John 1:1-3,14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
Some would believe and say that when we read words that were spoken by God Himself in the Bible, that these are Words from the very Mind and Mouth of God. But when we read, for example, Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, we should view these as, yes, the word of God but not necessarily from the very Mind and Mouth of God Himself.
In taking this view they are really saying that the Bible has different levels of authority. This is not so.
We see this false understanding in the use of "red letter" editions of the Bible where the Words of Jesus are in Red. This should not be done as the words of Paul or Luke or Isaiah that we read in the Bible are every bit the Word of God, and from the Mind and Mouth of God Himself as the Words of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Bible has one and only one AUTHOR. And that is God Himself. Every Book every Chapter every Phrase every Verse every Word in the original Hebrew and Greek manuscripts is the Word of God Himself and indeed from the very Mind and Mouth of God Himself.
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The Bible does not merely CONTAIN the Word of God. The Bible Alone and in its Entirety IS the very Word of God. It is God speaking directly to us and for us today.
GiGi You also have made very good points in your comment. If we take the Word of God as it is written as Truth then the Bible is crystal clear the coming of the Lord is after the tribulation. And you are right again GiGi, we only want to show the Truth in Scripture, not in any way are we trying to start an argument. There are many parts of Scripture that are taken out of context to get the belief of pre-trib. One of those is to say Mt 24 is only for the Jews. One is saying ( Mt 24:29-31) is not Jesus coming in the clouds to gather together the church. Another is the one taken in ( Mt 24:40-41) is taken for judgment. All of these have been clearly refuted, one would only have to study our posts very little to see that. This is a very important subject in the Lastdays prophecies, especially for those who are expecting Jesus Christ to come first, the anti-christ will come first disguised as Christ which would then be a major problem for many pre-trib believers. Many will be deceived and accept the mark of the beast thinking it could not be the mark because Jesus hasn't came back to rapture the church yet. We are living the Lastdays now GiGi, that's why I keep posting on this subject. It is a salvation issue for all those who would be deceived by the anti-christ. As we have posted many times ( 1 Thessalonians 2:1-3) Tells us there will be a falling away before the return of Jesus Christ. The words (falling away) means a "writing of divorcement" meaning it is true believers in Jesus Christ who fall away. ( Rev 19:20)
Tells us people will be deceived into receiving the mark of the beast. Truth matters, God Bless.
In this comment you referenced 2 Thessalonians 2:7.
For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
Several things about this verse, which must be read in the context of the entire chapter...
First, the word "way" at the end of the verse is the Greek word "mesos". It is found in the Bible 61 times. And 41 times in the KJV it is translated "midst". Also the word "letteth" is an Old English word meaning to "hold down or restrain".
So perhaps a better translation in today's language of the verse would be...For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now "restraineth will restrain", until he be taken out of the "midst".
So who is the "he" in this verse? I would suggest that in this verse, when read in the context of the entire chapter and the context of the entire Bible, that "he" is "God the Holy Spirit".
So what this verse and in fact the entire is chapter is teaching is this... That during the Church Age, when Satan has been bound ( Rev 20:2,3), God the Holy Spirit resides in the midst of the churches and is restraining the activity of Satan within the churches as that gospel is proclaimed from the churches to the world. But there will come a time when God's Judgement comes upon the churches ( 1 Pet 4:17), as it did upon National Israel, and the Holy Spirit will be taken out of the midst of the churches and Satan will be installed to rule there ( 1 Thessalonians 2:4).
This I believe occurred at the beginning of the Great Tribulation which is the day in which we are living. And for this reason God has commanded True Believers to come out of the churches ( Matt 24:16,17) where God is working outside of the churches to save a "great multitude which no man can number".
Thanks again Jimbob for your thoughts on this. Tribulation or Great Tribulation? I see a difference. The apostles, the early Church & believers today are not exempt from tribulation; it will come to us as declared ( Matthew 13:21; John 16:33; Acts 14:22; Romans 8:35; 2 Corinthians 7:4; etc): not just physical hardships, but certainly the exercises by the enemy against us, even to testings of faith & martyrdom. We are not insulated from any of these, nor should we expect to be, but what of the Tribulation sent by God our Father? You shared 1 Thessalonians 3:4, "For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know." You understand that Paul was referring to the Great Tribulation, of God's Wrath. I don't see that at all in his discourse, rather, that Paul was describing his own afflictions (vv 3,7 & coupled with 1 Thessalonians 2:2,9,14). I see a clear difference between the two expressions of Tribulation: that which comes to all of us, & that which is only directed to haters of God & His Christ.
What then are we not appointed to? To our daily tribulations, even to suffering or dying for Christ, or to God's Wrath to unbelievers? I note that you agree to this: that believers won't face the outpouring of God's Wrath against a Christ-rejecting World, by your understanding that this outpouring will happen only after the believers are caught away (i.e. post-tribulation). The contention then is: is God's Wrath the same as the Great Tribulation? I believe the Great Tribulation is still to come - we haven't in the least begun to experience anything of it now. When it starts, we know that the time of the end is at hand and believers will be caught away before the world begins to feel the Mighty Hand of God against them. (cont'd).
Hello Bplumley. We read about this in 1 Corinthians 9:24,25: "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible."
As you've read the chapter, the Apostle Paul wrote about how specific his ministry was to both Jew & Gentile - that he was doing everything possible to evangelize them & win them to Christ (v22: "...that I might by all means save some).
Then he encourages the Corinthian believers to also do likewise: 'to run the race (the race of living the Life of Christ in them & in service to Him), so that they might win the prize.' Here, Paul alludes to the Corinthian/Isthmian games which his readers would have been familiar with. The athletes had only one thing on their minds: to gain the coveted prize (the crown of special leaves placed on the head or neck, garlanding the winner). But how long did the wreath last for? In a few days, the leaves dried & withered, and in a few months or years, the winner's name might also be forgotten. This Paul called the 'corruptible crown'. Even though the athletes maintained a heavy regimen of training throughout the year in preparation, they did it all for a momentary period of glory & recognition.
For Paul though, and for the believer, our crown (the incorruptible crown), is that which is given by the Lord Himself to His children who have struggled & won the battle against the onslaughts of our enemy, Satan. Paul said "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...", which means that he exercised great discipline in his Christian walk & singular focus on his calling to evangelize. This he willingly did, knowing that his reward lay with Jesus, a crown incorruptible, and not like what man might gain on Earth.
For the crowns (or, recognition) mentioned, see: 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 2 Timothy 4:8; 1 Peter 5:4; James 1:12.
A Hinderer , Satan enjoys hindering the gospel, The Good News, he also likes to hinder those that spread the good news, that's U planting seeds; Hinder in the Strong's Greek 2967. klu I prevent, debar, hinder; with infin: from doing so and so (detain, cast out)
It also has another important meaning: Tedious, nit pick , Tedious unto , Tedious in their Holy Walk , Satan works in many way's and the person may not know that they are doing it.
Hindering verce 15,18 in 1 Thessalonians 2:11 - 19
No one is going to change someones opinion, that's the Holy Ghost's job, we are just to preach truth.
Truth does not contradict God's words.
You don't go to heaven.
You (sinful flesh) DIED on the Cross, you, the (glorified) BODY of Christ, was raised back by the resurrection of Christ.
The Spirit (in a glorified body) goes back to God that gave it.
Christ, the glorified Body, (LIFE and TRUTH) is in man ( Colossians 1:27).
Philippians 2:13 For it is God (Christ in you) that worketh both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.
Those chosen in this age, WILL BE ONE with Christ: IN MAN bringing man to GOD ( John 1:51).
Ezekiel 14:9 And if the prophet (of man) be deceived when he has spoken such a thing, I the Lord HAVE DECEIVED that prophet .....
1 Thessalonians 2:11 For this cause GOD SHALL SEND them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
The whole world is DECEIVED, only the Holy Ghost can reveal truth.
1 Thessalonians 2:12 That they ALL (everyone of us) might be damned (JUDGED, now or later, by God's words) who believe not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
1 Corinthians 15:28 And when ALL THINGS (in the ages to come) SHALL BE subdued to him, the shall the Son also himself be subject to him who put all things under him, that God may be ALL in ALL.
We either come to truth now; and become ONE with the WORD, in this age, or latter, in the ages to come. God's CHOICE.
Psalms 22:27 And all the ends of the world SHALL REMEMBER (when they are resurrected back into bodies of flesh and judged by God's words) and turn unto the Lord: for all kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.
ALL God's WORDS will be fulfilled ( Isaiah 55:11).
Luke 16:19-31 First, we must understand this is a parable, and the parables Jesus told he had to explain for his disciples to understand and he did not explain this one. We cannot take this passage as a literal description.
In the context of Luke 16, Jesus is talking to Pharisees and scribes about stewardship, love of riches, adultery and no servant can serve two masters. The Pharisees were covetous, they flaunted their wealth and the seat of authority they had. Is this parable describing a holding place where the redeemed can live in peace but can look and even talk across a vast chasm with the sufferings of the sinners in torment?
The Babylonian Talmud speaks of "Abraham's Bosom" as the place that righteous Jews went after they died. The Jewish people of the time of Jesus had been influenced by Babylonian and Hellenistic Greek cultures, and that influence is still today.
Jesus was probably using a common image from that culture to create a picture that they could relate to their final destination. This parable also does not fit all of the scripture if we receive our reward as soon as we die, as said, we go to heaven or hell.
Many scriptures tell us when we will receive our reward and it is not when we die. Here are just a few and they all agree it is at the second coming of Jesus Christ. Matthew 16:271 Corinthians 1:7-81 Corinthians 15:22-231 Thessalonians 2:19Revelation 22:12
John wrote this a while after Jesus ascended, he said Jesus was in heaven, "Son of man which is in heaven", John 3:13. Peter said David is dead and buried and his sepulcher is with us unto this day, and he has not ascended to heaven. Acts 2:29-34
The day of redemption, Eph. 4:301 Cor. 15:52 1 Thess.4:16 (not descend) and many more.
God is a God of numbers. In Matthew and Mark, God was speaking to the Jews about the end time.
Matthew 24:15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Mark 13:14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains: I agree with you about Jeremiah. I also put in bold letters key words, Jeremiah 25:11 And this whole land shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. Jeremiah 25:12 And it shall come to pass, when seventy years are accomplished, that I will punish the king of Babylon, and that nation, saith the LORD, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and will make it PERPETUAL desolations. Jeremiah 29:10 For thus saith the LORD, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place. Daniel 9:24 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in EVERLASTING righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to ANOINT THE MOST HOLY. I agree with you about Daniel 9:24 speaks about Jesus. It may very well be a double applications. The next verse 25 is saying the going forth to restore and to build Jerusalem seven weeks=49 years, and threescore and two weeks=434 years. Then v26 talks about the flood as in Rev 12:15-16Rev 11:2; 13:5 talks about 42 months that equates to 3.5 years within the 70th week=7 years in v27 (49+434+7=490). The saints are no longer exist here as stated in 1 Thessalonians 5:9. 2 Thessalonians 2:2-3. Acts 20:28; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 2:19. BeComforted.
Judas Iscariot, with the other eleven, were never apostles while they travelled around with Jesus. They were called Disciples (i.e. a student, a follower of a Rabbi or teacher). They were only known as Apostles after Jesus died, arose from the grave, & He sent them out into the world. Apostle, means 'one sent out; a messenger'.
After Judas Iscariot died, Matthias was appointed as his replacement & this appointment was from God ( Acts 1:24-26, i.e. the eleven prayed asking God to direct them to this new disciple). So, men did not choose Matthias, God did by their casting of lots. And this had to be, as Peter declared, by referring to the fulfilment of Psalm 41:9; Psalm 69:25 and Psalm 109:8.
True, we don't hear of Matthias, but the lack of information doesn't mean that he just disappeared & went back to his occupation, or whatever else. We don't hear again of several of the other disciples either after Acts 1:13.
Paul was an apostle of Jesus Christ. As was Apostle Barnabas ( Acts 14:14), James (the Lord's half-brother; Galatians 1:19), possibly Timothy & Silas ( 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:6, if Paul was using 'we' to refer to them as apostles as well). And Paul often had to emphasize his apostleship to the Churches, & even defend it, as believers were being seduced to believe otherwise (as much of 2nd Corinthians indicate).
So, from what we read in the Scriptures, Matthias was the twelfth disciple, being an apostle, & subsequently, Paul & others were either called by the Lord to apostleship, or considered as apostles because of their ministry of getting the Gospel out.
Thanks for that Suze. I agree with much that you wrote, but rather than deal with each part of it, I would ask, What is the origin of our carnal minds? What was in Paul's mind when he stated, "the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God" Romans 8:7,8: where does this carnal mind/carnal life, lived in the flesh, come from?
Is this something God has given us from our birth, or has another intruded into humanity causing us to sin against God & that sin has been passed on to all generations? ( Romans 5:12; Acts 5:3; 1 Timothy 5:14,15; 2 Corinthians 2:10,11; 1 Thessalonians 2:18; Luke 22:31,32; etc., are a few verses showing Satan's activity, from the first day till the day he is put away, & our ongoing struggle to withstand him & his devices & to live in the power & joy of the Holy Spirit).
Satan is never absent - He is present - He is at work - and working in the hearts & minds of those who choose to live according to the dictates of their flesh & not in the fullness of the Spirit. Such were the gross sins of those kings mentioned earlier - if Ananias & Sapphira could have Satan gripping their heart so as to lie to the Spirit, how much more of Satan's control over those kings & indeed so many rulers/govts of today & their workings against Jesus Christ.
Death is something we all will face; many believe our body dies and our soul lives on. Is our soul immortal? Can we take 2 Corinthians 5:8 when we die our soul leaves our body and we are present with the Lord? Some define death as a separation of the soul from the body. Does that come from scripture? I have not found that in scripture.
It comes from Greek philosophy of Plato. He wrote the body is a prison for the soul and viewed death as the means of freedom for the soul. The philosophy of death started blending in the church in the second century and those good souls go to heaven and the bad goes to hell and more. Many see the parable in Luke 16:19-31 as fitting this. If you read the chapter Jesus is talking about the unrighteous love mammon and neglect the true riches.
My understanding from scripture every part of us is mortal and when we die, we sleep in the dust, Job 14:12-14, Job 17:13-16, Ecclesiastes 9:5-10 until resurrection. When this mortal puts on immortality 1 Corinthians 15:52-58, and we will be absent from this flesh body. Then those that are Christs will be judged and receive our rewards. Matthew 16:27, Revelation 22:12 that is our hope, 1 Thessalonians 2:19
We will sleep in the dust, Daniel 12:2, 1Theselonians 4:14 and this is not from heaven, it is from around the world to meet Jesus in the air coming down to Israel the start the 1000 years at His coming. Matthew 24:31Zechariah 14:4.
I hear what you say. I have family too. I love them very much.
We are followers of Jesus. Everyone expresses it how they decide. Let us remember the rich young ruler story, to keep us oriented rightly. That's Ll I'm saying. I didn't choose this, it chose me.
I do it because no one asked me if I'd like to go to church with them. Not even JW's, lol. I was bad, but I needed help.
THE CROWN OF REJOICING:
To those who faithfully are witnesses to the saving grace of God and lead souls to Jesus. This crown has also been named the soul winner's crown. Itindicates here that God will be giving a crown to those who have witnessed toothers and leading people to Christ.Telling others about the grace of God, telling others about Jesus, is the greatest thing that you can do for someone while here on this earth. When you help someone to be led to the Lord, you have just been used as a vessel of God. It says in the Bible,"Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holy and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:" 1 Thessalonians 2:10 God will judge you by your willingness and desire to be used by Him to witness to others, not necessarily on how many actually get saved; because we are to water and He gives the increase.Christians can be used by God to try to lead others to the Lord. God can fit opportunities for you in your life to witness and work for Him if you allow Him to. Some could be your unsaved friends, family members or co-workers, etc. The Bible says it good here,"For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of ourLord Jesus Christat his coming?" 1 Thessalonians 2:19
When we die it is the same as when we sleep, we are not conscious, we are asleep in Jesus, Psalm 146:4Ecclesiastes 9:5,10 we have no knowledge of our surroundings or time. This is the spirit that goes back to God who gave it. Ecclesiastes 12:7.
1 Thessalonians 4:14, when Jesus returns, this earth is round and those that are Christs will come from all over, and we see different places describing the gathering, Matthew 24:31, Mark 13:27, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 along with Jesus, God brings those that are Christs with Him, the second coming back to earth to set up the kingdom on earth. I understand those who believe in the rapture being carried to heaven will disagree.
Soul; Hebrew, nephesh, meaning a soul, living being animal or human, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion. Greek psuch meaning, life, as the seat of affections and will, the self, the conscience, the individual. In our conscience that is in our soul is where the battle of the desires of the flesh and the Spirit. This is what remains asleep in the grave where ever the grave may be, awaiting resurrection when we put on immortality. Psalms 49:15John 5:28-29
When are we absent from this body? 2 Corinthians 2:6-10 When do we appear at the judgment seat? 1 Thessalonians 2:191 Corinthians 15:22-23. When is a corn plant absent from its seed is it not when it springs forth from its grave of the earth? We are sown and until we are resurrected, being changed like the corn seed from corruption to incorruption, and this mortal puts on immortality being freed from this body of corruption, then we will be present with the Lord.
Sorry I got wordy I am sure not all will agree but that is ok this is just what I see.
Jesse said: "a non-believer can become a believer and still not be forgiven. A person has to be born of God's Spirit in order to be forgiven and saved. Belief is important, but belief itself does not bring salvation. Receiving Jesus Christ and being born of His Spirit is what saves a person. With that salvation comes forgiveness."? According To Plain/Clear Scriptures?:
Precious friend, then I must Misunderstand: "Repent, and Believe The Gospel Of The GRACE Of God"? = "Believe On CHRIST, His Death, Burial, and Resurrection, by GRACE Through faith {BELIEF, trust}." ( 1 Corinthians 15:3-4) ( Ephesians 2:5-9)?
I must Misunderstand "trusting CHRIST" In ( Ephesians 1:12)? Also:
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of The LORD, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and BELIEF of The Truth:" ( 2 Thessalonians 2:13)?
"Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that BELIEVE..." ( Romans 3:22)? compare ( Romans 4:11) ( Romans 4:24) ( 1 Corinthians 1:21) ( Galatians 3:22) ( Ephesians 1:19) ( Philippians 1:29) ( 1 Thessalonians 1:7) ( 1 Thessalonians 2:13) ( 1 Thessalonians 4:14) ( 2 Thessalonians 1:10)
Finally IF I BELIEVE, "but sins are NOT forgiven," how is it that I HAVE Life Everlasting, According To ALL The above Plain And Clear Scriptures About "BELIEF"?:
"Howbeit for this cause I obtained MERCY, that in me first JESUS CHRIST might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter BELIEVE ON HIM to Life Everlasting." ( 1 Timothy 1:16)?
Upon my BELIEF Of Truth, did not The Holy Spirit Baptize ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) me Into The Body Of CHRIST, God "forgiving my sins," in the twinkling of an eye?
Now, IF you are referring to "water baptism for the remission of sins" that is altogether
Another Different Bible study we could pursue, IF you wish...
I agree with Jesse, he gave a great answer, it is also called Gehenna, a destination of the wicked. Jesus used Gehenna as an illustration of hell (the lake of fire), the fire that shall never be quenched. This is a parable; in the Hebrew tradition Abrahams bosom was a place where the righteous dead would go. Excluding the context; is the point of this parable to show when we die, we go to heaven or hell as many teach?
The Jewish people of the time of Jesus had been influenced by Babylonian and Hellenistic Greek cultures. The Pharisees were covetous, they flaunted their wealth and the seat of authority they had. Is this parable describing a holding place where the redeemed can live in peace and safety but can look and even talk across a vast chasm with the sufferings of the sinners in torment?
This parable also does not fit all of scripture, if we receive our reward as soon as we die, as said, we go to heaven or hell. In the text of Luke16 Jesus is talking to Pharisees and scribes and in context, Jesus covers stewardship, love of riches, adultery and no servant can serve two masters.
Many scriptures tell us when we will receive our reward and it is not when we die. Here are just a few and they all agree it is at the second coming of Jesus Christ. ( Matthew 16:27) ( 1 Corinthians 1:7-8) ( 1 Corinthians 15:22-23) ( 1 Thessalonians 2:19) ( Revelation 22:12).
I am sorry if this offends, I did not want to take away of Jesse's answer, but I feel some verses are taken out of context to teach untruths. If this parable is about how to escape hell and go to heaven when you die, then the lesson of the story is that eternal life can be earned by being poor. I'm sure many will disagree including you.
Hello Tony. I remember your question coming up a few weeks ago, so it remains fresh in my mind.
We know from Exodus 33:18-23, when Moses desired to see God's Glory, the LORD gave him clear instructions as to what would happen; i.e. His Glory (His Goodness) would pass by Moses but his eyes would be shielded from seeing God's Face, "for shall no man see me, and live" (v20).
So, if this is such a clear Truth that was given to Moses, & then we read "And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend." (v11), how should we understand it? It seems correct to understand this ("face to face") as a metaphor to describe the closeness that Moses shared with the Almighty, as when a friend shares intimately with his friend. With that in mind, we can almost hear the words & tone of voice that Moses used to speak to God in verses 12-18: one of a special friendship, having liberty to speak from the heart. Just as we today might speak to God from our heart as submissive loving children to our Wise & altogether loving merciful Heavenly Father.
We have many other metaphors used in the Bible: e.g. 1 Thessalonians 2:7 describe Paul's special love for the believers there as a nursing mother feeds, cares & protects her children. Or, Matthew 3:16, showing the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus. Even though some Churches depict the Spirit as a dove (which is heresy: Deuteronomy 4:15-19), we see the Spirit's descent was observed in a special revelation to John, like the slow graceful descending of a dove - no bird involved here at all. So Moses speaking to God 'face to face' is given in similar fashion - a picture of intimacy yet Moses being shielded & withheld from instant death.
To those who faithfully are witnesses to the saving grace of God and lead souls to Jesus. This crown has also been named the SOUL WINNERS crown. Itindicates here that God will be giving a crown to those who have witnessed toothers and leading people to Christ.Telling others about the grace of God, telling others about Jesus, is the greatest thing that you can do for someone while here on this earth. When you help someone to be led to the Lord, you have just been used as a vessel of God. It says in the Bible,"Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holy and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:" 1 Thessalonians 2:10 God will judge you by your willingness and desire to be used by Him to witness to others, not necessarily on how many actually get saved, because we are to water and He gives the increase.Christians can be used by God to try to lead others to the Lord. God can fit opportunities for you in your life to witness and work for Him if you allow Him to. Some could be your unsaved friends, family members or co-workers, etc. The Bible says it good here,"For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of ourLord Jesus Christat his coming?" 1 Thessalonians 2:19
Here we see the Apostle Paul an example of true leadership , expressing his genuine care for those in Thessalonians churches .
Verse 9 he labored so that no one could accuse him of personal gain , made his own way , not even appearing to be taking advantage of them , which was not the case in reality . This is very good fruit .
Never give money to anyone for their service to God , it makes them look bad . And if it's their motive they are bad . It's not wrong to help people but be careful on how it's done . Pure motive in the work of the gospel is not at all concerned about money or gain. God supplies .
It can even be a temptation sometimes to except gain for doing Gods work , discernment is needed .
Verses 7,8-Paul was a bold and courageous man but he was also a tender and compassionate man when he needed to be. We must likewise be balanced in our personalities.
Apostle Paul the Tent Maker on Matthew 27 - 3 years ago
Wesley's Notes for Acts 18:3
18:3 They were tent makers by trade - For it was a rule among the Jews (and why is it not among the Christians?) to bring up all their children to some trade, were they ever so rich or noble.
People's Bible Notes for Acts 18:3
Ac 18:3 Because he was of the same occupation, he abode with them. This is the first mention of the handicraft by which so often during his toilsome life Paul earned his daily bread. Every Jewish boy was taught a trade, and Paul no doubt learned his in Tarsus.
What an amazing testimony Paul had: born a Jew; became a high ranking Pharisee. Became a citizen of Rome: served warrants to kill Christians (see Stephens death).
Confronted on the Damascus Road, on his way to serve more warrants: and was confronted by Jesus Christ.
At the end of this chapter 18, Paul decides to minister to the Gentiles which was his calling. His entire ministry is a marvel when you consider all of the things he endured for the sake of His Savior. He did what he knew to be doing.
Do we know what to be doing?
Matthew 26:31-46
Revelation 14:12-13
It's not a law to do something for Jesus. It's an act of Love, a privilege, it's worship and adoration. Love makes us want to give love.
That's Him, inside of our spirit and soul. Do you feel it? We are indwelled with Someone so powerful...that even death could not stop it. He walked out of that tomb in the glorious power of Love.
God so loved the world! That He GAVE...his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him, should Not perish, but have everlasting life.
Love gives.
We give love because He loves us.
Obeying laws is an insult to this kind of Love. We never can be good enough in our own power to emulate the God-kind of Love.
"And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat
She has her eyes on death but sees the tree good for food.
Genesis 2:17
"But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die."
Genesis 2:18
"And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him."
God wants good for man.
John 8:23
"And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world."
James 1:17
King James Version
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Ephesians 1:18
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
Proverbs 4:20-27.
1 Thessalonians 2:13 | View Chapter | Context
For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
John 1:1
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
I really want to stop saying that I don't want to drink alcohol anymore but I still do and give in I tell my boyfriend I don't want to do that no more he said don't fellow me but I give in get hurting my self I want too stop
Jesus in bible book Revelation 2:9 - I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.
Just cause someone claims to be a jew does not make it so and the middle east is full of them.
1 Thessalonians 2:14, 16 - For ye, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, EVEN AS THEY HAVE OF THE JEWS: WHO BOTH KILLED THE LORD JESUS, and their OWN PROPHETS, and have persecuted us; and THEY PLEASE NOT GOD, and are contrary to all men: Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: FOR THE WRATH IS COME UPON THEM TO THE UTTERMOST.
Let us read who persecuted and killed Christ, the prophets and Christians.
Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:14, 16 - For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, EVEN AS THEY HAVE OF THE JEWS: WHO BOTH KILLED THE LORD JESUS, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and THEY PLEASE NOT GOD, and are contrary to all men: Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: FOR THE WRATH IS COME UPON THEM TO THE UTTERMOST. (NOT ROME)
King James Bible book of John 5:16 - And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
John 5:18 - Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
John 7:1 - After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.
Act 9:23 - And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him
Act 23:12 - And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.
Act 26:21 - For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.
John 1:1-3,14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
Some would believe and say that when we read words that were spoken by God Himself in the Bible, that these are Words from the very Mind and Mouth of God. But when we read, for example, Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, we should view these as, yes, the word of God but not necessarily from the very Mind and Mouth of God Himself.
In taking this view they are really saying that the Bible has different levels of authority. This is not so.
We see this false understanding in the use of "red letter" editions of the Bible where the Words of Jesus are in Red. This should not be done as the words of Paul or Luke or Isaiah that we read in the Bible are every bit the Word of God, and from the Mind and Mouth of God Himself as the Words of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Bible has one and only one AUTHOR. And that is God Himself. Every Book every Chapter every Phrase every Verse every Word in the original Hebrew and Greek manuscripts is the Word of God Himself and indeed from the very Mind and Mouth of God Himself.
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The Bible does not merely CONTAIN the Word of God. The Bible Alone and in its Entirety IS the very Word of God. It is God speaking directly to us and for us today.
Tells us people will be deceived into receiving the mark of the beast. Truth matters, God Bless.
In this comment you referenced 2 Thessalonians 2:7.
For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
Several things about this verse, which must be read in the context of the entire chapter...
First, the word "way" at the end of the verse is the Greek word "mesos". It is found in the Bible 61 times. And 41 times in the KJV it is translated "midst". Also the word "letteth" is an Old English word meaning to "hold down or restrain".
So perhaps a better translation in today's language of the verse would be...For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now "restraineth will restrain", until he be taken out of the "midst".
So who is the "he" in this verse? I would suggest that in this verse, when read in the context of the entire chapter and the context of the entire Bible, that "he" is "God the Holy Spirit".
So what this verse and in fact the entire is chapter is teaching is this... That during the Church Age, when Satan has been bound ( Rev 20:2,3), God the Holy Spirit resides in the midst of the churches and is restraining the activity of Satan within the churches as that gospel is proclaimed from the churches to the world. But there will come a time when God's Judgement comes upon the churches ( 1 Pet 4:17), as it did upon National Israel, and the Holy Spirit will be taken out of the midst of the churches and Satan will be installed to rule there ( 1 Thessalonians 2:4).
This I believe occurred at the beginning of the Great Tribulation which is the day in which we are living. And for this reason God has commanded True Believers to come out of the churches ( Matt 24:16,17) where God is working outside of the churches to save a "great multitude which no man can number".
Thanks again Jimbob for your thoughts on this. Tribulation or Great Tribulation? I see a difference. The apostles, the early Church & believers today are not exempt from tribulation; it will come to us as declared ( Matthew 13:21; John 16:33; Acts 14:22; Romans 8:35; 2 Corinthians 7:4; etc): not just physical hardships, but certainly the exercises by the enemy against us, even to testings of faith & martyrdom. We are not insulated from any of these, nor should we expect to be, but what of the Tribulation sent by God our Father? You shared 1 Thessalonians 3:4, "For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know." You understand that Paul was referring to the Great Tribulation, of God's Wrath. I don't see that at all in his discourse, rather, that Paul was describing his own afflictions (vv 3,7 & coupled with 1 Thessalonians 2:2,9,14). I see a clear difference between the two expressions of Tribulation: that which comes to all of us, & that which is only directed to haters of God & His Christ.
What then are we not appointed to? To our daily tribulations, even to suffering or dying for Christ, or to God's Wrath to unbelievers? I note that you agree to this: that believers won't face the outpouring of God's Wrath against a Christ-rejecting World, by your understanding that this outpouring will happen only after the believers are caught away (i.e. post-tribulation). The contention then is: is God's Wrath the same as the Great Tribulation? I believe the Great Tribulation is still to come - we haven't in the least begun to experience anything of it now. When it starts, we know that the time of the end is at hand and believers will be caught away before the world begins to feel the Mighty Hand of God against them. (cont'd).
As you've read the chapter, the Apostle Paul wrote about how specific his ministry was to both Jew & Gentile - that he was doing everything possible to evangelize them & win them to Christ (v22: "...that I might by all means save some).
Then he encourages the Corinthian believers to also do likewise: 'to run the race (the race of living the Life of Christ in them & in service to Him), so that they might win the prize.' Here, Paul alludes to the Corinthian/Isthmian games which his readers would have been familiar with. The athletes had only one thing on their minds: to gain the coveted prize (the crown of special leaves placed on the head or neck, garlanding the winner). But how long did the wreath last for? In a few days, the leaves dried & withered, and in a few months or years, the winner's name might also be forgotten. This Paul called the 'corruptible crown'. Even though the athletes maintained a heavy regimen of training throughout the year in preparation, they did it all for a momentary period of glory & recognition.
For Paul though, and for the believer, our crown (the incorruptible crown), is that which is given by the Lord Himself to His children who have struggled & won the battle against the onslaughts of our enemy, Satan. Paul said "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...", which means that he exercised great discipline in his Christian walk & singular focus on his calling to evangelize. This he willingly did, knowing that his reward lay with Jesus, a crown incorruptible, and not like what man might gain on Earth.
For the crowns (or, recognition) mentioned, see: 1 Thessalonians 2:19; 2 Timothy 4:8; 1 Peter 5:4; James 1:12.
It also has another important meaning: Tedious, nit pick , Tedious unto , Tedious in their Holy Walk , Satan works in many way's and the person may not know that they are doing it.
Hindering verce 15,18 in 1 Thessalonians 2:11 - 19
No one is going to change someones opinion, that's the Holy Ghost's job, we are just to preach truth.
Truth does not contradict God's words.
You don't go to heaven.
You (sinful flesh) DIED on the Cross, you, the (glorified) BODY of Christ, was raised back by the resurrection of Christ.
The Spirit (in a glorified body) goes back to God that gave it.
Christ, the glorified Body, (LIFE and TRUTH) is in man ( Colossians 1:27).
Philippians 2:13 For it is God (Christ in you) that worketh both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.
Those chosen in this age, WILL BE ONE with Christ: IN MAN bringing man to GOD ( John 1:51).
Ezekiel 14:9 And if the prophet (of man) be deceived when he has spoken such a thing, I the Lord HAVE DECEIVED that prophet .....
1 Thessalonians 2:11 For this cause GOD SHALL SEND them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
The whole world is DECEIVED, only the Holy Ghost can reveal truth.
1 Thessalonians 2:12 That they ALL (everyone of us) might be damned (JUDGED, now or later, by God's words) who believe not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
1 Corinthians 15:28 And when ALL THINGS (in the ages to come) SHALL BE subdued to him, the shall the Son also himself be subject to him who put all things under him, that God may be ALL in ALL.
We either come to truth now; and become ONE with the WORD, in this age, or latter, in the ages to come. God's CHOICE.
Psalms 22:27 And all the ends of the world SHALL REMEMBER (when they are resurrected back into bodies of flesh and judged by God's words) and turn unto the Lord: for all kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.
ALL God's WORDS will be fulfilled ( Isaiah 55:11).
God Bless You.
We sleep in death until we are resurrected.
If I may give my understanding.
Luke 16:19-31 First, we must understand this is a parable, and the parables Jesus told he had to explain for his disciples to understand and he did not explain this one. We cannot take this passage as a literal description.
In the context of Luke 16, Jesus is talking to Pharisees and scribes about stewardship, love of riches, adultery and no servant can serve two masters. The Pharisees were covetous, they flaunted their wealth and the seat of authority they had. Is this parable describing a holding place where the redeemed can live in peace but can look and even talk across a vast chasm with the sufferings of the sinners in torment?
The Babylonian Talmud speaks of "Abraham's Bosom" as the place that righteous Jews went after they died. The Jewish people of the time of Jesus had been influenced by Babylonian and Hellenistic Greek cultures, and that influence is still today.
Jesus was probably using a common image from that culture to create a picture that they could relate to their final destination. This parable also does not fit all of the scripture if we receive our reward as soon as we die, as said, we go to heaven or hell.
Many scriptures tell us when we will receive our reward and it is not when we die. Here are just a few and they all agree it is at the second coming of Jesus Christ. Matthew 16:27 1 Corinthians 1:7-8 1 Corinthians 15:22-23 1 Thessalonians 2:19 Revelation 22:12
John wrote this a while after Jesus ascended, he said Jesus was in heaven, "Son of man which is in heaven", John 3:13. Peter said David is dead and buried and his sepulcher is with us unto this day, and he has not ascended to heaven. Acts 2:29-34
The day of redemption, Eph. 4:30 1 Cor. 15:52 1 Thess.4:16 (not descend) and many more.
God bless,
RLW
God is a God of numbers. In Matthew and Mark, God was speaking to the Jews about the end time.
Matthew 24:15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Mark 13:14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains: I agree with you about Jeremiah. I also put in bold letters key words, Jeremiah 25:11 And this whole land shall be a desolation, and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. Jeremiah 25:12 And it shall come to pass, when seventy years are accomplished, that I will punish the king of Babylon, and that nation, saith the LORD, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and will make it PERPETUAL desolations. Jeremiah 29:10 For thus saith the LORD, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place. Daniel 9:24 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in EVERLASTING righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to ANOINT THE MOST HOLY. I agree with you about Daniel 9:24 speaks about Jesus. It may very well be a double applications. The next verse 25 is saying the going forth to restore and to build Jerusalem seven weeks=49 years, and threescore and two weeks=434 years. Then v26 talks about the flood as in Rev 12:15-16 Rev 11:2; 13:5 talks about 42 months that equates to 3.5 years within the 70th week=7 years in v27 (49+434+7=490). The saints are no longer exist here as stated in 1 Thessalonians 5:9. 2 Thessalonians 2:2-3. Acts 20:28; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 2:19. BeComforted.
Judas Iscariot, with the other eleven, were never apostles while they travelled around with Jesus. They were called Disciples (i.e. a student, a follower of a Rabbi or teacher). They were only known as Apostles after Jesus died, arose from the grave, & He sent them out into the world. Apostle, means 'one sent out; a messenger'.
After Judas Iscariot died, Matthias was appointed as his replacement & this appointment was from God ( Acts 1:24-26, i.e. the eleven prayed asking God to direct them to this new disciple). So, men did not choose Matthias, God did by their casting of lots. And this had to be, as Peter declared, by referring to the fulfilment of Psalm 41:9; Psalm 69:25 and Psalm 109:8.
True, we don't hear of Matthias, but the lack of information doesn't mean that he just disappeared & went back to his occupation, or whatever else. We don't hear again of several of the other disciples either after Acts 1:13.
Paul was an apostle of Jesus Christ. As was Apostle Barnabas ( Acts 14:14), James (the Lord's half-brother; Galatians 1:19), possibly Timothy & Silas ( 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:6, if Paul was using 'we' to refer to them as apostles as well). And Paul often had to emphasize his apostleship to the Churches, & even defend it, as believers were being seduced to believe otherwise (as much of 2nd Corinthians indicate).
So, from what we read in the Scriptures, Matthias was the twelfth disciple, being an apostle, & subsequently, Paul & others were either called by the Lord to apostleship, or considered as apostles because of their ministry of getting the Gospel out.
Is this something God has given us from our birth, or has another intruded into humanity causing us to sin against God & that sin has been passed on to all generations? ( Romans 5:12; Acts 5:3; 1 Timothy 5:14,15; 2 Corinthians 2:10,11; 1 Thessalonians 2:18; Luke 22:31,32; etc., are a few verses showing Satan's activity, from the first day till the day he is put away, & our ongoing struggle to withstand him & his devices & to live in the power & joy of the Holy Spirit).
Satan is never absent - He is present - He is at work - and working in the hearts & minds of those who choose to live according to the dictates of their flesh & not in the fullness of the Spirit. Such were the gross sins of those kings mentioned earlier - if Ananias & Sapphira could have Satan gripping their heart so as to lie to the Spirit, how much more of Satan's control over those kings & indeed so many rulers/govts of today & their workings against Jesus Christ.
Death is something we all will face; many believe our body dies and our soul lives on. Is our soul immortal? Can we take 2 Corinthians 5:8 when we die our soul leaves our body and we are present with the Lord? Some define death as a separation of the soul from the body. Does that come from scripture? I have not found that in scripture.
It comes from Greek philosophy of Plato. He wrote the body is a prison for the soul and viewed death as the means of freedom for the soul. The philosophy of death started blending in the church in the second century and those good souls go to heaven and the bad goes to hell and more. Many see the parable in Luke 16:19-31 as fitting this. If you read the chapter Jesus is talking about the unrighteous love mammon and neglect the true riches.
My understanding from scripture every part of us is mortal and when we die, we sleep in the dust, Job 14:12-14, Job 17:13-16, Ecclesiastes 9:5-10 until resurrection. When this mortal puts on immortality 1 Corinthians 15:52-58, and we will be absent from this flesh body. Then those that are Christs will be judged and receive our rewards. Matthew 16:27, Revelation 22:12 that is our hope, 1 Thessalonians 2:19
We will sleep in the dust, Daniel 12:2, 1Theselonians 4:14 and this is not from heaven, it is from around the world to meet Jesus in the air coming down to Israel the start the 1000 years at His coming. Matthew 24:31 Zechariah 14:4.
This is my understanding of scripture.
God bless,
RLW
We are followers of Jesus. Everyone expresses it how they decide. Let us remember the rich young ruler story, to keep us oriented rightly. That's Ll I'm saying. I didn't choose this, it chose me.
I do it because no one asked me if I'd like to go to church with them. Not even JW's, lol. I was bad, but I needed help.
THE CROWN OF REJOICING:
To those who faithfully are witnesses to the saving grace of God and lead souls to Jesus. This crown has also been named the soul winner's crown. Itindicates here that God will be giving a crown to those who have witnessed toothers and leading people to Christ.Telling others about the grace of God, telling others about Jesus, is the greatest thing that you can do for someone while here on this earth. When you help someone to be led to the Lord, you have just been used as a vessel of God. It says in the Bible,"Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holy and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:" 1 Thessalonians 2:10 God will judge you by your willingness and desire to be used by Him to witness to others, not necessarily on how many actually get saved; because we are to water and He gives the increase.Christians can be used by God to try to lead others to the Lord. God can fit opportunities for you in your life to witness and work for Him if you allow Him to. Some could be your unsaved friends, family members or co-workers, etc. The Bible says it good here,"For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of ourLord Jesus Christat his coming?" 1 Thessalonians 2:19
Pray to the Lord of the Harvest.
When we die it is the same as when we sleep, we are not conscious, we are asleep in Jesus, Psalm 146:4 Ecclesiastes 9:5,10 we have no knowledge of our surroundings or time. This is the spirit that goes back to God who gave it. Ecclesiastes 12:7.
1 Thessalonians 4:14, when Jesus returns, this earth is round and those that are Christs will come from all over, and we see different places describing the gathering, Matthew 24:31, Mark 13:27, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 along with Jesus, God brings those that are Christs with Him, the second coming back to earth to set up the kingdom on earth. I understand those who believe in the rapture being carried to heaven will disagree.
Soul; Hebrew, nephesh, meaning a soul, living being animal or human, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion. Greek psuch meaning, life, as the seat of affections and will, the self, the conscience, the individual. In our conscience that is in our soul is where the battle of the desires of the flesh and the Spirit. This is what remains asleep in the grave where ever the grave may be, awaiting resurrection when we put on immortality. Psalms 49:15 John 5:28-29
When are we absent from this body? 2 Corinthians 2:6-10 When do we appear at the judgment seat? 1 Thessalonians 2:19 1 Corinthians 15:22-23. When is a corn plant absent from its seed is it not when it springs forth from its grave of the earth? We are sown and until we are resurrected, being changed like the corn seed from corruption to incorruption, and this mortal puts on immortality being freed from this body of corruption, then we will be present with the Lord.
Sorry I got wordy I am sure not all will agree but that is ok this is just what I see.
God bless us all in the love of Jesus.
RLW
Thankyou and blessings
Precious friend, then I must Misunderstand: "Repent, and Believe The Gospel Of The GRACE Of God"? = "Believe On CHRIST, His Death, Burial, and Resurrection, by GRACE Through faith {BELIEF, trust}." ( 1 Corinthians 15:3-4) ( Ephesians 2:5-9)?
I must Misunderstand "trusting CHRIST" In ( Ephesians 1:12)? Also:
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of The LORD, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and BELIEF of The Truth:" ( 2 Thessalonians 2:13)?
"Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that BELIEVE..." ( Romans 3:22)? compare ( Romans 4:11) ( Romans 4:24) ( 1 Corinthians 1:21) ( Galatians 3:22) ( Ephesians 1:19) ( Philippians 1:29) ( 1 Thessalonians 1:7) ( 1 Thessalonians 2:13) ( 1 Thessalonians 4:14) ( 2 Thessalonians 1:10)
Finally IF I BELIEVE, "but sins are NOT forgiven," how is it that I HAVE Life Everlasting, According To ALL The above Plain And Clear Scriptures About "BELIEF"?:
"Howbeit for this cause I obtained MERCY, that in me first JESUS CHRIST might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter BELIEVE ON HIM to Life Everlasting." ( 1 Timothy 1:16)?
Upon my BELIEF Of Truth, did not The Holy Spirit Baptize ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) me Into The Body Of CHRIST, God "forgiving my sins," in the twinkling of an eye?
Now, IF you are referring to "water baptism for the remission of sins" that is altogether
Another Different Bible study we could pursue, IF you wish...
Respectfully, ChrisE
I agree with Jesse, he gave a great answer, it is also called Gehenna, a destination of the wicked. Jesus used Gehenna as an illustration of hell (the lake of fire), the fire that shall never be quenched. This is a parable; in the Hebrew tradition Abrahams bosom was a place where the righteous dead would go. Excluding the context; is the point of this parable to show when we die, we go to heaven or hell as many teach?
The Jewish people of the time of Jesus had been influenced by Babylonian and Hellenistic Greek cultures. The Pharisees were covetous, they flaunted their wealth and the seat of authority they had. Is this parable describing a holding place where the redeemed can live in peace and safety but can look and even talk across a vast chasm with the sufferings of the sinners in torment?
This parable also does not fit all of scripture, if we receive our reward as soon as we die, as said, we go to heaven or hell. In the text of Luke16 Jesus is talking to Pharisees and scribes and in context, Jesus covers stewardship, love of riches, adultery and no servant can serve two masters.
Many scriptures tell us when we will receive our reward and it is not when we die. Here are just a few and they all agree it is at the second coming of Jesus Christ. ( Matthew 16:27) ( 1 Corinthians 1:7-8) ( 1 Corinthians 15:22-23) ( 1 Thessalonians 2:19) ( Revelation 22:12).
I am sorry if this offends, I did not want to take away of Jesse's answer, but I feel some verses are taken out of context to teach untruths. If this parable is about how to escape hell and go to heaven when you die, then the lesson of the story is that eternal life can be earned by being poor. I'm sure many will disagree including you.
RLW
We know from Exodus 33:18-23, when Moses desired to see God's Glory, the LORD gave him clear instructions as to what would happen; i.e. His Glory (His Goodness) would pass by Moses but his eyes would be shielded from seeing God's Face, "for shall no man see me, and live" (v20).
So, if this is such a clear Truth that was given to Moses, & then we read "And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend." (v11), how should we understand it? It seems correct to understand this ("face to face") as a metaphor to describe the closeness that Moses shared with the Almighty, as when a friend shares intimately with his friend. With that in mind, we can almost hear the words & tone of voice that Moses used to speak to God in verses 12-18: one of a special friendship, having liberty to speak from the heart. Just as we today might speak to God from our heart as submissive loving children to our Wise & altogether loving merciful Heavenly Father.
We have many other metaphors used in the Bible: e.g. 1 Thessalonians 2:7 describe Paul's special love for the believers there as a nursing mother feeds, cares & protects her children. Or, Matthew 3:16, showing the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus. Even though some Churches depict the Spirit as a dove (which is heresy: Deuteronomy 4:15-19), we see the Spirit's descent was observed in a special revelation to John, like the slow graceful descending of a dove - no bird involved here at all. So Moses speaking to God 'face to face' is given in similar fashion - a picture of intimacy yet Moses being shielded & withheld from instant death.
To those who faithfully are witnesses to the saving grace of God and lead souls to Jesus. This crown has also been named the SOUL WINNERS crown. Itindicates here that God will be giving a crown to those who have witnessed toothers and leading people to Christ.Telling others about the grace of God, telling others about Jesus, is the greatest thing that you can do for someone while here on this earth. When you help someone to be led to the Lord, you have just been used as a vessel of God. It says in the Bible,"Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holy and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:" 1 Thessalonians 2:10 God will judge you by your willingness and desire to be used by Him to witness to others, not necessarily on how many actually get saved, because we are to water and He gives the increase.Christians can be used by God to try to lead others to the Lord. God can fit opportunities for you in your life to witness and work for Him if you allow Him to. Some could be your unsaved friends, family members or co-workers, etc. The Bible says it good here,"For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of ourLord Jesus Christat his coming?" 1 Thessalonians 2:19
Here we see the Apostle Paul an example of true leadership , expressing his genuine care for those in Thessalonians churches .
Verse 9 he labored so that no one could accuse him of personal gain , made his own way , not even appearing to be taking advantage of them , which was not the case in reality . This is very good fruit .
Never give money to anyone for their service to God , it makes them look bad . And if it's their motive they are bad . It's not wrong to help people but be careful on how it's done . Pure motive in the work of the gospel is not at all concerned about money or gain. God supplies .
It can even be a temptation sometimes to except gain for doing Gods work , discernment is needed .
18:3 They were tent makers by trade - For it was a rule among the Jews (and why is it not among the Christians?) to bring up all their children to some trade, were they ever so rich or noble.
People's Bible Notes for Acts 18:3
Ac 18:3 Because he was of the same occupation, he abode with them. This is the first mention of the handicraft by which so often during his toilsome life Paul earned his daily bread. Every Jewish boy was taught a trade, and Paul no doubt learned his in Tarsus.
Compare Acts 20:34, 1 Thessalonians 2:9, 2 Thessalonians 3:8, 1 Corinthians 4:12, 2 Corinthians 11:9.
What an amazing testimony Paul had: born a Jew; became a high ranking Pharisee. Became a citizen of Rome: served warrants to kill Christians (see Stephens death).
Confronted on the Damascus Road, on his way to serve more warrants: and was confronted by Jesus Christ.
At the end of this chapter 18, Paul decides to minister to the Gentiles which was his calling. His entire ministry is a marvel when you consider all of the things he endured for the sake of His Savior. He did what he knew to be doing.
Do we know what to be doing?
Matthew 26:31-46
Revelation 14:12-13
It's not a law to do something for Jesus. It's an act of Love, a privilege, it's worship and adoration. Love makes us want to give love.
That's Him, inside of our spirit and soul. Do you feel it? We are indwelled with Someone so powerful...that even death could not stop it. He walked out of that tomb in the glorious power of Love.
God so loved the world! That He GAVE...his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him, should Not perish, but have everlasting life.
Love gives.
We give love because He loves us.
Obeying laws is an insult to this kind of Love. We never can be good enough in our own power to emulate the God-kind of Love.
It's simply giving.
Mishael
She has her eyes on death but sees the tree good for food.
Genesis 2:17
"But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die."
Genesis 2:18
"And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him."
God wants good for man.
John 8:23
"And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world."
James 1:17
King James Version
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Ephesians 1:18
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
Proverbs 4:20-27.
1 Thessalonians 2:13 | View Chapter | Context
For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
John 1:1
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
"I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon."
1 Thessalonians 2:10
"Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:"
HOLILY
Just cause someone claims to be a jew does not make it so and the middle east is full of them.
1 Thessalonians 2:14, 16 - For ye, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, EVEN AS THEY HAVE OF THE JEWS: WHO BOTH KILLED THE LORD JESUS, and their OWN PROPHETS, and have persecuted us; and THEY PLEASE NOT GOD, and are contrary to all men: Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: FOR THE WRATH IS COME UPON THEM TO THE UTTERMOST.
Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:14, 16 - For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, EVEN AS THEY HAVE OF THE JEWS: WHO BOTH KILLED THE LORD JESUS, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and THEY PLEASE NOT GOD, and are contrary to all men: Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: FOR THE WRATH IS COME UPON THEM TO THE UTTERMOST. (NOT ROME)
King James Bible book of John 5:16 - And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
John 5:18 - Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
John 7:1 - After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.
Act 9:23 - And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him
Act 23:12 - And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.
Act 26:21 - For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.