Even though there is a distinction between the children of God and the children of the world the scripture says to be kind to all men. Galatians 6:10.
However, we're not all Brothern.
John 1:11-12 says "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the "sons of God, even to them that believe on his name"
Jesus also said in Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Ephesians 2:19 states Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.
So, there is a clear distinction in scripture between God's children and those who haven't received him.
1 John 3:9-10 covers this well, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
"Sons of God" emphasizes a natural, internal relationship with God rather than an external adoption. Becoming God's children involves a real change and transformation, not just a change in title or position. We partake in the divine nature.
All people are not naturally God's children. We must be born again through faith in Christ to become God's children.
This separates us from Adam.
We are now joint heirs with Christ. Romans 8:14-17 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
A new life is initiated by a new birth and we find that when we accept Christ as our Lord and savior.
The dawning of spring is a vivid reminder of Christian truths about new birth, new beginnings, and resurrection.
Jesus said,
"Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God"
( John 3:3).
Our life is fruitless without the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit.
When we come to faith in Jesus, the Spirit of God comes to live in us, sealing us as God's own adopted children, guaranteeing us a future inheritance ( Rom. 8:16; Gal. 4:4-7; Eph. 1:13-14; Titus 3:4-7).
He also gives us the power to do the good works that pleases God and produce fruit.
Have you been born again by placing your faith in Christ alone? Do you love God? Have His peace in your heart? Love His people? Hunger and thirst for righteousness? Desire to serve Him and share the life-changing news of the gospel with others? These are just a few signs that you may have been born twice! One physically, one spiritually.
While we are thankful for the new, secure birth in Christ, we should also be thankful for the new beginnings.
Even though we are children of God, we still strugglewithsin, and when we do, we do not need to get saved all over again, we are His children forever.
However, because of our sins, our relationship isn't where it should be and we need to be reconciled to Him, having our sins forgiven so that our fellowship, "that oneness can be restored.
Our relationship with Him is restored when, in prayer, we confess our sins to Him. 1 John 1:9.
"And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered."
I shall not detail what I have mentioned of this quote from Prophet Zechariah (13:7) while I coverd Matthew. The point is simple. Jesus as the Word become flesh obeyed his God completely so much so he knew the evil hour closing in on him, down to the exact minute. Jesus says further down in this chapter, "I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled."(14:49). Luke present us one curious aspect of time. "When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness."( Luke 22:53). The power of darkness also has been at work equally as the word that God commanded, "Let there be light." Why did Jesus Christ manifest? "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."(1 John 3:8). So both good seed and tares growing in the field is nothing to marvel at. While Moses was with God down below the golden calf being set up was no coincidence. The evil work had succeeded throwing off some from the fellowship of God with Man. Moses as a double for the Son went up even as Jesus' Ascension gives it as a kangaroo event. So what we find of the Church of Rome setting up their golden calf is no brainer. The ten spies who brought evil report and brought God to intervene (Nu..14) we have even now as Evangelical Right, lining up behind a captain as bizarre as the Pied Piper of Hamelin. "And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt."(14:4). New Canaan is impossible for the reprobate minds. The point we need see here is the word of God is given to us to profit withal. (1 Co.12:7)
"And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body."
One noticeable feature of the breaking bread is missing here. While feeding the Five Thousand we read thus, " And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them." (6:41) He looked up to heaven and blessed, and brake." Significance of the heaven is defined in this space. The Spirit calls it upper room. His presence there was as the Son and he symbolically brought the disciples to be with him. In his passion and death it was to be discontinued till he drank fruit of the vine with them new. Breaking bread shall be no more loaded with spiritual symbolism as is now. "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is."(1 John 3:2)
"And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it./And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many./Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God."
Drinking fruit of the vine in the kingdom of God is new because Christ who is our life dies no more. Instead we as many branches to the true vine is more closer in spirit to the Song of Solomon. "I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste./He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love."(S. of S :2:3-4) There shall no more blood or any violence but love. So the ensign of the Spirit the Lamb slain before the foundation of the world shall be held aloft indicating our spiritual bodies.
26 And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.
I have touched on several good devotional sources in posts last year; namely Oswald Chambers "utmost for the Highest" and Daily Bread. This site also is helpful when highlighting a daily Bible verse for the surrounding text to consider.
If I have the terminology correct Expository preaching is systematic reading of a book chapter by chapter. There is another term for topical studies that I am sure someone here knows. For a new believer it is hard to argue with the standard approach of beginning in the Gospels (usually John is picked) and then transitioning to Paul's Epistles. Scripture memory is helpful for two reasons particularly for new believers; one for edification and second to have verses to explain the hope within us in Christ when witnessing. Taking the example of John 3:16 for instance we have the assurance of eternal life but if we read the surrounding text we see in verse 18 that he who does NOT believe in Him is condemned already. This is one danger of "cherry picking" an isolated verse that gives us "positive vibes" and not comprehending God's Word as to repetitive themes; in this case blessings for obedience and faith and cursings for not believing. This contrast between good and bad is throughout scriptures; whether we look at warnings in Deuteronomy as to conditions affecting the entire nation because of disobedience vs obedience; Psalms and Proverbs related to characteristics of righteous and wicked and books of Chronicles and Kings as to righteous and unrighteous kings.
We are to be cautious; therefore with any devotionals that always have "encouraging" verses or if the author is skewed in that direction. The opposite could be said of the Oswald Chambers as some have accused it of being works oriented too much; they certainly are challenging unlike anything I've read. In terms of scripture memory; it is useful but internalizing the Living Word through meditation and application also.
"But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female." (v.6) God is love is a facet of holiness of God. When God breathed into the nostrils of man there was no need for spelling out holiness as such. In his breath all that were needful for his life and godliness was impressed as a candle is lit by another. Quality of light sets both giver and the given on the same stand,- Holiness made it so natural so love of man so learned did not carry any other feeling than was impressed. By the same token in loving the world God made love Person specific. ( John 3:16)
Male and female he created them is with reference to the holiness so love has a body as a candle has and it is quality also speaks about love of two bodies maintain a common purpose. The Spirit presents the House with seven pillars as a body built by Wisdom, which is a feminine principle.(Pr.9:1)God a Spirit is Power dovetailing into Wisdom is how the Spirit presents the divine Holiness. By the same token his Son has a body which is the Word become God loved the world therefore it must be seen and the heat thereof must be felt throughout. In due time God sent Jesus Christ as the true light. While he presented the doctrine of his Father it had to be out in the open fulfilling the saying, "Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?"(4:21).
"Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away./And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept."(vv.4-5) Compare with what John says," In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."( John 1:1) Because of the hardness of heart Moses allowed man put away, which is like the candle put under the bed. Jesus refers to it as adultery of one against the other.
"And in the house" Jesus explained it in terms of the Law of the Spirit. (Matt.19:9-11)
Matthew gives the passage in a slight altered form. It is the Mother of the sons of Zebedee approaches Jesus for a special favor."Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshippinghim, and desiring a certain thing of him."(Matt.20:20). The Word or the Law is interpreted differently according to the world of the Spirit and by the flesh and spirit respectively. In one the glory of God is the foremost so Elias or Moses serve as a double for the Son. In the case of the Mother of Zebedee's sons, her desire was the glory of her sons. She serves as a stand in for her Son. Of this St Paul gives us two contrary laws. "So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin."(Ro.7:25)
Law of the Spirit presupposes a Lawgiver is it not. It is thus God has left all judgment to his Son who also is the Word become flesh. On the other hand Satan the Lawless one has become by default of Adam a law given so the law of sin characterizes works of flesh and blood. Whosoever rejects the commandment as King Saul did is subject to an unclean spirits. "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."(1 John 3:8)
vv.38-39 "And with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized." Jesus refers to the anointing he received (Ps.45:5-6) and in their case of the outpouring of the Holy Ghost, and adds,"But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared." Jesus scrupulous chose to obey the word and as was reminded by Moses at the mount. of his death and glory would fulfill what was written of him in the scripture. the same choice was left to the sons of Zebedee and it was their free will.
The other ten disciples were naturally upset over their behind the back maneuvering for power.
"And I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not./He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me."
Jesus' call,"Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me," includes not only the twelve but whosoever is called, and according to the scriptures (which hinges on the blessings spelt forth in the covenant,) is expected to respond.The living soul would mean whosoever valued truth above what is seen or temporal so life of the Spirit sets the polestar for his onward voyage. "I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star."(Re.22:16). It is thus the inner man presents the gospel to man. Faith with works renders him hold Jesus Christ as the Captain of his salvation and run the race so the only life he seeks is beyond life of the senses. Peter merely responded to the question and answered correctly, "Thou art the Christ."(8:29) Shortly there after he shows he was still struggling to find his feet in the matter of discipleship. Rebuking him Jesus said,"for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men."(8:33). Peter and the rest had a long way to go but the promise was that they lived by grace, from his fullness. Wherever they fumbled Jesus was ther as in the case of the demon possessed boy, Jesus would say, "bring him unto me".
"Let him deny himself" also meant the disciples were amenable to correction. "But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."( John 3: 21). Peter had to bear his cross, and denial of Christ was in the past for Jesus forgave his lapse and placed the flock under his care. "Whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it."
As I mentioned. No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation. Gods eternal purpose was to bring himself Glory, and it included first and foremost destroying the works of the devil= darkness. Thanks for your input. I apologize for misunderstanding you. I don't study gap theories. I study scriptures. Precept upon precept, here a little there a little. I apologize if I stirred up anything concerning the flesh. As I mentioned. To expound revelation can't be done in one sitting. He committeth sin is of the devil,for the devil SINNETH FROM the BEGINNING for This PURPOSE The son of God was manifest ( Light) that he might destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8 -- and LET THERE BE LIGHT - IF ITS TOO DIFFICULT FOR US TO UNDERSTAND THE DEEP THINGS OF GOD WE MUST NOT BE STUDYING IN THE HOLY SPIRIT. FOR THE SPIRIT SEARCHES ALL THINGS, YEA THE DEEP THINGS OF GOD. AND DARKNESS WAS WHERE? UPON THE FACE OF THE DEEP Spirit searching it out. So do I. Thank you brother Ronald. God bless you
Hello brother. Thanks for reply. Firstly let us not be too hasty to give up and say we don't have enough scripture. Let's dig in and get enough I do not desire to get in a hurry with this. For it is God's eternal purpose we are discussing. So I'll let us get into study of prophecy. For no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation ( Paraphrase) best way i have come to interpret scripture by the Holy Spirit is allow scripture to interpret itself with More scripture. Firstly let us look at Genesis 1;1- in the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. ( There's the beginning. Now let us turn to 1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil, for the devil SINNETH FROM THE BEGINNING ( there it is)- for this purpose ( purpose) the son of God ( Light) was manifest that he might destroy the works of the devil. Let's meditate upon those. Something happened between Genesis 1: 1 and 1:2 = Satan's works of darkness. Let's meditate,muse,ponder and dwell upon God's word. Not our opinions. For my opinion could very well mislead us All
Greetings my brother beloved. I will not rush in trying to answer all these questions in one sitting. For no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation ( Paraphrase) but scripture is always interpreted by the Holy Spirit through more scriptures. So Genesis 1:1 in the beginning God created The heaven and the earth. -- now thus far what scripture has revealed to me is something went wrong. Because scripture says 1 John 3:8- He that committeth sin is of the devil,FOR THE DEVIL SINNETH (FROM THE BEGINNING) for this purpose The son of God was manifest ( LIGHT) that he might destroy the works of the devil. ( There is our eternal purpose of God) Just think upon that and meditate. We'll rejoice in scripture together brother
Hi Symone63. You must be referring to some other teaching (e.g. Roman Catholicism) which maintains Mary's perpetual virginity. If you are, then the Scriptures are replete with verses to show that after Jesus was born to Mary, then Mary gave birth to other children (sons & daughters), but Mary was indeed a virgin when the Holy Spirit placed this Godly Seed into her, so that God could appear unto men in the flesh in the Person of Jesus, as only God could make the full, acceptable, & permanent payment for mankind sins ( 1 Timothy 2:16; 1 John 3:16; John 15:13).
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
"And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables" Mark gives us mystery of the family as is in heaven and on earth where God is one. He has set his throne which is the throne of sovereignty. He blessed all in his Son and the mystery is of his Will.
St Paul makes his sovereignty as the central plank so his good pleasure in his Son extended to all who received him in faith:
1:"hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ." This refers to the everlasting covenant where on day Six God expresses "behold, it was good"(Ge.1:31). This covenant is inclusive so it is not any nation but whosoever received the Son should have adoption, of children as stated in the next:
2: "as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, "unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,(Ep.1:3-6). So the man is adopted to himself so he is 'the Father who art in heaven.'
3: everlasting life is conditional so John's Gospel assures us "That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."( John 3:16). Today is the day of salvation is now while we are in our vile bodies and it refers our world of flesh and blood. Simultaneously the day refers in heaven as long as the Alpha and Omega mode of Jesus Christ extends and it is not for us to know. The point is we are saved according to the covenant, when we died to the world and to sin. We have a building of God, a spiritual body awaiting us. (2 Co.5:1)
Mark tells us in the next verse those who have dismissed this mystery shall not benefit from parables. "That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them."(4:12). Heresies did not occur happenstance.
Luke and Matthew also give the context and the quote, "And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath."( Luke 6:5;12:8) The everlasting covenant is between two equals so the eternal word is the Law backed by the kingdom of the Father. In case of faith we have the basis of these two worlds (He.11:3) which we shall leave aside for the moment. What are the equal entities here? They are Power on the part of God Wisdom on the part of Man. St Paul separates Man as the Lord of heaven, from man who is the earthy. "The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven."(1 Co.15:47-48)
When Jesus was born of woman his deity was never in jeopardy since he is the Word become flesh and sent with the divine Mandate. ( John 3:16)
When Jesus spoke "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work" it is this Word was God it refers.( John 1:1; 5:17-23)
Speaking of the context Mark 2:24 we have the Pharisees questioning "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."
Next point of Sabbath is that the day Seven. God has decree the day which touches his Alpha Omega aspect. " I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee./Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession."(Ps.2:7-8) There is no sanctity for observing Sabbath without the Son element incorporated in our lives. This heresy has arisen because the Christians interpret the word of God literally and assume it is the seventh day of a week. It is an error. It is thus approaching the Bible with out the aid of the Spirit. John's epistle speaks of those who have the Son has also the Father.
Scripture is clear Jesus had no sin, Hebrews 4:151 Peter 2:22 1 John 3:5Romans 5:12-15.
Do you believe that the Father and the Son are one as Jesus said in Jn. 17 or that He and the Father are "in" one another and if they see Jesus, they see the Father?
Both, Jesus said I and my Father are one John 10:30 and in other places, one means unity. Jesus was one with the Father not because Jesus was God but because He was filled with the Spirit and God dwelt in him, John 14:10, as we see God was in Christ 2 Corinthians 5:19
God dwelt in Jesus and empowered Him by His Spirit that gave Jesus the power and authority like Matthew 11:27 All things are delivered to Jesus of His Father, Jesus did not have it, all was given to Him. God was manifest in Jesus, John 12:49John 14:10. This is why Jesus said if you have seen me, you have seen the Father, John 14:9.
Jesus in His prayer asked the Father that we may be one, as He and His Father are one through the words of the disciples, John 17:20-23. God and Jesus will dwell in us and we in them, 1 John 4:13-16 1 John 3:23-24.
How is it that Jesus AND the Father send the Holy Spirit if there is only one person as God?
Jesus said He would pray to the Father to give another comforter, John 14:16, we see in John 14:26 the Father will send in Jesus's name. In John 15:26 Jesus said I will send but this is from the Father and the Spirit of truth that proceedeth from the Father. This is not a person it is the Spirit of God.
Please don't take this wrong, in the Trinity there is one God who eternally exists as three distinct Persons: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each Person is fully God, coequal, coeternal, and consubstantial. I'm sorry my understanding, is Scripture does not support that, Scripture is clear the Father is above all.
Thank you, GiGi, I hope this is what you wanted I am not the best at this.
Do you believe that the will of the Father and the will of the Son are always the same or different?
Jesus was obedient to the Father, Jesus said many times it is not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him, the same as we are to do, John 4:34John 5:30Mark 3:35.
Do you believe that a human being can truly save all men from sin and death by a perfect life in their own will?
First, I will have to say it was the will of the Father, Jesus at the end even asked His father if there was another way but not Jesus's will but the will of His Father, Matthew 26:39Luke 22:42. We are told this is the foundation of our faith, Jesus' sacrificial death. God cannot die God is Spirit He has no blood to shed for sin it had to be a man, His Son, born of a woman.
John 3:16 God gave His Son not Himself 1 John 2:221 John 4:32 John 1:7Romans 5:82 Corinthians 5:21, God cannot be made sin, 1 Corinthians 15:17 Jesus died, and God raised Him from the dead, the first man to live a perfect life, the first fruits of those who sleep in death. 1 Corinthians 15:14 as said if Jesus was not a man who lived a perfect life and died and was raised from the dead all is vain.
The first Adam was the first man Jesus was the last Adam and the second man, 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. The law had to be fulfilled by a man.
How would a human being know that they are the Messiah from birth and thus know not to ever sin?
As we see Luke 2:51-52 Jesus grew up increasing in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man. Jesus was twelve years old and He knew His father was God, but it doesn't say Jesus knew then He was to be the Messiah. God also said He would raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 11:1-5Isaiah 61:1-2 confirmed in Luke 4:18-21. Romans 1:1-42 Timothy 2:8.
What is the meaning of created? Does it mean something that is made out of nothing? I would have to say no, Jesus is the Son of God who was conceived in the womb of Mary, Matthew 1:20Luke 1:35, I do not think I would say He was created.
If so, when did He come into existence?
In God's plan before anything and physically when He was conceived in Mary's womb.
Do you believe that the Son is only human in nature?
Jesus is the Son of God fully human but without sin same as the first Adam, Scripture is clear when Jesus was baptized, He was anointed with the Holy Ghost/Spirit without measure, John 3:34. All the works of Jesus were done by the Spirit of God, Matthew 4:16Matthew 12:28Acts 10:38.
Do you believe that Jesus became "the Christ" during His lifetime (Adoptionism)?
I had never heard of Adoptionism until now, I had to look it up, it's false. Christ and Messiah are the same; Jesus was anointed by the Spirit of God after He was baptized by John, He then was made the Messiah/Christ fulfilling the prophecy in Daniel 9:25. Jesus is the Son of God conceived in the womb of Mary by the Holy Ghost/Spirit.
Do you believe Jesus ever aquired a divine nature in His earthly life?
If you mean a divine nature is to have all the attributes that make God who He is I would have to say no. If so, Jesus could not sin or be tempted, Matthew 4:1Hebrews 4:15. If so, Jesus living a perfect life without sin is meaningless. Jesus could not have died; Jesus was given the power of the Holy Spirit when He was anointed the Messiah. After He rose from the dead God gave Jesus all power in heaven and on earth, Matthew 28:18. God raised and placed Jesus on His right side, Ephesians 1:21-23. Jesus did not return to where He was before, God the Father placed everything under Jesus God's only begotten Son's feet and Jesus will reign until the last enemy is destroyed, 1 Corinthians 15:24-28.
Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me..And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed."
The Spirit gives us an insight into the manner he has arranged the prosaic aspects of the Son of man with the Son who is the Word become flesh. As with *'the upper room' this space separating his inner circle with the rest of disciples is marked by this phrase 'a little further'.
The Last supper was arranged beforehand. How the Spirit works is similar to how he works with those born of the Spirit. "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit."( John 3:8) In keeping with this principle the tribute money shall be found for Jesus and Peter when required as the ass with her colt. In the case of this room similarly it only needed to be claimed. St Luke informs us thus "And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready." ( Luke 22:12)
Now Jesus takes the three apart from the rest. He puts to practice the doctrine of his Father. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."(18:20). Peter and the two sons of Zebedee owing to their weakness in flesh may have slept through but the Spirit records his payer just the same. Thrice he prayed the same words. "vv.39-44) Jesus intercedes for them.
*The upper room serves as the world of the Spirit apart from the everyday world. Elijah raised the widows son and it makes the point clear. "And he said unto her, Give me thy son. And he took him out of her bosom, and carried him up into a loft, where he abode, and laid him upon his own bed." He stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried. In the end "And the soul of the child came into him again, and he revived.(1 Ki.17:19-23)
Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
( Psalm 37:4).
I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
( Luke 18:8).
The issue of our heart relates to our affections and the ownership of such. When we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) His life takes over and our vessel (body) becomes His tabernacle where the Spirit dwells. Since the Lord is eternal; along with the spirit in which God has created us we perceive these things ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Whether in the body or out of it we are part of Christ's Body and we shall stand in His presence; we are already "seated in heavenly places" ( Ephesians 2:6).
Such affections draw us close to our brothers and sisters in the faith; and indeed we are COMMANDED to love one another; both from the Gospels and later quotes from John ( John 15:12; 1 John 3:23). This should be a springboard for time; money and effort to be poured out for the ministries and missions of the church and unity among the brethren. Agape love is the only love which can love anyone unconditionally; and therefore it also extends to the lost who we are commissioned to reach.
Often people complicate things when it comes to relationships; prayer certainly is helpful as I have seen personally a brother finding his wife to be 2 days after praying to find someone; along with another missionary friend of mine from many years ago when overseas. Still; there are some things which may not come to fruition until the Lord returns (primarily finding justice on the earth in places which have for a long time now featured persecution). Since we have a NEW heart; however we can find joy in seeing others being blessed; and seeing people come to faith even during times when we are struggling in our lives.
We often look at Christ's death as the ultimate love; but let us not forget His whole ministry especially toward His Disciples.
Being Born Again, see John 3:9, Jesus told Nicodemus its Like the Spirit is like the Wind, One the Spirit is in you, you are in Christ Sitting on the Right Hand of God
After being Born Again, it you went to an Altar and asked Jesus to Save You, You Committed a SIN, You entered into a Contract and You will Get Pride Out of Contract, this will Cause you to Fall under Condemnation/Control of the Devil, 1st Tim 3:6, and Revelations 12:9 see AskElm com for SECRETS HIDDEN over 1,800 Years and its GOOD NEW!
No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. HEREBY KNOW WE THAT WE DWELL IN HIM, AND HE IN US, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
What John is saying is that no man has seen God at any time but if we love one another God dwells in us. In other words God today can manifest himself through believers in loving one another, "and the world sees That!
John 13:34-35, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
"What makes this so unique?" What's new about it? Isn't it listed in the Commandments? What's unique and new about it is that he causes it!
Look at verse 35.
"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 3:16
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,.
( God gave us his Spirit that causes us to love the Brothern.)
God's Spirit, "The Holyspirit" causes those who loves God to love his brother also. 1 John 4:21"
Romans 5:5.
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Pray, ask God for forgiveness and ask Him to take the desire for sin from you, tell Him you love Him so completely that you no longer want to sin, that you want to live a life fully dedicated to Him without sin. (It is the nature of Adam, the old man that we are born with that causes us to sin but sanctification can rid us of our Adamic nature, all at once completely. Be sincere and when you are sanctified you will feel a joy and peace you have never known. Then ask Him to fill you with the Holy Ghost. If it's in His will it will happen. Be worshipful and trust God. Just continue to pray and talk to God. He will begin to take over your speech and you will start to speak in an unknow tongue. This cannot be the devil, as some people may say, you are in God's hands and He is NOT going to let the devil have any power over you. Those fanatics on social media are of the devil. He is using them to keep people away from this beautiful gift form God; to malign it. Here are scriptures that I hope will help you understand that this doctrine is from God. John 5:14, Col. 3:9, Rom. 6:1-7, 2 Cor. 5:17, Rom. 12:2, John 3:1-10, Rom. 6:10-11, Rom. 8:12-13, 2 Tim. 2:15.
This reply is probably going to get a lot of comments denouncing what I have said. I have lived with the infilling of the Holy Spirit for decades and I am a true child of God who loves Him dearly and I live every day for Him without sin. I do have faults. Sins send us to hell. Faults, are minor character flaws; these do not send us to hell. People who believe in the sinning/christian doctrine refuse to see the difference. Calling someone a bad name IS a sin but if that person upsets you and you just leave while praying for them, the sinning/christian doctrine teaches that since you got upset you sinned. Jesus said darkness and light don't mix. If you have questions about my stand on the false doctrines of gradual sanctification and sinning/christian please let me know. I hope this helps you. God Bless :)
"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (This blessing was meant for the church, then and always.)
Acts 19: 1-7
"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain DISCIPLES. He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve." These men weren't part of the upper room gathering or they would already been filled with the Holy Ghost.
John 8:11b
"And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and SIN NO MORE and:
John 5:14, "Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: SIN NO MORE, lest a worse thing come unto thee."
So what do the scriptures tell us that sin is?
1 John 3:4
"Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."
Of course, we can't be like Adam was in the Garden of Eden before he sinned. But now, because of Adam's sin, mankind is born with original sin, human nature, the old man, but God removes that human nature, the desire to sin, with sanctification and the infilling of the Holy Ghost. That's why God's word commands us to be free of sin and then He made the way through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ for us to be free. His word says that the sin nature must be destroyed (*to put out of existence: kill) /crucified, (*to destroy the power of) so we can live a holy life.
*Miriam-Webster Dictionary
1 John 3:4
"Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."
1 Thessalonians 4:1-5
"Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour."
The second and third lines in Chris Tomlin's song "Good Good Father" state:
But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night
And You tell me that You're pleased and that I'm never alone
David Crowder's song "He really loves us" has this in the third line
"There is no judgment"
And Danny Gokey's song "Love God Love People" says at the end of the fourth stanza
"Love God and love People" (no brainer).
Finally there is the song "What would Jesus do" states in the 11th Stanza
"What would Jesus do
He would love first..etc."
The first question here is what is God's love? There is nothing in any of these songs that show any differentiation of God's love from that of man. Assuming that God never has anything negative to say goes against the verses that state God chastises anone He loves and we are illegitimate sons otherwise (see Hebrews 12:6; 12:8). To say there is no judgment is only true as to a believer's standing at the Bema Seat Judgment and missing the Great White Throne condemnation. We are judged according to 2 Corinthians 5:10 and be judged as to works done for Him; good or bad. If we aren't one of His own we are judged and condemned already ( John 3:18).
No one should argue as to a Christian demonstrating love and patience; but that doesn't mean that we should stand for hypocrisy within the House of God; or societal evils such as abortion without sounding the trumpet as a watchman to avoid the condemnation warned of in Ezekiel 3:18. But such exhortations seem to be missing entirely in today's Christian songs; whether it is warning of the deceptiveness of Satan or sin itself; or the Tribulation to come or hell itself without repentance. Anyone on this forum who wishes to rebut that statement let me know; perhaps there are some independent artists I should be made aware of that I haven't heard lately.
Thus; artists are idolized saying what people want to hear and are "Christian" by name only.
The slain Lamb is an emblem which signifies everlasting covenant between God and Man. It is part of the world made to appear, namely the Lamb of God.(He.11:3) This world abides forever since Jesus Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. (Col.1:15) God framed the worlds by the word of God which is eternal.(He.13:8) After the last enemy death is conquered we have the Son himself subject to the Father that God may be all in all." (1 Co.15:29) So there is no further need for an emblem which is represented by the throne of the Lamb (Re.22:10. There is no blood in heaven since the blood of Jesus has done its perfect work. With one sacrifice means the animal sacrifices under the Law of Moses are dispensed with. Jesus is the fulfillment of Law.(He.10:14). All this controversy over Sabbath and sinless perfection is a matter of overkill. Until his advent there was a reason,- and in Jesus christ is the fulness of God so our faith part is to abide in him and his fulfillment is signaled when he says,"It is done."(Col.1:15-19; Re.21:5) John 3:16 assures us everlasting life and we walk by faith abounding in good works. I am the life means we have passed from death to life.
"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."(v.3)
Towards the end of his earthly ministry Jesus in his prayer to his Father refers to ' thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word." Whosoever consequently abides in him having no confidence in his flesh has faith and also kept the word." the latter part constitute the works which are impossible without the Savior Lord.( John 15:3) Now Jesus speaks he has finished the work, "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do."(17:4,6)
From the key verse we know that preparing a place in heaven constitutes as work so as he glorified his Father on earth he has certain unfinished work. Even there we are part of his works so 'that where I am, there ye may be also."
Heaven and earth are part of the everlasting covenant. So everlasting gospel must be seen and understood as pendent to this covenant which is part of the divine Will of the Father and shall not change. The Law is eternal forever settled in heaven,(Ps.119:89) and as such heaven must be set in terms of the Law of the Spirit.
Jesus refers to the sheepfold in John 10:1 and here we are examining what possible works he might do so the nature of heaven may be placed under correct context as fulfillment of the Abstract in seven days. "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd."(10:16)
Law of sin applies to the world of the Spirit and the son of perdition, collectively applied to children of wrath or disobedience. "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."(1 John 3:8) Death is the work of Satan. "The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death."
Christ's ultimate sacrifice: Primary purpose was to do God's will.
In studying Christ's death on the cross and the resulting salvation of our souls it is no small thing to focus attention and time on such a matter on a regular basis. At least from our perspective the meaning to us personally must be considered with all due reverence for how He took us from death to life. John 17:6-8 makes clear that God was the one who gave Christ all the ones who were to be saved. The following verses ask for unity among them all; and to be in the world but not of it (in general). These verses prayed during His agony in Gethsemane are the summation of much of the earlier chapters in John clearly showing that God was the one who predetermined (predestined) all those who would be saved and hear His voice as His sheep.
However you slice it; there are some who will and will not come to Christ. Also God knows ahead of time who these people are so therefore certainly could have designated ahead of time who would be sheep and who would be a goat; who would be wheat and who a tare; etc. In other words; it wasn't up to Christ to give out any information that could lead someone to the truth in a merely intellectual manner and therefore much of His ministry was spent teaching in parables. Compare Mark 4:12 with Luke 8:12. The lack of insight given so that people can be saved is clear from the first passage; but Satan is used as the agent to blind men's hearts in the second example in Luke of the seed by the wayside.
There are as Deuteronomy 29:29 states some things in the Divine counsel which men are not privy to. Certain things can be searched out; however ( Proverbs 25:2). John 3:16 states that God so loved the world and sent His Son. We should keep in mind here that Christ came first and foremost to do the Father's will. All those called and chosen would be saved EXCEPT for the prophesied son of perdition (see Psalm 69:25; Psalm 41:9; Psalm 109).
Part 1
Even though there is a distinction between the children of God and the children of the world the scripture says to be kind to all men. Galatians 6:10.
However, we're not all Brothern.
John 1:11-12 says "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the "sons of God, even to them that believe on his name"
Jesus also said in Matthew 12:50 "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Ephesians 2:19 states Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.
So, there is a clear distinction in scripture between God's children and those who haven't received him.
1 John 3:9-10 covers this well, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
"Sons of God" emphasizes a natural, internal relationship with God rather than an external adoption. Becoming God's children involves a real change and transformation, not just a change in title or position. We partake in the divine nature.
All people are not naturally God's children. We must be born again through faith in Christ to become God's children.
This separates us from Adam.
We are now joint heirs with Christ. Romans 8:14-17 "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
See part 2
A new life is initiated by a new birth and we find that when we accept Christ as our Lord and savior.
The dawning of spring is a vivid reminder of Christian truths about new birth, new beginnings, and resurrection.
Jesus said,
"Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God"
( John 3:3).
Our life is fruitless without the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit.
When we come to faith in Jesus, the Spirit of God comes to live in us, sealing us as God's own adopted children, guaranteeing us a future inheritance ( Rom. 8:16; Gal. 4:4-7; Eph. 1:13-14; Titus 3:4-7).
He also gives us the power to do the good works that pleases God and produce fruit.
Have you been born again by placing your faith in Christ alone? Do you love God? Have His peace in your heart? Love His people? Hunger and thirst for righteousness? Desire to serve Him and share the life-changing news of the gospel with others? These are just a few signs that you may have been born twice! One physically, one spiritually.
While we are thankful for the new, secure birth in Christ, we should also be thankful for the new beginnings.
Even though we are children of God, we still strugglewithsin, and when we do, we do not need to get saved all over again, we are His children forever.
However, because of our sins, our relationship isn't where it should be and we need to be reconciled to Him, having our sins forgiven so that our fellowship, "that oneness can be restored.
Our relationship with Him is restored when, in prayer, we confess our sins to Him. 1 John 1:9.
God bless.
"And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered."
I shall not detail what I have mentioned of this quote from Prophet Zechariah (13:7) while I coverd Matthew. The point is simple. Jesus as the Word become flesh obeyed his God completely so much so he knew the evil hour closing in on him, down to the exact minute. Jesus says further down in this chapter, "I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled."(14:49). Luke present us one curious aspect of time. "When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness."( Luke 22:53). The power of darkness also has been at work equally as the word that God commanded, "Let there be light." Why did Jesus Christ manifest? "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."(1 John 3:8). So both good seed and tares growing in the field is nothing to marvel at. While Moses was with God down below the golden calf being set up was no coincidence. The evil work had succeeded throwing off some from the fellowship of God with Man. Moses as a double for the Son went up even as Jesus' Ascension gives it as a kangaroo event. So what we find of the Church of Rome setting up their golden calf is no brainer. The ten spies who brought evil report and brought God to intervene (Nu..14) we have even now as Evangelical Right, lining up behind a captain as bizarre as the Pied Piper of Hamelin. "And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt."(14:4). New Canaan is impossible for the reprobate minds. The point we need see here is the word of God is given to us to profit withal. (1 Co.12:7)
"And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body."
One noticeable feature of the breaking bread is missing here. While feeding the Five Thousand we read thus, " And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them." (6:41) He looked up to heaven and blessed, and brake." Significance of the heaven is defined in this space. The Spirit calls it upper room. His presence there was as the Son and he symbolically brought the disciples to be with him. In his passion and death it was to be discontinued till he drank fruit of the vine with them new. Breaking bread shall be no more loaded with spiritual symbolism as is now. "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is."(1 John 3:2)
"And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it./And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many./Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God."
Drinking fruit of the vine in the kingdom of God is new because Christ who is our life dies no more. Instead we as many branches to the true vine is more closer in spirit to the Song of Solomon. "I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste./He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love."(S. of S :2:3-4) There shall no more blood or any violence but love. So the ensign of the Spirit the Lamb slain before the foundation of the world shall be held aloft indicating our spiritual bodies.
26 And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.
I have touched on several good devotional sources in posts last year; namely Oswald Chambers "utmost for the Highest" and Daily Bread. This site also is helpful when highlighting a daily Bible verse for the surrounding text to consider.
If I have the terminology correct Expository preaching is systematic reading of a book chapter by chapter. There is another term for topical studies that I am sure someone here knows. For a new believer it is hard to argue with the standard approach of beginning in the Gospels (usually John is picked) and then transitioning to Paul's Epistles. Scripture memory is helpful for two reasons particularly for new believers; one for edification and second to have verses to explain the hope within us in Christ when witnessing. Taking the example of John 3:16 for instance we have the assurance of eternal life but if we read the surrounding text we see in verse 18 that he who does NOT believe in Him is condemned already. This is one danger of "cherry picking" an isolated verse that gives us "positive vibes" and not comprehending God's Word as to repetitive themes; in this case blessings for obedience and faith and cursings for not believing. This contrast between good and bad is throughout scriptures; whether we look at warnings in Deuteronomy as to conditions affecting the entire nation because of disobedience vs obedience; Psalms and Proverbs related to characteristics of righteous and wicked and books of Chronicles and Kings as to righteous and unrighteous kings.
We are to be cautious; therefore with any devotionals that always have "encouraging" verses or if the author is skewed in that direction. The opposite could be said of the Oswald Chambers as some have accused it of being works oriented too much; they certainly are challenging unlike anything I've read. In terms of scripture memory; it is useful but internalizing the Living Word through meditation and application also.
"But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female." (v.6) God is love is a facet of holiness of God. When God breathed into the nostrils of man there was no need for spelling out holiness as such. In his breath all that were needful for his life and godliness was impressed as a candle is lit by another. Quality of light sets both giver and the given on the same stand,- Holiness made it so natural so love of man so learned did not carry any other feeling than was impressed. By the same token in loving the world God made love Person specific. ( John 3:16)
Male and female he created them is with reference to the holiness so love has a body as a candle has and it is quality also speaks about love of two bodies maintain a common purpose. The Spirit presents the House with seven pillars as a body built by Wisdom, which is a feminine principle.(Pr.9:1)God a Spirit is Power dovetailing into Wisdom is how the Spirit presents the divine Holiness. By the same token his Son has a body which is the Word become God loved the world therefore it must be seen and the heat thereof must be felt throughout. In due time God sent Jesus Christ as the true light. While he presented the doctrine of his Father it had to be out in the open fulfilling the saying, "Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?"(4:21).
"Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away./And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept."(vv.4-5) Compare with what John says," In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."( John 1:1) Because of the hardness of heart Moses allowed man put away, which is like the candle put under the bed. Jesus refers to it as adultery of one against the other.
"And in the house" Jesus explained it in terms of the Law of the Spirit. (Matt.19:9-11)
Matthew gives the passage in a slight altered form. It is the Mother of the sons of Zebedee approaches Jesus for a special favor."Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshippinghim, and desiring a certain thing of him."(Matt.20:20). The Word or the Law is interpreted differently according to the world of the Spirit and by the flesh and spirit respectively. In one the glory of God is the foremost so Elias or Moses serve as a double for the Son. In the case of the Mother of Zebedee's sons, her desire was the glory of her sons. She serves as a stand in for her Son. Of this St Paul gives us two contrary laws. "So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin."(Ro.7:25)
Law of the Spirit presupposes a Lawgiver is it not. It is thus God has left all judgment to his Son who also is the Word become flesh. On the other hand Satan the Lawless one has become by default of Adam a law given so the law of sin characterizes works of flesh and blood. Whosoever rejects the commandment as King Saul did is subject to an unclean spirits. "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."(1 John 3:8)
vv.38-39 "And with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized." Jesus refers to the anointing he received (Ps.45:5-6) and in their case of the outpouring of the Holy Ghost, and adds,"But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared." Jesus scrupulous chose to obey the word and as was reminded by Moses at the mount. of his death and glory would fulfill what was written of him in the scripture. the same choice was left to the sons of Zebedee and it was their free will.
The other ten disciples were naturally upset over their behind the back maneuvering for power.
"And I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not./He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me."
Jesus' call,"Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me," includes not only the twelve but whosoever is called, and according to the scriptures (which hinges on the blessings spelt forth in the covenant,) is expected to respond.The living soul would mean whosoever valued truth above what is seen or temporal so life of the Spirit sets the polestar for his onward voyage. "I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star."(Re.22:16). It is thus the inner man presents the gospel to man. Faith with works renders him hold Jesus Christ as the Captain of his salvation and run the race so the only life he seeks is beyond life of the senses. Peter merely responded to the question and answered correctly, "Thou art the Christ."(8:29) Shortly there after he shows he was still struggling to find his feet in the matter of discipleship. Rebuking him Jesus said,"for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men."(8:33). Peter and the rest had a long way to go but the promise was that they lived by grace, from his fullness. Wherever they fumbled Jesus was ther as in the case of the demon possessed boy, Jesus would say, "bring him unto me".
"Let him deny himself" also meant the disciples were amenable to correction. "But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."( John 3: 21). Peter had to bear his cross, and denial of Christ was in the past for Jesus forgave his lapse and placed the flock under his care. "Whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it."
It is true from every point of view.
God so loved the world that he gave his
ONLY begotten son that whosoever
believeth on him shall not perish but have
everlasting life. John 3:16
He didn't have to do it, but I'm glad he did.
Happy Resurrection Sunday to you also.
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
"And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables" Mark gives us mystery of the family as is in heaven and on earth where God is one. He has set his throne which is the throne of sovereignty. He blessed all in his Son and the mystery is of his Will.
St Paul makes his sovereignty as the central plank so his good pleasure in his Son extended to all who received him in faith:
1:"hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ." This refers to the everlasting covenant where on day Six God expresses "behold, it was good"(Ge.1:31). This covenant is inclusive so it is not any nation but whosoever received the Son should have adoption, of children as stated in the next:
2: "as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, "unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,(Ep.1:3-6). So the man is adopted to himself so he is 'the Father who art in heaven.'
3: everlasting life is conditional so John's Gospel assures us "That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."( John 3:16). Today is the day of salvation is now while we are in our vile bodies and it refers our world of flesh and blood. Simultaneously the day refers in heaven as long as the Alpha and Omega mode of Jesus Christ extends and it is not for us to know. The point is we are saved according to the covenant, when we died to the world and to sin. We have a building of God, a spiritual body awaiting us. (2 Co.5:1)
Mark tells us in the next verse those who have dismissed this mystery shall not benefit from parables. "That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them."(4:12). Heresies did not occur happenstance.
Luke and Matthew also give the context and the quote, "And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath."( Luke 6:5;12:8) The everlasting covenant is between two equals so the eternal word is the Law backed by the kingdom of the Father. In case of faith we have the basis of these two worlds (He.11:3) which we shall leave aside for the moment. What are the equal entities here? They are Power on the part of God Wisdom on the part of Man. St Paul separates Man as the Lord of heaven, from man who is the earthy. "The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven."(1 Co.15:47-48)
When Jesus was born of woman his deity was never in jeopardy since he is the Word become flesh and sent with the divine Mandate. ( John 3:16)
When Jesus spoke "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work" it is this Word was God it refers.( John 1:1; 5:17-23)
Speaking of the context Mark 2:24 we have the Pharisees questioning "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."
Next point of Sabbath is that the day Seven. God has decree the day which touches his Alpha Omega aspect. " I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee./Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession."(Ps.2:7-8) There is no sanctity for observing Sabbath without the Son element incorporated in our lives. This heresy has arisen because the Christians interpret the word of God literally and assume it is the seventh day of a week. It is an error. It is thus approaching the Bible with out the aid of the Spirit. John's epistle speaks of those who have the Son has also the Father.
Part 5 and last Trinity discussion,
Do you believe that Jesus lived a sinless life?
Scripture is clear Jesus had no sin, Hebrews 4:15 1 Peter 2:22 1 John 3:5 Romans 5:12-15.
Do you believe that the Father and the Son are one as Jesus said in Jn. 17 or that He and the Father are "in" one another and if they see Jesus, they see the Father?
Both, Jesus said I and my Father are one John 10:30 and in other places, one means unity. Jesus was one with the Father not because Jesus was God but because He was filled with the Spirit and God dwelt in him, John 14:10, as we see God was in Christ 2 Corinthians 5:19
God dwelt in Jesus and empowered Him by His Spirit that gave Jesus the power and authority like Matthew 11:27 All things are delivered to Jesus of His Father, Jesus did not have it, all was given to Him. God was manifest in Jesus, John 12:49 John 14:10. This is why Jesus said if you have seen me, you have seen the Father, John 14:9.
Jesus in His prayer asked the Father that we may be one, as He and His Father are one through the words of the disciples, John 17:20-23. God and Jesus will dwell in us and we in them, 1 John 4:13-16 1 John 3:23-24.
How is it that Jesus AND the Father send the Holy Spirit if there is only one person as God?
Jesus said He would pray to the Father to give another comforter, John 14:16, we see in John 14:26 the Father will send in Jesus's name. In John 15:26 Jesus said I will send but this is from the Father and the Spirit of truth that proceedeth from the Father. This is not a person it is the Spirit of God.
Please don't take this wrong, in the Trinity there is one God who eternally exists as three distinct Persons: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each Person is fully God, coequal, coeternal, and consubstantial. I'm sorry my understanding, is Scripture does not support that, Scripture is clear the Father is above all.
Thank you, GiGi, I hope this is what you wanted I am not the best at this.
God bless,
RLW
Part 4 Trinity discussion.
Do you believe that the will of the Father and the will of the Son are always the same or different?
Jesus was obedient to the Father, Jesus said many times it is not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him, the same as we are to do, John 4:34 John 5:30 Mark 3:35.
Do you believe that a human being can truly save all men from sin and death by a perfect life in their own will?
First, I will have to say it was the will of the Father, Jesus at the end even asked His father if there was another way but not Jesus's will but the will of His Father, Matthew 26:39 Luke 22:42. We are told this is the foundation of our faith, Jesus' sacrificial death. God cannot die God is Spirit He has no blood to shed for sin it had to be a man, His Son, born of a woman.
John 3:16 God gave His Son not Himself 1 John 2:22 1 John 4:3 2 John 1:7 Romans 5:8 2 Corinthians 5:21, God cannot be made sin, 1 Corinthians 15:17 Jesus died, and God raised Him from the dead, the first man to live a perfect life, the first fruits of those who sleep in death. 1 Corinthians 15:14 as said if Jesus was not a man who lived a perfect life and died and was raised from the dead all is vain.
The first Adam was the first man Jesus was the last Adam and the second man, 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. The law had to be fulfilled by a man.
How would a human being know that they are the Messiah from birth and thus know not to ever sin?
As we see Luke 2:51-52 Jesus grew up increasing in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man. Jesus was twelve years old and He knew His father was God, but it doesn't say Jesus knew then He was to be the Messiah. God also said He would raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 11:1-5 Isaiah 61:1-2 confirmed in Luke 4:18-21. Romans 1:1-4 2 Timothy 2:8.
See part 5
Part 3 Trinity discussion,
Do you believe the Son is a created being?
What is the meaning of created? Does it mean something that is made out of nothing? I would have to say no, Jesus is the Son of God who was conceived in the womb of Mary, Matthew 1:20 Luke 1:35, I do not think I would say He was created.
If so, when did He come into existence?
In God's plan before anything and physically when He was conceived in Mary's womb.
Do you believe that the Son is only human in nature?
Jesus is the Son of God fully human but without sin same as the first Adam, Scripture is clear when Jesus was baptized, He was anointed with the Holy Ghost/Spirit without measure, John 3:34. All the works of Jesus were done by the Spirit of God, Matthew 4:16 Matthew 12:28 Acts 10:38.
Do you believe that Jesus became "the Christ" during His lifetime (Adoptionism)?
I had never heard of Adoptionism until now, I had to look it up, it's false. Christ and Messiah are the same; Jesus was anointed by the Spirit of God after He was baptized by John, He then was made the Messiah/Christ fulfilling the prophecy in Daniel 9:25. Jesus is the Son of God conceived in the womb of Mary by the Holy Ghost/Spirit.
Do you believe Jesus ever aquired a divine nature in His earthly life?
If you mean a divine nature is to have all the attributes that make God who He is I would have to say no. If so, Jesus could not sin or be tempted, Matthew 4:1 Hebrews 4:15. If so, Jesus living a perfect life without sin is meaningless. Jesus could not have died; Jesus was given the power of the Holy Spirit when He was anointed the Messiah. After He rose from the dead God gave Jesus all power in heaven and on earth, Matthew 28:18. God raised and placed Jesus on His right side, Ephesians 1:21-23. Jesus did not return to where He was before, God the Father placed everything under Jesus God's only begotten Son's feet and Jesus will reign until the last enemy is destroyed, 1 Corinthians 15:24-28.
See part 4.
Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me..And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed."
The Spirit gives us an insight into the manner he has arranged the prosaic aspects of the Son of man with the Son who is the Word become flesh. As with *'the upper room' this space separating his inner circle with the rest of disciples is marked by this phrase 'a little further'.
The Last supper was arranged beforehand. How the Spirit works is similar to how he works with those born of the Spirit. "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit."( John 3:8) In keeping with this principle the tribute money shall be found for Jesus and Peter when required as the ass with her colt. In the case of this room similarly it only needed to be claimed. St Luke informs us thus "And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready." ( Luke 22:12)
Now Jesus takes the three apart from the rest. He puts to practice the doctrine of his Father. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."(18:20). Peter and the two sons of Zebedee owing to their weakness in flesh may have slept through but the Spirit records his payer just the same. Thrice he prayed the same words. "vv.39-44) Jesus intercedes for them.
*The upper room serves as the world of the Spirit apart from the everyday world. Elijah raised the widows son and it makes the point clear. "And he said unto her, Give me thy son. And he took him out of her bosom, and carried him up into a loft, where he abode, and laid him upon his own bed." He stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried. In the end "And the soul of the child came into him again, and he revived.(1 Ki.17:19-23)
( Psalm 37:4).
I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
( Luke 18:8).
The issue of our heart relates to our affections and the ownership of such. When we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) His life takes over and our vessel (body) becomes His tabernacle where the Spirit dwells. Since the Lord is eternal; along with the spirit in which God has created us we perceive these things ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Whether in the body or out of it we are part of Christ's Body and we shall stand in His presence; we are already "seated in heavenly places" ( Ephesians 2:6).
Such affections draw us close to our brothers and sisters in the faith; and indeed we are COMMANDED to love one another; both from the Gospels and later quotes from John ( John 15:12; 1 John 3:23). This should be a springboard for time; money and effort to be poured out for the ministries and missions of the church and unity among the brethren. Agape love is the only love which can love anyone unconditionally; and therefore it also extends to the lost who we are commissioned to reach.
Often people complicate things when it comes to relationships; prayer certainly is helpful as I have seen personally a brother finding his wife to be 2 days after praying to find someone; along with another missionary friend of mine from many years ago when overseas. Still; there are some things which may not come to fruition until the Lord returns (primarily finding justice on the earth in places which have for a long time now featured persecution). Since we have a NEW heart; however we can find joy in seeing others being blessed; and seeing people come to faith even during times when we are struggling in our lives.
We often look at Christ's death as the ultimate love; but let us not forget His whole ministry especially toward His Disciples.
After being Born Again, it you went to an Altar and asked Jesus to Save You, You Committed a SIN, You entered into a Contract and You will Get Pride Out of Contract, this will Cause you to Fall under Condemnation/Control of the Devil, 1st Tim 3:6, and Revelations 12:9 see AskElm com for SECRETS HIDDEN over 1,800 Years and its GOOD NEW!
I would like to add to what Gigi has shared.
1 John 4:12-16.
No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. HEREBY KNOW WE THAT WE DWELL IN HIM, AND HE IN US, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
What John is saying is that no man has seen God at any time but if we love one another God dwells in us. In other words God today can manifest himself through believers in loving one another, "and the world sees That!
John 13:34-35, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
"What makes this so unique?" What's new about it? Isn't it listed in the Commandments? What's unique and new about it is that he causes it!
Look at verse 35.
"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 3:16
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,.
( God gave us his Spirit that causes us to love the Brothern.)
God's Spirit, "The Holyspirit" causes those who loves God to love his brother also. 1 John 4:21"
Romans 5:5.
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
I hope this helps. God bless.
This reply is probably going to get a lot of comments denouncing what I have said. I have lived with the infilling of the Holy Spirit for decades and I am a true child of God who loves Him dearly and I live every day for Him without sin. I do have faults. Sins send us to hell. Faults, are minor character flaws; these do not send us to hell. People who believe in the sinning/christian doctrine refuse to see the difference. Calling someone a bad name IS a sin but if that person upsets you and you just leave while praying for them, the sinning/christian doctrine teaches that since you got upset you sinned. Jesus said darkness and light don't mix. If you have questions about my stand on the false doctrines of gradual sanctification and sinning/christian please let me know. I hope this helps you. God Bless :)
"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (This blessing was meant for the church, then and always.)
Acts 19: 1-7
"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain DISCIPLES. He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve." These men weren't part of the upper room gathering or they would already been filled with the Holy Ghost.
John 8:11b
"And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and SIN NO MORE and:
John 5:14, "Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: SIN NO MORE, lest a worse thing come unto thee."
So what do the scriptures tell us that sin is?
1 John 3:4
"Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."
*Miriam-Webster Dictionary
1 John 3:4
"Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."
1 Thessalonians 4:1-5
"Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour."
The second and third lines in Chris Tomlin's song "Good Good Father" state:
But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night
And You tell me that You're pleased and that I'm never alone
David Crowder's song "He really loves us" has this in the third line
"There is no judgment"
And Danny Gokey's song "Love God Love People" says at the end of the fourth stanza
"Love God and love People" (no brainer).
Finally there is the song "What would Jesus do" states in the 11th Stanza
"What would Jesus do
He would love first..etc."
The first question here is what is God's love? There is nothing in any of these songs that show any differentiation of God's love from that of man. Assuming that God never has anything negative to say goes against the verses that state God chastises anone He loves and we are illegitimate sons otherwise (see Hebrews 12:6; 12:8). To say there is no judgment is only true as to a believer's standing at the Bema Seat Judgment and missing the Great White Throne condemnation. We are judged according to 2 Corinthians 5:10 and be judged as to works done for Him; good or bad. If we aren't one of His own we are judged and condemned already ( John 3:18).
No one should argue as to a Christian demonstrating love and patience; but that doesn't mean that we should stand for hypocrisy within the House of God; or societal evils such as abortion without sounding the trumpet as a watchman to avoid the condemnation warned of in Ezekiel 3:18. But such exhortations seem to be missing entirely in today's Christian songs; whether it is warning of the deceptiveness of Satan or sin itself; or the Tribulation to come or hell itself without repentance. Anyone on this forum who wishes to rebut that statement let me know; perhaps there are some independent artists I should be made aware of that I haven't heard lately.
Thus; artists are idolized saying what people want to hear and are "Christian" by name only.
"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."(v.3)
Towards the end of his earthly ministry Jesus in his prayer to his Father refers to ' thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word." Whosoever consequently abides in him having no confidence in his flesh has faith and also kept the word." the latter part constitute the works which are impossible without the Savior Lord.( John 15:3) Now Jesus speaks he has finished the work, "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do."(17:4,6)
From the key verse we know that preparing a place in heaven constitutes as work so as he glorified his Father on earth he has certain unfinished work. Even there we are part of his works so 'that where I am, there ye may be also."
Heaven and earth are part of the everlasting covenant. So everlasting gospel must be seen and understood as pendent to this covenant which is part of the divine Will of the Father and shall not change. The Law is eternal forever settled in heaven,(Ps.119:89) and as such heaven must be set in terms of the Law of the Spirit.
Jesus refers to the sheepfold in John 10:1 and here we are examining what possible works he might do so the nature of heaven may be placed under correct context as fulfillment of the Abstract in seven days. "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd."(10:16)
Law of sin applies to the world of the Spirit and the son of perdition, collectively applied to children of wrath or disobedience. "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."(1 John 3:8) Death is the work of Satan. "The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death."
In studying Christ's death on the cross and the resulting salvation of our souls it is no small thing to focus attention and time on such a matter on a regular basis. At least from our perspective the meaning to us personally must be considered with all due reverence for how He took us from death to life. John 17:6-8 makes clear that God was the one who gave Christ all the ones who were to be saved. The following verses ask for unity among them all; and to be in the world but not of it (in general). These verses prayed during His agony in Gethsemane are the summation of much of the earlier chapters in John clearly showing that God was the one who predetermined (predestined) all those who would be saved and hear His voice as His sheep.
However you slice it; there are some who will and will not come to Christ. Also God knows ahead of time who these people are so therefore certainly could have designated ahead of time who would be sheep and who would be a goat; who would be wheat and who a tare; etc. In other words; it wasn't up to Christ to give out any information that could lead someone to the truth in a merely intellectual manner and therefore much of His ministry was spent teaching in parables. Compare Mark 4:12 with Luke 8:12. The lack of insight given so that people can be saved is clear from the first passage; but Satan is used as the agent to blind men's hearts in the second example in Luke of the seed by the wayside.
There are as Deuteronomy 29:29 states some things in the Divine counsel which men are not privy to. Certain things can be searched out; however ( Proverbs 25:2). John 3:16 states that God so loved the world and sent His Son. We should keep in mind here that Christ came first and foremost to do the Father's will. All those called and chosen would be saved EXCEPT for the prophesied son of perdition (see Psalm 69:25; Psalm 41:9; Psalm 109).