Discuss John 16


John 16 KJV Bible discussions
 
  • Richard H Priday - 1 day ago
    Ezekiel 18:25-28 states:

    25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal?

    26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.

    27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.

    28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.

    These verses at first glance seem to contradict the idea of the Grace of God. A basic argument that holds some water here is that the Spirit of God didn't work at it does today ( John 16:8) with a permanent indwelling as this and other verses promise.

    We could also look at such instances as King Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20:6 who apparently had a righteous life and God heard his prayer to continue 15 more years. One good study is with Saul's foolishness which ended with an early death after he saught wisdom from the witch of Endor in 1 Samuel 28. We see other wicked kings as well have a shortened life; perhaps also Solomon. Of course we all die physically; and some would argue the soul dies also only the spirit goes on to eternity. I would add the solution is in verse 31 of Ezekiel 18 which mentions getting a new heart and spirit. This only comes through the Lord ( Ezekiel 36:26-27). Without this we can superficially ask forgiveness every time an outward sin is found; but this doesn't make us able to do good because of man's sin nature; and ignores sins of omission as well as one's we aren't aware of. It also shows how we shouldn't boast how long we haven't sinned as some foolishly proclaim; ignoring warnings in 1 John about the fact that we are a liar if we claim we have no sin. God's children are corrected even through their sin in the sanctification process.
  • Richard H Priday - 1 week ago
    Romans 2:9 states: There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile..

    (NIV); but says tribulation and anguish in the KJV. There is another verse stating that judgment begins at the house of God. ( 1 Peter 4:17).

    Just as not all Israel is Israel ( Romans 9:6); not all the "professing" church is the possessing church; that is possessing the Holy Spirit and true salvation. Jesus made that perfectly clear to those who thought because they were the physical descendants of Abraham that gave them some sort of benefit were sadly mistaken ( John 8:39-44). Those who had seen Christ; knew the prophecies about the Messiah and yet rejected Him would in fact be worse off than Sodom and Gomorrah in their punishment. ( Matt. 11:21-24). We see similar warnings for those who have knowledge of the truth and become reprobate; in that it would be better not to have known it in the first place ( 2 Peter 2:21).

    Testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith is sadly lacking today among professing believers; or we would see a reality check in the fruits of many lives. ( 2 Corinthians 13:5). We can glibly see this example as a carnal bunch of people and think that being steeped in our own religious training or theology that we are automatically exempt from this test. I have said before that there are dangers in any extreme that is lacking the balancing attribute; such as with loving people and warning them of judgment to come ( John 16:8). We see in the Ephesian church everything being done properly but their first love somehow becoming distant in their hearts. Look at 1 Corinthians 13:6; love rejoices in the truth. The basic fact that man's heart is desperately wicked ( Jeremiah 17:9) and that our sin makes us enemies of God ( James 4:4) means that there is a wall between opposing parties and yes God is angry with the wicked (i.e. us) every day. ( Psalm 7:11). Having our heads in the sand doesn't help anyone.
  • Richard H Priday - 1 month ago
    Witnessing today in today's culture: Introduction

    Today people are often identified by their political affiliation or the community that they identify as "politically correct". In reality this often makes a particular sin the sum of their identity (such as those in the pro choice or same sex attraction crowd.) We don't see such titles given for individuals committing such activities in scripture; where infanticide was performed by those who would identify as idol worshippers (Molech worshippers for example); or sodomites would often be classified by their social status as to who was the perpetrator and who was the victim of such atrocities in the time of Christ. 1 Kings 14:24 talks in general about sodomites and the abominations that they were involved with; and it seems that they did live in the same area as we see with the story of Sodom and Gomorrah thousands of years before Christ.

    We need to take heart; as we see in the story of Jonah that even the most wicked people can repent. Today it seems mainly with individuals who are "detransitioning" for instance that the Lord indeed can change people; and when we see legislation against preaching such truths those who used to live that lifestyle of course are most affected. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 identifies those now sanctified as believers who used to live sinful lifestyles. While it is true that there are particular sins; such as shedding of innocent blood that God particularly hates ( Proverbs 6:16-19); all sin leads to death. Clearly at this point the world doesn't celebrate someone who identifies themselves as a thief; extortioner; murderer and some other things but we should expect that it will once we get to the Tribulation or perhaps sooner when "anyone who kills you will think that they are doing God a favor." ( John 16:2).

    We need also to get beyond the stereotypes the world is giving us of those in the LGBTQ+. Some are conservatives and some liberal politically for instance. More later.
  • Oseas - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Bennymkje

    The Holy Spirit-the God of the earth-Re.11:4-take a look,he does not confound himself with what He Himself speaks and writes, with the things the spirit that is in man also speaks and writes, according the spirit of man that is in him,it means, in the mind or heart of man.Heb.4:12-13 reveal how he discerns thoughts and intents of the heart(of man). What does the Word of GOD say? John 3:31-34:

    31 He that come from above is above all(the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth sent by JESUS who proceede from the Father- John 15:26 combined with John 16:12-15.Take a look):he that is of the earth is earthly,and speaks of the earth.He that comes from heaven is above all.

    32And what he has seen and heard,that(only that)he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.

    33He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that GOD is true.

    34For he whom GOD has sent speaks the words of GOD:for GOD gives not the Spirit by measure unto him.

    That said,who will believe in the messenger sent here by JESUS from the part of the Father-Joo 15:26-, to announce the everlasting gospel,unto them that dwell on the earth,and to every nation,and kindred,and tongue,and people?(Re.14:6 combined with Re.11:15-18,and 1Thes.4:16,and Daniel 12:1-3,and Luke 18:8, and 21:24,and Re.11:2.Take a look)

    What is the message of the everlasting Gospel?The angel MUST walks in the midst of heaven(heaven?Eph.1:3-8),having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation,and kindred,and tongue,and people,SAYING: Re.14:7, with a loud voice,Fear GOD,and give glory to Him;for the hour of His Judgment is come(the righteous Judgment of GOD, the Judgment Seat of of Christ):and saying:worship Him that made heaven(next heaven, the 3rd- Luke 20:35-36),and earth(Israel-the true Israelites saved and sealed-Re.7:1-8:),and the sea(Gentile nations-peoples,and nations,and multitudes of all tongues)and the fountains of waters(the Holy Scriptures- John 7:38.Take a look.
  • Bennymkje - 1 month ago
    Re.3:7-8 "Open door"

    "I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door,"

    Here Jesus spells out to the church at Philadelphia what he means by works. Jesus in his majesty refers to the word of my patience. One we can speak with authority. He is shown having the key of David. It is a hint to the church his message is as the king of kings so the temporal powers cannot prevail upon them. "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."( John 16:33).Persecution of the church from the Jewish brethren (synagogue of Satan), as as from the Imperial Rome must be set in context of his words of comfort. Jesus addresses them of an open door set before them. It is open and in the context of his assertion,"I am the way" we can rest assured that the door shall never be closed since it is according to the Scriptures. His usage, "Behold" also helps us understand he is the Word become flesh and he is now speaking as the overcomer. What he has opened no power on earth shall close it. He is the Savior of the world.

    "Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth."

    While speaking of patience we have another word of comfort, "In your patience possess ye your souls."( Luke 21:19) Of what worth is your soul and what does the earthly tabernacle signify for you are pendent upon patience which as made manifest in Jesus Christ. It is part of works while you are dead in Christ and abide in him. This is Christian Living. There is no cultural osmosis with the world required. It is a simple question whether one takes the open door. "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture./The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life."
  • Oseas - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Chris, my belief regarding JESUS sat at the right hand of the Father, it is not by your very poor testimony of Him, but by the Word of GOD, the Word is GOD Himself, GOD the Father, understand? Hebrews 1:1-3 among other biblical references.Take a look. The testimony of the Word -the Word is GOD - it is greater than yours, understand? Or isn't it?

    You called God "(Theos); Father (Patter;Abba-more intimate); Lord(Kurios), well, by the Word of GOD, the Word is GOD, you are saying nothing, your testimony about GOD in your post is irrelevant, insignificant, it was not by the Spirit of Christ, and it was not by the Spirit of Truth and John 16:12-15 confirm / endorse what I am just saying. Unfortunately you keep snaking in devilish doctrines and tares sowed by the Wicked one. --> By the way, "It is GOD that sitteth upon the circle of the Earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers- Isaiah 40:22. Indeed, this revelation which GOD did give to Isaiah explains or suggests why there is not Life in whole Universe except in the Earth, I mean out of the Earth there is not in whole Universe the variety of Life that there is in the Earth, because GOD is sat upon the circle of the Earth.

    To finish, you have cited in your posts the NAME of GOD as being the esoteric, and kabbalistic, and spiritist JEHOVAH, YAHWEH, YHWH, ADONAI, EL SHADAI, HaSHEM, so I quoted John 17:6 where my Lord JESUS in His prayer said to the Father that He had MANIFESTED His NAME to the MEN that He, GOD the Father, had given to Him, So I asked UNTO you: What is the GOD's NAME my Lord JESUS MANIFESTED to the men?

    Now, now, from your knowledge you said here the names mentioned above are NAMES of GOD, so I wanted to know which of these NAMES of GOD my Lord JESUS would have manifested to the men? The question is mine, not yours, I'm waiting you response.

    Be careful or else get ready
  • Chris - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Page 1.

    It is true Ronald, that most of those Scriptures you've cited certainly show that there is only One God & none else. I can wholeheartedly agree with that belief, that we together share in.

    You also mentioned the Holy Spirit. Without introducing the Holy Spirit into this thread but for the sake of comparison & meditation, I'm sure you wouldn't deny that God sent out His Spirit to accomplish His Work in the World & in hearts ( John 16:7-11, & others). How can God send out His Spirit, & yet be Who He is, without being grossly deficient in His Being? Is God now Spirit-less since the Holy Spirit has been sent into the World & how can the Spirit also be dissected into millions of 'parts' (Spirits), filling each true believer with Himself, i.e. with God's Presence in them? Likewise, if God can do so with His Spirit & still be Spirit Himself, & this is a mystery to us, can He not also do so with His Word? Does this leave God devoid of knowledge, speech or thought, because He sent out His Word first by the prophets, then in & through His Son? ( Hebrews 1:1-3). The difference here now is, this Word was not just a spoken Word, but the "Word was made flesh". We couldn't say this, nor have read that any prophet of the OT, having received the Word, was made flesh.

    With the many Scriptures that have already been given, I find it very reasonable to believe that this Word was treated just as God did with His Spirit. God sent out His Word in the olden days via His prophets, but the time had come when His Word would be sent out in His Son. If all we had was the account in Matthew 1:20-25 that Mary gave birth to a special Son, from the Holy Seed of God, then yes, this appearance of this One called Emmanuel & Jesus, was indeed a fresh creation by God to bring out His Word, not just in speech form, but in demonstration of the Holiness of God, His Power, His Love, & ultimately, His Sacrifice. Onto Page 2.
  • Oseas - 1 month ago
    Our Lord JESUS always said in advance what would go to happen to Him. For example Matthew 16:21: ->From that time forth began JESUS to shew unto His disciples, how that He must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.

    Well, by the same Spirit of our Lord JESUS, we can say that each passing day His people, the believers, get closer to the beginning of the last seven years of the Devil's world- Matthew 24:15-25, and will also enter within the worst of evil environments, created and established by the Devil in whole Earth.

    Get ready, yeah, get ready

    Re.2:25-29

    25 But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.

    26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:

    27 And he shall rule them with a ROD of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.

    28 And I will give him the morning star.

    29 He that hath an ear, let him HEAR what the Spirit saith unto the churches.



    Re.9:1-3 & 6 & 11-12

    1 And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit.

    2 And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.

    3 And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.

    6 And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them.

    11 And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon.

    12 One WOE is past; and, behold, there come TWO WOES woes more hereafter. --> John 16:12-15
  • Chris - In Reply - 2 months ago
    Page 3.

    Your second question: "If Jesus was preexisting, an immortal being, God the son. How can an immortal being die?" There are varying beliefs about Jesus' position in Heaven prior to His incarnation. I rather simply accept John 1:1-18, John 14:10,11, John 16:27,28, 1 John 5:7, that Jesus came forth from God. Did He come out as a Divine Being in the presence of God, to be made a human for the sake of death, or did God take His Own Word & give Him flesh for this very purpose? We don't have a problem of God sending out His Spirit & the Spirit's indwelling in every believer (can He even be dissected?), but to send His Word out, clothe Him in a body, unnerves many.

    "How can an immortal being die? How can God be tempted...How can God die?" God is Spirit - He is Immortal - He can never die. No one, having a spirit from God, can die - the body will perish, but who can destroy the spirit which cannot be touched by age or man's devices? But if the immortal is given a body, as Jesus received, or even as we also have to house our spirits, then the body will die but the spirit lives on. Can God take on flesh? A mystery no human can fully fathom, but truly "a body hast thou prepared me" ( Hebrews 10:5-7, taken from Psalm 40:6-8). So Jesus could be tempted & could die whilst in the body, and so in His complete identification with sinful men in need of salvation, Philippians 2:6-8 reminds us:

    "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." "thought it not robbery" = Jesus didn't grasp onto/retain His equality with God, but 'emptied Himself' ('ekenosen'), laying aside His Glory, to become a Man, obedient to death that which was the Father's Plan.
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply - 2 months ago
    Hi Giannis,

    Good to hear from you, very good question. First, the Roman Church elevated Mary to the queen of heaven the same title as Tammuz's mother we see Israel worshiping. They say she ascended to heaven and much more. If we look at Acts we see Paul said that David is still in his tomb and has not ascended to heaven, Acts 2:29 and Acts 2:34. Many believe after Jesus was resurrected saints were also resurrected and are in heaven and many pray to them. My understanding is no one has been resurrected all are in the grave asleep in death.

    When God through His Spirit the Holy Spirit raised Jesus from the dead He placed Jesus above all that is in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, Philippians 2:9-11. God placed Jesus on His right hand on the throne of God, therefore giving Jesus the power of the throne.

    John 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Jesus also said John 16:23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.

    God the Father and Jesus will dwell in us by the Spirit, not in temples made by hands like Jesus said in John 4:21-23 and we see in 1 Corinthians 3:16. We see in 1 John 4:12-16 it is by the Spirit that Jesus who is sitting on the right side of God on the throne of God as the only mediator between us and God has been given the power of the throne until all enemies are under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:27-28.

    My humble understanding it is by the Spirit of God/Holy Spirit that Jesus can see and hear all. Jesus is the only begotten Son of God and His God is our God the Father as Jesus said to Mary John 20:17.

    God bless,

    RLW
  • Chris - In Reply - 2 months ago
    Hello Adam. I consider your question through two separate perspectives: one, before the incarnation of the Word of God and the other, after it. From my readings of the whole Word of God, I don't believe that the writers of the OT nor their hearers would have understood any other concept or acceptance of the God's Nature other than 'He is One & there is none beside Him' (e.g. Isaiah 45:5.6).

    Even the "Shema Yisrael" ( Deuteronomy 6:4,5) is Israel's central belief & affirmation on the singularity of God's Person, & any suggestion of a 'compound' Nature of God would be anathema. Also Isaiah 53:1-12 and Isaiah 9:6,7 references to a coming Messiah, which should clearly reveal the Divine Nature of a Coming One, is discarded by them, then & now. So, anything of a Triune God must be rejected by the Jew, & only the operation of God by His Spirit (i.e. God revealing Himself & working before them) should be acceptable to them (e.g. Psalm 51:10,11; Isaiah 11:2; & many others). As believers though, we can see the Triune God in operation in the whole Bible, but Israel is blinded to this Truth & their hearts hardened.

    When Jesus came & spoke (e.g. John 16:27,28; John 17:5), He declared His Divine Nature, that which was not revealed before. So your reference ( Matthew 22:32), speaks primarily of the One Nature of God; but to those who believe, having received salvation through Jesus Christ, know that the God of Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob was always the Triune God, Who would one day manifest Himself fully to a needy world: God's Word first by the prophets, now given through His Word made flesh ( Hebrews 1:1-3) . What Israel knew of the One God then, should have revealed the full Nature of a Triune God at the appearance of their Messiah. But their eyes were blinded & hearts hardened. Therefore, as Christians, I believe that we should see God (in the OT & NT) as a Triune God, manifesting Himself also as His Word and His Spirit going forth to accomplish His Will over His creation.
  • Bennymkje - 2 months ago
    Re.2:17 "A new name" (2 of 2)

    To quote 'we are looking at the name from the standpoint of God. He named the heaven, the earth and so on. So holiness of God as testified by his Son reflects on the name he acquired above every other name.' In the Book of Genesis' after making Adam a living soul God brings his creation to Adam. "And whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof."(Ge.2:19) As mentioned earlier the Spirit presents from the standpoint of the Father and the last book is about the fulfillment of the will of his Father. He is in his majesty and he promises the churches as an overcomer.

    Jesus Christ was the Word become flesh and he overcame the world."In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."( John 16:33). So holiness of God, "Be ye holy for I am holy" is the characteristic of the holiness where his grace and truth rounds off each one. The name of the Father is written on His servants. The first fruits, " having his Father's name written in their foreheads.: have their new song. What Jesus Christ promised is the seal of righteousness like the amulet, "Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death;"(The Song 8:6; Re.14:1-3)

    Genesis began with, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." and the same after Jesus Christ has fulfilled the divine Will is seen from the POV of the church. "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth." It is not God but John is recording it.
  • Bennymkje - 2 months ago
    "Disciple" (1 of 2)

    Jesus chose 12 disciples to indicate his ministry was of the Servant-King, as Son to his heavenly father.(See under N-numbers, command)

    Principle of Association established a new order where it was enough that a servant was an associate as his master "It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord".(Matt.10:25;40)

    (See under S- servant)

    Discipleship is a loaded word. It is not simply delivering doctrine of God to the world as heard of him. As associates of Jesus Christ it was the Life, which as Jesus declared was his logos aspect. Not only the Word but of the Son. One sign of their adequacy came when they could enter into the heart of the parables." His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb. Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God."( John 16:29-33) Their growth was begun when they stayed on trusting. "Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.( John 6:67-68)

    Jesus declared that his doctrine was not of his own but that of his Father. He established the cardinal principle of discipleship: Man is the massage. Jesus set an example and he promised a double portion because he was going to his father.

    "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father."( John 14:12)

    (See under D-double )
  • Bennymkje - In Reply - 2 months ago
    Hi Giannis,

    We had this point earlier also discussed in this forum. Macheira in Greek is knife and in the context of the account as set down by the Spirit it was not everyday life he is placing emphasis as with an eye towards their calling. "I have overcome the world"( John 16:33) is a direct statement from Jesus. So it is appropriate to take it as sword, a ceremonial one at that. With joy and peace,
  • Richard H Priday - 3 months ago
    The good soil vs bad

    Jeremiah 17:8 along with Psalm 1 bring out the benefits of a tree whose roots are planted near the water. This steadfast faith in the Lord is contrasted in the next verse which describes the vicissitudes of the heart of unregenerate man. These vital concepts describe the state of a soul; who needs to be vigilant to bearing fruit and testing themselves to see if they are in the faith is a necessary prerequisite ( 2 Cor. 13:5). Those who do not bear fruit are cut off and burned; a figurative statement describing a very real state of the lost at Judgment Day (see John 15:2).

    Surely all flesh is as grass ( 1 Peter 1:24) and like a vapor this life soon passes away ( James 4:14). Eternity is in men's hearts showing that indeed the nature of man is for their spirit to live forever after the body and soul perish ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). This means their legacy is either eternal glory and recognition of those things done while living for the Lord; or eternal damnation for the lack thereof. (see Matthew 25:34 and associated verses).

    There is some hope for us who still are producing works of wood; hay and stubble ( 2 Tim. 2:21-23) to change to better works if we have a foundation in Christ ( 1 Cor. 3:11). This results in varying degrees or levels in the harvest and subsequent reward for those who are saved (see also Mark 4:20).

    Those in the flesh and not Born Again can only interpret what they see around them in the world (the actions of others who serve as their peers and interpreted through their own understanding). God alone as I see it through predestination determines who will be saved. On our end it takes a fair evaluation of who we really are as compared to a righteous God which then leads to godly sorrow and repentance (which is indeed a gift from God as about half a dozen scriptures indicate). John 16:8 must enlighten us to our desperate plight that SHOULD be aided by proper evangelism appealing for individuals to repent.
  • Richard H Priday - 3 months ago
    Coming to Christ.

    I had an interesting discussion with a friend of mine who is a young Pastor last week. In it; he was lamenting an individual who claimed that Christ died for him (or her). This was because the evidence of it through this person's behavior would indicate otherwise. It is indeed true and necessary that we all have a personal understanding and experience in regard to salvific faith and repentance granted in regard to being one of God's elect if indeed we are saved. Clearly "accepting" Christ as Lord isn't really doing anything beyond what demons do and shudder ( James 2:19). Confession with the mouth and belief in the heart must coexist ( Romans 10:9-10); it is more than just a verbal declaration of facts. Nonetheless there should be some understanding of the atonement; as well as evidence that the heart has been changed with the spirit convicting of sin; righteousness and judgment to come ( John 16:8). As the Lord states "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh" ( Matt. 12:34 and other related verses in New and Old Testament). What John 3:16 is indicating is a state of belief; not merely a one time thing (as translated correctly). Enduring to the end shows that it isn't our own strength which brings about this result; since we all struggle with sin as long as we live ( 1 John 1:8). Nonetheless we have the capacity to live a life of Holiness; since greater is He within us than he who is in the world ( 1 John 4:4).

    There are variations of strengths and weaknesses that we all have; some are steeped in doctrines but rather cold in affection towards God; others seem to be caught up in experiences at the expense of wisdom from the Word; and often they seem to have little grasp of repentance or deem it not worthy in very much discussion. There is ample substance in the Word for the Spirit to enlighten us; and any personal vision or dream must be subject to the Word; if in variance then it must be discarded.



    MORE TO COME
  • Richard H Priday - 3 months ago
    Isaiah 30:10 warns about people wanting to hear "smooth things" being prophesied. Such may be the case for those who wish to invoke blessings on themselves for any other reasons than scripturally backed statements. Galations 5:19-21 is one of about ONE HUNDRED verses warning us about those who do NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. This is something also found in Ephesians 5:5; the book of 1 Corinthians; Hebrews; Romans; Revelation AND the Gospels.

    To remind God of blessings promised in the Scriptures; if done in the correct way is honoring to God. Without discernment; however we may not be aware of what this means; and also if we are living in a sinful lifestyle we are trying to deliberately ask for something we cannot have as long as we refuse to submit to the Lord and we are producing bad fruit.

    The church much like Israel has certain CONDITIONAL as well as unconditional promises. The POSSESSING church (that is those who have the Holy Spirit and are truly saved) is and always will be a subset in this age of the confessing or professing body of believers (i.e. the church). The difference is there are some who believe in the true God and others in a God of their own imaginations; fitting the parameters that a person finds reasonable; or comfortable living with by mentally cherry picking what appeals from the Word and filing the unpleasant verses somewhere in the cobwebs in the back of their mind.

    God is no respecter of persons ( Acts 10:34 also Romans 2). He does whatever He chooses and we know for certain that He desires glory for Himself and no other. (See Isaiah 42:8). John 16:10 shows how God seeks glory for the Son; therefore His desire for worship is never selfish as He always does the Father's will. This is selfless love and shows an example of how we are to live. If we thank God for things in our lives that bring us into sin such as excess money for greedy gain ( Titus 1:11); we are only heaping greater condemnation on ourselves.
  • Richard H Priday - In Reply - 4 months ago
    I would respectively disagree here; as filthy garments vs unspotted and unwrinkled ones (see Eph. 5:27). We are responsible as believers who; upon salvation would receive white; clean garments to maintain them. This is what differentiates us from the O.T. as you brought out; now we have Christ's righteousness available to us through the Spirit; but we can allow ourselves to become tarnished from the world; flesh and the Devil. Dying to self now involves daily discipline and perseverance through trials; and for some martyrdom.

    Revelation 5 I believe is symbolic of believers that need to purify themselves through martyrdom. Whether these are believers who are lukewarm and left behind certainly seems plausible to me. If it is new believers; it shows that the only real way to bear fruit at that time is through death; unlike now when we have the opportunity to do so through functions we practice largely in the corporate Body but not exclusively. There simply will not be room for compromise; and at that time as the book of Daniel indicates the saints will be overcome; unlike now when the gates of hell will NOT prevail against the church. This will be at the time when ALL nations will hate us; and kill us thinking they are doing God a favor ( John 16:2). This as I see it is likely with the Apostate church who will be the only organized religion after the Rapture; and likely this is a separate event from the martyrs who refuse the Mark of the Beast later on; after Satan goes after all the false AND true religion to get all the glory for himself; thus overthrowing the "Mystery Babylon" system.

    I will agree that fear and spiritual oppression are what really cause defeat; many times fear of death and persecution. Yet it is true freedom and release and nothing to fear to die in Christ once we pass this earthly existance. Some; I feel are hidden and God will use the Tribulation to violently sift the wheat so to speak to bear fruit (Tribulum concept)
  • Chris - In Reply - 4 months ago
    Page 1.

    Thank you Valmar. To respond & also I'm in agreement with you, No, the Triune God never changes - as well as His requirement of faith to please Him & be acceptable to Him. The OT folk were accepted by God because of their faith in Him for Who He was (as revealed to them) & they were confident that He would fulfill all that He had promised to them. Those who died in their sins were the disobedient & faithless & could never please Him & suffered under His Hand. So, the essential requirement was Faith & when the Law & Commandments came to them, they were to obey fully in their strength, looking unto their Maker only.

    So, what changed with the coming of Jesus Christ? Faith was still the requirement ( Hebrews 11:6), but it was no longer a human faith, based on human works, to be acceptable to God. The OT faithful (looking forward) would have their sins paid for at Calvary, just as those who would believe from Israel & Gentiles post-Calvary. But now, we don't receive a set of rules to follow to please God - we don't muster up (our) faith to be acceptable - and we contribute nothing in works (sacrifices, feasts, sabbaths, washings, etc.) towards our salvation.

    For this reason, I sought your thoughts on the work of the Holy Spirit, He Who was sent by Jesus ( John 15:26; John 16:7; Galatians 4:6), a Spirit that the OT faithful never received for the renewing & enlivening of their hearts - only at Pentecost such a mighty Work of God took place. God indeed has not changed, but the Cross has changed how man stands before God. To Page 2.
  • Chris - In Reply - 4 months ago
    Page 1.

    Hi Valmar. Thanks for addressing my question & I do agree with you on the incomprehensible Work of the Spirit in giving healing, exhortation, etc. What I was looking for pertains to your subject, viz. a believer's eternal security. And also to a comment you made, "the ability to lose one's salvation rests completely with that individual".

    The way I understand the Scriptures, is that if we have the ability, or power, to lose/relinquish our salvation, then it presents questions not only to the Spirit's Work in saving a lost soul, but also the power we have to over-ride what the Spirit has done in our lives. Clearly, you believe that a saved sinner can either choose to depart Christ or to remain faithful to Him. My question then is: is it in the new spiritual make-up of the one now found 'in Christ' to ever desire to leave the One Who has delivered Him from so great a penalty & given him a new life with peace, joy & hope? Here, I'm not referring to a saved soul who through negligence or appeal of the flesh or Satan, strays & toys with the world. I'm confident if that soul is saved, then the Spirit will not let him go; and Momsage shared an apt testimony of this very work of God in her & her husband.

    So to my question, I believe the more relevant Work of the Holy Spirit in one's life is that: He Convicts man of his sin ( John 16:8-11); He Regenerates, or gives re-birth to the penitent sinner ( John 3:3-7, Titus 3:5, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 John 2:29); He Indwells ( 1 Corinthians 6:19, Romans 5:5, John 14:16); He Baptizes ( 1 Corinthians 12:13, Ephesians 4:5); and He Seals ( 2 Corinthians 1:22, Ephesians 1:13, Ephesians 4:30). I'm sure you're conversant with these Scriptures, showing that salvation & securing is all of God, without any contribution from man. To Page 2.
  • Jordyn - In Reply - 4 months ago
    Brother S Spencer:

    Romans 6:23 The wages of "SIN" is death .....

    John 1:29 ..... Behold the Lamb of God, which takes away the "SIN" of the world ..... this sin is singular .....

    I agree this "SIN" is a single sin.

    Then you said: This speaks of the penalty of sin.

    I disagree: the Lamb takes away this single "SIN" not the penalty of this single "SIN" and if this single "SIN" is not purged out of US: the PENALTY STANDS

    This is the ONLY "SIN" not covered by the Lamb's blood.

    God's word tells us what this single "SIN" is.

    You have quoted this in other comments.

    John 16:8 And when he is come he will reprove the world of "SIN"

    This is the same single "SIN" and same world of John 1:29

    This is the same single "SIN" that keep the children of Israel from entering the promised land, the PENALTY: they DIED in the wilderness.

    John 16:9 Of "SIN" because they BELIEVE NOT ......

    And what purges this "SIN"

    Proverbs 16:6 By TRUTH and MERCY iniquity is PURGED.

    Christ is the spirit of TRUTH, and when he IS COME he will reprove the world of UNBELIEF.

    Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins (plural) of many and unto them who look for him shall he appear the second time without "SIN" (singular)(unbelief) unto salvation.

    God BLESS YOU!
  • Chris - In Reply on John 13 - 4 months ago
    Hi Jess L. If I might add a little to what others have shared with you, including those Scriptures for you to consider, I would include a very important chapter (John chapter 17), as Jesus' great & special prayer to His Father just prior to the events leading to His arrest & crucifixion.

    The ministry of Jesus on Earth was now completed, only the final work of redemption lay before Him. But Jesus says something interesting to His Father: "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee" (v1), and then further adds, "O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was" (v5). To glorify means 'to bestow honor; to magnify someone's worth'. When Jesus sought His Father's glory of Himself at this point, it was what remained before Him: the culmination of His Ministry to His disciples & others & the laying down of His Life for them. To many, Jesus' death meant failure, a riddance of a thorn in their flesh, an inability to accomplish what He had promised. But He knew that He did not come to meet the whims & fancies of men, but to bring sinners into the love & fold of God ( John 10:15,16). Men would hate & reject Him, but His Father's Plan for man's redemption would be fully accomplished & in this act of sacrifice & love, both the Father & Son would be glorified & Jesus' time of glorification had arrived - not by pomp & ceremony but by sacrificial Love.

    But such love was nothing new, for God is the embodiment of Love, Mercy, Grace, & Truth. But when Jesus came to Earth, that Glory was hidden from men, that only God would be glorified in the Face of Jesus ( 2 Corinthians 4:6). But now the Glory of Jesus would also be seen by those who believe - and this Glory that was once hidden would be returned to Him - as He said, "with the glory which I had with thee before the world was". Jesus, God's Word, was within God's Person, for He 'came out from God & came forth from the Father' ( John 16:27,28).
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply on Matthew 24 - 5 months ago
    Hi Jaell,

    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
  • Jordyn - In Reply - 5 months ago
    Jajaz458:

    I takes the whole word of God to understand any part of the word.

    Romans 7

    It takes other truths in God's to understand Romans 7.

    If ones does not believe other truths in the word then he want understand Romans 7.

    One truth that always has to be applied to any scriptures we study in the word IS:

    Hebrews 4:3 .... the WORKS were finished from the foundation of the world ......

    Revelation 13:8 ... the LIFE of the Lamb, slain from the foundation of the world .....

    Matthew 25:34 ..... the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world .....

    Matthew 13:35 .... things which have been keep secret from the foundation of the world ....

    So, all this, the WORKS being done before the foundation, we come to this truth:

    Hebrews 4:2 ... unto them was the GOSPEL PREACHED, as well as UNTO US ...

    One of the truths of the gospel is your sins are forgiven, therefore their sins were forgiven from the foundation of the world.

    The prophets declared this to them as well as us:

    Psalms 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our SINS from us.

    They didn't BELIEVE, as most today don't BELIEVE these words of God, God has not seen our sins from the foundation of the world.

    So, what is this SIN that kept THEM and KEEPS us from God: his word tells us:

    Hebrews 3:19 So we see that they could not enter in because of UNBELIEF.

    So, what's God's solution for UNBELIEF and the mystery keep secret from the foundation of the world.

    The SPIRIT of TRUTH, pour out on man at pentecost.

    John 16:8 When he is come, he will REPROVE the world of SIN ....

    John 16:9 .....of SIN, because they BELIEVE NOT ......

    You can believe in God, and yet, NOT BELIEVE his words.

    1 Peter 1:23 You are BORN AGAIN, by the WORDS of God ....

    I'm out of characters.

    Meditate on these truths and we will continue on to Romans 7.

    God BLESS YOU!

    John

    John
  • Oseas - In Reply - 6 months ago
    Hello Jesse

    Greetings in Christ JESUS

    Unfortunately the translation has caused centuries of a great confusion about the identification of the Holy Spirit who is not a "ghost" or "Ghost", but a person, and as a person he is the lesser among the three- John 15:26 combined with John 16:12-15.

    I must say that the person of Holy Spirit does not accept being called by this undesirable, unpleasant, inconvenient nickname, in fact such translation sounds as a mockery, it's terrible, very terrible.

    Hope that GOD forgives the author(s) of such translation that has caused great and secular confusion for centuries, I should believe that this was not the translators' intention, of course.

    This specific trnslation was/ is not good. Times ago I had a short debate about it in the site denominated "purebible".

    God bless
  • Oseas - In Reply - 6 months ago
    Giannis

    TKL said he "knows the reference "Holy Ghost" did not exist in the OT" .

    1John 5:7-There are three that bear record in heaven,the Father,the Word,and the Holy Spirit(who is not a ghost as is written in English language,but a Person):and these three are One.

    Actually the Holy Spirit as a person is very similar to the Son of man,my Lord JESUS,but he has no light of his own as JESUS has,he has not message of his own,as JESUS had and has,and he as a person is very unknown because he has no genealogy as JESUS has,he has a written name,it is quite true,but his name is unknown,no man knows the name of the person of the Holy Spirit,despite being written,and being he SIMILAR to the Son of man-JESUS.In other words,BY ANALOGY,JESUS is the Sun,the Sun of Righteousness,JESUS is the Greater Light,the Greater Luminary,but the person of the Holy Spirit has no light of his own,he is the Lesser Luminary,as the moon is in the Solar system,the moon has not his own light,its light is from the Sun,is the reflection of Solar light.

    That said,the light that the person of the Holy Spirit reflects is not from Himself,no,it is not,absolutely not,in fact he reflects the Light that he receives from JESUS,as the moon receives the Light from the Sun. I say this by the Word of the Father,by the Word of my GOD, the Father, as JESUS said: John 16:12-15 &15:26

    12 I still have much to say to you, but you cannot bear it now.

    13But when that Spirit of truth comes,he will guide you into all truth, for HE WILL NOT SPEAK OF HIMSELF,but he will speak whatever he hears and he will declare to you what is to come

    14He will glorify me,for he will receive what is mine and declare it to you.

    15All that the Father has is mine;therefore he told you that (HE)WILL RECEIVE WHAT IS MINE and will declare it to you.

    The Person of the Holy Spirit is not a"Ghost" as is written in English language,the Person of the Holy Spirit is one of the three DISTINCTS Persons in GOD the Father,in the Word, the Word is GOD.
  • Jordyn - In Reply - 6 months ago
    Brother Richard:

    Christ has already come the second time, as a thief in the night, you don't see the thief?

    Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was once offered for the SINS of many, and to those who look for him he shall APPEAR THE SECOND TIME without SIN unto SALVATION.

    John 16:7 For I tell you the truth, it is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter WILL NOT COME unto you, but if I depart, I will sent him to you.

    John 15:26 ....but when the Comforter IS COME ....... even the SPIRIT of TRUTH ..... he will testify of me ......

    Colossians 1:27 ..... this mystery ..... Christ ON YOU ......

    God Bless YOU!
  • Bennymkje - 6 months ago
    Ze.13:1

    "A Fountain for Sin"

    "In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness."

    This fountain is opened from heaven and it is also specific to Israel. We shall find out why it must be so. There is only one measure in heaven and earth which is that of Jesus Christ. He is the Mediator whose ministry of Reconciliation set up the House for Prayer for all nations, "according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel."(Re.21:17). He is the Man component in the Fellowship of God with Man. Whoever is redeemed from the earth has this certainty.(2 Co.5:1-2) It is 'groaning' and not grabbing prosperity and praise of men. 'I in Jesus' so when we speak it is the same spirit of reconciliation that is expressed.(2 Co.5:20). Israel has to be reconciled because of the everlasting gospel is established along with everlasting covenant. So the ministry of Jesus from the earth is finished. He has his ministry from heaven which evidently included the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The Church age began from that point.

    Towards the end of the earthly ministry Jesus explained to his disciples one reason of his returning to his Father."The Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you."

    "And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:/And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:/Of sin, because they believe not on me;"( John 16:7-9)
  • Jordyn - In Reply - 6 months ago
    Brother Giannis:

    John 1:29 ...... Behold, the Lamb of God, which taketh away the SIN of the world.

    Hebrews 12:1 ... an the SIN which doth so easily beset us ......

    What is this singular SIN that so easily besets God's people, and Jesus said he will TAKE AWAY, because his blood covers all other sins.

    John 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of SIN.......

    John 16:9 Of SIN, because they BELIEVE NOT .... (the Word of God)......

    Philippians 1:29 ... it is GIVEN TO YOU on the behalf of Christ to BELIEVE

    God Bless YOU!
  • Jordyn - 6 months ago
    John 17:22 And the GLORY that thou GAVEST me, I HAVE GIVEN THEM, that as WE ARE ONE, that THEY MAY BE ONE in us.

    Jesus, through prayer, was expounding to his disciples and to us, what was going to happen by his death and HIS RESURRECTION

    By HIS RESURRECTION all things became NEW, he is the fulfillment of Mosses and the prophets;

    Creation became a JOIN-HEIR with Christ.

    A marriage occurred at his RESURRECTION, Jesus became THE LIFE of all men, all men became the BODY of Christ.

    We are just the BODY, CHRIST IS THE LIFE, our body has the FAITH of JESUS CHRIST, our BODY does the WORKS of JESUS CHRIST, we have no faith other than the faith of Jesus Christ, we have no works other than the WORKS of Jesus Christ.

    OUR body is DEAD with JESUS CHRIST.

    John 16:8 And when he is come (the second coming of CHRIST; IN YOU, his body) he will reprove the world of SIN.

    John 16:8 Of SIN, because they BELIEVE NOT my words.

    YOU died on the cross, how can you repent of your sins, they are COVERED by the blood of Christ, YOU REPENT of your BELIEFS, because the carnal mind is enmity (in direct rebellion) to what GOD SAYS.

    Creation DIED with CHRIST on his CROSS, ONLY the BODY of CHRIST arose, we are JOINT-HEIRS of IMMORTALITY.

    1 Timothy 6:16 ..... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY .....

    We are the BODY, Christ is THE LIFE.

    The wages of SIN (unbelief) is DEATH, the absence of LIFE ----- let the dead bury their dead -----

    Anti-christ i(and there are many) is opposition to TRUTH; Christ the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE.

    God Bless YOU!


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