"Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?"(v.56).
This could be Jesus asking in our times and with the climate on a crisis mode how apt it is! In continuation to the series we have just covered we shall begin with the face of the sky and face of the earth representing two worlds of the Spirit and of the body. An overcomer has to handle both worlds as one, and no other way. It is hypocrisy to set divisions on the face of the earth and expect the Christians to be part of the same body of Christ. Hunting with dogs, ('Beware of dogs') and running with hares during revival meetings shall have only one winner, and it is Satan. But Jesus was manifested to destroy the works of the devil. In the vision of the Woman Clothed with the Sun the 10 horns of the great dragon tell that he is under judgment. So whosoever backs his gospel and his anti-christ is doomed for destruction.
Jesus said in the above mentioned text,-and he gave a strong indication of the great tribulation his Advent would mean but the life of men called to be witnesses in a wicked world has to be by the light he represents. It is a fire already kindled to which we shall cite the destruction of Sodom and the cities of the plains. God lives in unapproachable light but also as we see in the night vision of Daniel is a consuming fire. (Dan.7). We shall begin with his quote: "I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?/ But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!"(vv.49-50)
In the previous post titled "With the Remnant of Her Seed" we had mentioned two witnesses namely water and fire. The two pillars that served the Israelites till they reached Canaan were forerunner of the baptism of which the various sects are mostly taken up with only that of water. (1 Co.10:1-3)
Nothing is hid from God's presence, "For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known".( Luke 12:2). Face in the parlance of the Spirit is simply a term to define a surface that is open before God, and implies beginning of a process, as in the face of Cain. God asks him, "The LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen?" (Ge.4:6-ESV). His 'countenance' (KJV) or face was open before him.
By the same token the creation account presents, "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters".(Ge.1:2). Its reaction we have in this verse, "The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled" (Ps.77:16).
From the convulsions the deep presented before the Spirit we can infer that the face holds a quality. As God tells Job ' it is turned as the clay to the seal.'( Job 38:14) This explains the manner God framed the worlds by his word. He commanded 'Fiat Lux' and consequently the things, which came to the surface were seen, as hidden depths of Cain's heart were mirrored in his face. The will of God brought the earth as clay to the seal. It is as finished as the will of God shall be complete and wanting nothing more. So we have this certainty, "For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable."(Ro.11:29-NKJV)
Face is the presence of God, which St Paul annotates in this verse, "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."(2 Co.4:6) Coming back to the creation account the Spirit of God moving upon the waters gave every water vapor a certain ability to know the glory of God, ( Jas 4:14). Ro.1:19-20. "So we are without excuse."
Instead of a veil the Ch. 4 we have 'a sea of glass like unto crystal'. (cf.Ez.1). When Lamb opens the fifth seal "I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held (Re.6:9)." We have a great congregation to whom Psalmist speaks of. "And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;"(Re.5:11) (Ps.40:9) " have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou knowest."
Each believer witness before this great congregation.These are cloud of witnesses (He.12:1) and they figure in the night vision of Daniel."A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him"(Dan.7:10)'
It is for this reason Jesus warned," For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known./ Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops."(( Luke 12:2-3) Elisha for this reasonwhould know what King of Syria had planned(2 Ki.6"12-17)
What is our heart but a Spiritual space where truth serves as our guide. Indwelling Spirit serves us as an in-house tutor. As many as are led by it are the sons of God for whom the third heavens serve as the presence. 'My presence shall go with thee and give thee rest.(Ex.33:15)'
I agree this should not cause any division, we must always treat each other with care and love of growing in faith and knowledge of the word of God.
Everlasting punishment, I once understood the same as you on this when we read Matt. 18:8Matt. 25:46 and 2 Thess. 1:9 they seem to support it. And the verses that have "weeping or wailing and gnashing of teeth" that I cringe every time I read them. So, after the white throne judgment, all the wicked and unsaved people will be cast into the lake of fire the everlasting fire Rev. 20:15Rev. 21:8 and they have a conscious eternal, everlasting, forever and ever suffering.
On the other hand, we have Matt. 10:28 God can destroy both soul and body in hell/geenna. This carries us back to that other topic the immortal soul. In John 3:16 and Romans 6:23, the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. The wicked will perish, be destroyed, and be consumed. If the wicked are to be tortured in the lake of fire forever, they would also be given eternal life.
The fire is everlasting, it is permanent they will be destroyed and never come back they will not ever live again. We see what eternal fire can do in Jude 1:7 with Sodom and Gomorrha they were destroyed and have never returned.
Rev. 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
You may see this verse differently but "shall have their part in the lake" I understand as God's fair justice, like stripes in Luke 12:48. Just punishment for their works or should be said their wickedness. If the wages of sin is death I believe the second death is everlasting death, forever to be no more, not everlasting punishment.
Just my understanding thanks again for your replies.
Love. The last thing the flesh wants to hold on to is eros love and all the tentacles of seduction affecting the eyes; body and soul from the world; flesh and the devil ( James 3:15). Our hearts need to heed His voice; and stay within the confines of the partner God has given us in a covenant marriage only for expression of these affections. Many other things such as loving God's creation more than the Creator Himself; loving our own family and friends above the Lord; and any other emotions that distract us from our walk with God must be culled. This involves music in particular; recreational drugs and alcohol as well as anything good or bad that is not under control of the Spirit. ( Colossians 3:23).
Other emotions. Generally; good or bad fruits show opposing traits for those under the control of the Spirit as compared with the flesh. Hetred; strife; and enmity for example being bad fruit; love; joy and peace good fruit with many other expressions listed in scripture as well. As with any addict who is recovered any believer has to realize that we indeed have no power to stop the downward spiral into these behaviors once intoxicated with them; whether it leads to violence or self destructive results.
Planning for our future. Greed and covetousness is a sin and to be avoided. (see 10th Commandment; Luke 12:15). However; taking loans on high interest and high credit card debts to get the thrill of material items now basically robs ourselves. It is good and honorable to have an inheritance for family members; but of course we should always prioritize for the Lord in supporting missions as well as our local church. Wise planning brings prosperity; but the love of many things the opposite ( Deut 17:17)-Solomon may have had record wealth; but Ecclesiastes shows how all is vanity if God doesn't come in first and how other things crowd out the desire for God.
the rapture that everyone is talking about in today Christendom is a myth, divise from a theological cemetry in Dallas Tx if I understand right & yes I meant cemetery, cemetery & seminary are spiritual synonyms
Jesus prayed, John 17:15John 17:20
Titus 2:11-14 appearing of the Great God & Savior is the Grace of God that appears to all mankind, His spiritual appearance in everyones heart, making it possible for all the other Scriptures you quoted possible.
The tribulations are our spiritual inward trials & suffering as Christ breaks thru the darkness that we're captivated too,& redeems, delivers & translate us into the kingdom of His dear Son, through the washing of regeneration & renewing of the Holy Spirit unto the new creature, culminating the work of sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience & sprinkling of of the Blood/Life of Jesus within us. When were truely born again, experientially Matt 3:11,12 He gathers us unto the Garder, seeing Him spirituallly come in the clouds in great glory. We're still here on earth, but we're spiritual conscious of heaven 2Cor 2:17
The writers of the NT were speaking in the present tense, they said "we" it would be a cruel hoax to tell them to look for Him when it would be over 2000yrs later. Jesus said Luke 17:20-23Luke 9:27 to those who were with Him then.
Luke 11:2Luke 12:32 here & now, this is the exceedingly great glory of the Christ sacrifice John 17:21-24
It sounds like you're conflating being born again with salvation. Does the Bible say these occur at the exact same time? If so, please share those verses.
"If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15 KJV
Jesus said this. Jesus emphasized obedience and keeping His commandments. Those who are so opposed to obeying Jesus should probably be afraid of the upcoming judgment, because someone who doesn't obey Jesus might not be a Jesus follower.
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 7:21 KJV
How can anyone believe the Bible, read this Bible verse and then believe obeying God is bad?
"But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him." Luke 12:5 KJV
I believe we have a all knowing God who can't be surprised who stands on the outside of time looking in!
Anything you are going to do next week or next year, in God's view you did it yesterday!
How can we know his judgments?
We know that he's just and we're all guilty.
He's righteous, Merciful, longsuffering and he's just, beyond what we can comprehend.
With that being said our minds don't measure up when trying to understand his Judgments.
So if we use his attributes along with what is consistent throughout ALL scripture as a principle to guide us we should come to conclusion hearing and receiving the word of God or refusing to hear and rejecting the word of God plays the primary role in God's Judgment.
So there must be an age of maturity enough for one to understand they need an savior because little two year old Billie is a sinner and he don't know it.
An accountability is likely when one matures and have understanding of some sort of consequences for sin, Some acknowledgement of the need for a savior.
And I believe God judges them according to what they receives.
Here's a few scriptures according to those basics.
Luke 10:13-14
Matthew 10:14-15.
Luke 12:47-48.
God shall judge righteous.
You see a picture of how he uses discretion in judgment in
Genesis 18:23-32.
Genesis 18:35 should be considered along with God's sovereign and foreknowledge and circumstances.
I believe there's a lot more going on in this dark world than what is on the surface and these things should be taken into consideration when questioning God's decision to destroy nations.
We could never fully understand God's methods of Judging but we can take what we do have in scripture and say one would have to be able to comprehend more than what a child is capable of to receive judgment without mercy.
Example.
DEUTERONOMY 1:39
Moreover your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, and your children, which in that day HAD NO KNOWLEDGE BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL..
Thank you for your recent responses. I believe that currently, we have a differing view on the subject of death, and hell. This subject comes up from time to time, and a fresh new thread may be beneficial at some point going forward. This thread is getting a little long so I will try keep this a short response without additional scripture.
You stated that Jesus spoke in parables, yes He did, but much that he spoke about was not in parables, and He can be taken very literally. An example is the verse that I gave you below:
Luke 12:4-5
4And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
Jesus tells us to fear God because not only can He kill us, He can also send us to hell! I think you believe that Satan and his demons will go to hell.if so, this is the same hell.
If it is as you seem to believe; that when we die as a sinner, we just remain dead forever, Jesus would have plainly said that, and he did not. There would also be no need for a resurrection of "all souls" the just and unjust - for judgement - which is also stated plainly throughout the bible.
Jesus tells us below - that we should fear God as He can cast us into hell.
Luke 12:4-5
4And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
Here a just a few of many verses stating that the unjust/unbeliever/unrepentant sinner will suffer for eternity in Hell.
Luke 16:22-25
Matt 25:41
Matt 3:12
Matt 25:46
Daniel 12:2
Mark 9:44-49
2 Thess 1:8-9
Rev 20:10
Rev 14:10-11
I know in the world we live in today, the popular belief among many preachers and Christians is that God is only good, kind, loving, and forgiving, and because of this - He will not throw anyone into Hell - to suffer for eternity. But that God will only leave us dead for eternity. This kind of teaching is false doctrine and does not conform to the bible, and Jesus own words. As Christian's we must always have a healthy fear of God.
Proverbs 1:7
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
This is likely because it is talking about God chastising his own (or His servants); He "scourges every son that He receives" as well as chastising them ( Hebrews 12:6). Better are the wounds of a friend than the kisses of an enemy ( Proverbs 27:6).
We see what appears in Luke to be a discussion of those fellowservants who are warning about the coming of the Lord and are "beaten by their fellow servants" ( Luke 12:45). We see that verse 39 and 46 indicate a house being "broken into" and verse 46 talks about being assigned in a place with the hypocrites and cut into pieces. That would be metaphorical language fitting into missing the Rapture; and going through the fire of the Tribulation from the way I see it.
Isaiah 10:5-6 discusses the "Assyrian" God's method of chastisement (one code word for Antichrist) who is used to judge a "hypocritical nation." Hence there is ample reason to at least ascribe this message to Israel as a rebellious nation who doesn't recognize their King until they realize that the one they trusted in turns against them.
There are ignorant people in churches today who God may still save or make their garments white in the Tribulation. Whether these are left behind believers or new believers as part of the witnessing campaign of the 144,000 it is martyrdom that is the test of all who truly believe in Christ. Those who know better and yet are truly His own of course (as with teachers) have a greater responsibility; hence the Lord will have to deal with them more harshly. I look at the Tribulation as being a massive campaign by God for fruit production; which He will get one way or another to His satisfaction. The word Tribulation apparently is related to "Tribulum" or the wheat being ripened and harvested rapidly in the blistering sun. It is good to look at such events in relation to the big picture; the worst persecution brings the greatest glory; and will be used to turn Israel back to the true Savior ( Zech 12:12; Rev. 1:7).
And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
Deuteronomy 25:1-3
If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, that the judges may judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked. And it shall be, if the wicked man be worthy to be beaten, that the judge shall cause him to lie down, and to be beaten before his face, according to his fault, by a certain number. Forty stripes he may give him, and not exceed: lest, if he should exceed, and beat him above these with many stripes, then thy brother should seem vile unto thee.
How do these passages fit with the conventional understanding that God's Judgment for the wicked is conscious existence and eternal suffering that never ends in a place called Hell?
Would we not expect God's punishment for the wicked to be consistent with His Law and have a limit?
Luke 12:3 and Matthew 12:36 are eye opening; as we are to give account for everything said and nothing is secret to God.
I would like to say that I don't do any grumbling or complaining; but alas then I would be lying. Thankfully anything but blasphemy against the Spirit can be forgiven. As Jesus pointed out to the self-righteous Pharisees; these bad fruits come from within. And 2 Peter 2:21 makes it clear that it is better not to have known the truth than to become reprobate. The blood of Christ is our only hope as Jeremiah 17:9 shows how sick the heart is.
There are Post Millennialists who dispute this; but I don't believe anyone from the church age who is a believer will be at the Great White Throne Judgment. I DO have the opinion that since the verse indicates that those who aren't in the Book of Life are going to the lake of fire; there is room for those who physically survive the Millennial period to go through that as saved people and hence be translated into heaven without dying.
In any event; 1 Corinthians 3:15 indicates that one can make it into heaven and suffer loss. That would be analogous to losing rewards as Revelation 3:11 warns. Paul indicates how we run for the prize. Only a few gain great rewards; as would be indicated by those making 100 fold as opposed to 30 fold returns or others ( Mark 4:20). We should not be confined to just the saved and lost divisions when scripture gives us admonitions for certain crowns that those who persevere; are martyred or are pastors as well as other situations are given for faithfulness.
Matthew 6:19-21 shows us that our treasure is to be in heaven. And that means that He must trust us with earthly riches as well ( Luke 16:10-12) as a test; a prerequisite for heavenly riches. Our brothers in Christ that we support in the ministry will be able to enjoy the harvest with us (see John 4:37). That and personal witnessing are components of fulfilling the Great Commission to finish well.
According to 1 Corinthians 15:22 at the last trump the Lord comes for His church. Some say that Matthew 24:36 is referring to that day that no man knows the day and hour as being the Jewish feast of Trumpets. There could be something to that; with Christ fulfilling the Spring feasts already; namely the Passover lamb sacrificed for us; and the Pentecost ascension which; by the way was always celebrated on the "8th day" of the week.
As my last post indicates; there is little talk today among most professing believers of the Rapture. We see what could be an analogy of a separation or Rapture of some in Luke 12:45 where the watchmen is beaten by his fellow sorkers. There is even some say that same pattern in Song of Solomon 5:7.
Luke 21:36 instructs us to pray that we are worthy to escape all these things and to stand before the Son of Man. The original language uses the word "agonia" or something to that affect. Clearly; not all believers are praying in such a manner which questions their walk with God as to either their salvation or their position of readiness. I have probably presented some ideas last year as to whether all Christians are raptured or if some have to go through some of the Tribulation. What is certain is that these warnings; along with Revelation 3:10 are for those who are awake and waiting which I contended in my last posting that Malachi 3:16 spoke of.
Whatever our eschatology; fearing God and anticipating His arrival isn't restricted to those who hold a Pretribulational and Premillenial viewpoint. I have fellowshipped with Amillenials and Post Millenials who had more conviction about Christ coming as well as the terrible judgments on the earth than those who claim what I espouse; namely the Rapture followed by the 7 Year Tribulation and a Millennial rule of Christ before the eternal new earth. Even if I could press my viewpoint it isn't worth splitting hairs; we should all look to the scriptures daily.
Continuing thoughts on salvation assurance in light of the plan of redemption for the whole world
My last segment showed how Christ will confess us before the Father; Luke 12:8 further indicates that He will confess us before the angels in heaven. This; of course depends on if we are sheep or goats; wheat or tares. It could be argued the first example is at least focused on the Tribulation and reactions toward the Jews who will be persecuted worldwide at that time ( Matt. 25:36). In the scriptures on wheat and tares things are clearly at first glance identical with both such individuals. This would be focused on those who fall away as well as being of Satan all along; or false converts rather than necessarily the unbelieving world at large who may have no belief in God at all or follow some other faith rather than Christianity.
This key is vital; for once someone has been given enough knowledge they are held to a higher standard. Again; though for now and these scriptures it shows those who started off that way and continue to heap up a reward of evil for themselves until they are cut off (see Psalm 91:8). The harvest is of course known as to the result ahead of time by Christ. We should all agree whatever a final destination is it is known by God and He is a God of all truth and justice as well as righteousness.
Being that apart from Divine Grace we cannot save ourselves or know how to follow the truth; ( Eph. 2:8) we must recognize that even if we have committed no obvious sin for a long time we are in the end no better off than others; we are worse in a Pharisaical sense proud of our own righteousness thinking we can earn our way or find our own way to heaven. It also leaves us vulnerable to Satan who appears as an angel of light ( 2 Cor. 11:14-15). Often missing in the subject of sin is the Father of lies who is behind mens thoughts of evil bringing out the worst in them. ( John 8:44). I will peer into that subject in my next writing.
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
James 4:8a
"Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you...."
2 Timothy 2:15
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Lydia, before I was born again, I was a "half Christian" so to speak, sort of like you said, not 100%. The problem was, I believed and loved Jesus, but I didn't want to give up the world and my sins. I rarely read God's Word, etc. Something happened in my life, and I began reading God's Word...studying it, taking notes, everyday. I'm not kidding, I just started to change. I began to understand God's love for me, and what He wanted from me. I saw my sins for what they were and it broke me. I repented, and gave up the things I was hanging onto. I knew for the first time in my life, I was a true born again Christian. You have to get into God's Word, and be willing to turn from sin and the world. Look up "what is sancification", it's our Christian walk, learning and growing for the rest of our lives. The simple fact that you are asking for help, is your beginning.
Lydia, none of us are good. We can't work our way to heaven, without faith in Jesus Christ. And, even our most righteous works are as filthy rags to God. God is so pure, holy and righteous, we can only be made clean through His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus washes our sins away, gone, forever. And, only then, can we become close to our Father in heaven. When we become Christians, born again, a new person with a new heart, we want to worship God.
The only way to heaven, is through Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 11:6 - But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
In Luke 12:35-48 there are some credible words. Pay special attention to v. 48. Before, I've read this as a judgment on those who don't listen. But here it says that we will get what we deserve. That is, if you are a Jesus save person, we can never be anything else. It is the surrounding environment that creates this division. Jesus explains it in the next section.
In 1 Timothy 1:18-20, we get another small clue that the condemnation the Christians bring upon themselves is and becomes sensual/bodily and certainly not in the Spirit of the Lord. Pay special attention here to v. 20. Even Paul is saying here that they will learn! That means they are not condemned by him or Jesus. So what does that mean? For us grace over grace. We must work on our salvation with fear and trembling. Because Jesus says it at the beginning of this chapter of Luke. Repent and understand the difference between body, soul, and spirit. Ask for forgiveness loudly so that our enemy can never ever pass the transgressions a few more times for us. Those we have, in the body of Jesus we are equal before God. Amen. For we converted have received the Spirit of the Lord and understand when we have done something wrong. Hallelujah, we have no escapes. And we're doing the best we can, aren't we? Praise be to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Which of us wants to throw away the only nice/good thing we have in life?
So we take up our sword and repel our enemies. You're right Bill, remember and be strong and brave. He never leaves you. He is. Love u all in Christ, and have a much happy Easter. Considering that He is alive today!
Growth can and indeed will occur with good soil and the implanted seed of the Spirit. When we sow with tears we reap with joy ( Psalm 126:5-6). Indeed; these verses show us that the harvest is present with us and surely is our reward for effective service (see also Hebrews 6:10; Isaiah 55:10-11). Just as our walk in Christ isn't just a spectator sport; our participation isn't merely an individual source of growth; but mutually edifying for the body. That is how spiritual gifts are to be properly practiced (see 1 Cor. 12 starting in verse 4).
We should therefore rejoice when others rejoice; weep when others weep ( Philippians 4:4). This explains why it is often better to be in the house of mourning than feasting ( Ecclesiastes 7:2-4). I am not one to argue whether Christ had a sense of humor; but will state that it is better to refrain from jokes if there is any uncertainty and certainly from "course jesting" ( Eph. 5:3-4).
God is steadfast and unchanging; unlike the vicissitudes of the human heart. Stability comes from a well grounded faith and walking in the Spirit as our "sure foundation and anchor of our soul" ( Heb. 6:19).
Patience being one of the fruits of the Spirit especially today is; in my opinion underrated as to its value. Just a brief survey of Bible characters shows how many things took time to completion; whether with Abraham's wanderings and progeny; Moses' deliverance; Joseph's prominance; and David's ascension to the throne. In fact too much success too quickly was a factor in Solomon's fall despite God warning him not to multiply gold and horses as well as foreign wives. This is the real issue with the "prosperity gospel" as surely God as well as Satan can be the facilitator of worldly gain (as well as efforts from hard work). It is the pride and comfort in our possessions which bring a man down (see Luke 12:16-21). It also makes rich people give a disporportionally low percentage vs the poor
In Numbers 5, it seems to say what it means, if a man is suspicious that his wife has sinned against him with another, the ritual is done with an oath of cursing, if she is innocent, she is free and nothing will happen to her, but if she's guilty, her stomach will swell and thigh will rot. I would say Luke 12:2 "For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known." is what's happening here. I hope this helps. God Bless
In Luke 1:16-17 an Angel tells Johns father, "Zacharias". That he would have a son And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.
And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
John the baptist had a great crowd and devout followers and he preached the coming of their expected Messiah and King.
The pressing multitudes that had followed John continued to follow Jesus' ( Luke 5:15, Luke 12:1).
In the context of this chapter we have Jesus authenticating John's ministry.
SO THAT BRINGS US TO THE TEXT.
Mathew 11:12.
And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
Let's look at the word violence in this text.
Greek:
Transliteration: biaz
Pronunciation: bee-ad'-zo
Definition: From G970; to force that is (reflexively) to crowd oneself (into) or (passively) TO BE SEIZED: - PRESS SUFFER VIOLENCE
The pressing multitudes that had followed John continued to follow Jesus' ( Luke 5:15, Luke 12:1).
This is what Jesus is saying "The kingdom of God suffers violence." Pointing to the huge crowds that followed John and that were now following Him, Jesus likens them to an invading army surrounding a city to capture it.
Look at Luke's account.
Luke 16:16.
The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.
( From the days of John the Baptist until now," there has been an extraordinary rush of people pressing in from all sides eager to hear the gospel that they resembled an army trying to besiege a city.)
Matthew 11:14 he says;
"And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come."
Hello Skyler. According to Revelation 20:11-15, hell (in Greek, Hades: the abode of the departed spirits), will not last forever. In that very last day when all are judged by God (at the Great White Throne judgement), all those who have died & not found written in the Book of Life, would be found guilty before God & cast into the Lake of Fire. Not only them, but "death & hell" as well, as there would no longer be any need for them, since sin will be no more as Satan himself will be consigned to that fiery Lake (v20) & with him all who have rejected God & His Son Jesus Christ. So, there will be a day when hell will be emptied out & removed altogether, but the Lake of Fire will exist for eternity in the final judgement of those who rejected God's Love.
And Jesus spoke of this final place in Luke 12:4,5: "And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him." Here the word for 'hell' in Greek, is 'geenna or gehenna', which is different from the (temporary Hell/Hades). And this place (Gehenna) is the final place of eternal torment; but those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life ( Revelation 21:27) will live eternally with God & His Son, with the host of Heaven, on the new Earth in the New Jerusalem where there will be no more sin & Satan to deceive mankind.
Luke 12:49-56
Two Witnesses
"Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?"(v.56).
This could be Jesus asking in our times and with the climate on a crisis mode how apt it is! In continuation to the series we have just covered we shall begin with the face of the sky and face of the earth representing two worlds of the Spirit and of the body. An overcomer has to handle both worlds as one, and no other way. It is hypocrisy to set divisions on the face of the earth and expect the Christians to be part of the same body of Christ. Hunting with dogs, ('Beware of dogs') and running with hares during revival meetings shall have only one winner, and it is Satan. But Jesus was manifested to destroy the works of the devil. In the vision of the Woman Clothed with the Sun the 10 horns of the great dragon tell that he is under judgment. So whosoever backs his gospel and his anti-christ is doomed for destruction.
Jesus said in the above mentioned text,-and he gave a strong indication of the great tribulation his Advent would mean but the life of men called to be witnesses in a wicked world has to be by the light he represents. It is a fire already kindled to which we shall cite the destruction of Sodom and the cities of the plains. God lives in unapproachable light but also as we see in the night vision of Daniel is a consuming fire. (Dan.7). We shall begin with his quote: "I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?/ But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!"(vv.49-50)
In the previous post titled "With the Remnant of Her Seed" we had mentioned two witnesses namely water and fire. The two pillars that served the Israelites till they reached Canaan were forerunner of the baptism of which the various sects are mostly taken up with only that of water. (1 Co.10:1-3)
Nothing is hid from God's presence, "For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known".( Luke 12:2). Face in the parlance of the Spirit is simply a term to define a surface that is open before God, and implies beginning of a process, as in the face of Cain. God asks him, "The LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen?" (Ge.4:6-ESV). His 'countenance' (KJV) or face was open before him.
By the same token the creation account presents, "And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters".(Ge.1:2). Its reaction we have in this verse, "The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled" (Ps.77:16).
From the convulsions the deep presented before the Spirit we can infer that the face holds a quality. As God tells Job ' it is turned as the clay to the seal.'( Job 38:14) This explains the manner God framed the worlds by his word. He commanded 'Fiat Lux' and consequently the things, which came to the surface were seen, as hidden depths of Cain's heart were mirrored in his face. The will of God brought the earth as clay to the seal. It is as finished as the will of God shall be complete and wanting nothing more. So we have this certainty, "For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable."(Ro.11:29-NKJV)
Face is the presence of God, which St Paul annotates in this verse, "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."(2 Co.4:6) Coming back to the creation account the Spirit of God moving upon the waters gave every water vapor a certain ability to know the glory of God, ( Jas 4:14). Ro.1:19-20. "So we are without excuse."
Instead of a veil the Ch. 4 we have 'a sea of glass like unto crystal'. (cf.Ez.1). When Lamb opens the fifth seal "I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held (Re.6:9)." We have a great congregation to whom Psalmist speaks of. "And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;"(Re.5:11) (Ps.40:9) " have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou knowest."
Each believer witness before this great congregation.These are cloud of witnesses (He.12:1) and they figure in the night vision of Daniel."A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him"(Dan.7:10)'
It is for this reason Jesus warned," For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known./ Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops."(( Luke 12:2-3) Elisha for this reasonwhould know what King of Syria had planned(2 Ki.6"12-17)
What is our heart but a Spiritual space where truth serves as our guide. Indwelling Spirit serves us as an in-house tutor. As many as are led by it are the sons of God for whom the third heavens serve as the presence. 'My presence shall go with thee and give thee rest.(Ex.33:15)'
I agree this should not cause any division, we must always treat each other with care and love of growing in faith and knowledge of the word of God.
Everlasting punishment, I once understood the same as you on this when we read Matt. 18:8 Matt. 25:46 and 2 Thess. 1:9 they seem to support it. And the verses that have "weeping or wailing and gnashing of teeth" that I cringe every time I read them. So, after the white throne judgment, all the wicked and unsaved people will be cast into the lake of fire the everlasting fire Rev. 20:15 Rev. 21:8 and they have a conscious eternal, everlasting, forever and ever suffering.
On the other hand, we have Matt. 10:28 God can destroy both soul and body in hell/geenna. This carries us back to that other topic the immortal soul. In John 3:16 and Romans 6:23, the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. The wicked will perish, be destroyed, and be consumed. If the wicked are to be tortured in the lake of fire forever, they would also be given eternal life.
The fire is everlasting, it is permanent they will be destroyed and never come back they will not ever live again. We see what eternal fire can do in Jude 1:7 with Sodom and Gomorrha they were destroyed and have never returned.
Rev. 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
You may see this verse differently but "shall have their part in the lake" I understand as God's fair justice, like stripes in Luke 12:48. Just punishment for their works or should be said their wickedness. If the wages of sin is death I believe the second death is everlasting death, forever to be no more, not everlasting punishment.
Just my understanding thanks again for your replies.
God bless,
RLW
Love. The last thing the flesh wants to hold on to is eros love and all the tentacles of seduction affecting the eyes; body and soul from the world; flesh and the devil ( James 3:15). Our hearts need to heed His voice; and stay within the confines of the partner God has given us in a covenant marriage only for expression of these affections. Many other things such as loving God's creation more than the Creator Himself; loving our own family and friends above the Lord; and any other emotions that distract us from our walk with God must be culled. This involves music in particular; recreational drugs and alcohol as well as anything good or bad that is not under control of the Spirit. ( Colossians 3:23).
Other emotions. Generally; good or bad fruits show opposing traits for those under the control of the Spirit as compared with the flesh. Hetred; strife; and enmity for example being bad fruit; love; joy and peace good fruit with many other expressions listed in scripture as well. As with any addict who is recovered any believer has to realize that we indeed have no power to stop the downward spiral into these behaviors once intoxicated with them; whether it leads to violence or self destructive results.
Planning for our future. Greed and covetousness is a sin and to be avoided. (see 10th Commandment; Luke 12:15). However; taking loans on high interest and high credit card debts to get the thrill of material items now basically robs ourselves. It is good and honorable to have an inheritance for family members; but of course we should always prioritize for the Lord in supporting missions as well as our local church. Wise planning brings prosperity; but the love of many things the opposite ( Deut 17:17)-Solomon may have had record wealth; but Ecclesiastes shows how all is vanity if God doesn't come in first and how other things crowd out the desire for God.
the rapture that everyone is talking about in today Christendom is a myth, divise from a theological cemetry in Dallas Tx if I understand right & yes I meant cemetery, cemetery & seminary are spiritual synonyms
Jesus prayed, John 17:15 John 17:20
Titus 2:11-14 appearing of the Great God & Savior is the Grace of God that appears to all mankind, His spiritual appearance in everyones heart, making it possible for all the other Scriptures you quoted possible.
The tribulations are our spiritual inward trials & suffering as Christ breaks thru the darkness that we're captivated too,& redeems, delivers & translate us into the kingdom of His dear Son, through the washing of regeneration & renewing of the Holy Spirit unto the new creature, culminating the work of sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience & sprinkling of of the Blood/Life of Jesus within us. When were truely born again, experientially Matt 3:11,12 He gathers us unto the Garder, seeing Him spirituallly come in the clouds in great glory. We're still here on earth, but we're spiritual conscious of heaven 2Cor 2:17
The writers of the NT were speaking in the present tense, they said "we" it would be a cruel hoax to tell them to look for Him when it would be over 2000yrs later. Jesus said Luke 17:20-23 Luke 9:27 to those who were with Him then.
Luke 11:2 Luke 12:32 here & now, this is the exceedingly great glory of the Christ sacrifice John 17:21-24
In Love & Truth
Jesus said, Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.
May the Lord bless you & keep you, may His Light shine upon you & give you peace..
in Love & Truth
Frankie J
"If ye love me, keep my commandments." John 14:15 KJV
Jesus said this. Jesus emphasized obedience and keeping His commandments. Those who are so opposed to obeying Jesus should probably be afraid of the upcoming judgment, because someone who doesn't obey Jesus might not be a Jesus follower.
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 7:21 KJV
How can anyone believe the Bible, read this Bible verse and then believe obeying God is bad?
"But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him." Luke 12:5 KJV
I believe we have a all knowing God who can't be surprised who stands on the outside of time looking in!
Anything you are going to do next week or next year, in God's view you did it yesterday!
How can we know his judgments?
We know that he's just and we're all guilty.
He's righteous, Merciful, longsuffering and he's just, beyond what we can comprehend.
With that being said our minds don't measure up when trying to understand his Judgments.
So if we use his attributes along with what is consistent throughout ALL scripture as a principle to guide us we should come to conclusion hearing and receiving the word of God or refusing to hear and rejecting the word of God plays the primary role in God's Judgment.
So there must be an age of maturity enough for one to understand they need an savior because little two year old Billie is a sinner and he don't know it.
An accountability is likely when one matures and have understanding of some sort of consequences for sin, Some acknowledgement of the need for a savior.
And I believe God judges them according to what they receives.
Here's a few scriptures according to those basics.
Luke 10:13-14
Matthew 10:14-15.
Luke 12:47-48.
God shall judge righteous.
You see a picture of how he uses discretion in judgment in
Genesis 18:23-32.
Genesis 18:35 should be considered along with God's sovereign and foreknowledge and circumstances.
I believe there's a lot more going on in this dark world than what is on the surface and these things should be taken into consideration when questioning God's decision to destroy nations.
We could never fully understand God's methods of Judging but we can take what we do have in scripture and say one would have to be able to comprehend more than what a child is capable of to receive judgment without mercy.
Example.
DEUTERONOMY 1:39
Moreover your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, and your children, which in that day HAD NO KNOWLEDGE BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL..
GB.
Thank you for your recent responses. I believe that currently, we have a differing view on the subject of death, and hell. This subject comes up from time to time, and a fresh new thread may be beneficial at some point going forward. This thread is getting a little long so I will try keep this a short response without additional scripture.
You stated that Jesus spoke in parables, yes He did, but much that he spoke about was not in parables, and He can be taken very literally. An example is the verse that I gave you below:
Luke 12:4-5
4And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
Jesus tells us to fear God because not only can He kill us, He can also send us to hell! I think you believe that Satan and his demons will go to hell.if so, this is the same hell.
If it is as you seem to believe; that when we die as a sinner, we just remain dead forever, Jesus would have plainly said that, and he did not. There would also be no need for a resurrection of "all souls" the just and unjust - for judgement - which is also stated plainly throughout the bible.
GB
Jesus tells us below - that we should fear God as He can cast us into hell.
Luke 12:4-5
4And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
Here a just a few of many verses stating that the unjust/unbeliever/unrepentant sinner will suffer for eternity in Hell.
Luke 16:22-25
Matt 25:41
Matt 3:12
Matt 25:46
Daniel 12:2
Mark 9:44-49
2 Thess 1:8-9
Rev 20:10
Rev 14:10-11
I know in the world we live in today, the popular belief among many preachers and Christians is that God is only good, kind, loving, and forgiving, and because of this - He will not throw anyone into Hell - to suffer for eternity. But that God will only leave us dead for eternity. This kind of teaching is false doctrine and does not conform to the bible, and Jesus own words. As Christian's we must always have a healthy fear of God.
Proverbs 1:7
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
God tells us Hell is real!
Read and Believe!
We see what appears in Luke to be a discussion of those fellowservants who are warning about the coming of the Lord and are "beaten by their fellow servants" ( Luke 12:45). We see that verse 39 and 46 indicate a house being "broken into" and verse 46 talks about being assigned in a place with the hypocrites and cut into pieces. That would be metaphorical language fitting into missing the Rapture; and going through the fire of the Tribulation from the way I see it.
Isaiah 10:5-6 discusses the "Assyrian" God's method of chastisement (one code word for Antichrist) who is used to judge a "hypocritical nation." Hence there is ample reason to at least ascribe this message to Israel as a rebellious nation who doesn't recognize their King until they realize that the one they trusted in turns against them.
There are ignorant people in churches today who God may still save or make their garments white in the Tribulation. Whether these are left behind believers or new believers as part of the witnessing campaign of the 144,000 it is martyrdom that is the test of all who truly believe in Christ. Those who know better and yet are truly His own of course (as with teachers) have a greater responsibility; hence the Lord will have to deal with them more harshly. I look at the Tribulation as being a massive campaign by God for fruit production; which He will get one way or another to His satisfaction. The word Tribulation apparently is related to "Tribulum" or the wheat being ripened and harvested rapidly in the blistering sun. It is good to look at such events in relation to the big picture; the worst persecution brings the greatest glory; and will be used to turn Israel back to the true Savior ( Zech 12:12; Rev. 1:7).
Luke 12:47,48
And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
Deuteronomy 25:1-3
If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, that the judges may judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked. And it shall be, if the wicked man be worthy to be beaten, that the judge shall cause him to lie down, and to be beaten before his face, according to his fault, by a certain number. Forty stripes he may give him, and not exceed: lest, if he should exceed, and beat him above these with many stripes, then thy brother should seem vile unto thee.
How do these passages fit with the conventional understanding that God's Judgment for the wicked is conscious existence and eternal suffering that never ends in a place called Hell?
Would we not expect God's punishment for the wicked to be consistent with His Law and have a limit?
I would like to say that I don't do any grumbling or complaining; but alas then I would be lying. Thankfully anything but blasphemy against the Spirit can be forgiven. As Jesus pointed out to the self-righteous Pharisees; these bad fruits come from within. And 2 Peter 2:21 makes it clear that it is better not to have known the truth than to become reprobate. The blood of Christ is our only hope as Jeremiah 17:9 shows how sick the heart is.
There are Post Millennialists who dispute this; but I don't believe anyone from the church age who is a believer will be at the Great White Throne Judgment. I DO have the opinion that since the verse indicates that those who aren't in the Book of Life are going to the lake of fire; there is room for those who physically survive the Millennial period to go through that as saved people and hence be translated into heaven without dying.
In any event; 1 Corinthians 3:15 indicates that one can make it into heaven and suffer loss. That would be analogous to losing rewards as Revelation 3:11 warns. Paul indicates how we run for the prize. Only a few gain great rewards; as would be indicated by those making 100 fold as opposed to 30 fold returns or others ( Mark 4:20). We should not be confined to just the saved and lost divisions when scripture gives us admonitions for certain crowns that those who persevere; are martyred or are pastors as well as other situations are given for faithfulness.
Matthew 6:19-21 shows us that our treasure is to be in heaven. And that means that He must trust us with earthly riches as well ( Luke 16:10-12) as a test; a prerequisite for heavenly riches. Our brothers in Christ that we support in the ministry will be able to enjoy the harvest with us (see John 4:37). That and personal witnessing are components of fulfilling the Great Commission to finish well.
These verses would apply:
1 Corinthians 15:52
Revelation 3:10
1 Thessalonians 5:9
Luke 12:40
Hope this helps!
According to 1 Corinthians 15:22 at the last trump the Lord comes for His church. Some say that Matthew 24:36 is referring to that day that no man knows the day and hour as being the Jewish feast of Trumpets. There could be something to that; with Christ fulfilling the Spring feasts already; namely the Passover lamb sacrificed for us; and the Pentecost ascension which; by the way was always celebrated on the "8th day" of the week.
As my last post indicates; there is little talk today among most professing believers of the Rapture. We see what could be an analogy of a separation or Rapture of some in Luke 12:45 where the watchmen is beaten by his fellow sorkers. There is even some say that same pattern in Song of Solomon 5:7.
Luke 21:36 instructs us to pray that we are worthy to escape all these things and to stand before the Son of Man. The original language uses the word "agonia" or something to that affect. Clearly; not all believers are praying in such a manner which questions their walk with God as to either their salvation or their position of readiness. I have probably presented some ideas last year as to whether all Christians are raptured or if some have to go through some of the Tribulation. What is certain is that these warnings; along with Revelation 3:10 are for those who are awake and waiting which I contended in my last posting that Malachi 3:16 spoke of.
Whatever our eschatology; fearing God and anticipating His arrival isn't restricted to those who hold a Pretribulational and Premillenial viewpoint. I have fellowshipped with Amillenials and Post Millenials who had more conviction about Christ coming as well as the terrible judgments on the earth than those who claim what I espouse; namely the Rapture followed by the 7 Year Tribulation and a Millennial rule of Christ before the eternal new earth. Even if I could press my viewpoint it isn't worth splitting hairs; we should all look to the scriptures daily.
My last segment showed how Christ will confess us before the Father; Luke 12:8 further indicates that He will confess us before the angels in heaven. This; of course depends on if we are sheep or goats; wheat or tares. It could be argued the first example is at least focused on the Tribulation and reactions toward the Jews who will be persecuted worldwide at that time ( Matt. 25:36). In the scriptures on wheat and tares things are clearly at first glance identical with both such individuals. This would be focused on those who fall away as well as being of Satan all along; or false converts rather than necessarily the unbelieving world at large who may have no belief in God at all or follow some other faith rather than Christianity.
This key is vital; for once someone has been given enough knowledge they are held to a higher standard. Again; though for now and these scriptures it shows those who started off that way and continue to heap up a reward of evil for themselves until they are cut off (see Psalm 91:8). The harvest is of course known as to the result ahead of time by Christ. We should all agree whatever a final destination is it is known by God and He is a God of all truth and justice as well as righteousness.
Being that apart from Divine Grace we cannot save ourselves or know how to follow the truth; ( Eph. 2:8) we must recognize that even if we have committed no obvious sin for a long time we are in the end no better off than others; we are worse in a Pharisaical sense proud of our own righteousness thinking we can earn our way or find our own way to heaven. It also leaves us vulnerable to Satan who appears as an angel of light ( 2 Cor. 11:14-15). Often missing in the subject of sin is the Father of lies who is behind mens thoughts of evil bringing out the worst in them. ( John 8:44). I will peer into that subject in my next writing.
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
James 4:8a
"Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you...."
2 Timothy 2:15
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Lydia, before I was born again, I was a "half Christian" so to speak, sort of like you said, not 100%. The problem was, I believed and loved Jesus, but I didn't want to give up the world and my sins. I rarely read God's Word, etc. Something happened in my life, and I began reading God's Word...studying it, taking notes, everyday. I'm not kidding, I just started to change. I began to understand God's love for me, and what He wanted from me. I saw my sins for what they were and it broke me. I repented, and gave up the things I was hanging onto. I knew for the first time in my life, I was a true born again Christian. You have to get into God's Word, and be willing to turn from sin and the world. Look up "what is sancification", it's our Christian walk, learning and growing for the rest of our lives. The simple fact that you are asking for help, is your beginning.
The only way to heaven, is through Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 11:6 - But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
In 1 Timothy 1:18-20, we get another small clue that the condemnation the Christians bring upon themselves is and becomes sensual/bodily and certainly not in the Spirit of the Lord. Pay special attention here to v. 20. Even Paul is saying here that they will learn! That means they are not condemned by him or Jesus. So what does that mean? For us grace over grace. We must work on our salvation with fear and trembling. Because Jesus says it at the beginning of this chapter of Luke. Repent and understand the difference between body, soul, and spirit. Ask for forgiveness loudly so that our enemy can never ever pass the transgressions a few more times for us. Those we have, in the body of Jesus we are equal before God. Amen. For we converted have received the Spirit of the Lord and understand when we have done something wrong. Hallelujah, we have no escapes. And we're doing the best we can, aren't we? Praise be to God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Which of us wants to throw away the only nice/good thing we have in life?
So we take up our sword and repel our enemies. You're right Bill, remember and be strong and brave. He never leaves you. He is. Love u all in Christ, and have a much happy Easter. Considering that He is alive today!
Growth can and indeed will occur with good soil and the implanted seed of the Spirit. When we sow with tears we reap with joy ( Psalm 126:5-6). Indeed; these verses show us that the harvest is present with us and surely is our reward for effective service (see also Hebrews 6:10; Isaiah 55:10-11). Just as our walk in Christ isn't just a spectator sport; our participation isn't merely an individual source of growth; but mutually edifying for the body. That is how spiritual gifts are to be properly practiced (see 1 Cor. 12 starting in verse 4).
We should therefore rejoice when others rejoice; weep when others weep ( Philippians 4:4). This explains why it is often better to be in the house of mourning than feasting ( Ecclesiastes 7:2-4). I am not one to argue whether Christ had a sense of humor; but will state that it is better to refrain from jokes if there is any uncertainty and certainly from "course jesting" ( Eph. 5:3-4).
God is steadfast and unchanging; unlike the vicissitudes of the human heart. Stability comes from a well grounded faith and walking in the Spirit as our "sure foundation and anchor of our soul" ( Heb. 6:19).
Patience being one of the fruits of the Spirit especially today is; in my opinion underrated as to its value. Just a brief survey of Bible characters shows how many things took time to completion; whether with Abraham's wanderings and progeny; Moses' deliverance; Joseph's prominance; and David's ascension to the throne. In fact too much success too quickly was a factor in Solomon's fall despite God warning him not to multiply gold and horses as well as foreign wives. This is the real issue with the "prosperity gospel" as surely God as well as Satan can be the facilitator of worldly gain (as well as efforts from hard work). It is the pride and comfort in our possessions which bring a man down (see Luke 12:16-21). It also makes rich people give a disporportionally low percentage vs the poor
I will share my view.
In Luke 1:16-17 an Angel tells Johns father, "Zacharias". That he would have a son And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.
And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
John the baptist had a great crowd and devout followers and he preached the coming of their expected Messiah and King.
The pressing multitudes that had followed John continued to follow Jesus' ( Luke 5:15, Luke 12:1).
In the context of this chapter we have Jesus authenticating John's ministry.
SO THAT BRINGS US TO THE TEXT.
Mathew 11:12.
And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
Let's look at the word violence in this text.
Greek:
Transliteration: biaz
Pronunciation: bee-ad'-zo
Definition: From G970; to force that is (reflexively) to crowd oneself (into) or (passively) TO BE SEIZED: - PRESS SUFFER VIOLENCE
The pressing multitudes that had followed John continued to follow Jesus' ( Luke 5:15, Luke 12:1).
This is what Jesus is saying "The kingdom of God suffers violence." Pointing to the huge crowds that followed John and that were now following Him, Jesus likens them to an invading army surrounding a city to capture it.
Look at Luke's account.
Luke 16:16.
The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.
( From the days of John the Baptist until now," there has been an extraordinary rush of people pressing in from all sides eager to hear the gospel that they resembled an army trying to besiege a city.)
Matthew 11:14 he says;
"And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come."
I hope this helps.
God bless.
And Jesus spoke of this final place in Luke 12:4,5: "And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him." Here the word for 'hell' in Greek, is 'geenna or gehenna', which is different from the (temporary Hell/Hades). And this place (Gehenna) is the final place of eternal torment; but those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life ( Revelation 21:27) will live eternally with God & His Son, with the host of Heaven, on the new Earth in the New Jerusalem where there will be no more sin & Satan to deceive mankind.