of Election). Understanding that others have various views on the subject as to where they are on the subject of "free will" on one end of the spectrum and 5 Point Calvanists on the other I am certainly not going to make overly broad generalizations here at least in terms of salvation of an individual based on their viewpoints on this subject. My aim as I hopefully mentioned when doing the Book of John in a chapter by chapter review based on this subject was to show what scripture states on the subject. I can prove my point in the fact that I (sort of) excoriated my fellow brethren (hopefully with a proper zeal) when I challenged them by pointing out that someone can understand ALL the 5 points intellectually of the "TULIP" concept but still not be saved. (Needless to say my response wasn't exactly rosy).
I brought out the point earlier today that those who would state that believers who followed these concepts would have little interest in witnessing to others are largely disproven by the Reformers; and in fact most people I have known in my circle of friends that are actually out there witnessing on a regular basis. We are called to follow the Great Commission; admittedly there are some who take this idea to an extreme at least historically that don't evangelize for precisely that reason that it is a "waste of time" for the non elect. A couple facts here before I move on to other cautions; one the main reason we witness is because we are commanded to do so and it is NOT for conversion but to honor God by proclaiming His truth. We also should consider that it edifies other believers when we are obedient to the call. Paul's imprisonment allowed others to have courage to boldly proclaim the Gospel; surely SOME would do this more if they could just see others doing the same.
2Chronicles 7:14, Romans 6,
1John 1:9, Matthew 6:14,
Hopefully these are also helpful
This is just another view of Matt. 16:19 some say Peter was the only one Jesus gave the keys to but in Matt. 18, we see it was for all the disciples not just Peter. Jesus entrusted them to continue His work, and from them to us, that we see start in Acts 2.
Jesus told Peter He will give him the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Luke 11:52 the key of knowledge, so these keys that were given to the disciples are the knowledge of the gospel of Jesus that will allow them and all who accept the good news, the way of entering the kingdom of heaven/God.
The keys are thus the gospel message, the teaching from Jesus that will be conveyed by the Holy Spirit, which gives us access to the kingdom of God, salvation, and eternal life only by our Lord Jesus Christ and the grace of God. Those who reject the gospel, bound, are forbidden to enter the kingdom (resurrection of damnation) and those who accept the gospel, loosed, are permitted into the kingdom (resurrection of life).
Eph. 2:5-6 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
God bless,
RLW
I've noticed I've left out this info for more clarity in the way I interpret the verse.
The Church is given responsibility or charge to present the Gospel and how it is received will be accounted for in Heaven.
"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." Matthew 16:19.
God bless.
I mistakenly referred to Mt. 19:18.
:-)
Amazing Grace
waking us up this morning
We Surrender All Withholding
Nothing
We also see this mentioned in Matthew 16:18-19. "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
To answer your question.
Let's take it from vs 15 of Matthew 18:15-18 'Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
( If a person wrongs another, and refuses to repent, that person who was wronged should return with one or two others and then take the issue to the church or assembly. If repentance never happens, that person should be treated as an outsider.)
The offender is binded by that offense if he doesn't repent.
If the offender does repent he will be loosed.
This is the keys mentioned in Matthew 16:19 "AND I WILL GIVE UNTO THEE THE KEYS OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN:" and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
To bind and to loose means
to forbid by an indisputable authority and to permit by an indisputable authority.
Bind=forbid.
loose=Permit.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
This brief forum is clearly insufficient to cover any comprehensive study on this subject--at least without hogging this space with an inordinate amount of comments on my part. I will briefly list a couple points of caution as well as the general assurance which a proper dividing of the Word on this subject should give to those of us in the faith.
I will begin with the positive first. There are numerous voluminous studies on the subject which was originally postulated by Calvin and Luther and probably many other Reformers around the same time period. My focus has always been on the Word itself so I would recommend reading the book of John specifically for the words of Christ Himself on those who the Father chooses to be revealed through the Son; for example. God's choosing is by no means isolated to there; or in fact to the New Testament. He chose Jeremiah; for instance before he was born to be a Prophet; and much could be said the same in regard to John the Baptist and of course Christ Himself.
As believers; we can be assured that if we sow the seed of preaching the Word; there will be a harvest. (See Isaiah 55:11 in particular). He who "sows in tears shall reap in joy" ( Psalm 126:5-6). This should keep us from frustration when those who we share with for many years ultimately never respond. We can't perform what is known as "decisional regeneration". (James Adams a Reformer was said to come up with that term). In other words; we are responsible for sounding the trumpet and warning as the Watchman is supposed to do lest blood be on our hands. ( Ezekiel 33:1-5). That is a good segway to the cautionary part of the Doctrine of Election.
Based on the knowledge that we possess we are responsible for decisions made in our personal lives and for being faithful to fulfilling the Great Commission. In my experience normally this isn't the biggest weakness with those who are "Calvinist" in their doctrinal views.
I have never truly understood what this verse means. Can anyone help? I am seeking the Lord about it.
Revelation Chapter 1 tells us that the seven Spirits was the sevenfold Spirit of God. Revelation 4:5, along with Revelation 5:6 tells us that the sevenfold Spirit of God represent His eyes, the all- knowing and the all-seeing God.
Also, in Zechariah 4:10, it tells us that the seven Spirits are the seven eyes of God.
He that has the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars, from Verses 4 and 16 of Chapter 1.
Once again; we see Asaph as he does quite often give a prophetic statement as to the fate of the earth in the end with several cross references of interest.
Verse 2 seems to be a veiled reference to the Rapture; or possibly those who are Jews that believe and survive to the end of the Tribulation in the reference to "when I shall receive the congregation I will judge uprightly. (see 2 Cor. 5:10; Exodus 20:35-38 in the context of Exodus 20:34 as a future event of gathering from the nations).
Verse 3 reminds us of heaven and earth passing away in Revelation 21:1-4 and Matthew 24:35).
Verses 4 through 7 remind us of the "little horn" ( Dan. 7:8) who is Antichrist himself. God allows Satan and his throne in the Tribulation to suit his purposes; ultimately to separate wheat from chaff; and to draw everyone together at Armageddon ( Rev. 19; Psalm 2).
Revelation 14:10 is much like verse 8 referring to the "wine of the wrath of God". That theme is also seen in Jeremiah 25:15-17; and similar themes in Isaiah and without a doubt in other scriptures.
Again the end of this Psalm shows that only praising God is worthwhile (v. 9) and right wins out in the end. That is basically a big theme in all of scripture; the meek shall inherit the earth ( Matt. 5:5).
Obviously; we have to objectively look at our plans to make sure there isn't an obvious conflict with God's Word and we aren't attempting to "consume it upon our lusts" as James 4:3 states.
When we pray we should ask for doors to open if something is His will; or to close. An example this week was with a brother who I had discussed starting leading a small group with with the stipulation that prayer with him would precede it. There were some mitigating circumstances where he didn't get back to me; and since I kind of went through this process with him before last summer I can see that it isn't God's will at present to pursue this.
I have found from my experience that being around those who aren't messing about but proclaiming the Good News on a regular basis; are "desperate for prayer" (as one of my Pittsburgh brothers was when he started a group early in the morning in the park) and aren't overly distracted by the world (most of my friends in Pittsburgh didn't own TV's or were VERY limited in selection and time spent on these type distractions) are the type of people around which most opportunities to serve God come about. This situation; sadly isn't common in the established church leadership and it's many associated traditions and expected roles. As for a brother of mine who was searching for a wife; we saw an answer within 2 days when he met someone he is now married to. You want to be around people such as another brother in that group I mentioned before who stated that for every hour witnessing he would spend an hour in prayer. I just don't buy what many in church claim when they say that they are "too busy" for such things as my friends have large families and their kids are involved in their Bible studies.
It is good; finally to be around those who sharpen us; and exhort us. Those are people who understand that there is no good in man apart from Christ in us.
At the end of this age as we know it. At the final trump of God when our Lord Jesus returns. Please be careful with posting things that are based on opinion rather than God's Word. May God keep us strong and true to His word.
Genesis 3:16
"Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee."
King James Version (KJV)
The frequently asked questions page has this as one of it for lots of scripture references on this topic:
Link
God bless.
Hopefully these are encouraging
Philippians 4:6-8,
Hopefully these encourage you
Hopefully these are helpful & encouraging
Hopefully these are encouraging & helpful