Wondering what others believe about this verse about everything God created being "good"- Some use this to say it's morally ok for them to do drugs like weed, cocaine, mushrooms, meth?
"For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:" 1 Timothy 4:4 KJV. Also Genesis 1:31, Romans 14:14, Acts 11:7-9
At what point do we believe something is no longer God's creation, but a man-made creation, like a drug made in a lab? And how do we balance that with harming the body? "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" 1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV
I thanks fully of your prayers in the name of the Lord JESUS
You know that the Lord's Church is living in perilous times- 1Timothy 4:1-2- , I also pray to the Lord asking Him to help us and keep us under His powerful hands- Acts 11:21- , and He bless His people in whole Earth; giving them victories in struggles, in difficulties, and supplying the needs of each one, and healing illnesses and warding off the evils and the sickness in the among His people. And above all in giving Wisdom and understanding of His Word to all, lifting up the fallen, strengthening the weak and downcast by the Power of His Word. Amen. Matthew 28:18.
Our Lord JESUS promised: Unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance... Matthew 25:29. Amen.
May our Lord GOD bless us, and keep us, and give us His protection
1. Payment of the redemption; illustrated with the "Kinsman-Redeemer" situation between Boaz and Ruth in the book of Ruth. This is the first visible action from the Lord only when one comes to salvation; it was predetermined in the counsel of God before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 1:4; 1 Peter 1:20).
2. Repentance being granted. This is also mentioned in Acts 11:18 and 2 Timothy 2:25.
3. Confession by the mouth as a result of believing in the heart ( Romans 10:9-13). This is an action of response to God's saving grace.
There is no other way or method to salvation but by God's prescribed measure of believing on the Son ( Matt. 11:27)
I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in. The "results" of salvation. In case anyone thought the ride was free.
There is absolutely no works to be done for Salvation in CHRIST. Ephesians 2:
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Water baptism is not a requirement of salvation. Romans 6:
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
When we are Scripturally born again we have been made justified in CHRIST, no longer bound for hell or the lake of fire. We are then called to do the work of the LORD which is called sanctification. v10 of Ephesians 2.
Salvation is only by faith alone, in the shed blood alone, of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
May GOD open the hearts of all unto the sufficiency of the Gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Merry Christmas to all on this forum, and a happy and prosperous New Year.
Just a few things, I am sorry you feel you have been lied to, there are different interpretations out there. If we study Matt. 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 together it helps.
I have found when studying the Bible, we should not start with a preconceived idea, it is easy to see Scriptures that fit a picture we have painted in our mind rather than letting the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit reveal the true meaning.
First, Jesus's death and resurrection were hidden from them, Luke 18:31-34. Even after he was crucified, they were distraught and did not understand the fact that he was killed. John 16:16-20 and we have Luke 24:4-6. Not knowing Jesus was going to die would they be asking Jesus about His second coming?
Is all of Matthew 24 about the end time, many combined it with other prophecies to create a picture of the end time. Some of it is obviously about Jesus's second coming but much of it was to prepare them for what they were to endure up to the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. False prophets we see there were many before 70 AD, Acts 21:36-38Acts 8:9 and others. If we look at history there were wars, earthquakes, and famine, Acts 7:11 and Acts 11:28.
Many put Matt. 24:15 and Mark 13:14 at the end time with an antichrist, should we not consider what Luke wrote about the same thing, Luke 21:20 that history has recorded?
One other thing why would Jesus say to pray their flee would not be on a Sabbath day? Today would not be a problem with the transportation we have. Back then the gates of Jerusalem would be locked and would be hard to get out and it would take days to get clear, with a pace of 2.5 mph.
I am with you, we sleep in the grave until resurrection the first of those who are chosen and faithful, Rev. 17:14 at Jesus's second coming and the second, the rest of the dead at the white throne judgment/the sheep and the goats and those whose names are not in the book of life is cast into the lake of fire, Rev. 20:15.
When they first called those who taught and followed Christ, Christians.
Acts 11:26
And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch."
Lots of people, church goers, different denominations. All saying they're are Christians, when there is only One Christ.
Glory to God on earth as it is in Heaven. God Bless and keep striving.
I agree it's time to let this topic rest between you and me. However, before I go, I will comment on your last reply.
Part 1
In Acts 15 it wasn't the apostles debating over the law or Judaism, (it was them debating the Pharisees).
Acts 15:5-6. But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, that it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.
Acts 15:22-24 You see the Apostles sent letters against this!
A Disciple is one who follows one's teachings, In Christianity these teachings is taught by the Holyspirit.
We are given Christ spirit to know and perform the things of Christ!
That's why they weren't sent out to the rest of the world until they were filled with the Holyspirit.
The spirit of Christ wouldn't have them continue in Judaism, Something Jesus died to free them from. "The curse of the Law"
The ministry of the Holyspirt is shown here in John 16:12-15.
I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak, and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine and shall shew it unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
And concerning Acts 10:28, This is nothing to do with the context of our debate. We're debating whether one can lose his Salvation, which later we begun to debate whether the Apostles continued in Judaism "concerning Salvation" This has nothing to do with neither. Infact Acts 10:28-48 shows the opposite, the issue is that he went unto the uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
It's shown in Acts 11:17-18 that what they believed in and practiced went out to the Gentiles also.
Thanks, I agree they were told that but we see it was after Stephen's death and the priests along with Saul/Paul put in prison, beat, killed, and drove out the believers in Jesus, the apostles stayed in Jerusalem. The ones Philip shared the word within Samaria must have been Jewish because the apostles did not have a problem with it because Peter and John went and prayed for them to receive the Holy Ghost, Acts 8:14-17
When Peter had his dream, it was a clear vision that God showed him the time had come for the gospel to go to the Gentiles, Acts 10. But when he told the apostles and brethren when he went to Cornelius the centurion and preached to the Gentiles, they had a big problem with it and they rebuked Peter for doing this, Acts 11, and in Acts 11:19 the ones who were persecuted and driven out were preaching the word to the Jews only.
To me, it looks the same as when Jesus told them how He was going to die and be resurrected but it was hidden from them, Luke 9:45, and we see they were devastated after He was crucified and did not believe He rose from the dead, Luke 24:10-11. It was God's perfect timing when this would happen, fulfilling prophecy and a promise.
Adam when ya preach water baptism for the remission of sins saves us you are in essence saying the Cross was insufficient.....Thats y the lord was so upset with Peter commanding water baptism.....Telling Peter 3 times what i have made clean ( by the blood of my son ) do not call common or unclean..... Acts 10:15....
All the unclean animals in that great sheet was ( humanity ) the Church that was made clean by the blood of the lamb of God.....Not water baptism that Peter was commanding.....In Acts 11:15.....Once Peter understood the vision he said then i remembered the words of our Lord.....John baptised you with water but i will baptise you with the H.G. and fire......Peter neva commands water baptism again for the remission of sins after Acts 11.....Even in the O.T. without the shedding of BLOOD THERE WAS NO REMISSION OF SINS......When ya tell folks they need water baptism FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS you are in essence saying the CROSS that New COVENANT IN HIS BLOOD was insufficent.....Thats y the Lord was so upset with Peter commanding water baptism for the remission of sins....When Jesus said its finished there is absolutely Nothing else can be added....No kind of a work....k gbu
Covenants: Comparing Old and New Testaments; blessings and curses.
Deuteronomy 7:7-10 show how God did not choose israel due to its size; but in His love they were called out. They are reminded of being loved and protected coming out of Egypt; but verse 9 shows how the Covenant brings lovingkindness to those who love Him; and judgment is shown in verse 10 to those who hate Him.
The original promises; of course were set forth as far back as Abraham in Genesis 15 and 17 which would continue with his descendants until they finally entered the Promised Land. In actuality; many in Reformed circles think that an informal covenant was involved with God's creation of Adam and Eve (at least in the creation of Eve to be his wife and the consummation of the marriage relationship even without formal ceremony involved). The rainbow was God's original covenant which God promised not to once again flood the entire earth. Interestingly animals are implied as well ( Gen. 9:13
In reality; these were all things instigated by God. Adam was asleep when the rib was taken out of him; and likewise was the situation with Abraham when he was in a deep sleep in Genesis 15:12. God was to use men such as Moses to rescue His people; but He was only using the power of God through the rod; for instance to perform miracles; and God of course drew Pharoah's army to a watery grave in the Red Sea.
The same concept involves many of Israel's conquests; angels would often fight supporting men; or fight alone such as the example of Exodus 14:14 and 2 Kings 19:35 against the Assyrians when 185,000 were destroyed by a single angel in a night.
God also draws all those who will come to Him as the Gospel of John and many other scriptures indicate. God has given the Spirit nowadays to permanently reside in a Christian ( Ephesians 1:13). God's eternal plans in the Godhead allowed for Christ's atonement to be efficacious for all who would believe and be "granted repentance" ( Acts 11:18).
In general; there is a set series of events that are going to consume the time period known as "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
The incense of the prayers of the saints which encompass the initial scene in Revelation 5:8 prior to the seal judgments; and Revelation 8:3-4 (in that case before the Trumpet Judgments) show a sort of collective mass of prayers; either reflecting directly the persecutions on the earth at the time; or answering Millennia old prayers of saints long since forgotten by man; but held by God. (see Psalm 56:8).
Because of this; we see a difference in prophetic utterances such as Acts 21:10; and Acts 11:27-28. Such utterances indicate that the choices made (i.e. Paul heading straight to Jerusalem; preparing for a famine) certainly make these things conditional.
In Revelation it is generally structured indicating great events with associated signs and wonders that are already designed and predicted in detail. However; as with anything else there is latitude apparently for the two prophets to cause things as they wish in regard to droughts; etc. ( Rev. 11:6). Undoubtably some details are not straightforward (such as which part of the world the 1/4 die in the seal judgments). Safe to say it ain't going to be a fun time here on planet earth; that's for sure.
Looking at the Second Coming of Christ; no doubt great deception will occur with multitudes of false prophets at the time of the end. Antichrist Himself will basically act as a substitute for Christ; and will be the only man other than Judas Iscariot to be doomed to perdition. ( John 17:12; 2 Thess. 2:3). God will use him to make rulers agree to submit to his authority; as well as destroying the false "Mystery Babylon" which encompasses all the world's false religions sort of rolled into one. ( Revelation 18:17).
There are suspect individuals that certainly match many characteristics of such an individual. More in next post.
James 1:15 illustrates the process of sin leading eventually to death. Thus; Adam began to die in all ways once he sinned; spiritually immediately as Ezekiel 18:20 indicates it affects the soul and the death in the body continues until eventually we return back to the dust we came from. Hence; there was immediate estrangement from God when Adam and Eve hid; and God pronounced the resulting curse in childbirth; tilling the earth is sweat with thistles and thorns; etc.
We must also understand that there are those predestined to be in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world ( Ephesians 1:3-6). The opposite is true for the unregenerate as seen in Revelation 17:8. Christ's death was therefore part of a plan from before Creation where all those would hear His voice who were His sheep ( John 10:27). We must remember that His death was effective from what happened in time and space 2000 years ago. It also is retroactive; as it were in order to allow those who were of old to eventually in time and space have access to heaven (see Romans 6:9). Therefore; at the Rapture ( 1 Thess. 4:15) shall involve the Resurrection of all souls of deceased saints; followed by bodily ascension of those alive and remaining. There are some verses which seem to indicate O.T. saints may arise later on in say the Midpoint of the Tribulation or near the end; there is some debate on that question. Some already apparently were resurrected ( Matt. 27:52-56). This would have been a gleaning of the firstfruits; so to speak.
My point here is predestination and the fact that God initiates repentance ( Acts 11:18); etc. There is such a thing as godly repentance and worldly ( 2 Cor. 7:10); illustrated by that of Peter and Judas Iscariot. Genuine repentance brings life and brings sorrow at offending a Holy God; worldly sorrow only is interested in consequences of our actions; and in Judas' case he only recognized Christ as having "innocent blood"; not as God's Son to be worshipped.
We have a basic exhortation as a people to be the "head" instead of the "tail" (see Deut. 28:13). As a church; we should be willing to support the brethren especially when we can see trouble coming as we see in Acts 2:45 similar to what was predicted by Agabus in Acts 11:28. Wisdom is something the Lord will give us if we ask ( James 1:5). That may apply currently to extracting finances or money from risky investments or bank accounts to have some on hand; to have emergency food supplies and a generator at hand; precious metals for trade; etc.
Our political leaders are not to be worshipped either (I am leaving names out here). There is enough at fault in both sides of the political spectrum. Whether it is possible at this point for anyone of integrity to lead our nation and for that person to win the party nomination (again no names here) is something I am not placing any bets on. Proverbs 16:18 warns us that pride comes before a fall; and certainly there is enough of that to go around. People hear what they want to hear; but those of the house of the living God will hear His voice ( John 10:27). When we hold on to this life too much; we forget that we are "seated in heavenly places" ( Eph. 2:6). That is a present state; but our future hope in glory is brought forth by natural death or martyrdom. I am convinced that we would never see the harvest of innumerable saints ( Rev. 7:9) if the 5th seal event and later killings of the Antichrist for not taking the Mark were not instituted. Apparently; "tribulum" means a threshing board using in harvest for separation purposes. Satan will be used as God's instrument to finally bring the wheat to fruition in the heat of the fires of that trial ( Rev. 3:10). As for now we should heed to the admonition of the very next verse as rewards can and will be lost for those who don't remain patient and are distracted by things of this world today. May we keep our eyes on Him.
Jesus knew what was going to happen and much of what He told the disciples was what was going to happen to them, to prepare them for what He just told them when the temple would be destroyed. Does part of this discourse apply to the future? Yes
Matt. 24:5-13 History and the Bible document that there were several men as false Messiahs, false prophets that deceived many and which convinced many and led them to revolt to liberate Jerusalem from Roman occupation. Josephus tells us that impostors drew great multitudes after them into the wilderness, and he mentions an Egyptian prophet. We see this in Acts 21:36-38.
We have Theudas in Acts 5:36 and Judas of Galilee in Acts 5:37-8 and Simon in Acts 8:9-11, and there was more. For us today many come in the name of Jesus saying, Jesus is Christ, but they deceive and make merchandise of people. We must not ignore the first thing He said after they asked Him "Take heed that no man deceive you."
There were many conflicts between the nations around Jerusalem and Rome was having wars that caused famine. Claudius invaded Britain in 46AD, there was a great famine in Syria. Rome took control over the temple along with the sacred treasury and there was a great famine in Jerusalem.
The Jews were having small scrimmages that led to the revolt in 66 AD. We see in the bible a famine was going on, in Acts 11:27-29 in 1 Corinthians 16:1-3 Where Paul was collecting things for those in Jerusalem because they were starving. There were earthquakes in Rome, Pergamum, Laodicea, and Judea in the 50s and 60s.
We see what the Jews did to Peter and John and the first they killed was Steven and then most of them. and what Paul says about what they did in all the synagogues Acts 26:10-11. But enduring to the end the same shall be saved does not mean their flesh life would be saved.
Hi T. Levis. If I remember correctly, the enquirer, Herbert, had asked this same question in another thread, to which I had responded. And it was actually Acts 12:2,17 that he was referring to, i.e. the difference between James, brother of John and James, the Lord's brother.
Acts 11:2 Peter, was come up to Jerusalem._._. Acts 11:13, the man in Joppa, sent men to call for Peter, it doesn't seem to mention the name of the man, nor the other men Peter ministered to. Acts 11:17, Peter talking explained the Gentile was also given the Holy Spirit & Salvation, not just Jewish people. Galatians 3:28, Romans 1:16,
Luke 24, Peter was one of the 1st witnesses to see the empty
tomb. Luke 24:12, John 21, Jesus meets with Peter after resurrection again & tells him If you love Me feed My lambs.
Acts 2, shows Peter speak boldly in front of thousands Acts 2:14-47,
I like to flip the question and ask why would a Christ-follower not want to follow Christ? Are there any legitimate reasons not to be baptized in water?
Jesus said this:
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." Mark 16:16 KJV
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:" Matthew 28:19 KJV
Some Christians I encounter seem quite satisfied and maybe even relieved on their assumption that they don't need to be immersed in water anymore. But is that really what Jesus said and meant?
"John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost." Acts 11:16 KJV
Baptism with the Holy Ghost doesn't necessarily mean without water. It seems Jesus indicates the baptism before Jesus arrived was not with the Holy Ghost. And it's noteworthy that even though Jesus was now there, He still was baptized in water! It was so important that even Jesus did it Himself as an example to follow. And then they continued baptizing in water after Jesus left. I see no verse anywhere saying for everyone to stop baptizing in water.
Some are motivated to not be baptized for personal reasons, not for reasons of obedience as a Christ-follower. But it doesn't matter what man thinks, but what God says and He already said to be baptized. So, if following Jesus is important to someone I think that following what Jesus says is important.
Other Christians echoed this about water baptism after Jesus left too, like Paul in Acts 2:38.
It would be brazen to ignore such a clear and obvious command. Others seem confident and willing to gamble on this that they're interpreting it correctly. But obeying involves no risk and no downside, but disobeying and seeing how much one can get away with not doing seems risky. No one is claiming that act itself saves, but deliberately disobeying God while also claiming to follow Him seems questionable.
Beloved Linda on Genesis 3 all is clean the Lord has cleansed all. Here in Acts 11:1-18
If we change God's word one small sentence and do not get light on the word with the Holy Spirit. Will everything we create becomes confusion. You see today, many issues come up about food. Which is not Divine at all. The apostles did not understand this either when they made a new rule here: The meeting of the Apostles in Jerusalem Acts 15:6-21
Stay close to the word og God, Jesus is there, love u in Christ. Merry Christmas eat all food in Jesus holy name, Amen
I may have said a lot of this stuff before; hopefully there are a few nuances of difference. The scripture is always the best guide to answering tough questions. We have examples of Abraham called out of Ur of Chaldee; for example who was the father of all those of Monotheistic faith today. He was called in a foreign land; and given a future promise of a Promised Land as well as offspring who would inherit it ( Genesis 17:2 and repeated in Hebrews). He never got to dwell permanently anywhere but was a nomad in the desert and through miraculous means his wife of 90 conceived when he was 100.
When we look at the story of Sodom and Gomorrah; we could say that Abraham was having a sort of contest with God on a similar theme; His preservation of the city if a small number of righteous men lived there; he started with 50 men and ended at 10. This shows a theme which also was repeated with God waiting for a certain period until transgressions were full to judge in Genesis 15:16. Sodom was ripe for judgment as were the Amorites; but in their case it wasn't until four generations later and THAT along with Egypt being judged for their fullness of iniquity that finally bought the descendants to conquer the Promised Land. So God calls out His people wherever they are if they are chosen (predestined) to be His children. He will send angels or whatever means to reach the lost; and we see this happening again in the Book of Revelation. If we seek the God of the Bible then we have to believe His Word on our spiritual condition (as sinners) and we need to have it revealed to us (i.e. granted repentance as shown in Acts 11:18 and elsewhere.
The confession of our mouth and believe in our heart ( Romans 10:19) it is a RESULT of His Spirit working in us to convict of sin; righteousness and judgment to come ( John 16:8-11).
Conversion of course involves interaction and our choice to verbally repent.
Thanks Texsis. As you probably know, even the name 'Christian' was given to 'those Christ followers' by the people in Antioch ( Acts 11:26), & was intended to be used in a derogatory manner, as Gerald has pointed out in his other comments. So it wasn't a glowing affectionate name that was given at that time but it certainly became a badge worthy to be carried on their, & our, hearts & lips, with great honor.
And Paul considered himself to be an apostle ( 1 Corinthians 1:1; 2 Corinthians 2:1), though the sense here I think, was that he was numbered with the other apostles yet one born out of due time (i.e. the others were direct witnesses of Jesus, walked with Him & called by Him, whereas Paul's qualification was of his explicit vision & calling to be Jesus' chosen vessel). Since Paul's day, there has been no other apostle, except Barnabas & those others since, who fulfil the apostolic definition of being God's messenger to the unsaved but not of the original 12 + 1.
Thank You dear God, Father in Heaven You who are Almighty and living God. To You we come when troubles surround us Lord. We pray in Jesus Christ's holy Name that You see this matter Lord. You who hate divorce, Lord, bring them together again. The ones You have put together Lord. Even being together in the perfect picture You see Lord Jesus. Let us also with the love of Christ love and forgive each other all trespasses. You have forgiven Lord Jesus. Let us also forgive voluntary. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray that the marriage will be renewed and the love of God will be joined with God's will for people. Thank you for answered prayers and we will always praise Your Holy name, in Jesus Christ, Amen.
Dear God, Father in Heaven, You who created Heaven and Earth. Your great grace has brought us to You Lord. By Your mercy we have been saved. Nothing shall be able to take us out of Your Hand God. We pray that thanksgiving will overflow in our hearts for such a great grace. And in Your Son Jesus Christ name we have received the forgiveness of sins. We can rejoice and sing in our hearts forever. In the Holy Name of Jesus Christ, we have been given authority to take every thought captive. And always search for thoughts of peace with ourselves and others. Yours thoughts Lord Jesus. Thank You for giving up Your Spirit so that we could live, for that we are forever grateful. Fill us with desire forever and have our cause right with You Jesus Christ, you who are our Advocate before God the Father on high, forgive us all our sin that we have not been able to throw away in Your Name Lord. We seek renewed strength and wisdom Lord. Thank You for giving willingly from Your storehouse Jesus. Thank You that we can always trust You. And for all time be honest and sincere with You God. Fill us with Your love and be a light to others Lord Jesus. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for giving Yourself for us, in You we proclame we are free. Amen.
Lord willing; this commentary will be helpful for those who really haven't seen the repeated themes of the unity of the Godhead; and the predetermined "elect" group who are chosen for Christ to be revealed; and who therefore will respond to show saving faith. A major point that I tried to bring up in earlier chapters was that there is always a corresponding interaction going both ways; so that confession of faith and all of man's actions prompted by the Spirit are simultaneous actions. KNOWING us according to Matthew 7:23 is part of saving faith; hence the absence indicates we are tares. Our soul testifies with His Spirit ( Romans 8:16) that we are God's children.
None of the contradicts the necessity of confessing with our mouths and believing in our hearts that Christ is Lord ( Romans 10:9). We are asked to repent; but it is He who grants the gift of repentance ( Romans 2:4) and this also has a group of people in mind (the Jews as a whole who come to faith) in Acts 5:31 and the Gentiles in Acts 11:18. We still our to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5-6). All good fruits therefore come from the source of God; and are evidences of saving faith ( Matt. 7:17). We need to remember that God chastises all He loves ( Hebrews 12:6 etal); and therefore He prunes back so even more fruit is produced ( John 15:1-2). He is doing the work therefore; our WORKS are merely the external evidence that indeed He is working from the inside out. These have been prepared for us from before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 2:10).
The other doctrines such as God's sovereignty; our totally depraved nature; and perseverance of the saints are covered in many scriptures and can be covered in other studies. As far as free will is concerned; God accomplishes His purposes through the vicissitudes of man; and the wiles of Satan and all his minions. To not submit to our Creator is folly ( Psalm 14:1; Psalm 2:2; Rev. 19)
Please see context: Deuteronomy 10:16, Deuteronomy 30:6, even in old testament men have argued their holiness, set apart status, (in the flesh) yet GOD said even then; it's about the heart. Jeremiah 4:4, Jeremiah 9:25, = Romans 2:29, Romans 3:30, Romans 4:11, 1Corinthians 7:18,
Galatians 3:28,
They were still arguing circumcision, not equality in GOD. Acts 11:2, Galatians 2:12,
Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur is mentioned in the Bible OT 5X. In Acts 2X. Noticed the importance of this man. He convinced the council to let go the apostles doing their work for God knowing if their work was not from God they will fail anyway. Very smart nan. The next he was mentioned was when Paul is defending himself in Acts 22:3. The point is Gamaliel is a reputable man, whom I think a way to show the reader the legitimacy of the Apostle Paul knowing the law and leading to acknowledging Paul's ignorance about Jesus Christ. Acts 6 mainly is about Stephen against the synagogue of the Libertines. Then Acts 7 is when Stephen gave his greatest testimony and was stoned to death. Acts 7:58 Paul consenting to Stephen's death. Acts 8 talks about the great persecution against the church and the apostles still doing God's work when others scattered abroad. Acts 9Acts 9:5) was when Jesus appeared to Paul on his way to Damascus. Chapter 10 and 11 is about Peter with Cornelius and his people converted. Very important because Peter was instructed by God to go to the uncircumcised people, whom Peter called common and unclean. Acts 11 is when Peter is already in Jerusalem explaining the same thing happened in c19; and noticed in Acts 11:25 Barnabas left Antioch to Tarsus to seek Saul ( Paul) then went back to Antioch and stayed there for whole year Acts 11:26). Isn't that a big transition? Then Acts 11:27-30 great dearth throughout all the world was told by a Prophet from Jerusalem named Agabus who came to Antioch and Barnabas and Saul were doing some relief work. In Galatians 1:18 Peter and Paul met. Then the rest you know the stories because you read them all. I am just very particular on a lot of detail because I was born Catholic, Bible Reader, and became a Mormon then the Seventh Day Adventist allpleasingfamily. I am done with listening to all religion.after my Mom died. Being an orphan I realized I have only God to rely on my journey here on earth.
If I happened to be that my understanding of the Bible is the same way these people you mentioned, I am actually glad I am not alone. The Book of Acts is an epistle written by Luke who recorded the Acts of the Apostles after Jesus Christ died. Before Jesus Christ died the 12 Apostles spent time with Jesus in His journey on earth from the time He was baptized in water by John the Baptist till He was crucified. So when I read Matthew, Mark , Luke, and John I noticed that most of them repeating the same event that happened, which I think it was very clever. But I noticed Luke would give more information. For example, Matthew 17:4, Mark 9:5, Luke.9:33. but Luke is the only one who wrote "not knowing what he said". I have noticed the pattern that Peter had always been rebuked by Jesus Christ in more than one occasion. So, when I read the Book of Acts Luke recorded the fulfillment of the 12 Apostles receiving the Holy Spirit. What a way to start the chapter with these words Acts 1:1. Then the selection of Mathias as "was numbered by the eleven apostles" Acts 1:26. I thought it was actually brilliant. They prayed and they casted lots. So Mathias was chosen still by man/ men. I pay attention to the detail just my nature as I was doing my own investigative way of studying facts. So chapter 2-4 the apostles continued about their work witnessing who Jesus was, whom they crucified; as well as doing great wonders filled with the Holy Spirit with great power; and a lot of people believed and baptized by water, the way the 12 apostles knew how to be saved. But take note of Acts 1:5, Peter will have a remembrance of this verse when he met with Cornelius and others, the Gentiles in Acts 10 and repeated in chapter 11 ( Acts 10:47; Acts 11:16). Going back to chapter 5 the apostles were in battle with the high priests Sadducees because the apostles ought to follow God. Now there is this man a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law in Acts 5:34. cont
Bro. Dan nice to hear from you GBU...But not all baptism is water baptism...John himself said I baptise you with water but there is one standing among you that you know not that shall baptise you with the H.G. and fire.... John 1 : 26...kjv ...So not all baptism is water baptism....And also in Matthew 19 : 28kjv...Jesus said go ye into all the world baptising them in the name of the Father, Son and H.G..The HOLY GHOST....Which is H.G. BAPTISM
.....And in Acts 11:35 Peter said Then remembered I the Words of our lord..John baptised you with water but i will baptise you with the H.G. and fire ...So Bro. Dan lots of these baptisms are H.G. baptism not water baptism....Ya gotta keep in mind that the CROSS was a new covenant in his blood....Much more precious then water baptism...
......John the bap...who gave us water baptism was preaching Behold the lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world...Not water baptism...Jesus had no sin whatsoever but to fulfill the law he had to be water baptised...Thats y the Dove descended on Jesus....According to the law of Moses 2 turtle doves had to be washed by running water....And 1 of the turtles doves had to be killed and his blood sprinkled on the living bird which is the Church....Tis was the law of moses for Sin or leprosy...Turtles doves are lovers for life which is symbolic of Christ and the Church....Husbands love you wives as Christ loved the Church and gave his life for it...ok lemme go
"For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:" 1 Timothy 4:4 KJV. Also Genesis 1:31, Romans 14:14, Acts 11:7-9
At what point do we believe something is no longer God's creation, but a man-made creation, like a drug made in a lab? And how do we balance that with harming the body? "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" 1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV
Thank you.
GiGi
I thanks fully of your prayers in the name of the Lord JESUS
You know that the Lord's Church is living in perilous times- 1Timothy 4:1-2- , I also pray to the Lord asking Him to help us and keep us under His powerful hands- Acts 11:21- , and He bless His people in whole Earth; giving them victories in struggles, in difficulties, and supplying the needs of each one, and healing illnesses and warding off the evils and the sickness in the among His people. And above all in giving Wisdom and understanding of His Word to all, lifting up the fallen, strengthening the weak and downcast by the Power of His Word. Amen. Matthew 28:18.
Our Lord JESUS promised: Unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance... Matthew 25:29. Amen.
May our Lord GOD bless us, and keep us, and give us His protection
Amen
1. Payment of the redemption; illustrated with the "Kinsman-Redeemer" situation between Boaz and Ruth in the book of Ruth. This is the first visible action from the Lord only when one comes to salvation; it was predetermined in the counsel of God before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 1:4; 1 Peter 1:20).
2. Repentance being granted. This is also mentioned in Acts 11:18 and 2 Timothy 2:25.
3. Confession by the mouth as a result of believing in the heart ( Romans 10:9-13). This is an action of response to God's saving grace.
There is no other way or method to salvation but by God's prescribed measure of believing on the Son ( Matt. 11:27)
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Water baptism is not a requirement of salvation. Romans 6:
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
When we are Scripturally born again we have been made justified in CHRIST, no longer bound for hell or the lake of fire. We are then called to do the work of the LORD which is called sanctification. v10 of Ephesians 2.
Salvation is only by faith alone, in the shed blood alone, of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
May GOD open the hearts of all unto the sufficiency of the Gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Merry Christmas to all on this forum, and a happy and prosperous New Year.
December 21, 2023
Just a few things, I am sorry you feel you have been lied to, there are different interpretations out there. If we study Matt. 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 together it helps.
I have found when studying the Bible, we should not start with a preconceived idea, it is easy to see Scriptures that fit a picture we have painted in our mind rather than letting the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit reveal the true meaning.
First, Jesus's death and resurrection were hidden from them, Luke 18:31-34. Even after he was crucified, they were distraught and did not understand the fact that he was killed. John 16:16-20 and we have Luke 24:4-6. Not knowing Jesus was going to die would they be asking Jesus about His second coming?
Is all of Matthew 24 about the end time, many combined it with other prophecies to create a picture of the end time. Some of it is obviously about Jesus's second coming but much of it was to prepare them for what they were to endure up to the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. False prophets we see there were many before 70 AD, Acts 21:36-38 Acts 8:9 and others. If we look at history there were wars, earthquakes, and famine, Acts 7:11 and Acts 11:28.
Many put Matt. 24:15 and Mark 13:14 at the end time with an antichrist, should we not consider what Luke wrote about the same thing, Luke 21:20 that history has recorded?
One other thing why would Jesus say to pray their flee would not be on a Sabbath day? Today would not be a problem with the transportation we have. Back then the gates of Jerusalem would be locked and would be hard to get out and it would take days to get clear, with a pace of 2.5 mph.
I am with you, we sleep in the grave until resurrection the first of those who are chosen and faithful, Rev. 17:14 at Jesus's second coming and the second, the rest of the dead at the white throne judgment/the sheep and the goats and those whose names are not in the book of life is cast into the lake of fire, Rev. 20:15.
God bless,
RLW
Acts 11:26
And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch."
Lots of people, church goers, different denominations. All saying they're are Christians, when there is only One Christ.
Glory to God on earth as it is in Heaven. God Bless and keep striving.
I agree it's time to let this topic rest between you and me. However, before I go, I will comment on your last reply.
Part 1
In Acts 15 it wasn't the apostles debating over the law or Judaism, (it was them debating the Pharisees).
Acts 15:5-6. But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, that it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.
Acts 15:22-24 You see the Apostles sent letters against this!
A Disciple is one who follows one's teachings, In Christianity these teachings is taught by the Holyspirit.
We are given Christ spirit to know and perform the things of Christ!
That's why they weren't sent out to the rest of the world until they were filled with the Holyspirit.
The spirit of Christ wouldn't have them continue in Judaism, Something Jesus died to free them from. "The curse of the Law"
The ministry of the Holyspirt is shown here in John 16:12-15.
I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak, and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine and shall shew it unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
And concerning Acts 10:28, This is nothing to do with the context of our debate. We're debating whether one can lose his Salvation, which later we begun to debate whether the Apostles continued in Judaism "concerning Salvation" This has nothing to do with neither. Infact Acts 10:28-48 shows the opposite, the issue is that he went unto the uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
It's shown in Acts 11:17-18 that what they believed in and practiced went out to the Gentiles also.
See Part 2
Thanks, I agree they were told that but we see it was after Stephen's death and the priests along with Saul/Paul put in prison, beat, killed, and drove out the believers in Jesus, the apostles stayed in Jerusalem. The ones Philip shared the word within Samaria must have been Jewish because the apostles did not have a problem with it because Peter and John went and prayed for them to receive the Holy Ghost, Acts 8:14-17
When Peter had his dream, it was a clear vision that God showed him the time had come for the gospel to go to the Gentiles, Acts 10. But when he told the apostles and brethren when he went to Cornelius the centurion and preached to the Gentiles, they had a big problem with it and they rebuked Peter for doing this, Acts 11, and in Acts 11:19 the ones who were persecuted and driven out were preaching the word to the Jews only.
To me, it looks the same as when Jesus told them how He was going to die and be resurrected but it was hidden from them, Luke 9:45, and we see they were devastated after He was crucified and did not believe He rose from the dead, Luke 24:10-11. It was God's perfect timing when this would happen, fulfilling prophecy and a promise.
I hope this makes sense.
God bless.
RLW
All the unclean animals in that great sheet was ( humanity ) the Church that was made clean by the blood of the lamb of God.....Not water baptism that Peter was commanding.....In Acts 11:15.....Once Peter understood the vision he said then i remembered the words of our Lord.....John baptised you with water but i will baptise you with the H.G. and fire......Peter neva commands water baptism again for the remission of sins after Acts 11.....Even in the O.T. without the shedding of BLOOD THERE WAS NO REMISSION OF SINS......When ya tell folks they need water baptism FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS you are in essence saying the CROSS that New COVENANT IN HIS BLOOD was insufficent.....Thats y the Lord was so upset with Peter commanding water baptism for the remission of sins....When Jesus said its finished there is absolutely Nothing else can be added....No kind of a work....k gbu
Deuteronomy 7:7-10 show how God did not choose israel due to its size; but in His love they were called out. They are reminded of being loved and protected coming out of Egypt; but verse 9 shows how the Covenant brings lovingkindness to those who love Him; and judgment is shown in verse 10 to those who hate Him.
The original promises; of course were set forth as far back as Abraham in Genesis 15 and 17 which would continue with his descendants until they finally entered the Promised Land. In actuality; many in Reformed circles think that an informal covenant was involved with God's creation of Adam and Eve (at least in the creation of Eve to be his wife and the consummation of the marriage relationship even without formal ceremony involved). The rainbow was God's original covenant which God promised not to once again flood the entire earth. Interestingly animals are implied as well ( Gen. 9:13
In reality; these were all things instigated by God. Adam was asleep when the rib was taken out of him; and likewise was the situation with Abraham when he was in a deep sleep in Genesis 15:12. God was to use men such as Moses to rescue His people; but He was only using the power of God through the rod; for instance to perform miracles; and God of course drew Pharoah's army to a watery grave in the Red Sea.
The same concept involves many of Israel's conquests; angels would often fight supporting men; or fight alone such as the example of Exodus 14:14 and 2 Kings 19:35 against the Assyrians when 185,000 were destroyed by a single angel in a night.
God also draws all those who will come to Him as the Gospel of John and many other scriptures indicate. God has given the Spirit nowadays to permanently reside in a Christian ( Ephesians 1:13). God's eternal plans in the Godhead allowed for Christ's atonement to be efficacious for all who would believe and be "granted repentance" ( Acts 11:18).
In general; there is a set series of events that are going to consume the time period known as "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
The incense of the prayers of the saints which encompass the initial scene in Revelation 5:8 prior to the seal judgments; and Revelation 8:3-4 (in that case before the Trumpet Judgments) show a sort of collective mass of prayers; either reflecting directly the persecutions on the earth at the time; or answering Millennia old prayers of saints long since forgotten by man; but held by God. (see Psalm 56:8).
Because of this; we see a difference in prophetic utterances such as Acts 21:10; and Acts 11:27-28. Such utterances indicate that the choices made (i.e. Paul heading straight to Jerusalem; preparing for a famine) certainly make these things conditional.
In Revelation it is generally structured indicating great events with associated signs and wonders that are already designed and predicted in detail. However; as with anything else there is latitude apparently for the two prophets to cause things as they wish in regard to droughts; etc. ( Rev. 11:6). Undoubtably some details are not straightforward (such as which part of the world the 1/4 die in the seal judgments). Safe to say it ain't going to be a fun time here on planet earth; that's for sure.
Looking at the Second Coming of Christ; no doubt great deception will occur with multitudes of false prophets at the time of the end. Antichrist Himself will basically act as a substitute for Christ; and will be the only man other than Judas Iscariot to be doomed to perdition. ( John 17:12; 2 Thess. 2:3). God will use him to make rulers agree to submit to his authority; as well as destroying the false "Mystery Babylon" which encompasses all the world's false religions sort of rolled into one. ( Revelation 18:17).
There are suspect individuals that certainly match many characteristics of such an individual. More in next post.
We must also understand that there are those predestined to be in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world ( Ephesians 1:3-6). The opposite is true for the unregenerate as seen in Revelation 17:8. Christ's death was therefore part of a plan from before Creation where all those would hear His voice who were His sheep ( John 10:27). We must remember that His death was effective from what happened in time and space 2000 years ago. It also is retroactive; as it were in order to allow those who were of old to eventually in time and space have access to heaven (see Romans 6:9). Therefore; at the Rapture ( 1 Thess. 4:15) shall involve the Resurrection of all souls of deceased saints; followed by bodily ascension of those alive and remaining. There are some verses which seem to indicate O.T. saints may arise later on in say the Midpoint of the Tribulation or near the end; there is some debate on that question. Some already apparently were resurrected ( Matt. 27:52-56). This would have been a gleaning of the firstfruits; so to speak.
My point here is predestination and the fact that God initiates repentance ( Acts 11:18); etc. There is such a thing as godly repentance and worldly ( 2 Cor. 7:10); illustrated by that of Peter and Judas Iscariot. Genuine repentance brings life and brings sorrow at offending a Holy God; worldly sorrow only is interested in consequences of our actions; and in Judas' case he only recognized Christ as having "innocent blood"; not as God's Son to be worshipped.
We have a basic exhortation as a people to be the "head" instead of the "tail" (see Deut. 28:13). As a church; we should be willing to support the brethren especially when we can see trouble coming as we see in Acts 2:45 similar to what was predicted by Agabus in Acts 11:28. Wisdom is something the Lord will give us if we ask ( James 1:5). That may apply currently to extracting finances or money from risky investments or bank accounts to have some on hand; to have emergency food supplies and a generator at hand; precious metals for trade; etc.
Our political leaders are not to be worshipped either (I am leaving names out here). There is enough at fault in both sides of the political spectrum. Whether it is possible at this point for anyone of integrity to lead our nation and for that person to win the party nomination (again no names here) is something I am not placing any bets on. Proverbs 16:18 warns us that pride comes before a fall; and certainly there is enough of that to go around. People hear what they want to hear; but those of the house of the living God will hear His voice ( John 10:27). When we hold on to this life too much; we forget that we are "seated in heavenly places" ( Eph. 2:6). That is a present state; but our future hope in glory is brought forth by natural death or martyrdom. I am convinced that we would never see the harvest of innumerable saints ( Rev. 7:9) if the 5th seal event and later killings of the Antichrist for not taking the Mark were not instituted. Apparently; "tribulum" means a threshing board using in harvest for separation purposes. Satan will be used as God's instrument to finally bring the wheat to fruition in the heat of the fires of that trial ( Rev. 3:10). As for now we should heed to the admonition of the very next verse as rewards can and will be lost for those who don't remain patient and are distracted by things of this world today. May we keep our eyes on Him.
Agape.
On part 1
Jesus knew what was going to happen and much of what He told the disciples was what was going to happen to them, to prepare them for what He just told them when the temple would be destroyed. Does part of this discourse apply to the future? Yes
Matt. 24:5-13 History and the Bible document that there were several men as false Messiahs, false prophets that deceived many and which convinced many and led them to revolt to liberate Jerusalem from Roman occupation. Josephus tells us that impostors drew great multitudes after them into the wilderness, and he mentions an Egyptian prophet. We see this in Acts 21:36-38.
We have Theudas in Acts 5:36 and Judas of Galilee in Acts 5:37-8 and Simon in Acts 8:9-11, and there was more. For us today many come in the name of Jesus saying, Jesus is Christ, but they deceive and make merchandise of people. We must not ignore the first thing He said after they asked Him "Take heed that no man deceive you."
There were many conflicts between the nations around Jerusalem and Rome was having wars that caused famine. Claudius invaded Britain in 46AD, there was a great famine in Syria. Rome took control over the temple along with the sacred treasury and there was a great famine in Jerusalem.
The Jews were having small scrimmages that led to the revolt in 66 AD. We see in the bible a famine was going on, in Acts 11:27-29 in 1 Corinthians 16:1-3 Where Paul was collecting things for those in Jerusalem because they were starving. There were earthquakes in Rome, Pergamum, Laodicea, and Judea in the 50s and 60s.
We see what the Jews did to Peter and John and the first they killed was Steven and then most of them. and what Paul says about what they did in all the synagogues Acts 26:10-11. But enduring to the end the same shall be saved does not mean their flesh life would be saved.
Will cover more, hope I am making sense.
God bless,
RLW
Acts 11:2 Peter, was come up to Jerusalem._._. Acts 11:13, the man in Joppa, sent men to call for Peter, it doesn't seem to mention the name of the man, nor the other men Peter ministered to. Acts 11:17, Peter talking explained the Gentile was also given the Holy Spirit & Salvation, not just Jewish people. Galatians 3:28, Romans 1:16,
Luke 24, Peter was one of the 1st witnesses to see the empty
tomb. Luke 24:12, John 21, Jesus meets with Peter after resurrection again & tells him If you love Me feed My lambs.
Acts 2, shows Peter speak boldly in front of thousands Acts 2:14-47,
Hopefully these are helpful
I like to flip the question and ask why would a Christ-follower not want to follow Christ? Are there any legitimate reasons not to be baptized in water?
Jesus said this:
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." Mark 16:16 KJV
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:" Matthew 28:19 KJV
Some Christians I encounter seem quite satisfied and maybe even relieved on their assumption that they don't need to be immersed in water anymore. But is that really what Jesus said and meant?
"John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost." Acts 11:16 KJV
Baptism with the Holy Ghost doesn't necessarily mean without water. It seems Jesus indicates the baptism before Jesus arrived was not with the Holy Ghost. And it's noteworthy that even though Jesus was now there, He still was baptized in water! It was so important that even Jesus did it Himself as an example to follow. And then they continued baptizing in water after Jesus left. I see no verse anywhere saying for everyone to stop baptizing in water.
Some are motivated to not be baptized for personal reasons, not for reasons of obedience as a Christ-follower. But it doesn't matter what man thinks, but what God says and He already said to be baptized. So, if following Jesus is important to someone I think that following what Jesus says is important.
Other Christians echoed this about water baptism after Jesus left too, like Paul in Acts 2:38.
It would be brazen to ignore such a clear and obvious command. Others seem confident and willing to gamble on this that they're interpreting it correctly. But obeying involves no risk and no downside, but disobeying and seeing how much one can get away with not doing seems risky. No one is claiming that act itself saves, but deliberately disobeying God while also claiming to follow Him seems questionable.
If we change God's word one small sentence and do not get light on the word with the Holy Spirit. Will everything we create becomes confusion. You see today, many issues come up about food. Which is not Divine at all. The apostles did not understand this either when they made a new rule here: The meeting of the Apostles in Jerusalem Acts 15:6-21
Stay close to the word og God, Jesus is there, love u in Christ. Merry Christmas eat all food in Jesus holy name, Amen
What about those who have never heard?
I may have said a lot of this stuff before; hopefully there are a few nuances of difference. The scripture is always the best guide to answering tough questions. We have examples of Abraham called out of Ur of Chaldee; for example who was the father of all those of Monotheistic faith today. He was called in a foreign land; and given a future promise of a Promised Land as well as offspring who would inherit it ( Genesis 17:2 and repeated in Hebrews). He never got to dwell permanently anywhere but was a nomad in the desert and through miraculous means his wife of 90 conceived when he was 100.
When we look at the story of Sodom and Gomorrah; we could say that Abraham was having a sort of contest with God on a similar theme; His preservation of the city if a small number of righteous men lived there; he started with 50 men and ended at 10. This shows a theme which also was repeated with God waiting for a certain period until transgressions were full to judge in Genesis 15:16. Sodom was ripe for judgment as were the Amorites; but in their case it wasn't until four generations later and THAT along with Egypt being judged for their fullness of iniquity that finally bought the descendants to conquer the Promised Land. So God calls out His people wherever they are if they are chosen (predestined) to be His children. He will send angels or whatever means to reach the lost; and we see this happening again in the Book of Revelation. If we seek the God of the Bible then we have to believe His Word on our spiritual condition (as sinners) and we need to have it revealed to us (i.e. granted repentance as shown in Acts 11:18 and elsewhere.
The confession of our mouth and believe in our heart ( Romans 10:19) it is a RESULT of His Spirit working in us to convict of sin; righteousness and judgment to come ( John 16:8-11).
Conversion of course involves interaction and our choice to verbally repent.
And Paul considered himself to be an apostle ( 1 Corinthians 1:1; 2 Corinthians 2:1), though the sense here I think, was that he was numbered with the other apostles yet one born out of due time (i.e. the others were direct witnesses of Jesus, walked with Him & called by Him, whereas Paul's qualification was of his explicit vision & calling to be Jesus' chosen vessel). Since Paul's day, there has been no other apostle, except Barnabas & those others since, who fulfil the apostolic definition of being God's messenger to the unsaved but not of the original 12 + 1.
Acts 11:19-26
Acts 11:1-18
Lord willing; this commentary will be helpful for those who really haven't seen the repeated themes of the unity of the Godhead; and the predetermined "elect" group who are chosen for Christ to be revealed; and who therefore will respond to show saving faith. A major point that I tried to bring up in earlier chapters was that there is always a corresponding interaction going both ways; so that confession of faith and all of man's actions prompted by the Spirit are simultaneous actions. KNOWING us according to Matthew 7:23 is part of saving faith; hence the absence indicates we are tares. Our soul testifies with His Spirit ( Romans 8:16) that we are God's children.
None of the contradicts the necessity of confessing with our mouths and believing in our hearts that Christ is Lord ( Romans 10:9). We are asked to repent; but it is He who grants the gift of repentance ( Romans 2:4) and this also has a group of people in mind (the Jews as a whole who come to faith) in Acts 5:31 and the Gentiles in Acts 11:18. We still our to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5-6). All good fruits therefore come from the source of God; and are evidences of saving faith ( Matt. 7:17). We need to remember that God chastises all He loves ( Hebrews 12:6 etal); and therefore He prunes back so even more fruit is produced ( John 15:1-2). He is doing the work therefore; our WORKS are merely the external evidence that indeed He is working from the inside out. These have been prepared for us from before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 2:10).
The other doctrines such as God's sovereignty; our totally depraved nature; and perseverance of the saints are covered in many scriptures and can be covered in other studies. As far as free will is concerned; God accomplishes His purposes through the vicissitudes of man; and the wiles of Satan and all his minions. To not submit to our Creator is folly ( Psalm 14:1; Psalm 2:2; Rev. 19)
Please see context: Deuteronomy 10:16, Deuteronomy 30:6, even in old testament men have argued their holiness, set apart status, (in the flesh) yet GOD said even then; it's about the heart. Jeremiah 4:4, Jeremiah 9:25, = Romans 2:29, Romans 3:30, Romans 4:11, 1Corinthians 7:18,
Galatians 3:28,
They were still arguing circumcision, not equality in GOD. Acts 11:2, Galatians 2:12,
New= 2Corinthians 5:17,
Hopefully these are helpful
Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur is mentioned in the Bible OT 5X. In Acts 2X. Noticed the importance of this man. He convinced the council to let go the apostles doing their work for God knowing if their work was not from God they will fail anyway. Very smart nan. The next he was mentioned was when Paul is defending himself in Acts 22:3. The point is Gamaliel is a reputable man, whom I think a way to show the reader the legitimacy of the Apostle Paul knowing the law and leading to acknowledging Paul's ignorance about Jesus Christ. Acts 6 mainly is about Stephen against the synagogue of the Libertines. Then Acts 7 is when Stephen gave his greatest testimony and was stoned to death. Acts 7:58 Paul consenting to Stephen's death. Acts 8 talks about the great persecution against the church and the apostles still doing God's work when others scattered abroad. Acts 9 Acts 9:5) was when Jesus appeared to Paul on his way to Damascus. Chapter 10 and 11 is about Peter with Cornelius and his people converted. Very important because Peter was instructed by God to go to the uncircumcised people, whom Peter called common and unclean. Acts 11 is when Peter is already in Jerusalem explaining the same thing happened in c19; and noticed in Acts 11:25 Barnabas left Antioch to Tarsus to seek Saul ( Paul) then went back to Antioch and stayed there for whole year Acts 11:26). Isn't that a big transition? Then Acts 11:27-30 great dearth throughout all the world was told by a Prophet from Jerusalem named Agabus who came to Antioch and Barnabas and Saul were doing some relief work. In Galatians 1:18 Peter and Paul met. Then the rest you know the stories because you read them all. I am just very particular on a lot of detail because I was born Catholic, Bible Reader, and became a Mormon then the Seventh Day Adventist allpleasingfamily. I am done with listening to all religion.after my Mom died. Being an orphan I realized I have only God to rely on my journey here on earth.
If I happened to be that my understanding of the Bible is the same way these people you mentioned, I am actually glad I am not alone. The Book of Acts is an epistle written by Luke who recorded the Acts of the Apostles after Jesus Christ died. Before Jesus Christ died the 12 Apostles spent time with Jesus in His journey on earth from the time He was baptized in water by John the Baptist till He was crucified. So when I read Matthew, Mark , Luke, and John I noticed that most of them repeating the same event that happened, which I think it was very clever. But I noticed Luke would give more information. For example, Matthew 17:4, Mark 9:5, Luke.9:33. but Luke is the only one who wrote "not knowing what he said". I have noticed the pattern that Peter had always been rebuked by Jesus Christ in more than one occasion. So, when I read the Book of Acts Luke recorded the fulfillment of the 12 Apostles receiving the Holy Spirit. What a way to start the chapter with these words Acts 1:1. Then the selection of Mathias as "was numbered by the eleven apostles" Acts 1:26. I thought it was actually brilliant. They prayed and they casted lots. So Mathias was chosen still by man/ men. I pay attention to the detail just my nature as I was doing my own investigative way of studying facts. So chapter 2-4 the apostles continued about their work witnessing who Jesus was, whom they crucified; as well as doing great wonders filled with the Holy Spirit with great power; and a lot of people believed and baptized by water, the way the 12 apostles knew how to be saved. But take note of Acts 1:5, Peter will have a remembrance of this verse when he met with Cornelius and others, the Gentiles in Acts 10 and repeated in chapter 11 ( Acts 10:47; Acts 11:16). Going back to chapter 5 the apostles were in battle with the high priests Sadducees because the apostles ought to follow God. Now there is this man a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law in Acts 5:34. cont
.....And in Acts 11:35 Peter said Then remembered I the Words of our lord..John baptised you with water but i will baptise you with the H.G. and fire ...So Bro. Dan lots of these baptisms are H.G. baptism not water baptism....Ya gotta keep in mind that the CROSS was a new covenant in his blood....Much more precious then water baptism...
......John the bap...who gave us water baptism was preaching Behold the lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world...Not water baptism...Jesus had no sin whatsoever but to fulfill the law he had to be water baptised...Thats y the Dove descended on Jesus....According to the law of Moses 2 turtle doves had to be washed by running water....And 1 of the turtles doves had to be killed and his blood sprinkled on the living bird which is the Church....Tis was the law of moses for Sin or leprosy...Turtles doves are lovers for life which is symbolic of Christ and the Church....Husbands love you wives as Christ loved the Church and gave his life for it...ok lemme go