It seems you gave a fine description of the ministry of the Holyspirit.
TRUTH.
He is reveals. John 16:13.
He discerns. 1 Corinthians 2:14-15.
This is the work of God functioning in the inner man and displaying outwardly in believers.
" Worshipping in truth and in Spirit"
John 4:23.
Philippians 2:13.
I believe this takes denying ourselves and submission.
And when HE is present WE bares fruit.
This is practical, not a manifestation of the flesh. "Man doesn't WILL it to happen.
In fact as he matures I don't think he can keep it from happening.
Matthew 7:16-20. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
A GOOD TREE CANNOT BRING FORTH EVIL FRUIT, NEITHER CAN A CORRUPT TREE BRING FORTH GOOD FRUIT.
Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
I believe when we exhibit this spirit efficient fruit then we are able to exhibit our gift. (Christ) in us and we in him.
Ephesians 4:11-15. And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
A more accurate and biblical term would be" translated " the same as Enoch was in Genesis .
Even as Adam fell asleep and out of his body Hod created a bride for him .
So too through his death ,God is creating a Bride for the " last Adam"
A body out of a body . Who will meet the Lord in the air and go to the marriage feast in heaven .
Those who were found to be not ready and unrecognisable as the Bride will be left behind and though saved will,suffer loss as through fire .and proved through the great tribulation .
You have written "If we are trusting that obedience to any commandment of God, including the sign of water baptism, is a requirement for our salvation or affects our salvation in any way, we have a works / grace gospel that cannot save and we are under the Law and not under Grace". So obedience to God has no effect on our salvation. Likewise disobedience to Go has no effect on our salvation too,. So I can spent my whole life in disobedience, which is sinning and still be saved, because sometime in my life I was born again by God, right? Logical sequence, isn't it?
Matthew 7:21-2e "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. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity"
Those who say Lord, Lord are saved people or not? They are saved because in the next verse Jesus talks about them saying that they prophesied and made miracles. But there were left out of Heaven. Why? Because they were sinning (workers of iniquity), although been gifted. Why does Jesus tells them that He doesn't know them? Because Jesus only knows His true children, people who obey Him and keep themselves pure and clean of sin. A father knows his own children. Children must look like their father, not have the appearance of a stranger, say of devil's
Now I have a few questions for you (another topic):
1. When were the apostles saved(born again)? Before or after Pentecost (when they received the Holly Spirit)? When were they water baptized, before or after Pentecost? When were the Samaritans that Phillip preached to, baptized in The Spirit? Before or after water baptism? When were they saved, before or after Spirit baptism?
2. Water baptism preceds or follows salvation(new birth)?
Worshipping in truth and in spirit. Does that mean by the letter/ordinances which refers to man's efforts or is it the effectual working of the Holyspirit that lines one heart to be in agreement with God's law? Not written on tablets of stone but written in our heart.
If that's so, is it just revealing the hidden wisdom of God in the scripture? Or does the Holyspirit also cause us to love God's statutes and causes us to function in the way scripture identifies us as desciples. "One who FOLLOWS Christ teachings"
(I'm singling out mature Christian here.)
If we are supposed to be moved by the Spirit "by the instrument of faith" unto good works but yet we don't display good works, then our faith is vain/dead, then is it fair to say that if we provide works THAT IS NOT BY THE INFLUENCE of the spirit that causes obedience to God's word then our work is vain.
Would the spirit move us to not only obey Christ but also "Paul's epistles?
Every man's work shall be tested by fire. We can be caught up so much in proving our worth amongst men we may never realize we are building a two-story hay house.
If there is no spiritual growth, we can become ineffective but yet satisfied because we're proud of the work we put in. And if we're content with that we become Lukewarm or perhaps never was actually converted!
This is why we examine ourselves "Examine the motive in everything you do and the spiritual fruit in our lives NOT the two story hay house.
Many will try to present their works to the Lord " Matthew 7:22-23." The Lord will say he NEVER knew you" and you have no works to confirm because your evidence went up in smoke!
Deny ourselves and do all things in the spirit to glorify God
You cannot approach God in your natural birth! You are still in Adam and all ethnic groups have to come to God by the blood of the cross. John 14:6.
Salvation didn't come by genealogy religion or ethnic group Salvation didn't come by anything Adam had to offer. Salvation came by the seed of the woman that's Christ.
There's your new birth.
If you belong to any ethnic group, religion, church or political party, without Christ you will be told I never knew you.
Matthew 7:21-23.
Abraham was asked to leave his father's pagan land and was promise a land flowing with milk and honey. In Hebrews it says this is the new Jerusalem. Hebrews 11:8-10.
God said he will make a nation out of Abraham. (There is no value in the pagan land in which he came and there was no value in him when he came) He had to come to God by instrument of faith to receive grace, "as do we".
We are the seed of Abraham and sons of God through faith.
Salvation didn't come by the nation of Israel. The nation of Israel demonstrated there is no good thing in the flesh.
God will put his spirit in Israel and Israel as a nation will be saved as we. Acts 15:8-11.
There will be a new fold and One shepherd. John 10:16.
Much of today's talk is of "falling in love" with Christ. We need to carefully examine the character and nature of the Godhead before attaching human; emotional or seemingly romantic sentiments on the Creator and Judge; Lord; Savior and Master.
There is no root in human nature; i.e. the flesh which desires God; in fact we are at enmity with Him in our carnal state and in fact enemies of God ( Romans 5:10). The fact that there is contention between the flesh and Spirit ( Galatians 5:17); and vice versa.
It is only in dying to self where we can submit to His authority; and the source of the life within us comes from heavenly places ( Galatians 2:20). The closest we could say about a human relationship is that we submit to each other; or sacrifice our lives.
Apart from Christ; we have two sinners that are by the grace of God involved (if married) in a covenant with God where if allowed in a best case scenario the individuals will finally be broken enough to realize that the Lord is the only thing that can change their selfish interest and natures. Any human sentiment is based on self satisfaction and or gratification which at best is a skewed shadow of God's love. This is also illustrated in Christ's story of how even us "being evil" bring good gifts to our kids. ( Matthew 7:11). We are also "unworthy servants" if we do what is expected ( Luke 17:10).
There are those who would at least put on a show of outward appearance of kindness; generousity; and self sacrifice. Apart from Christ; we can only say that the Lord is using these individuals to meet earthly needs as well as those of believers in His Providence. It is only by His grace that we would want to take on the nature of Christ; a "man of sorrows' ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as dying to self daily; carrying our cross and truly being a disciple and counting the cost. And today's Christian industries of entertainment often appeal the flesh; and have weak at best doctrines to live by.
The only way out is via the pretribulation imminent rapture of the church.
Tod be rapture ready is basically to be born again/saved by grace alone, through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone plus nothing ever forever. Matthew 7:21 onwards is about all those who reject this and attempt to enter Heaven via their works. They are Lordship Salvationists and hence false teachers, false prophets and basically, unsaved sinners.
Well Stated! I think you covered it all, there's not much to add to what you have said. Perhaps I can dig up a few scriptures that goes well with what you have stated.
I agree with that we can't judge the heart of man to be able to judge/condemn him. Romans 14:4.
Also Matthew 7:1-5 possibly is speaking of condemning as well.
Some of these would probably help being read in the Greek.
FRUIT INSPECTORS.
There's several scriptures that say we should correct one in their error, here's one and the mindset we should have while doing it.
Galatians 6:1-5. Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, YE WHICH ARE SPIRITUAL, RESTORE SUCH AN ONE IN THE SPIRIT OF MEEKNESS; CONSIDERING THYSELF, LEST THOU ALSO BE TEMPTED.
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
For every man shall bear his own burden.
In doing this I believe we should use the word of God. ( Hebrews 4:12-13)
This can be troublesome! How well this person takes this rebuke depends on their spiritual condition as well.
Paul says this kind of judgment is to be kept in house.
1 Corinthians 6:1-6.
Today some judge from a carnal mind. "One look at him and we think we got him figured out."
Also culture gets in the way. We compromise TRUTH for politeness. This also can be difficult.
We compliment someone's dead works "Efforts to glorify self" and we ignore their fruitlessnes or incorrect doctrine.
NOTE: If there's incorrect doctrine they believe in, that would certainly affect their fruitfulness.
We are to build one another up with the truth not flattery.
We should handle God's word cautiously and be open for improvement.
Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 1 Corinthians 5:6.
I wonder if there's a difference between discerning, judging, and condemning.
Matthew 7:1-5 - says not to judge, then elaborates that if you are a hypocrite. But what if you're following Jesus, not a hypocrite and you're genuinely trying to help a loved one avoid ruining their life to sin? Are we to still keep our mouths shut and stay out of their business altogether, and how does that benefit your loved one?
I can say from personal experience that those who risked offending me to speak truth to help me I have been most appreciative of in the long run. Those who kept their mouth shut while I was hurting or embarrassing myself showed the relationship was weak.
John 7:24 - says to judge, then elaborates on righteous judgment.
1 Corinthians 15:33 - says bad company corrupts and we should avoid. But if we don't evaluate their moral condition then how would we even know if they're good company or bad company?
I remember Joel Osteen caved on national TV when asked about hell and judgment- and suggested that everyone is good or something. What about those living in sin who will never escape unless they hear the reality that, yes, they will burn in hell if they continue their ways. Is truth and tough love always bad?
Romans 14:10-13, Hebrews 10:30 suggests not judging their salvation in the way I'm reading it. But some suggest someone trying to seek vengeance too, which is of course bad.
The reality is everyone judges. You judge if a babysitter will harm your child or not, you wouldn't hire an atheist for a job as Christian pastor, you would illegally ask them about their beliefs. Yes, this is illegal in the US, even though its understood and common sense that everyone does this.
Street evangelists commonly ask if the person believes they're going to heaven or not. Are they not to do that?
If anyone has more clarification on this topic for when is appropriate for each type of judgment / evaluation of others then that might be useful. God bless.
I see you have received many nice answers. Please do not rely on people, we are all the same. Rely on God's Love. GOD IS LOVE. Build your life on the rock whose name is Jesus Christ. Build on His Love for you. Stay close to Him, so that He can guide your life. He will always be there for you to support and provide for you. He loves you and wants you to live with Him in Heaven happily for ever. You don't have to do anything for Him to love you or to approve you, because He loves you, because He is Love Himself. He loves us not because for who we are but because we are His bros/sisters, His friends, His mates. He sees your struggles, He sees how much you try to please him and I think He is very very pleased with you. You don't need any approval by people, they are useless. The criteria for someone to be successful in life according to people is someone to be famous and rich and powerful like that rich man in the Bible, who by the way is now tortured in Hell. The criteria for us to be successful in life is to answer back His love for us and build our lives on Him. Don't be afraid, your life is in His hands. Relax and keep going hapilly your way.
But have you ever considered that God can heal you? The gospels are full of people who went to Jesus with faith in their heart and they ALL received what they needed. Those were written as examples for us what to do and what to expect from God. So if I were in your shoes I would have thought to keep going to Him persistently (like that widow to the unrighteous judge) until I get the solution to my problem. I think this is what God wants us to do when we are in any need. So just get with you as much faith as you have in your heart and keep asking. And I believe God will answer back.
Matthew 7:7-8. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall it shall be opened"
That's all true Adam, we've redefining holiness and worship, and excused disobedience.
This will cause many to be deceived. Matthew 7:22-23. says "MANY".
That should cause us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
I like the way Paul put it in
2 Corinthians 13:5. You notice whereit says "how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"
( He's saying IF Christ is in you you WILL perform a certain way.)
2 Corinthians 3:3-5 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD;
( not in tables of stone,) BUT IN FLESHY TABLES OF THE HEART.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; BUT OUR SUFFICIENCY IS OF GOD;
God Lords over our hearts. Him IN us is manifested in our walk.
I believe that is what the Lord is saying in this rhetorical question in Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
If he is your Lord he put his spirit inside you to perform his will!
We've been sanctified Positionally.
( Given an atonement).
We are being sanctified practically.
(Growing in grace and quickened by the Spirit. ) This is our walk.
Worship is in truth and in spirit. It's not a hobby!
When we're passing out God's word we're not going to be correct all the time but we should hold it dear to our heart and be cautious to not treat it like a conversation at a round table.
Neither will we find our walk perfect but the desire to be perfect should be there.
There has to be conviction in your heart. Not pride or glory seeking. There has to be a denial of self! Not man pleasers.
It's joy being redeemed but it's not a game!
It's not doing our best. Our best isn't good enough.
It's accepting God's best. His son Jesus Christ.
It's his ability to sanctify us is where we stand.
I believe these may be what you're looking for: 1John 3:22,23 in context 1John 3, Philippians 4:19, John 15, John 16:23-27, Matthew 6, Matthew 7:7-12, Matthew 18:19, Matthew 21:21-22, Luke 11:2-13,
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
Matthew 7:21-23
"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."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Jude 1:4 "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." James 1:12
"Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory." 2 Timothy 2:10
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." Matthew 10:22
"But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Matthew 24:13
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Mark 13:13 KJV
My comment is that salvation is conditional whether people believe it or not, because its what the Bible says. It's full of calls to action and challenging us to change our behavior. Most people will not be saved Matthew 7:13. Salvation is with grace but is only for believers/followers- a choice that each person must make. One way to summarize this action appears to be genuine belief and faith in Jesus Christ. John 3:16. That is an action and choice.
So, if someone does not believe, one can presume the unbeliever will not be saved. This already "offends" a lot of people, because some want to justify themselves in their own mind while doing the bare minimum they assume God wants. Some have been deceived into believing obeying God is "bad." But believing is only one of many action verbs the Bible challenges us to do. Other actions fall under this category of genuine active belief and following Jesus too. All these verses in the Bible are true and are equally important. Some like to cherry pick one, but ignore others and assume they don't apply, but they all apply and are true and are God's word.
believe:
John 3:16
follow Jesus:
John 8:12
deny himself:
Luke 9:23
confess:
Romans 10:9
faith:
Ephesians 2:8
hearing:
Romans 10:17
repent and be baptized:
Acts 2:38
keep commandments:
John 15:10
love:
Matthew 22:37-40
There are many more. Some falsely assume by obeying God they are doing 'works' and that is 'bad', therefore, obeying God is 'bad'. No, that's not what the Bible says, and obeying doesn't mean you're saved by works or that people who obey believe that.
My last comment is that James and Paul are consistent. Some assume Paul was anti-works, but only if you cherry pick a few verses and ignore large parts of his book can that conclusion be drawn. Paul was very much pro-obedience as the following verses demonstrate:
I'm sure some would be happier without animals especially if they were killed by one. Many have been terrorized by pets and animals and I doubt God is going to inconvenience the majority to please a minority. The Bible doesn't say one way or the other so assuming how it will be is mere speculation, but we know it will be an absolutely amazing place for all who go there. Of course most won't go there, including those who assume they are, as Jesus said in Matthew 7:21, but its not too late for everyone to get right with the Lord. God bless.
I've been unable to keep up with the site over the last few days. However I just read a few comments and replies, It's one thing to disagree and rebuke and then there's is those who expose themselves.
We all understand that all of us is not brothern and this brotherhood is not defined on how well we teach or preach or agreeing with someone.
WE SHALL KNOW THEM BY THEIR FRUITS!! Matthew 7:15-16.
You can be well doctrined and be as fruitless as a broom stick.
When someone holds the truth and share it, if your ears have been opened you will RECEIVE it! This is a work of the Holyspirit.
But if someone of the world who happens to be amongst us hears that same truth and don't have the spirit don't be surprised if they hate you. John 15:18-19.
They're not hating you because they disagree with you. They're hating you because they have a different spirit than you.
HOWEVER!! Agreeing on doctrine doesn't confirm anything but truth should produce fruit and that fruit should be displayed in our lives.
1 John 4:8. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
1 John 4:13. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
1 John 4:7. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
1 John 4:12. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
1 John 4:16-17. 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.
Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
1 John 4:21. And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
Matthew 12:31 says all sin can be forgiven (for those genuinely following Jesus), but someone who commits blasphemy against the Holy Ghost will not be forgiven. I believe this includes absolutely everyone, including Christians. Matthew 7:21.
John 3:17-19. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
HE THAT BELIEVETH ON HIM IS NOT CONDEMNED: ""BUT" HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT IS CONDEMNED ALREADY, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
There is many that won't be saved because they seek another way.
Matthew 7:13-14. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Matthew 7:21-23. 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.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Anyone that says otherwise beware of them.
Matthew 7:15. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
John 16:8 And when he (the Holy Spirit) is COME (he came at Pentecost) he will reprove the world of sin ....
John 16:9 Of SIN; because they BELIEVE NOT ON ME (truth);
No knowledge of God's word.
Zechariah 3:1 And he shewed me Joshua (Christ in you) the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD; and SATAN (unbelief, deception) standing at his (Christ's) right hand TO RESIST HIM (TRUTH).
Christ is now THE LIFE in you.
You; Nelson (sinful flesh), died on the cross of Christ.
The LIFE now IN YOU is the LIFE OF CHRIST.
Christ cannot sin: your his body, the body ONLY DOES what the LIFE causes it TO DO.
Philippians 2:13 For it is God (Christ in you) that worketh IN YOU both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.
1 John 3:9 Whosoever is BORN of GOD doth not commit sin (because the new birth in you is CHRIST); for HIS SEED (the Holy Spirit) remaineth in HIM (the new creation in Christ Jesus): he CANNOT SIN, because he is born of God.
Ezekiel 36:27 And I will put MY SPIRIT (GOD) within you, and CAUSE you to walk in my statutes, and you shall keep my JUDGEMENTS, and DO THEM.
Few find the WAY:
Matthew 7:14 ...narrow is the WAY, which leadeth unto LIFE, and Few there be that find it.
Nelson; walk in the TRUTH and FREEDOM of Christ's words.
What should be asked and a great concern is what should salvation look like in a believer because many shall be deceived.
First of all shall you continue in sin?
Paul answers that here in
Romans 6:1-4.
We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through us. Titus 3:4-6.
We have eternal life now that can bare fruit such as faith ect...
This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18.
What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in him by his works. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.
When you are saved, you are baptized into Christ. It is he that works in you. Philippians 2:13.
Also;
Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, THAT HE WHICH HATH BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL PERFORM IT UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST:
If you can loose your salvation all these scriptures means nothing.
Here's another scripture often used.
John 14:15. "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Well look at the next verse.
Vs 16. "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, THAT HE MAY ABIDE WITH YOU FOR EVER; This Love is a fruit, so who is causing you to Love Christ? CHRIST SPIRIT, The HG.
Most people say you can loose your salvation also believes you can earn salvation which you can't do. And if they hold to that it's sad to say but the scripture says they have fallen from Grace. Galatians 5:4.
I believe this means comes up short.
Now if you come up short you will hear this. "And then will I profess unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matthew 7:23.
I never knew you can never be told to a believer because of this verse. "My sheep hear my voice,.... AND I KNOW THEM,.... and they follow me: John 10:27.
Now if a person have habitual sin in their life, Chances are you're not saved. And you can't loose what you don't have.
This is a common question and that's even one of the FAQs: Link
My question is if it was impossible for Christians to lose salvation, then why did Jesus warn His followers so many times to avoid sin? They were literal Christians in that they literally followed Christ around and remember all the challenges and parables He spoke? Most involved being separate from those thrown into the fire. Jesus never said to relax and don't worry, and enjoy the world, including sin, because there's no consequences anymore. One would think that satan would say that. That doesn't mean people earn heaven by works, as it's only grace, but being allowed into heaven is conditional on being a legit follower of Christ, meaning actually doing what He says! James 1:22. And sadly most people won't make it, and probably many of them think they're 'good' and entitled to get in, and some may even call themselves Christians. Matthew 7:21-23
Also, if all you have to do to get to heaven is just believe, then why does the Bible say this? James 2:19. The fact is that satan is roaming to deceive people, even among Christians. Is he deceiving people into being 'gooder' than they need to be or is it more likely he is deceiving people into assuming rationalizing evil and assuming they're saved when they are actually disrespecting and spitting on Jesus? Hebrews 10:26. This should deeply scare some people and they should feel it in their heart if this applies to them.
Instead Jesus kept warning Christians and everyone over and over and challenging them. Paul also was frustrated with some of the Christians who were going astray and read what he wrote in his letters to them. Paul said to run the race to get the prize. He didn't say the race is already won, so go sin as much as you want. There's lots of scripture echoing this, but these are easy to find and there's lists in that page above too. Also the idea of being able to commit horrible sins as a Christian and still go to heaven contradicts scripture in blasphemy of the holy ghost, because it clearly says no one will be forgiven of that.
Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
2 Corinthians 5:10 - all will be judged, including Christians. Some like to assume they get to skip that as if they have a free pass . It clearly says ALL, not some, and not just non-Christians.
Lord willing; this commentary will be helpful for those who really haven't seen the repeated themes of the unity of the Godhead; and the predetermined "elect" group who are chosen for Christ to be revealed; and who therefore will respond to show saving faith. A major point that I tried to bring up in earlier chapters was that there is always a corresponding interaction going both ways; so that confession of faith and all of man's actions prompted by the Spirit are simultaneous actions. KNOWING us according to Matthew 7:23 is part of saving faith; hence the absence indicates we are tares. Our soul testifies with His Spirit ( Romans 8:16) that we are God's children.
None of the contradicts the necessity of confessing with our mouths and believing in our hearts that Christ is Lord ( Romans 10:9). We are asked to repent; but it is He who grants the gift of repentance ( Romans 2:4) and this also has a group of people in mind (the Jews as a whole who come to faith) in Acts 5:31 and the Gentiles in Acts 11:18. We still our to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5-6). All good fruits therefore come from the source of God; and are evidences of saving faith ( Matt. 7:17). We need to remember that God chastises all He loves ( Hebrews 12:6 etal); and therefore He prunes back so even more fruit is produced ( John 15:1-2). He is doing the work therefore; our WORKS are merely the external evidence that indeed He is working from the inside out. These have been prepared for us from before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 2:10).
The other doctrines such as God's sovereignty; our totally depraved nature; and perseverance of the saints are covered in many scriptures and can be covered in other studies. As far as free will is concerned; God accomplishes His purposes through the vicissitudes of man; and the wiles of Satan and all his minions. To not submit to our Creator is folly ( Psalm 14:1; Psalm 2:2; Rev. 19)
Hi Amanda, I don't believe God necessarily chooses to know what we're going to do. He's powerful enough that He can choose to be in our timeframe if He wants. God can also change His mind, based on human input, like on destroying Sodom and Gomorrah. We have free will to choose and its totally up to us, we're not robots. So, the purpose of life is in our choices- to follow God and obey, or to follow evil and satan. To love or hate. Life is one big test in my opinion. God isn't going to just let everyone into heaven to disrupt and cause chaos. Satan apparently had freewill in heaven to do that and defy God. Fortunately we have grace and can stumble and have many chances. Sadly, most people will reject Jesus and go to hell, but there's a chance we can help those who are lost to share the truth. Matthew 7:13
Matthew 7:23-29 does not answer your question directly
"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.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes."
John 14 also deals with the same subject. I seldom use single verses, and when doing a study usually the chapters into either word or publisher without verse numbers. The next step is to outline the chapter. Then begin the study.
A phrase I use a lot is, I once was, but now I am." Yes, that comes from Amazing Grace, I consider this to be one of the best sermons ever presented. The study I am doing now is defining Discipleship.
1. Regarding John 10:36 "neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand" if you look at the context Jesus is talking only about his sheep. The sheep are His followers, or, Christians. Not everyone is a sheep. They are choosing to follow Jesus and choosing to believe and choosing be sheep by their own freewill and decisions. We know this because of what it says just prior to that. John 10:25-27. In v26 he says they are NOT His sheep because they don't believe. So, if we combine this verse with Matthew 7:13-14 one can presume that most are NOT sheep. Many most are wolves and some are wolves in sheep's clothing. Matthew 7:15.
2. Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the thoughts" or "plans" and hope for a "future" some translations say. Just because an all-knowing God can know this doesn't automatically mean its robbing you of freewill. You are not an automatic robot following a specific script. God is big and powerful enough to know everything and also let us have freewill at the same time, even if little human brains have a hard time comprehending it. God is much bigger than our assumed limitations. God is also big enough to change His mind, as happened relating to Sodom and Gomorrah.
Maybe God's plan is just a broad overview of what would be best for you, maybe like a map, but its up to you whether you follow it or not. Maybe you take a few detours along the way, maybe you get confused and even go the wrong way at times. This doesn't automatically mean you are following God's plan. Maybe you're not following Him at all. I think if you ask most people who believe in predestination, they generally admit that when they ordered a chicken sandwich for lunch and held the pickles that it was mostly their choice and not necessarily God's plan. Or when a Christian sins 1 John 1:8, I don't think most people actually believe that God causes people to sin. God forbids us to tempt or lead others to stumble in sin: Luke 17:1-4.
It seems you gave a fine description of the ministry of the Holyspirit.
TRUTH.
He is reveals. John 16:13.
He discerns. 1 Corinthians 2:14-15.
This is the work of God functioning in the inner man and displaying outwardly in believers.
" Worshipping in truth and in Spirit"
John 4:23.
Philippians 2:13.
I believe this takes denying ourselves and submission.
And when HE is present WE bares fruit.
This is practical, not a manifestation of the flesh. "Man doesn't WILL it to happen.
In fact as he matures I don't think he can keep it from happening.
Matthew 7:16-20. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
A GOOD TREE CANNOT BRING FORTH EVIL FRUIT, NEITHER CAN A CORRUPT TREE BRING FORTH GOOD FRUIT.
Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
I believe when we exhibit this spirit efficient fruit then we are able to exhibit our gift. (Christ) in us and we in him.
Ephesians 4:11-15. And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
God bless.
Even as Adam fell asleep and out of his body Hod created a bride for him .
So too through his death ,God is creating a Bride for the " last Adam"
A body out of a body . Who will meet the Lord in the air and go to the marriage feast in heaven .
Those who were found to be not ready and unrecognisable as the Bride will be left behind and though saved will,suffer loss as through fire .and proved through the great tribulation .
GB
You have written "If we are trusting that obedience to any commandment of God, including the sign of water baptism, is a requirement for our salvation or affects our salvation in any way, we have a works / grace gospel that cannot save and we are under the Law and not under Grace". So obedience to God has no effect on our salvation. Likewise disobedience to Go has no effect on our salvation too,. So I can spent my whole life in disobedience, which is sinning and still be saved, because sometime in my life I was born again by God, right? Logical sequence, isn't it?
Matthew 7:21-2e "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. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity"
Those who say Lord, Lord are saved people or not? They are saved because in the next verse Jesus talks about them saying that they prophesied and made miracles. But there were left out of Heaven. Why? Because they were sinning (workers of iniquity), although been gifted. Why does Jesus tells them that He doesn't know them? Because Jesus only knows His true children, people who obey Him and keep themselves pure and clean of sin. A father knows his own children. Children must look like their father, not have the appearance of a stranger, say of devil's
Now I have a few questions for you (another topic):
1. When were the apostles saved(born again)? Before or after Pentecost (when they received the Holly Spirit)? When were they water baptized, before or after Pentecost? When were the Samaritans that Phillip preached to, baptized in The Spirit? Before or after water baptism? When were they saved, before or after Spirit baptism?
2. Water baptism preceds or follows salvation(new birth)?
GBU
Worshipping in truth and in spirit. Does that mean by the letter/ordinances which refers to man's efforts or is it the effectual working of the Holyspirit that lines one heart to be in agreement with God's law? Not written on tablets of stone but written in our heart.
If that's so, is it just revealing the hidden wisdom of God in the scripture? Or does the Holyspirit also cause us to love God's statutes and causes us to function in the way scripture identifies us as desciples. "One who FOLLOWS Christ teachings"
(I'm singling out mature Christian here.)
If we are supposed to be moved by the Spirit "by the instrument of faith" unto good works but yet we don't display good works, then our faith is vain/dead, then is it fair to say that if we provide works THAT IS NOT BY THE INFLUENCE of the spirit that causes obedience to God's word then our work is vain.
Would the spirit move us to not only obey Christ but also "Paul's epistles?
Every man's work shall be tested by fire. We can be caught up so much in proving our worth amongst men we may never realize we are building a two-story hay house.
If there is no spiritual growth, we can become ineffective but yet satisfied because we're proud of the work we put in. And if we're content with that we become Lukewarm or perhaps never was actually converted!
This is why we examine ourselves "Examine the motive in everything you do and the spiritual fruit in our lives NOT the two story hay house.
Many will try to present their works to the Lord " Matthew 7:22-23." The Lord will say he NEVER knew you" and you have no works to confirm because your evidence went up in smoke!
Deny ourselves and do all things in the spirit to glorify God
God bless.
No one knows the day nor the hour.
but be sober minded watching always in Prayer reading your bible and fasting seeking God daily in your life for even tomorrow you don't know about it.
You cannot approach God in your natural birth! You are still in Adam and all ethnic groups have to come to God by the blood of the cross. John 14:6.
Salvation didn't come by genealogy religion or ethnic group Salvation didn't come by anything Adam had to offer. Salvation came by the seed of the woman that's Christ.
There's your new birth.
If you belong to any ethnic group, religion, church or political party, without Christ you will be told I never knew you.
Matthew 7:21-23.
Abraham was asked to leave his father's pagan land and was promise a land flowing with milk and honey. In Hebrews it says this is the new Jerusalem. Hebrews 11:8-10.
God said he will make a nation out of Abraham. (There is no value in the pagan land in which he came and there was no value in him when he came) He had to come to God by instrument of faith to receive grace, "as do we".
We are the seed of Abraham and sons of God through faith.
Salvation didn't come by the nation of Israel. The nation of Israel demonstrated there is no good thing in the flesh.
God will put his spirit in Israel and Israel as a nation will be saved as we. Acts 15:8-11.
There will be a new fold and One shepherd. John 10:16.
God bless and good night.
Much of today's talk is of "falling in love" with Christ. We need to carefully examine the character and nature of the Godhead before attaching human; emotional or seemingly romantic sentiments on the Creator and Judge; Lord; Savior and Master.
There is no root in human nature; i.e. the flesh which desires God; in fact we are at enmity with Him in our carnal state and in fact enemies of God ( Romans 5:10). The fact that there is contention between the flesh and Spirit ( Galatians 5:17); and vice versa.
It is only in dying to self where we can submit to His authority; and the source of the life within us comes from heavenly places ( Galatians 2:20). The closest we could say about a human relationship is that we submit to each other; or sacrifice our lives.
Apart from Christ; we have two sinners that are by the grace of God involved (if married) in a covenant with God where if allowed in a best case scenario the individuals will finally be broken enough to realize that the Lord is the only thing that can change their selfish interest and natures. Any human sentiment is based on self satisfaction and or gratification which at best is a skewed shadow of God's love. This is also illustrated in Christ's story of how even us "being evil" bring good gifts to our kids. ( Matthew 7:11). We are also "unworthy servants" if we do what is expected ( Luke 17:10).
There are those who would at least put on a show of outward appearance of kindness; generousity; and self sacrifice. Apart from Christ; we can only say that the Lord is using these individuals to meet earthly needs as well as those of believers in His Providence. It is only by His grace that we would want to take on the nature of Christ; a "man of sorrows' ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as dying to self daily; carrying our cross and truly being a disciple and counting the cost. And today's Christian industries of entertainment often appeal the flesh; and have weak at best doctrines to live by.
The only way out is via the pretribulation imminent rapture of the church.
Tod be rapture ready is basically to be born again/saved by grace alone, through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone plus nothing ever forever. Matthew 7:21 onwards is about all those who reject this and attempt to enter Heaven via their works. They are Lordship Salvationists and hence false teachers, false prophets and basically, unsaved sinners.
Well Stated! I think you covered it all, there's not much to add to what you have said. Perhaps I can dig up a few scriptures that goes well with what you have stated.
I agree with that we can't judge the heart of man to be able to judge/condemn him. Romans 14:4.
Also Matthew 7:1-5 possibly is speaking of condemning as well.
Some of these would probably help being read in the Greek.
FRUIT INSPECTORS.
There's several scriptures that say we should correct one in their error, here's one and the mindset we should have while doing it.
Galatians 6:1-5. Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, YE WHICH ARE SPIRITUAL, RESTORE SUCH AN ONE IN THE SPIRIT OF MEEKNESS; CONSIDERING THYSELF, LEST THOU ALSO BE TEMPTED.
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
For every man shall bear his own burden.
In doing this I believe we should use the word of God. ( Hebrews 4:12-13)
This can be troublesome! How well this person takes this rebuke depends on their spiritual condition as well.
Paul says this kind of judgment is to be kept in house.
1 Corinthians 6:1-6.
Today some judge from a carnal mind. "One look at him and we think we got him figured out."
Also culture gets in the way. We compromise TRUTH for politeness. This also can be difficult.
We compliment someone's dead works "Efforts to glorify self" and we ignore their fruitlessnes or incorrect doctrine.
NOTE: If there's incorrect doctrine they believe in, that would certainly affect their fruitfulness.
We are to build one another up with the truth not flattery.
We should handle God's word cautiously and be open for improvement.
Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 1 Corinthians 5:6.
God bless you.
Matthew 7:1-5 - says not to judge, then elaborates that if you are a hypocrite. But what if you're following Jesus, not a hypocrite and you're genuinely trying to help a loved one avoid ruining their life to sin? Are we to still keep our mouths shut and stay out of their business altogether, and how does that benefit your loved one?
I can say from personal experience that those who risked offending me to speak truth to help me I have been most appreciative of in the long run. Those who kept their mouth shut while I was hurting or embarrassing myself showed the relationship was weak.
John 7:24 - says to judge, then elaborates on righteous judgment.
1 Corinthians 15:33 - says bad company corrupts and we should avoid. But if we don't evaluate their moral condition then how would we even know if they're good company or bad company?
I remember Joel Osteen caved on national TV when asked about hell and judgment- and suggested that everyone is good or something. What about those living in sin who will never escape unless they hear the reality that, yes, they will burn in hell if they continue their ways. Is truth and tough love always bad?
Romans 14:10-13, Hebrews 10:30 suggests not judging their salvation in the way I'm reading it. But some suggest someone trying to seek vengeance too, which is of course bad.
The reality is everyone judges. You judge if a babysitter will harm your child or not, you wouldn't hire an atheist for a job as Christian pastor, you would illegally ask them about their beliefs. Yes, this is illegal in the US, even though its understood and common sense that everyone does this.
Street evangelists commonly ask if the person believes they're going to heaven or not. Are they not to do that?
If anyone has more clarification on this topic for when is appropriate for each type of judgment / evaluation of others then that might be useful. God bless.
I see you have received many nice answers. Please do not rely on people, we are all the same. Rely on God's Love. GOD IS LOVE. Build your life on the rock whose name is Jesus Christ. Build on His Love for you. Stay close to Him, so that He can guide your life. He will always be there for you to support and provide for you. He loves you and wants you to live with Him in Heaven happily for ever. You don't have to do anything for Him to love you or to approve you, because He loves you, because He is Love Himself. He loves us not because for who we are but because we are His bros/sisters, His friends, His mates. He sees your struggles, He sees how much you try to please him and I think He is very very pleased with you. You don't need any approval by people, they are useless. The criteria for someone to be successful in life according to people is someone to be famous and rich and powerful like that rich man in the Bible, who by the way is now tortured in Hell. The criteria for us to be successful in life is to answer back His love for us and build our lives on Him. Don't be afraid, your life is in His hands. Relax and keep going hapilly your way.
But have you ever considered that God can heal you? The gospels are full of people who went to Jesus with faith in their heart and they ALL received what they needed. Those were written as examples for us what to do and what to expect from God. So if I were in your shoes I would have thought to keep going to Him persistently (like that widow to the unrighteous judge) until I get the solution to my problem. I think this is what God wants us to do when we are in any need. So just get with you as much faith as you have in your heart and keep asking. And I believe God will answer back.
Matthew 7:7-8. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall it shall be opened"
GBY
That's all true Adam, we've redefining holiness and worship, and excused disobedience.
This will cause many to be deceived. Matthew 7:22-23. says "MANY".
That should cause us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
I like the way Paul put it in
2 Corinthians 13:5. You notice whereit says "how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"
( He's saying IF Christ is in you you WILL perform a certain way.)
2 Corinthians 3:3-5 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD;
( not in tables of stone,) BUT IN FLESHY TABLES OF THE HEART.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; BUT OUR SUFFICIENCY IS OF GOD;
God Lords over our hearts. Him IN us is manifested in our walk.
I believe that is what the Lord is saying in this rhetorical question in Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
If he is your Lord he put his spirit inside you to perform his will!
We've been sanctified Positionally.
( Given an atonement).
We are being sanctified practically.
(Growing in grace and quickened by the Spirit. ) This is our walk.
Worship is in truth and in spirit. It's not a hobby!
When we're passing out God's word we're not going to be correct all the time but we should hold it dear to our heart and be cautious to not treat it like a conversation at a round table.
Neither will we find our walk perfect but the desire to be perfect should be there.
There has to be conviction in your heart. Not pride or glory seeking. There has to be a denial of self! Not man pleasers.
It's joy being redeemed but it's not a game!
It's not doing our best. Our best isn't good enough.
It's accepting God's best. His son Jesus Christ.
It's his ability to sanctify us is where we stand.
God bless.
Hopefully these are encouraging
Matthew 7:21-23
"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."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Jude 1:4 "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." James 1:12
"Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory." 2 Timothy 2:10
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." Matthew 10:22
"But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Matthew 24:13
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Mark 13:13 KJV
My comment is that salvation is conditional whether people believe it or not, because its what the Bible says. It's full of calls to action and challenging us to change our behavior. Most people will not be saved Matthew 7:13. Salvation is with grace but is only for believers/followers- a choice that each person must make. One way to summarize this action appears to be genuine belief and faith in Jesus Christ. John 3:16. That is an action and choice.
So, if someone does not believe, one can presume the unbeliever will not be saved. This already "offends" a lot of people, because some want to justify themselves in their own mind while doing the bare minimum they assume God wants. Some have been deceived into believing obeying God is "bad." But believing is only one of many action verbs the Bible challenges us to do. Other actions fall under this category of genuine active belief and following Jesus too. All these verses in the Bible are true and are equally important. Some like to cherry pick one, but ignore others and assume they don't apply, but they all apply and are true and are God's word.
believe:
John 3:16
follow Jesus:
John 8:12
deny himself:
Luke 9:23
confess:
Romans 10:9
faith:
Ephesians 2:8
hearing:
Romans 10:17
repent and be baptized:
Acts 2:38
keep commandments:
John 15:10
love:
Matthew 22:37-40
There are many more. Some falsely assume by obeying God they are doing 'works' and that is 'bad', therefore, obeying God is 'bad'. No, that's not what the Bible says, and obeying doesn't mean you're saved by works or that people who obey believe that.
My last comment is that James and Paul are consistent. Some assume Paul was anti-works, but only if you cherry pick a few verses and ignore large parts of his book can that conclusion be drawn. Paul was very much pro-obedience as the following verses demonstrate:
Romans 2:9-10
1 Peter 1:5
1 Cor 9:24-27
Hebrews 6:4-6
Galatians 5:1-4
2 Timothy 2:10
Hebrews 10:26
2 Corinthians 5:10
Matthew 25:31-46, Isaiah 58, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, Romans 13:8, 1Peter 3:8, Hebrews 10:24,
Romans 4, notice in those 'works' it's speaking of circumcision Romans 4:1, Romans 4:9-13, not acts of compassion
They don't contradict each other they're completely separate issues, Deuteronomy 10:16-20,
Malachi 3:5,10 = Deuteronomy 26:10-13 , Exodus 22:22, Deuteronomy 14:22-29, Deuteronomy 24:14-15, Deuteronomy 24:19-21,
Matthew 5:16-20, Matthew 7:12-27 = Mark 12:38-40, Mark 23, Luke 20:46,47, Isaiah 9:17,
Hopefully helpful
I've been unable to keep up with the site over the last few days. However I just read a few comments and replies, It's one thing to disagree and rebuke and then there's is those who expose themselves.
We all understand that all of us is not brothern and this brotherhood is not defined on how well we teach or preach or agreeing with someone.
WE SHALL KNOW THEM BY THEIR FRUITS!! Matthew 7:15-16.
You can be well doctrined and be as fruitless as a broom stick.
When someone holds the truth and share it, if your ears have been opened you will RECEIVE it! This is a work of the Holyspirit.
But if someone of the world who happens to be amongst us hears that same truth and don't have the spirit don't be surprised if they hate you. John 15:18-19.
They're not hating you because they disagree with you. They're hating you because they have a different spirit than you.
HOWEVER!! Agreeing on doctrine doesn't confirm anything but truth should produce fruit and that fruit should be displayed in our lives.
1 John 4:8. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
1 John 4:13. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
1 John 4:7. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
1 John 4:12. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
1 John 4:16-17. 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.
Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
1 John 4:21. And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
This is for one to examine himself!
1 John 4:13.
This is uniquely written to and for the brethren.
God bless.
Matthew 12:31 says all sin can be forgiven (for those genuinely following Jesus), but someone who commits blasphemy against the Holy Ghost will not be forgiven. I believe this includes absolutely everyone, including Christians. Matthew 7:21.
Here is the conclusion.
John 3:17-19. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
HE THAT BELIEVETH ON HIM IS NOT CONDEMNED: ""BUT" HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT IS CONDEMNED ALREADY, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
There is many that won't be saved because they seek another way.
Matthew 7:13-14. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Matthew 7:21-23. 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.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Anyone that says otherwise beware of them.
Matthew 7:15. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
God bless.
Your not understanding the truth of God's word.
The blood of Christ COVERS ALL SIN.
John 16:8 And when he (the Holy Spirit) is COME (he came at Pentecost) he will reprove the world of sin ....
John 16:9 Of SIN; because they BELIEVE NOT ON ME (truth);
No knowledge of God's word.
Zechariah 3:1 And he shewed me Joshua (Christ in you) the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD; and SATAN (unbelief, deception) standing at his (Christ's) right hand TO RESIST HIM (TRUTH).
Christ is now THE LIFE in you.
You; Nelson (sinful flesh), died on the cross of Christ.
The LIFE now IN YOU is the LIFE OF CHRIST.
Christ cannot sin: your his body, the body ONLY DOES what the LIFE causes it TO DO.
Philippians 2:13 For it is God (Christ in you) that worketh IN YOU both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.
1 John 3:9 Whosoever is BORN of GOD doth not commit sin (because the new birth in you is CHRIST); for HIS SEED (the Holy Spirit) remaineth in HIM (the new creation in Christ Jesus): he CANNOT SIN, because he is born of God.
Ezekiel 36:27 And I will put MY SPIRIT (GOD) within you, and CAUSE you to walk in my statutes, and you shall keep my JUDGEMENTS, and DO THEM.
Few find the WAY:
Matthew 7:14 ...narrow is the WAY, which leadeth unto LIFE, and Few there be that find it.
Nelson; walk in the TRUTH and FREEDOM of Christ's words.
God Bless YOU, his (Christ's) BODY.
What should be asked and a great concern is what should salvation look like in a believer because many shall be deceived.
First of all shall you continue in sin?
Paul answers that here in
Romans 6:1-4.
We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through us. Titus 3:4-6.
We have eternal life now that can bare fruit such as faith ect...
This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18.
What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in him by his works. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.
When you are saved, you are baptized into Christ. It is he that works in you. Philippians 2:13.
Also;
Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, THAT HE WHICH HATH BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL PERFORM IT UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST:
If you can loose your salvation all these scriptures means nothing.
Here's another scripture often used.
John 14:15. "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Well look at the next verse.
Vs 16. "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, THAT HE MAY ABIDE WITH YOU FOR EVER; This Love is a fruit, so who is causing you to Love Christ? CHRIST SPIRIT, The HG.
Most people say you can loose your salvation also believes you can earn salvation which you can't do. And if they hold to that it's sad to say but the scripture says they have fallen from Grace. Galatians 5:4.
I believe this means comes up short.
Now if you come up short you will hear this. "And then will I profess unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matthew 7:23.
I never knew you can never be told to a believer because of this verse. "My sheep hear my voice,.... AND I KNOW THEM,.... and they follow me: John 10:27.
Now if a person have habitual sin in their life, Chances are you're not saved. And you can't loose what you don't have.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
This is a common question and that's even one of the FAQs: Link
My question is if it was impossible for Christians to lose salvation, then why did Jesus warn His followers so many times to avoid sin? They were literal Christians in that they literally followed Christ around and remember all the challenges and parables He spoke? Most involved being separate from those thrown into the fire. Jesus never said to relax and don't worry, and enjoy the world, including sin, because there's no consequences anymore. One would think that satan would say that. That doesn't mean people earn heaven by works, as it's only grace, but being allowed into heaven is conditional on being a legit follower of Christ, meaning actually doing what He says! James 1:22. And sadly most people won't make it, and probably many of them think they're 'good' and entitled to get in, and some may even call themselves Christians. Matthew 7:21-23
Also, if all you have to do to get to heaven is just believe, then why does the Bible say this? James 2:19. The fact is that satan is roaming to deceive people, even among Christians. Is he deceiving people into being 'gooder' than they need to be or is it more likely he is deceiving people into assuming rationalizing evil and assuming they're saved when they are actually disrespecting and spitting on Jesus? Hebrews 10:26. This should deeply scare some people and they should feel it in their heart if this applies to them.
Instead Jesus kept warning Christians and everyone over and over and challenging them. Paul also was frustrated with some of the Christians who were going astray and read what he wrote in his letters to them. Paul said to run the race to get the prize. He didn't say the race is already won, so go sin as much as you want. There's lots of scripture echoing this, but these are easy to find and there's lists in that page above too. Also the idea of being able to commit horrible sins as a Christian and still go to heaven contradicts scripture in blasphemy of the holy ghost, because it clearly says no one will be forgiven of that.
Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
2 Corinthians 5:10 - all will be judged, including Christians. Some like to assume they get to skip that as if they have a free pass . It clearly says ALL, not some, and not just non-Christians.
Hebrews 10:26
Lord willing; this commentary will be helpful for those who really haven't seen the repeated themes of the unity of the Godhead; and the predetermined "elect" group who are chosen for Christ to be revealed; and who therefore will respond to show saving faith. A major point that I tried to bring up in earlier chapters was that there is always a corresponding interaction going both ways; so that confession of faith and all of man's actions prompted by the Spirit are simultaneous actions. KNOWING us according to Matthew 7:23 is part of saving faith; hence the absence indicates we are tares. Our soul testifies with His Spirit ( Romans 8:16) that we are God's children.
None of the contradicts the necessity of confessing with our mouths and believing in our hearts that Christ is Lord ( Romans 10:9). We are asked to repent; but it is He who grants the gift of repentance ( Romans 2:4) and this also has a group of people in mind (the Jews as a whole who come to faith) in Acts 5:31 and the Gentiles in Acts 11:18. We still our to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5-6). All good fruits therefore come from the source of God; and are evidences of saving faith ( Matt. 7:17). We need to remember that God chastises all He loves ( Hebrews 12:6 etal); and therefore He prunes back so even more fruit is produced ( John 15:1-2). He is doing the work therefore; our WORKS are merely the external evidence that indeed He is working from the inside out. These have been prepared for us from before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 2:10).
The other doctrines such as God's sovereignty; our totally depraved nature; and perseverance of the saints are covered in many scriptures and can be covered in other studies. As far as free will is concerned; God accomplishes His purposes through the vicissitudes of man; and the wiles of Satan and all his minions. To not submit to our Creator is folly ( Psalm 14:1; Psalm 2:2; Rev. 19)
"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.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes."
John 14 also deals with the same subject. I seldom use single verses, and when doing a study usually the chapters into either word or publisher without verse numbers. The next step is to outline the chapter. Then begin the study.
A phrase I use a lot is, I once was, but now I am." Yes, that comes from Amazing Grace, I consider this to be one of the best sermons ever presented. The study I am doing now is defining Discipleship.
1. Regarding John 10:36 "neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand" if you look at the context Jesus is talking only about his sheep. The sheep are His followers, or, Christians. Not everyone is a sheep. They are choosing to follow Jesus and choosing to believe and choosing be sheep by their own freewill and decisions. We know this because of what it says just prior to that. John 10:25-27. In v26 he says they are NOT His sheep because they don't believe. So, if we combine this verse with Matthew 7:13-14 one can presume that most are NOT sheep. Many most are wolves and some are wolves in sheep's clothing. Matthew 7:15.
2. Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the thoughts" or "plans" and hope for a "future" some translations say. Just because an all-knowing God can know this doesn't automatically mean its robbing you of freewill. You are not an automatic robot following a specific script. God is big and powerful enough to know everything and also let us have freewill at the same time, even if little human brains have a hard time comprehending it. God is much bigger than our assumed limitations. God is also big enough to change His mind, as happened relating to Sodom and Gomorrah.
Maybe God's plan is just a broad overview of what would be best for you, maybe like a map, but its up to you whether you follow it or not. Maybe you take a few detours along the way, maybe you get confused and even go the wrong way at times. This doesn't automatically mean you are following God's plan. Maybe you're not following Him at all. I think if you ask most people who believe in predestination, they generally admit that when they ordered a chicken sandwich for lunch and held the pickles that it was mostly their choice and not necessarily God's plan. Or when a Christian sins 1 John 1:8, I don't think most people actually believe that God causes people to sin. God forbids us to tempt or lead others to stumble in sin: Luke 17:1-4.
God bless.