Sister Martha, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.
Israel in the Old Testament was dispersed among all the nation of the world. Judea was left so Jesus lineage could be confirmed to be the natural seed of David. Today none can trace their lineage back to Abraham. ISRAEL today (those born again of the Spirit of God) is the promised SEED of Isaac (his name was changed to Israel) (CHRIST IN US).
Romans 2:29 But he is a Jew, which is one INWARDLY (Christ in you); and circumcision is of the HEART, in the Spirit, and not in the letter (flesh) .....
Romans 9:6 ...for they are not all Israel, which are of Israel.
The kingdom promised to ISRAEL (CHRIST) is not a literal kingdom that can be seen with eyes; but a kingdom of priest (Christ in you). These battles prophesied in scripture are not literal but in the Spirit.
Jesus said before he comes there would be literal wars, literal earthquakes, literal famines and literal pestilence. This has been happening for 2000 years and Jesus has been COMING to those who look for him 2000 years. Jesus said that it would be like the days of Noah. They knew not till the doors on the ark were CLOSED. The ark could have saved them; Jesus is our ark. Man is looking for all things to be literal and all of a sudden DESTRUCTION (you die; the grave is your reward, the doors to the ark are closed). Most will miss Christ coming; because they are looking for something literal, when the BATTLE and BIRTH are SPIRIT. There will continue literal wars, literal earthquakes, literal famines and literal pestilence until the age we are in ENDS and the next age BEGINS.
Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was ONCE (Christ ministered in the flesh) offered to bear the sins of many; and unto those WHO LOOK FOR HIM he shall appear the SECOND TIME (IN THE SPIRIT) without sin UNTO SALVATION.
I come like a thief in the night; if you would have seen the thief, he would not have DESTROYED you house.
Well, does man have free will to chose to love God and obey him or does God control us to the point where we can't do otherwise?
Did Adam have a choice? Yes. He chose badly and paid the consequences.
Did Noah have a choice? Well, he could have joined the others and would have died in the flood.
Did the ancient nation of Israel have a choice? Well, at times they chose to obey and were blessed. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, they chose to disobey and paid by destruction from Babylon and then Rome.
Christians have a choice to obey or not. God can help us, but he will not make us obey automatically. That is why we have so many warnings given throughout the New Testament by the Apostles to Christians in the Church.
Galatians 6:7-8 "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting."
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,"
Paul includes himself in that statement. If WE sin willfully...
Romans 2:6-8 "Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,"
Why wouldn't God call women to preach? God shows no partiality ( Romans 2:11) and can use anybody to do His will ( 1 Corinthians 1:27). Miriam, Deborah, Huldah, Isaiah's wife, and Anna were given the authority to speak to the people on the behalf of God and thus preached the Word of God. Go back and read Romans 16:1-15 about the 10 women who where in ministry who held leadership positions.
Brother Stan, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding. Most of the Psalms are prophecies pointing to the NEW COVENANT. Christ already knows the END. He knows because HE SPOKE THE WORDS before the foundation of the world. They are coming to fruition at HIS APPOINTED TIME. (his works)
Ecclesiastes 3:1-9
Hebrews 4:3 For we which have believed do ENTER INTO (SABBATH) REST, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into MY (SABBATH) REST: although THE (his) WORKS were FINISHED from the foundations of the world. Christ has been RESTING since those first six days; you are defiling the SABBATH if you are not also resting (IN CHRIST'S WORKS): THE WORKS ARE DONE (COMPLETE).
Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor setteth in the seat of the scornful.
Christ is declaring kis WORKS that the death and resurrection of HIMSELF will bring to mankind. At his APPOINTED TIME in each of us. HIS WORKS!
Proverbs 16:6 BY MERCY and TRUTH iniquity is purged.....(his works)
Romans 2:4...not knowing that THE GOODNESS of God leadeth thee to REPENTANCE? (his works)
Isaiah 27:12 And it shall COME TO PASS in that day (NEW COVENANT) (day of the Lord)... ye shall be gathered ONE by ONE (appointed time)...(his works)
Revelation 21:3 ...Behold, the tabernacle (temple) of God is with men...CHRIST IN YOU (his works)
1 Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that YE are the temple of God (new heaven), and that the SPIRIT of God DWELLETH IN YOU. (his works)
Revelation 21:22 And I saw no temple therein (new Jerusalem), for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb ARE THE TEMPLE OF IT (CHRIST IN US). Accomplished at the NEW COVENANT. Death and resurrection of Christ. New heaven (NEW dwelling place of God) and new earth (new body; no longer dust, but THE GLORY OF GOD)! (his works)
I use to believe the Roman Catholic teaching of consciousness after death. Like you are not really dead, but go to Heaven, Hell or Purgatory. (And there if in Hell, burn eternally, with no hope of an end).
However, since then I have read in God's Word that this is not so. In John 11:11-14, Jesus tell His apostles that Lazarus is sleeping, but Jesus goes to wake him up. Finally, Jesus tells His apostles that Lazarus is dead. Also, see 1
Thessalonians 4:15-17. And, John 5:28-29. See, Genus 2:7. Ecclesiastes 12:7. Importantly, Psalms 146:3-4. Again, "Who Only Has Immortality? See, 1 Timothy 6:16. And those who SEEK, Romans 2:7. In 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 we learn.... Knowing what God's Word really says is priceless, see, Psalms 115:17, "The dead praise NOT the LORD, neither any that go down into silence." Must read, Ecclesiae's 9:5,6, 10. 5."For the living know that they shall die; but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of then is forgotten. 6. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun. 10. Whatsoever thy hand findet to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goes." NOTE: 2 Timothy 3:16, "ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" There is more, but I think by now you get the idea.... God bless you as you prayerfully Study the above....
Hello Temeko, the book of Romans was written to the Romans, who are Gentiles. Paul, of course, was an Isrealite from the Tribe of Benjamin. The Gentiles were not given the Laws, Statutes and Commandments ( Romans 2:14) Only Isreal. Paul was explaining that the Law alone will not get you into the Kingdom, but by Grace and truth ( John 1:17). Most people don't understand what truth is because we have been taught not to read the Old Testement, but the truth is none other than the Laws of God ( Psalm 119:142), except animal sacrafice, which is the only law that was fullfilled on the Cross because Christ was the Perfect Sacrafice. We are commanded to keep the Laws that were given in the Torah ( Romans 3:31). Believe me, many will totally disagree, i guess they think Christ died on the cross so we can be Lawless but what will we be judged by in the Book of Revelations? We will be judged by our works!! (Revelations 20:13). Shalom!
Be encouraged and Jesus Christ loves you and he can help you with your anger issue. Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?
Jesus Christ has helped me with my anger associate with childhood trauma of verbal, physical abuse and filled my empty and broken heart and gave me the love I have never received from my parents and have given me a peace of mind, joy beyond measure and always there for you when you call on him.
Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
I have been listening and learning on youtube-Honest News Network-Brother Joseph Skinner and it has helped me to get closer to God.
God bless you and may the Lord keep you safe under his wings Psalms 17:8 and my prayers are with you.
I am sorry for the emotional trauma you and your family are going through and my prayers are with you.
Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?
Ruler of the synagogue, Jairus asked Jesus Christ to heal his little girl and he did. Mark 5:23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
I have been listening and learning from youtube-Honest News Network Brother Joseph Skinner and it has helped me to understand it is all in hand of Jesus Christ .
I have been dealing with trauma of loss and depression and when I gave it all to Jesus Christ he mended my broken heart and gave me the joy and peace beyond measure and he can do it for you. Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
God bless you and may the Lord keep you safe under his wings of safety Psalms 17:8
Praise the Lord Joshua, Be encouraged and know that Jesus Christ loves you and ask God for clarity and help and he will do just that, he helped me and can help you as well because Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
Psalms 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
God bless you and may the Lord keep you under his wings of safety Psalms 17:8 and my prayers are with you.
Please forgive me as I don't want to get in between the discussion of you & Adam. Though I feel to write my perception on this matter. As I believe it is important to us all.
To begin I don't feel what you stated about the two Greek words for "good", meaning one is of God and the other of men, is completely accurate. First I would say everything good is of God weather the person knows God literally or not. As Love is of God and those who abide in love are of Him to 1 John 4:7. Now weather that person has been drawn to the light, Jesus Christ, yet is up to God. Also stated in Romans 2:12-15 about how those who do what is right or "good", even though they have not heard the law, shows Gods law written on their hearts. They being obedient to God and not even knowing it.
Back to the word "good" in the Greek. The two words you gave are the two words used the most for "good" in the NT. G18 and G2570. Though they are not the only words used for simply put "good". We have "cherestotes-G5544", "eudokia-G2107', and "eupoiia-G2140" for a couple others. Showing in Hebrews 13:16 that just because it's not the word "agoth.." doesn't mean God isn't pleased with it.
Also how in a couple instances like 1 Timothy 6:18, and 1 Timothy 5:10. the words "agoth.." and "kalos" are both used in the same verse.
Now of coarse what you stated in that if someone seems to be trying to "earn" there way into Heaven, by good works, hopefully they will find out there is only one way and that is Jesus Christ. We have all fallen short in our lives. Thanks be to the Grace of our Father in Heaven He sent us His Son. To now focus on Him and let Him lead the way for us. We need Jesus Christ our Lord just as we need our Father in Heaven.
God Bless you Jesse. Please don't let my message come to you the wrong way. It is from the heart.
Part 3 some scriptures concerning the Grace of God - In Reply on Acts 1 - 3 years ago
"This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears" Luke 4:21
"Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts" Hebrew 4:7
"Behold, now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation" 2 Corinthians 6:2
"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation." Hebrews 2:3
"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you" 2 Corinthians 9:8
"The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance" Romans 2:4
"Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" Ephesians 2:19-20
"Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that these ye might be partakers of the divine nature" 2Peter 1:4
"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" Titus 2:11-14
"the spirit of grace and supplications" Zechariah 12:10
"For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing" Romans 7:18
"But by the grace of God I am what I am" 1 Corinthians 15:10
"This is the true grace of God wherein ye stand" 1Peter 5:12
"Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life" Revelation 2:10
"He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved" Matthew 24:13
"See that ye abound in this grace" 2 Corinthians 8:7
"Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ" 2Peter 3:18
"For God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5
Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
Romans 2:1 |
Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.
Romans 14:13 |
Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
James 4:12 |
There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
Just to add a couple verses to what Mishael posted for you about the real circumcision being of the heart. Not the flesh.
Romans 2: 25-29 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.
26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?
27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?
28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
Judy, may the Spirit grace you with his wisdom and his understanding.
Were women commanded to be circumcised in the old testament? Are you cut off from God for not being circumcised?
Romans 2:28-29 For he (or she) is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outwardly in the flesh:
(vs 29) But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; an circumcision that is of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
Acts 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
It's Christ in you, the new birth, that is the true circumcision.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Ezekiel 33:11-20
( Matthew 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 12:35-36 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Matthew 13:37-43
( John 5:26-29
( Romans 2:2-11
( Romans 6:1-2
( Romans 6:15-23
( James 2:14-20
( 1 Peter 4:16-19
( 2 Peter 2:20-22 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Revelation 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.
Sister Mary, good question. I appreciate somewhat lengthy 'general or typical response' from brother Chris. But I'll give you specific theological response.
When you received Christ as your personal saviour, you also received the other two members of Trinity (1Joh 5:7), Holy Ghost and GOD the Father, and you are now born again (Joh 3:3). You are a baby spiritually in the beginning when you are just saved recently. You can't feel or experience HIM right away but you need to grow spiritually to experience a new spiritual birth. Naturally everybody is born with devil spirit simply because we inherited Adam's sin and therefore we are sinners by birth ( Rom 5:12-14).
A newly born baby does not know what is going on around him until he will grow up physically and mentally, does he? Same analogy with spiritual rebirth. Grow spiritually by reading scripture, praying, listening to preaching, and etc. Then you can feel joy and do not forget to spread gospel to others.
Some theological consideration. I have many things to say about Holy Ghost but I can't say them all here. Did you know Trinity WORKS and exists as ONE? In other words you can't receive Christ or Spirit independently as I indicated above. I hear truly saved people say that they are uncertain if they received Spirit also. Are you one of them? I'll just list verses for you to understand about Trinity more deeply without going lengthy discussion. Joh 10:30, 6:44, 14:6; 1Joh 5:7, 8. Thanks
When you have truly repented of your sins & come in faith in the finished work of Jesus on the Cross for you, those sins are taken away, you're forgiven, you have been made clean & acceptable to God & you have God's Spirit dwelling in you. If anyone doesn't come in true repentance & faith in Christ, then salvation is not given. If you have come the way of the Cross & you're truly thankful to the Lord for what He has done for you, then His Spirit will make you completely new in your spirit (re-born spiritually), renew your mind, your view of life, of people and endue with His Power to live for Jesus & give you gifts that you may use to testify of God's Love & build up others. In other words, your life will be completely changed by God because you are a child of God.
Is this what you have experienced, or maybe you've heard that a special outward manifestation is needed as the only proof of the Holy Spirit in you? The Holy Spirit might choose to give this, but it is only faith in Christ that saves you & not the waiting for or pleading for some manifestation. Do you feel that your life is still the same as the old one? That nothing has changed - you may still be careless with sin or still finding delight in doing those things that are not right & not feeling a check in your heart when doing them? If so, you will need to attend to this urgently & seek the Lord & read His Word, that maybe the Spirit of God might reveal Jesus to you afresh.
That is one of the oldest questions asked concerning eternity, aside from the pre-existence of God. Both non-Christians & those claiming Christian faith have wondered about "good people consigned to Hell" & humanly speaking, we really can't believe that a Holy, Righteous God would do such a thing. But the Scriptures are clear.
What we term a 'good person' is based on our understanding of 'goodness', i.e. one well behaved, conforms to society's norms & requirements, has a careful, considered disposition, rendering help to others & not given to 'major sins'. And yet, will all that 'goodness', God still manages to find fault with him. Is God unfair or judging us too harshly? From our viewpoint, we might think so, but from God's viewpoint (& from the Word), He assesses us correctly.
If "all have sinned & come short of the glory of God (or, God's standards)" ( Romans 3:23), God takes into account that evidence of sin, however minute in substance, as that which infects & affects the whole ("a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump" 1 Corinthians 5:6). Just as the addition of a little leaven (yeast) causes fermentation & expansion of dough that affects the whole bread, so to does the smallest of sins (white lies, pride, bitterness, false accusation, anger, etc.) spoils the whole person making him a sinner: he's not a person who slips up in some sin but still essentially good, but a person who because of sin is essentially bad but show traits of goodness at times. But even with all his 'goodness', can he present himself as acceptable to God? Never to a holy God.
Romans 2:11-16 explains why a person never hearing about God or the Gospel through His Son, still remains condemned. In advanced civilizations, the Law alerts a person to his errors & sins. Amongst hidden tribes, their tribal Law applies, & where that law doesn't deal with sin, man is naturally alerted in his heart to wrong doing, their conscience bearing them witness. No chance without the Gospel reaching them.
Romans 2:14,15 clearly show that the Law was never in our possession & we've never been subject to them. And then when the Gentiles became believers, the only instruction given was, not that any of the commandments given to the Jews be followed, but as per Acts 15:19,20: "Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood."
Rather, our directive can never be from the Law given to Israel, because "the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." ( Romans 8:2). If the Life-giving Spirit freed a Jewish Paul from the bondage of the Law, how much more to us Gentiles, who never received the Law, are only subject to the Spirit's directions in our lives.
Again, thank you for bringing up those very worthy points.
Romans 2:28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
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.
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (verse 7 Jesus said)- Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye MUST be born again.
Romans 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.(Not because he is a Jew)
Galations 3:6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.
James 2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham BELIEVED God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
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.
FAITH IS NOT WHO YOU ARE BLACK, WHITE, NATIONALITY HAS NO EFFECT ON BEING A HEIR WITH CHRIST BUT BY GRACE WE ARE SAVED BY/THROUGH FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST
"For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel."
Here we see the Apostle Paul's teaching on those who have sinned "in the Law" (i.e. the Jews who were given God's Law to abide by & to judge themselves as those who failed in keeping the Law perfectly), and those who 'perish' (note: not 'sinned', since sin is effected, accountable & punishable by God by the giving of a Law, Romans 3:20) without having received the Law.
So to the Jew who remains under the burden of the Law & not in receipt of God's Grace in Christ, they will be judged by the Law, & they will fail, for none could ever keep the Law perfectly ( Galatians 2:21b:"for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.").To the Gentile (non-Jew) who in days past never received or even heard of God's Laws & therefore never subject to its conditions, Paul says that these may not have the written Law in stone/parchment, but by nature perform the Law as written upon their hearts; it's now their conscience that accuses them of doing wrong or excuses their sins, that God sees & thus judges. Certainly not like getting God's Commands directly, but when both Jew & Gentile have to stand before God, the judgement meted to them will be based on the Law whether given directly or written in their hearts/consciences.
And that's why the Gospel is so important: it is salvation to all.
f. Jesus' time of suffering & death came, but also His glorious resurrection, that through this Divine Act of God to redeem ALL men to Himself, both Jew & Gentile would now be acceptable to Him through faith in the efficacy of the shed Blood. Was the Sabbath & the Law still current for the Jew? As long as they lived according to the requirements of the Law, they had to abide by it & were judged by it; if they failed in one part of the given Law, they had failed in all ( Galatians 5:3, Romans 2:13, James 2:10). When the Jew put aside the Law as necessary for salvation, then the application of the Cross became real: that which was based on faith & promise, & not on the letter that only served to reveal him his sin & to draw him to Christ ( Galatians 3:24).
g. So why then is the keeping of the Sabbath still necessary? For the Jew without Christ, it remains a day of rest, as an act of obedience to God, & using that occasion for religious exercises. For the Jew & Gentile who is now "in Christ", the Sabbath, as all other Laws, have no binding, other than the importance of setting a Rest Day aside from our labours, & the Laws that reveal God's Mind & Purpose for both religious & social responsibility. If one, whether Jew, Gentile or Christian, chose to keep any of the Laws, including Sabbath, then they were bound to keep it & the whole Law - there's no option to pick & choose. And by keeping the Law to justify ourselves before God, even one Law, then precludes us from the Grace of God through Christ, because that is diametrically opposed to the meaning of the Law ( Galatians 5:4).
I don't believe that the "works" in Matthew 16:27 is mentioned by Jesus in respect to salvation. He speaks of rewards according to what "every man has done". Also, Romans 2:6. The Matthew verse could speak of the righteous who receive reward for their deeds, or to the unrighteousness, who receive nothing because their deeds were evil, coming from the darkness of their hearts ( John 3:19,20).
And then in the New Testament economy, post Cross, where salvation is granted to the sinner because of God's Grace through our faith in Christ's Work ( Ephesians 2:8-10), we're reminded that no "works" can enter into this Divine arrangement as that would negate "grace". And 'works' was primarily the obedience & dependence on the given Law of God, which could only show man's failure before God & inability to justify himself. But 'works' would include those other things that those outside the purview of the Cross, could try to use to establish his favour with God.
And then we come to the Epistle of James, which the RCs use to justify their belief & position: James 2:14-18. They maintain that both 'faith & works' are necessary for salvation, rather "for further justification". This was the point that Martin Luther, at the Reformation, opposed the RC Church on: he maintained that the believer is fully saved & justified at the moment of salvation & it's not a progressive justification, to which the RC Church stated: that justification cannot be a once only immediate act of God, but that through the Christian's walk (i.e. in a life of producing works worthy of his salvation), the believer is increasingly justified by God. If this were so, then justification comes by faith & works.
Rather, James tells us that 'works' naturally follow a true salvation, without which it proves a defective salvation. James does not hint at all that there is an on-going work of justification by 'works', rather that justification is a declaration by God of the sinner as being no longer guilty before Him.
Though there are many Scriptures to support the after life & into eternity with God, there are very few that can fully support the immediate passage of the spirit & soul after death takes its grip. Clear portions, as Mishael has showed, about the penitent thief & Lazarus are often used & I would add to his list: 2 Corinthians 5:1-8. Herein, we see Paul's hope that when his "earthly tabernacle is dissolved" (or, passed away in death), God will provide a heavenly one. In fact, he says that he is confident (convinced) that while we're in this body on Earth, thus we're absent from the Lord. Rather, his desire was to be absent from his body (leave his mortal body behind at death), & be found in the Lord's presence. To me, these verses & those others given, show that at death, the spirit that cannot be destroyed by death does not linger aimlessly near a grave or under water, but returns to God Who gave it. For those who've rejected Christ, their spirits too are held captive awaiting coming judgement.
All people can ONLY be saved by FAITH: faith being the implicit trust & looking to God to save them though not having seen Him. For the Jew, they received the Law from God & though none could fully obey its demands, it served to show them there sin, the need for sacrifice & of course, a faith that looked only to God & looked forward to God to provide a better Sacrifice. Most Jews didn't do this, though some did ( Hebrews 11) but God is the Judge of their hearts. For those without the Law (Gentiles), the laws written within us condemned us ( Romans 2:12-16) & we have to stand before God on that basis &/or the rejection of God's Sacrifice. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" ( John 1:12). And of course, we receive Him only by faith, not by works or sacrifice.
I can't answer your last question; it must be something wired in us to know what & where 'our shame' (our less honourable) body parts are.
Israel in the Old Testament was dispersed among all the nation of the world. Judea was left so Jesus lineage could be confirmed to be the natural seed of David. Today none can trace their lineage back to Abraham. ISRAEL today (those born again of the Spirit of God) is the promised SEED of Isaac (his name was changed to Israel) (CHRIST IN US).
Romans 2:29 But he is a Jew, which is one INWARDLY (Christ in you); and circumcision is of the HEART, in the Spirit, and not in the letter (flesh) .....
Romans 9:6 ...for they are not all Israel, which are of Israel.
The kingdom promised to ISRAEL (CHRIST) is not a literal kingdom that can be seen with eyes; but a kingdom of priest (Christ in you). These battles prophesied in scripture are not literal but in the Spirit.
Jesus said before he comes there would be literal wars, literal earthquakes, literal famines and literal pestilence. This has been happening for 2000 years and Jesus has been COMING to those who look for him 2000 years. Jesus said that it would be like the days of Noah. They knew not till the doors on the ark were CLOSED. The ark could have saved them; Jesus is our ark. Man is looking for all things to be literal and all of a sudden DESTRUCTION (you die; the grave is your reward, the doors to the ark are closed). Most will miss Christ coming; because they are looking for something literal, when the BATTLE and BIRTH are SPIRIT. There will continue literal wars, literal earthquakes, literal famines and literal pestilence until the age we are in ENDS and the next age BEGINS.
Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was ONCE (Christ ministered in the flesh) offered to bear the sins of many; and unto those WHO LOOK FOR HIM he shall appear the SECOND TIME (IN THE SPIRIT) without sin UNTO SALVATION.
I come like a thief in the night; if you would have seen the thief, he would not have DESTROYED you house.
Well, does man have free will to chose to love God and obey him or does God control us to the point where we can't do otherwise?
Did Adam have a choice? Yes. He chose badly and paid the consequences.
Did Noah have a choice? Well, he could have joined the others and would have died in the flood.
Did the ancient nation of Israel have a choice? Well, at times they chose to obey and were blessed. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, they chose to disobey and paid by destruction from Babylon and then Rome.
Christians have a choice to obey or not. God can help us, but he will not make us obey automatically. That is why we have so many warnings given throughout the New Testament by the Apostles to Christians in the Church.
Galatians 6:7-8 "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting."
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,"
Paul includes himself in that statement. If WE sin willfully...
Romans 2:6-8 "Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,"
Kindly.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-9
Hebrews 4:3 For we which have believed do ENTER INTO (SABBATH) REST, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into MY (SABBATH) REST: although THE (his) WORKS were FINISHED from the foundations of the world. Christ has been RESTING since those first six days; you are defiling the SABBATH if you are not also resting (IN CHRIST'S WORKS): THE WORKS ARE DONE (COMPLETE).
Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor setteth in the seat of the scornful.
Christ is declaring kis WORKS that the death and resurrection of HIMSELF will bring to mankind. At his APPOINTED TIME in each of us. HIS WORKS!
Proverbs 16:6 BY MERCY and TRUTH iniquity is purged.....(his works)
Romans 2:4...not knowing that THE GOODNESS of God leadeth thee to REPENTANCE? (his works)
Isaiah 27:12 And it shall COME TO PASS in that day (NEW COVENANT) (day of the Lord)... ye shall be gathered ONE by ONE (appointed time)...(his works)
Revelation 21:3 ...Behold, the tabernacle (temple) of God is with men...CHRIST IN YOU (his works)
1 Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that YE are the temple of God (new heaven), and that the SPIRIT of God DWELLETH IN YOU. (his works)
Revelation 21:22 And I saw no temple therein (new Jerusalem), for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb ARE THE TEMPLE OF IT (CHRIST IN US). Accomplished at the NEW COVENANT. Death and resurrection of Christ. New heaven (NEW dwelling place of God) and new earth (new body; no longer dust, but THE GLORY OF GOD)! (his works)
However, since then I have read in God's Word that this is not so. In John 11:11-14, Jesus tell His apostles that Lazarus is sleeping, but Jesus goes to wake him up. Finally, Jesus tells His apostles that Lazarus is dead. Also, see 1
Thessalonians 4:15-17. And, John 5:28-29. See, Genus 2:7. Ecclesiastes 12:7. Importantly, Psalms 146:3-4. Again, "Who Only Has Immortality? See, 1 Timothy 6:16. And those who SEEK, Romans 2:7. In 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 we learn.... Knowing what God's Word really says is priceless, see, Psalms 115:17, "The dead praise NOT the LORD, neither any that go down into silence." Must read, Ecclesiae's 9:5,6, 10. 5."For the living know that they shall die; but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of then is forgotten. 6. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun. 10. Whatsoever thy hand findet to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goes." NOTE: 2 Timothy 3:16, "ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" There is more, but I think by now you get the idea.... God bless you as you prayerfully Study the above....
All scripture is to be used since it is inspired of God.
We gather all scripture about subject so we can can fully understand.
Romans 2:7
King James Version
7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
This verse clearly tell us we seek salvation by "patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:".
This verse plainly destroys the lie of once saved always saved.
Hebrews 3: 12-14
12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
We can loose our salvation
13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
If our hearts are hardened by sin how can we be saved
14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;
We can be saved IF "we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;"
There are of course other scriptures which totally deny the lie once saved always saved.
Be encouraged and Jesus Christ loves you and he can help you with your anger issue. Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?
Jesus Christ has helped me with my anger associate with childhood trauma of verbal, physical abuse and filled my empty and broken heart and gave me the love I have never received from my parents and have given me a peace of mind, joy beyond measure and always there for you when you call on him.
Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
I have been listening and learning on youtube-Honest News Network-Brother Joseph Skinner and it has helped me to get closer to God.
God bless you and may the Lord keep you safe under his wings Psalms 17:8 and my prayers are with you.
I am sorry for the emotional trauma you and your family are going through and my prayers are with you.
Jeremiah 32:27 Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?
Ruler of the synagogue, Jairus asked Jesus Christ to heal his little girl and he did. Mark 5:23 And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
I have been listening and learning from youtube-Honest News Network Brother Joseph Skinner and it has helped me to understand it is all in hand of Jesus Christ .
I have been dealing with trauma of loss and depression and when I gave it all to Jesus Christ he mended my broken heart and gave me the joy and peace beyond measure and he can do it for you. Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
God bless you and may the Lord keep you safe under his wings of safety Psalms 17:8
Psalms 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
God bless you and may the Lord keep you under his wings of safety Psalms 17:8 and my prayers are with you.
Please forgive me as I don't want to get in between the discussion of you & Adam. Though I feel to write my perception on this matter. As I believe it is important to us all.
To begin I don't feel what you stated about the two Greek words for "good", meaning one is of God and the other of men, is completely accurate. First I would say everything good is of God weather the person knows God literally or not. As Love is of God and those who abide in love are of Him to 1 John 4:7. Now weather that person has been drawn to the light, Jesus Christ, yet is up to God. Also stated in Romans 2:12-15 about how those who do what is right or "good", even though they have not heard the law, shows Gods law written on their hearts. They being obedient to God and not even knowing it.
Back to the word "good" in the Greek. The two words you gave are the two words used the most for "good" in the NT. G18 and G2570. Though they are not the only words used for simply put "good". We have "cherestotes-G5544", "eudokia-G2107', and "eupoiia-G2140" for a couple others. Showing in Hebrews 13:16 that just because it's not the word "agoth.." doesn't mean God isn't pleased with it.
Also how in a couple instances like 1 Timothy 6:18, and 1 Timothy 5:10. the words "agoth.." and "kalos" are both used in the same verse.
Now of coarse what you stated in that if someone seems to be trying to "earn" there way into Heaven, by good works, hopefully they will find out there is only one way and that is Jesus Christ. We have all fallen short in our lives. Thanks be to the Grace of our Father in Heaven He sent us His Son. To now focus on Him and let Him lead the way for us. We need Jesus Christ our Lord just as we need our Father in Heaven.
God Bless you Jesse. Please don't let my message come to you the wrong way. It is from the heart.
"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" Matthew 1:21
4 parts total of these Grace of God verse inspirations by some of my brethren.
"Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts" Hebrew 4:7
"Behold, now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation" 2 Corinthians 6:2
"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation." Hebrews 2:3
"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you" 2 Corinthians 9:8
"The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance" Romans 2:4
"Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" Ephesians 2:19-20
"Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that these ye might be partakers of the divine nature" 2Peter 1:4
"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" Titus 2:11-14
"the spirit of grace and supplications" Zechariah 12:10
"For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing" Romans 7:18
"But by the grace of God I am what I am" 1 Corinthians 15:10
"This is the true grace of God wherein ye stand" 1Peter 5:12
"Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life" Revelation 2:10
"He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved" Matthew 24:13
"See that ye abound in this grace" 2 Corinthians 8:7
"Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ" 2Peter 3:18
"For God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5
Luke 6 37
Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
Romans 2:1 |
Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.
Romans 14:13 |
Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
James 4:12 |
There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
Mark 1:14-15 Now after John was put into prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the GOSPEL of the kingdom of God.
(vs 15) And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye and believe the GOSPEL.
Repentance is not the GOSPEL.
Psalms 52:1 Why BOASTEST thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man; the goodness of God endureth continually.
Romans 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his GOODNESS and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the GOODNESS of GOD leads to repentance.
Luke 17:21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, Lo there! behold, the kingdom of God is WITHIN you.
THIS IS THE GOSPEL!
Colossians 1:27 ..... which is CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory.
You are baptised (not by physical water; but with living water) INTO CHRIST!
The baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire Matthew 3:11
Hebrews 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire.
Just to add a couple verses to what Mishael posted for you about the real circumcision being of the heart. Not the flesh.
Romans 2: 25-29 For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision.
26 Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?
27 And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?
28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
Were women commanded to be circumcised in the old testament? Are you cut off from God for not being circumcised?
Romans 2:28-29 For he (or she) is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outwardly in the flesh:
(vs 29) But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; an circumcision that is of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
Acts 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
It's Christ in you, the new birth, that is the true circumcision.
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
Ezekiel 33:11-20
( Matthew 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 12:35-36 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Matthew 13:37-43
( John 5:26-29
( Romans 2:2-11
( Romans 6:1-2
( Romans 6:15-23
( James 2:14-20
( 1 Peter 4:16-19
( 2 Peter 2:20-22 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Revelation 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.
When you received Christ as your personal saviour, you also received the other two members of Trinity (1Joh 5:7), Holy Ghost and GOD the Father, and you are now born again (Joh 3:3). You are a baby spiritually in the beginning when you are just saved recently. You can't feel or experience HIM right away but you need to grow spiritually to experience a new spiritual birth. Naturally everybody is born with devil spirit simply because we inherited Adam's sin and therefore we are sinners by birth ( Rom 5:12-14).
A newly born baby does not know what is going on around him until he will grow up physically and mentally, does he? Same analogy with spiritual rebirth. Grow spiritually by reading scripture, praying, listening to preaching, and etc. Then you can feel joy and do not forget to spread gospel to others.
Some theological consideration. I have many things to say about Holy Ghost but I can't say them all here. Did you know Trinity WORKS and exists as ONE? In other words you can't receive Christ or Spirit independently as I indicated above. I hear truly saved people say that they are uncertain if they received Spirit also. Are you one of them? I'll just list verses for you to understand about Trinity more deeply without going lengthy discussion. Joh 10:30, 6:44, 14:6; 1Joh 5:7, 8. Thanks
Is this what you have experienced, or maybe you've heard that a special outward manifestation is needed as the only proof of the Holy Spirit in you? The Holy Spirit might choose to give this, but it is only faith in Christ that saves you & not the waiting for or pleading for some manifestation. Do you feel that your life is still the same as the old one? That nothing has changed - you may still be careless with sin or still finding delight in doing those things that are not right & not feeling a check in your heart when doing them? If so, you will need to attend to this urgently & seek the Lord & read His Word, that maybe the Spirit of God might reveal Jesus to you afresh.
What we term a 'good person' is based on our understanding of 'goodness', i.e. one well behaved, conforms to society's norms & requirements, has a careful, considered disposition, rendering help to others & not given to 'major sins'. And yet, will all that 'goodness', God still manages to find fault with him. Is God unfair or judging us too harshly? From our viewpoint, we might think so, but from God's viewpoint (& from the Word), He assesses us correctly.
If "all have sinned & come short of the glory of God (or, God's standards)" ( Romans 3:23), God takes into account that evidence of sin, however minute in substance, as that which infects & affects the whole ("a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump" 1 Corinthians 5:6). Just as the addition of a little leaven (yeast) causes fermentation & expansion of dough that affects the whole bread, so to does the smallest of sins (white lies, pride, bitterness, false accusation, anger, etc.) spoils the whole person making him a sinner: he's not a person who slips up in some sin but still essentially good, but a person who because of sin is essentially bad but show traits of goodness at times. But even with all his 'goodness', can he present himself as acceptable to God? Never to a holy God.
Romans 2:11-16 explains why a person never hearing about God or the Gospel through His Son, still remains condemned. In advanced civilizations, the Law alerts a person to his errors & sins. Amongst hidden tribes, their tribal Law applies, & where that law doesn't deal with sin, man is naturally alerted in his heart to wrong doing, their conscience bearing them witness. No chance without the Gospel reaching them.
Romans 2:14,15 clearly show that the Law was never in our possession & we've never been subject to them. And then when the Gentiles became believers, the only instruction given was, not that any of the commandments given to the Jews be followed, but as per Acts 15:19,20: "Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood."
Rather, our directive can never be from the Law given to Israel, because "the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." ( Romans 8:2). If the Life-giving Spirit freed a Jewish Paul from the bondage of the Law, how much more to us Gentiles, who never received the Law, are only subject to the Spirit's directions in our lives.
Again, thank you for bringing up those very worthy points.
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.
John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (verse 7 Jesus said)- Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye MUST be born again.
Romans 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.(Not because he is a Jew)
Galations 3:6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.
James 2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham BELIEVED God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
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.
FAITH IS NOT WHO YOU ARE BLACK, WHITE, NATIONALITY HAS NO EFFECT ON BEING A HEIR WITH CHRIST BUT BY GRACE WE ARE SAVED BY/THROUGH FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST
"For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel."
Here we see the Apostle Paul's teaching on those who have sinned "in the Law" (i.e. the Jews who were given God's Law to abide by & to judge themselves as those who failed in keeping the Law perfectly), and those who 'perish' (note: not 'sinned', since sin is effected, accountable & punishable by God by the giving of a Law, Romans 3:20) without having received the Law.
So to the Jew who remains under the burden of the Law & not in receipt of God's Grace in Christ, they will be judged by the Law, & they will fail, for none could ever keep the Law perfectly ( Galatians 2:21b:"for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.").To the Gentile (non-Jew) who in days past never received or even heard of God's Laws & therefore never subject to its conditions, Paul says that these may not have the written Law in stone/parchment, but by nature perform the Law as written upon their hearts; it's now their conscience that accuses them of doing wrong or excuses their sins, that God sees & thus judges. Certainly not like getting God's Commands directly, but when both Jew & Gentile have to stand before God, the judgement meted to them will be based on the Law whether given directly or written in their hearts/consciences.
And that's why the Gospel is so important: it is salvation to all.
f. Jesus' time of suffering & death came, but also His glorious resurrection, that through this Divine Act of God to redeem ALL men to Himself, both Jew & Gentile would now be acceptable to Him through faith in the efficacy of the shed Blood. Was the Sabbath & the Law still current for the Jew? As long as they lived according to the requirements of the Law, they had to abide by it & were judged by it; if they failed in one part of the given Law, they had failed in all ( Galatians 5:3, Romans 2:13, James 2:10). When the Jew put aside the Law as necessary for salvation, then the application of the Cross became real: that which was based on faith & promise, & not on the letter that only served to reveal him his sin & to draw him to Christ ( Galatians 3:24).
g. So why then is the keeping of the Sabbath still necessary? For the Jew without Christ, it remains a day of rest, as an act of obedience to God, & using that occasion for religious exercises. For the Jew & Gentile who is now "in Christ", the Sabbath, as all other Laws, have no binding, other than the importance of setting a Rest Day aside from our labours, & the Laws that reveal God's Mind & Purpose for both religious & social responsibility. If one, whether Jew, Gentile or Christian, chose to keep any of the Laws, including Sabbath, then they were bound to keep it & the whole Law - there's no option to pick & choose. And by keeping the Law to justify ourselves before God, even one Law, then precludes us from the Grace of God through Christ, because that is diametrically opposed to the meaning of the Law ( Galatians 5:4).
And then in the New Testament economy, post Cross, where salvation is granted to the sinner because of God's Grace through our faith in Christ's Work ( Ephesians 2:8-10), we're reminded that no "works" can enter into this Divine arrangement as that would negate "grace". And 'works' was primarily the obedience & dependence on the given Law of God, which could only show man's failure before God & inability to justify himself. But 'works' would include those other things that those outside the purview of the Cross, could try to use to establish his favour with God.
And then we come to the Epistle of James, which the RCs use to justify their belief & position: James 2:14-18. They maintain that both 'faith & works' are necessary for salvation, rather "for further justification". This was the point that Martin Luther, at the Reformation, opposed the RC Church on: he maintained that the believer is fully saved & justified at the moment of salvation & it's not a progressive justification, to which the RC Church stated: that justification cannot be a once only immediate act of God, but that through the Christian's walk (i.e. in a life of producing works worthy of his salvation), the believer is increasingly justified by God. If this were so, then justification comes by faith & works.
Rather, James tells us that 'works' naturally follow a true salvation, without which it proves a defective salvation. James does not hint at all that there is an on-going work of justification by 'works', rather that justification is a declaration by God of the sinner as being no longer guilty before Him.
All people can ONLY be saved by FAITH: faith being the implicit trust & looking to God to save them though not having seen Him. For the Jew, they received the Law from God & though none could fully obey its demands, it served to show them there sin, the need for sacrifice & of course, a faith that looked only to God & looked forward to God to provide a better Sacrifice. Most Jews didn't do this, though some did ( Hebrews 11) but God is the Judge of their hearts. For those without the Law (Gentiles), the laws written within us condemned us ( Romans 2:12-16) & we have to stand before God on that basis &/or the rejection of God's Sacrifice. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" ( John 1:12). And of course, we receive Him only by faith, not by works or sacrifice.
I can't answer your last question; it must be something wired in us to know what & where 'our shame' (our less honourable) body parts are.