Living Index (multiple topics)
Table of Contents to the Living Index
Miracles of Christ & the Apostles
Satan, Lucifer, Beelzebub, Devil
Questions and answers index.
THE LIVING INDEX
A guide to know Christ and live in Gods will.
(Personal insights or expanded scripture shown with parenthesis.)
Adopted by God
Those led by God’s Spirit are sons (and daughters) of God. Rom.8:14-17
Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us (believers), that we should be called the children of God. We do not know our final form yet, but when we see Him we shall know Him completely and will be like Him. 1st John 3:1-2
Christ’s mother, brothers & sisters are those doing God’s will. Matt. 12:50, Mark 3:35, Luke 8:21
Gentiles adopted. Romans 9:24-26
Angels
Are assigned to children. Matt.18:10
God gives Angels charge over those that are His for their protection. “For he shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. They shall bear you up with their hands, lest you dash your foot against a stone.” Psalms 91:11-13
Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels. Heb.13:2 Desire to understand things preached, by the Holy Spirit. 1st Peter 1:12
Angels that sinned were sent to hell until judgement. 2nd Peter 2:4, Jude 1:6
Anger
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1
Whoever is angry with another Christian without cause is in danger of God’s judgement.
Matt.5:22 See also Judgement.
Whoever calls another “fool” is in danger of hell fire. Matt.5:22 Do not swear at all. Matt.5:34-37
Do not resist an evil person. If slapped on one cheek, turn the other cheek also. Isaiah 50:6, Matt.5:39-41 (This does not mean we are not to resist Satan as he challenges us spiritually!)
Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you. Matt. 5:44, Rom. 12:20
Be angry and do not sin (see judgement and sin). Do not let the day end before getting rid of the wrath. Do not give in to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27
Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away along with all malice.
Be kind, tenderhearted forgiving even as God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32
Walk in love as Christ loved us even to the point of death as a sacrifice to God. Eph.5:2 (Give your anger and desire for revenge to God, for He says,) “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay. The Lord will judge His people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Hebrews 10:30-31
Let every man (person) be swift to listen (to God), slow to speak, slow to wrath, for wrath does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20
Apostles chosen out of the Deciples
Mark 3:13-19, Luke 6:13-16
Baptism (with water)
Is to be done by those who believe Christ is the son of God. Matt. 28:18, 19, Ephesians 4:5, Acts 8: 36-37
Symbolically represents being buried and raised with Christ through faith in the working of God the Father, who gave Christ the power to raise himself from the dead.
1Cor.6:14, John 5:21, 26, Colossians 2:12
The Bible
The word of God revealing Himself, through His gospel and the preaching of Christ, kept secret since the world began, but revealed according to God’s command, that men might show obedience to the faith and become established. Romans 16:25-26
Blessings & Gifts
God’s promises to Israel (His people) through Moses: (Amplified) Numbers 6:24 The Lord bless you and watch, guard and keep you. Vs. 25 The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful and giving favor ) to you. Vs. 26 The Lord lift up His (approving) countenance upon you, and give you peace (tranquility of heart and life continually).
He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, but trouble will come to him who seeks evil.
Proverbs 11:27
The mouth of the upright will deliver them. Proverbs 12:6 Good understanding gains favor. Proverbs 13:15
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more when it is brought with wicked intent. Proverbs 21:27 (Do not sacrifice to receive blessings if you are not living correctly.)
A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished. Proverbs 28:20
He who gives to the poor will not lack, but he who hides his eyes will have many curses.
Proverbs 28:27
God waits to be gracious and have mercy on you in order that He will be exalted. Those who wait for Him are blessed and receive justice. Isaiah 30:18
Those who wait on The Lord shall renew their strength and be lifted as on eagles wings. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
God guides his people and makes the rough places smooth. Isaiah 42:16 God fulfills the vision of those who wait (on Him). Habakkuk 2:1-3 Good works will be rewarded. Matt:16:27
All things work for good to those that love the Lord. Rom. 8:28 All good and perfect gifts come from God. James 1:17
Desire spiritual gifts, especially prophesy, speaking to build-up, to encourage and to comfort
those in the church. 1Cor.14:1-4,12
Spiritual gifts of wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, discerning of spirits, different tongues, interpretation of tongues are given by the Holy Spirit for help. 1Cor.12:3-11
Spiritual gifts according to grace: Prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation (encouragement), giving, mercy, brotherly love, rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, steadfast in prayer, giving to the saved & being hospitable. Romans 12:6-13, 1Cor.12:28
Spiritual understanding is given to the meek. Matt.11:25, Luke 10:21
As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another in Christ. 1st Peter 4:10
Do not neglect the gift (talent) within you that you have been given by prophecy , the voices of prophets and the laying on of the hands of elders (of the church). Meditate on these things and give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.
1st Tim.4:14-15 , 2Tim.1:6
Fruits of the Spirit are: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control. There are no laws against these things. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Gal.5:22-25 Goodness, righteousness & truth. Ephesians 5:9
Fruits of righteousness are given by Christ to the glory and praise of God. Philip.1:11 Because of the richness of God’s grace, we can be saved, by Christ’s blood, and are given an
abundance of wisdom and prudence by knowing the hidden parts of His will. God did all of this because it pleased Him; He having put this quality in Himself. Ephesians 1:7-9
Bless those that persecute you. Romans 12:14
Do good deeds in secret to be blessed openly of god. Matt.6:1-4 Pray in secret to be blessed openly. Matt.6:6
Gentiles receive justice & trust in Christ. Matt. 12:18, 21
Even with your desire, you do not have because you do not ask, or when you ask you do so for the wrong reason to fulfill your pleasures. (Instead of God’s will) James 4:2-4
If a (follower of Christ) asks anything according to His will, we know that He (God) hears, and whatever is asked is given. 1st John 5:14-15
Whatever we ask of Christ, we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. God commands that we believe on the name of His son Jesus Christ and love one another. 1st John 3:22-23
Blessings & miracles are hindered by unbelief. Matt.13:57-58, Mark 6:4-5 Blessings are available to all of faith. Matt.15:22-28
With God all things are possible. Matt.19:26 Godly virtue heals. Luke 6:19, 8:46
Faith in Christ saves & heals. Luke 7:50, 8:24-25, 8:48
Healings come through the stripes (wounds) of Christ. (Received before His crucifixion) 1st
Peter 2:23-24
Those who have given up family or possessions for Christ will receive a hundredfold plus eternal life. Matt.19:29, Mark 10:29-31
Blessings are given a faithful servant (of God) as he rules over his goods. Matt.24:46-47 Blessings & talents must be used for good to receive more. If they are not used, they will be
taken away. Mark 4:24-25, Luke 8:18
Blessings are given to the nation doing God’s work. Matt.21:43 Beatitudes of promised blessings are given and described. Luke 6:20-23
Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep (remember & do) it. Luke 11:28 Outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Cor. 4:16 God will complete his good work among believers by the day of Jesus Christ. (When he
returns, those who are following Christ will become perfected and will have the mind of Christ.) Philippians 1:6
Those who are dead to their old ways of sin and are no longer in bondage to the desires of the body have been given a new life (nature) and have been forgiven of all (past) trespasses. The trespasses ,described by the old testament law, have been removed by nailing them to the cross of Christ. This disarming triumph over the principalities and powers makes a public spectacle of them. Colossians 2:13-15, Ephesians 2:15
Anyone who has given up family relationships for the sake of God’s kingdom will be blessed many times more now and during eternal life after death. Luke 18:29-30
All who labor to save the lost, as a harvest, gathers fruit (blessings) for eternal life. John 4:35-38
Anyone who desires can drink of Christ’s (Spirit). Rivers of living water (Spirit) flow out of the hearts of those who believe in Christ. John 7:37-39
God opens salvation and access to the Holy Spirit to the gentiles seeking God through repentance and Christ . Acts 10:9-16, 22, 34-35, 45-48, 11:18, 28:28
God, the Father of Christ, has prepared every spiritual blessing in heaven for those in Christ.
Ephesians 1:3
The saved in Christ have a predestined inheritance because God purposed it in the counsel of His will. Ephesians 1:11 The inheritance is kept by faith. 1st Peter 1:4-5,9
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates both day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bring forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper. Psalm 1
Blessed are the poor, those that mourn, the meek, the hungry, the merciful, the pure in heart, peacemakers and the persecuted. Matt.5:3-10
Blessed is the man who endures temptation, for when he is approved (judged), he will receive the crown of life the Lord promised to those who love Him. James 1:12
Blessed are those who read and hear the prophecy of “The Revelation” and obey those things written. Revelation 1:3 See promises.
Children
All Christians are God’s children. Matt.12:50, Rom.8:14-15, John 1:12, Gal.3:26, 4:6-7, 1st John 3:1
Help children in the name of Christ. Matt.18:5, Mark 9:37, 10:14
Christ, Jesus
Prophesied to be born of a virgin and named Immanuel. He was to eat curds and honey to know to refuse evil and choose good. Isaiah 7:14-15
He was to break the yoke of the oppressor (Satan) by garments rolled in blood (His own). (Unfortunately, the people misinterpreted this to mean that He was to break the yoke of their earthly oppressor, Rome.) Isaiah 9:4
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder. His name shall be called wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, prince of peace. Of the increase of His government and peace, there will be no end. Isaiah 9:6-7 (His government refers to God’s heavenly government.)
He has no form or comeliness, and when we see Him there is no beauty that we should desire Him. He is despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him. He was despised and we did not esteem Him. Surely, He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. He was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities. The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray. We have turned, everyone, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:2-6
Had glory with the Father before the world was created. John 17:5
Coming for told by Moses. Deut.18:15-19 Moses’s words recalled by Peter. Acts 3:22-23 Abraham rejoiced at seeing the future of the days of Christ says Christ. John 8:56
Is the image of the invisible God. The firstborn over all creation. Colossians 1:15
Created all things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things and in Him all things consist. Col.1:16, 17
Was conceived, as a human, by the Holy Spirit. Isaiah 7:14, Matthew1:18-23, Luke 1:27-35 Was born that He might be a king in heaven and bear witness to the truth. John 18:36-37 Was sent as God’s messenger Malachi 3:1-3
The words of Christ are Spirit & life, given by the Father. John 6:63, 12:49
Was manifested to take away sin and has no sin in Him. Those in Christ do not sin. 1st John 3:5,6,9 (In the old testament god used the blood of pure animals to make atonement for sin. Leviticus 17:11 In the new covenant, the blood of a pure Christ became the perfect sacrifice to cancel the sins of all who accept Him as Savior and Lord.)
Christ’s blood: Justifies Rom.5:9, cleanses 1 John 1:7 Heb.9:22 Rev.1:5, signifies the new covenant and was shed for the remission of sins Matt.26:28 Luke 22:20 Heb.9:22 Col.1:14
The son of the living God. Matt.16:16-17, 17:5, 26:64, Mark 9:7, 14:61-62, Luke 9:35, 22:70, John 9:35-37
He is the head of the church, and the first raised from the dead. He will reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross. Colossians 1:18-20
King of the Jews. Mark 15:2, Luke 23:3, John 19:19-22 Lord of the Sabbath. Luke 6:5
The Messiah (savior). John 4:25-26 There is no other name, other than Christ, by which we are saved. Acts 4:12
The light of the world. John 8:12, John 12:46 The foundation of the Church. 1Cor.3:9-11
Referred to as the Word that was with, and was God that made all things and was light made for every man (and woman). John 1:1-5, 9 (Women were not recognized at that time.)
Gave the authority, to those that receive Him, to become children of God. John 1:12-13 Became (human) flesh, (while on earth.) John 1:14
Was strong in spirit & filled with wisdom and God’s grace. Luke 2:40, 52
Is the complete embodiment of God’s fullness and indwelling. Colossians 2:9 Gave grace and truth (to the world). John 1:17
Came in the name of (God) the Father. John 5:43
Was manifested (revealed), that He might destroy the works of the devil. 1st John 3:8 Came to save people from their sins. Matt.1:21, Luke 2:11, Luke 9:56
Called the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the World. John 1:29 Came to seek and save the lost. Luke 19:10
Tempted by Satan. Matt.4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13
Anointed to preach, heal, proclaim liberty and set free the oppressed. Luke 4:18-21, 43 Gives preference to saving any believer who is becoming lost. Matt.18:11-14
Baptizes with the Holy Spirit and fire. Matt.3:11
Received control from God (John 3:35) & reveals God only to those He chooses. Matt.11:27, Luke 10:21-22
Speaks of using God’s power to perform what He asks. John 14:10 Has compassion. Matt.14:14 For an adulteress. John 8:3-11 Seeks children (to become followers). Matt.19:13-14
Killed a barren fig tree that gave a false hope for food. (Beware of giving a false hope for salvation or not feeding those seeking God’s truth.) Matt.21:18-20, Mark 11:12-14, 20-21 See also the questions and answers about the parable of the fig tree.
The only (human) teacher (about God & His will). Matt.23:10
Transfigured & meets with Elijah & Moses. Matt. 17:2, Mark 9:2-6, Luke 9:28-36
Received honor and glory from God who said: “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased. Matt. 17:5, 2nd Peter 1:16-18
Had to be rejected by his generation and suffer. Luke 17:22-25 Testified that the works of the world are evil. John 7:7
Foretold of His suffering, death and resurrection. Matt.17:22-23, 20:17-19, 26:2, 11-12, Mark 8:31, Mark 9:9, 9:31, 10:33-34, 14:58, Luke 9:22, 18:31-33, 22:15-16, John 19:1-42, 20:1-
22
Foretells of His resurrection. Matt.26:31-32, Mark14:27-28, John 2:19-21
Is praised entering Jerusalem for the last time. Matt.21:1-11, Mark 11:1-10, Luke 18:33 Was angered at the misuse of the temple. Matt.21:12-13, Luke 19:45-46, John 2:13-16 Called Judas a devil. John 7:70-71
Foretells of his betrayal by Judas Iscariot. Matt.26:21-25, 45-47, Luke 9:44, 22:21, John 13:27 Lost Judas, the son of perdition, (to Satan). John 17:12
Institutes communion of his symbolic body and blood. Matt.26:26-28, Mark14:22-25, Luke 22:17-20
Predicts Simon Peter’s denying Christ 3 times. Matt.26:34, Mark14:30, Luke 22:31-34, John 13:37-38 Prediction fulfilled. Matt.26:69-70, 71-72, 73-74, Mark14:66-72, Luke
22:55-62, John 18:15-18, 25-27
Prays for His Father God’s will above His own. Matt.26:39, 42, Mark14:34-36, Luke 22:42-44 Prays that His followers will be kept from the evil one (Satan). John 17:15, 20
Was sentenced to death and punished. Matt.27:21-31, Mark 15:3-20 Became the sacrifice for the sins of the world. 1John 2:2 Crucified. Matt.27:35-50, Mark15:21-37, Luke 23:33-34, 44-46
Was given power to give up and again receive his own life. John 5:26, 10:18
His flesh did not begin to deteriorate when he died. He went to Hades for 3 days (Hell)(to tell of the way of salvation to those who had died before His ministry.), then was raised above all heavens. Matthew 12:40, Acts 2:27-31,31-32, Ephesians 4:9, 10, 1st Peter 3:19,20 &
4:6
When in hell He was separated from God The Father who, as a Holy God, could not be in the presence of sin.
Rose out of the grave. Matt.28:6, Mark16:1-6, Luke 24:1-9
Appeared after His resurrection. Matt.28:9, 17-20, Mark16:9-14, Luke 24:13-35, 36-48, John 20:14-30, 21:1,4-23, 1Cor.15:5-8 He had flesh and bones (Luke 24:39, John 20:27), was able to eat earthly food (Luke 24: 41-43) and yet was able to appear & disappear at will (Luke 24:36, John 20:19, 26).
Was the first fruits (raised) of those who have fallen asleep (physical death). 1Cor.15:20 Returned to (the Father) who sent Him. John 7:33-34, Acts 1:1,2,9,10
Was re-glorified by the Father after His earthly death and ascension. John 17:5 (Christ would have lost some of His glory when he died as an atonement for sin and went to Hell. John 1:14 tells that He still had His glory when on earth.) John 17:5
Threw Satan from Heaven using Michael and his angels warring against the dragon. Luke 10:18, Jude1:6, 2nd Peter2:4, Rev.12:7-11
Is at the right hand of the Father (now). Acts 7:55-56, Ephesians 1:20, Heb. 8:1
When Christ raised himself from death and sat at God’s right hand in heaven He became far above all principality, powers, might and dominion (kingdoms) and above all names in this and the future age to come. All things were put under His feet and He was made head of the Church, which became His body. In that moment, all who had been dead due to sin (even while trusting in Christ) were also guaranteed life in heaven , by God’s grace, and also (guaranteed to be) raised to be with Christ in heaven. You were saved by grace through faith, not by works, but as a gift of God that none should (pridefully) boast. Eph.1:20, 2:8,9
Christ died that He might be able to destroy the devil, and free from bondage those who fear death (that the devil can bring.) Hebrews 2:14-15
Christ had to be made as man that He might be a high priest, for things pertaining to God, and become a propitiation (atoning sacrifice) for the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:17
Was foreordained (a high priest) to save those known before the foundation of the world. 1st Peter 1:19-20
Because Christ humbled Himself and obeyed God the Father, even to death on a cross, He
was exalted and His name made above all others. At the name of Jesus every knee in heaven, on and under earth shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:8-11
Jesus Christ is the chief cornerstone of the household of God, including saved Jews & Gentiles and other saints. The foundation was made of apostles and prophets. All together will form a holy temple for God in the Spirit. Eph.2:19-22
Commands his Deciples to deciple, baptize & teach the world. Matt.28:19-20, Mark16:14-18 Requires any who desire to follow Him to salvation to suffer, and be led by Him. Luke 9:23-
25
Is with any two or three gathered in his name. Matt.18:20 Christ is given all judgement authority by God. John 5:22, 17:2
Will judge all who, having heard Christ’s words, do not believe in God. John 5:22-30 Moses will accuse those being judged. John 5:45
Came to create division and excitement by telling God’s truths and plan of salvation. Luke 12:49-53
Christ is like a single body having many parts. 1 Cor.12:12 Came to do the will of the Father. John 6:38
Christ’s (spiritual) food is to do the will (of the Father) and finish His work. John 4:34
Did those things which He saw the Father do. The Father raises the dead and gives them life.
The Christ, the Son, also gives life. John 5:19-21 Always did things that please (God the Father). John 8:29
Died for the ungodly to show God’s love for them. Romans 5:6, 8
Spoke the doctrine of God, the Father who was in Him. John 7:16-17, 14:10 Was sent by God (the Father). John 7:28-29, John 8:42
Returned to (God the Father). John 16:5, 28
The only mediator between God (the Father) and man. 1 Timothy 2:5
Is a high priest forever, Holy , blameless and undefiled. Hebrews 6:20, 7:1-3, 26
Makes intercession continually (for the saved), while sitting at the right hand of God.
Hebrews 7:25, 8:1
Will judge all flesh. John 5:22, 17:2
Told the truth from God. John 8:40, John 18:37, Heb.1:2
Draws all peoples to Himself when He is lifted up (praised and exalted) on earth. John12:32 Knows God (the father) and keeps His word. John 8:55
When we believe in Christ, we believe in the Father. When we see who Christ is, we see the Father. John 12:44-45
Christ chose those to follow Him, appointed them (to do God’s work) successfully and to receive that which is asked for in the name of Christ. John 15:16
Christ sent a helper, the spirit of truth (the Holy Spirit ), to his followers by praying to the Father, who then sent the Holy Spirit. John 14:16, 15:26,16:7-15,20:22
Christ will return again to reign on earth. Acts 1:11 When he touches the Mt. Of Olives, it will split from an earthquake (Zechariah 14:4), forming a great valley where living waters flow from Jerusalem East and West. Jerusalem will then be at peace from war. Those who fought against Jerusalem will receive a plague causing them to dissolve
immediately (like a nuclear explosion). People must also return yearly to honor Christ, again on earth, or they will receive no rain. Zechariah 14: 1-17 The ark of the covenant will cease to exist during Christ’s earthly reign. Jeremiah 3:16-17
Christ and God the Father gives everlasting consolation & hope through grace. They comfort the hearts and establish (believers) in every good word and work. 2Thes.2:16-17
Is the heir of all things. Made the worlds and heavens. Hebrews 1:2,10 Was made a little lower than the angels (while on earth). Heb.2:6-9 Became better than the angels. (After the resurrection) Hebrews 1:3-4 Will be worshiped by the angels. Heb.1:6
Has a scepter of righteousness and is anointed with the oil of gladness. Is unchanging. Heb.1:12, 13:8
Was heard (by God) because He feared God. He learned obedience because of the things He suffered. Heb.5:7-8
Church (a body of believers)
The deciples were first called Christians at Antioch. Acts 11:26
Five ministry divisions given by Christ: Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors & teachers in preparation for ministry and building the body of Christ. (the church.) Eph.4:11-15
God (through Christ) appointed apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, gifts of healing, helps, administration and tongues (to build His church.) 1Cor.12:27-28, Ephesians 4:11-12
One body in Christ, individually members of one another, having different gifts according to the grace given us. Romans 12:5-6, 1Cor.12:13-27, Eph.5:29-30
Those sanctified by Christ, called to be saints and who call on Jesus Christ as Lord.
1Corinthians 1:2
Peter becomes the rock for the churches foundation with the promise that Hell (Satan) would not ever overcome it. Matthew 16:18
Purge out any in the church (continuing in sexual immorality), those covetous, worshiping idols, revilers, drunks or extortioners. 1Cor.5:11-12
Seek to edify (build up, encourage) others in the church by scripture, teaching, tongues with interpretation or revelation (new insight revealed by God). 1Cor. 14:26
The body of Christ is (now) the church. Colossians 1:24 Stewards must be faithful. 1Cor.4:2
Elders who are especially honorable and preach or study (Christ’s) words should lead the church and be cared for in their needs, as they have earned a reward. Do not accuse them except by two or three witnesses. Those who do sin shall be rebuked publically in the church. Do all without prejudice or partiality. 1Timothy 5:17-21
Requirements for church leaders. 1Tim.3:1-13, Titus 1:6-9
Church leaders are to lead with authority (following God’s will). 2Thes.3:4,6,9,10,14,15 (Pastors) shepherd the flock of God as willing overseers without dishonest gain, not as lords
over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. When the chief shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. 1st Peter 5:2-4
Women are not to have authority over men (due to Eve being deceived by Satan). 1 Tim.2:12- 15
Youth to be leaders as examples of godly speech & conduct, in spirit (positive attitude), in faith & purity. 1st Timothy 4:12 They are to submit to their elders. 1st Peter 5:5
Followers described as: Speak things that are proper for sound doctrine. Older men shall be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love and in patience. Older women,
likewise, shall be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things, admonishing the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands (unless asked to go against God’s will), that the word of God should not be blasphemed. Young men should be sober minded, showing a pattern of good works in all things, showing integrity in doctrine, reverence, incorruptibility with sound speed that cannot be condemned. Titus 2:2-8
Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls as those who must give account (to God). Let them do so with joy, and not grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. Hebrews 13:17
Do not lay hands on (pray too quickly for those you doubt the purity of their request, lest you share in their misguided sin) or (Do not choose a minister too quickly and run the risk of being led astray while giving the appearance of support to wrong doctrine or actions). 1Timothy 5:22
Come to Christ as a living stone, chosen by God as precious, to be built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices. 1st Peter 2:4-5
You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim praises of Him who called you out of darkness into light as a people of God having obtained mercy. 1st Peter 2:9-10
Let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. Yet, if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. 1st Peter 4:15-16
Circumcision
Instituted by God as a sign of His covenant with the people of Israel. Gen.17:9-14
God requires Israel to fear Him, walk in His ways, love and serve Him with heart and soul, keeping His commandments. They were to be circumcised in the foreskin of their hearts and not be stiff necked (stubborn) against Him. Deut. 10:12-17
Obeying the laws of God is more important than being circumcised in determining salvation.
Romans 2:25-29
Is no longer required, one way or the other as in the old testament. What is important is obeying God’s commandments & having faith in Christ & his love. 1Cor.7:18-19, Gal.5:2-6, 6:15 Circumcision is only keeping God’s commandments. Let each man live by the way that he was called. 1Cor.7:19-20
Christ symbolically circumcises those who are His by causing them to put off the body of sins of the flesh. Colossians 2:11-12
Circumcision described as a physical sign of a new creation (changed person) (similar to Baptism) Galatians 6:15
Commandments and the Law of Christ define sin
The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. More to be desired are they than gold, (yes) even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is
warned, and in keeping them there is great reward. Psalm 19:7, 10-11 Leviticus 20:22 Let my heart be blameless regarding your statues, that I may not be ashamed. Psalm 119:80 Old testament10requirements. Deut.5:7-21,
God requires Israel to fear Him, walk in His ways, love and serve Him with heart and soul, keeping His commandments. They were to be circumcised in the foreskin of their hearts and not be stiff necked (stubborn) against Him. Deut. 10:12-17
None of (God’s people) shall: make his son or daughter pass through the fire, to practice witchcraft, or become a soothsayer, interpret omens, act as a sorcerer, conjure spells, act as a medium or spiritist calling up the dead. All who do these things are an abomination detestable to the Lord. Deuteronomy 18:10-12
The old testament commandments were given to keep people from sin until the Seed (Christ) and faith, had come. Gal.3:19, 23
The law made nothing perfect and was replaced by a better hope and covenant, (through Christ), to draw us to God. Hebrews 7:19, 22 , 8:6, 8-13
The new covenant laws are written in our hearts and minds. Hebrews 10:16
Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:18
Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! Psalm 27:14
New testament replacements:
Old testament commandments (not to murder, etc.) are updated to the new testament meaning.
Matt.5:21-22, 27-29, 32 To be angry without cause borders on murder. For a man to look at a woman, that is not his wife, with lust in his heart is the same as adultery. To marry a divorced woman is to commit adultery. To call a person a fool was close to cursing.
The most important commandment is to love God with all your heart, soul and mind .
Deut.6:5-6, Matt.22:37-38, Mark12:29-30 Have no other gods before Me. Exodus 20:3
A new commandment sums up the law as: love your neighbor as yourself. Matt.22:39-40, Mark12:31-34, Rom.13:8-10, Gal.5:14 (See “Parables, The good Samaritan for the definition of Neighbor.”)
Christ commands those who are rich not to be haughty, or trust in riches but in the living God, who gives richly all things to enjoy. They are to do good, being rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up a good foundation for the time to come, laying hold on eternal life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Bear one another’s burdens to fulfill the Law of Christ. Gal. 6:2
Love one another (other followers of Christ) as Christ loved. John 13:34-35, 15:12-13, 17 Those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. 1Cor.9:14
If you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. (God’s Spirit will guide you to obey God’s laws and much more.) Gal.5:18
Do not forget God’s law, but let your heart keep His commands for you to receive a long life and peace. Proverbs 3:1-2, 4:20-22
A rich young ruler encouraged to follow the commandments. Matt.19:17-19, Mark 10:17-27 “He who has my commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me (Christ). And he who
loves Me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” John 14:21
Now by this we know that we love Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But, whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 1st John 2:3-5
“Behold, today I set before you a blessing and a curse: the blessing if you obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which are commanded you this day, and the curse if you do not obey the commandments of the Lord your God, but turn aside from the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods which you have not known.” Deut.11:26-28
Whoever breaks one of the least of the commandments and teaches so, shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:19
Communion
Christ is the bread of life. John 6:48
Communion is Holy and is not to be thought of as food or drink for physical hunger, which should be satisfied at home. 1Cor. 11:20-22
Those who Eat of the living bread (of Christ) from heaven shall live forever. The bread that Christ gives is his flesh for the life of the world. John 6:51
To have life (God’s spirit) within, one must (symbolically) eat Christ’s body and drink his blood. John 6:53-58
Do not take communion if you judge yourself unworthy ( purposely in sin), rejecting Christ’s sacrifice, else God may judge you and cause sickness or death to come. 1Cor.11:27-32
Death
Death came as a result of (Adam & Eve’s) sin, but God gives eternal life through Christ.
Genesis 3:3, Romans 5:12, 14, 17 and 6:23
When absent from the body, Christians are with Christ. 2 Cor. 5:6,8 Because Christ lives, His followers shall also live. John 14:19
Whether we live or die, we (can be) the Lord’s. Romans 14:8-9
We can magnify Christ while on earth by life or death. To live is to live for Christ and to die is to gain (life with Christ in heaven). Philip.1:20-23
Deciples sent to save others
Mark 6:7-13, Luke 9:1-6, Luke 10:3-16
Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season (at all times). Convince, rebuke,
exhort with all longsuffering and teaching. The time will come when people will not listen as they believe (false) stories. Be watchful in all things, endure afflictions and do the work of an evangelist to fulfill your ministry. 2 Timothy 4:2-5
Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins. James 5:20
End times
Descriptions. Daniel, Joel 2, Matt.24:3-42, Mark 13, Luke 21:8-36, 23:29-31, Acts 2:17-21, 1Tim4:1-3, 2Tim.3
Sons & daughters prophesy & see visions, dream . Holy Spirit poured out. Wonders in heaven and signs on earth, blood, fire, smoke, sun turned to darkness, moon to blood. Acts 2:17-21
Scoffers will come walking in their own lusts, making joke of Christ’s coming, and forgetting the flood (in the time of Noah) 2nd Peter 3:3-6
Before Christ returns, there will be a reduction in faithful believers and the (anti-Christ) son of perdition will appear to oppose Christ and exalt himself as he sits in the temple trying to prove to himself that he is God. 2Thes.2:2-4
The influence of (Christ and the Holy Spirit) will be taken away (possibly by the removal of faithful believers) before the anti-Christ is revealed and then destroyed by God’s breath and the light of Christ’s coming. 2Thes.2:7-8
The (anti-Christ) lawless one has Satan’s power to produce miracles and lying wonders to deceive those who will perish because they did not love the truth (from Christ).
Because they did not desire the truth God sends a strong delusion which encourages them to believe lies. Their belief in the lies (of Satan) causes them to be condemned. 2Thes.2:9-12
Many anti-christs will have come (out of the church) already. 1st John 2:18-19 Jerusalem will not see Christ until they say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the
Lord!” Luke 13:35 Christ will be understood to be God’s son, a truth hidden from Jerusalem and the Jews while he was on earth. Luke 19:42 Christ had prophesied before his crucifixion that because Jerusalem did not know Him, the city would later be surrounded by enemies on all sides
Days of the son of man (the Rapture) described. Luke 17;26-36, 1Cor.15:51-54
Jerusalem (and those like Pharisees) will be surrounded & destroyed (because they were not aware that Christ had come and they rejected Him). Luke 19:43-44
All nations will gather to destroy Jerusalem, but Christ will return again to reign on earth (for a 1000 years. (Acts 1:11) When he touches the Mt. Of Olives, it will split from an earthquake, forming a great valley where living waters flow from Jerusalem East and West. (Zechariah 14:4) Jerusalem will then be at peace from war. Those who fought against Jerusalem will receive a plague causing them to dissolve immediately (like a nuclear explosion)(This might also be caused by a sudden burst of energy from the sun). People must also return yearly to honor Christ, again on earth, or they will receive no rain. Zechariah 14: 1-17
A battle is also described between God against Gog and the land of Magog,
invading from the North of Jerusalem. Russia, Persia (Iran), Ethiopia, Libya, Gomer and the house of Togarmah are listed as coming against Jerusalem on horseback.
These are defeated by God with a great earthquake and many people fighting with swords. (This sounds like the same battle that occurs when Christ returns with His
army (Ezekiel 38) except that Revelation 20:6-9 clearly places the battle after the 1000 year reign of Christ. Gog is described in 1 Chronicles 5:4 as a descendant of Ruben.
Ezekiel 38 and 39 chapters describe him as a prince of Rosh, Meshech & Tubal. The “Day of the Lord” battle, where Christ overcomes earthly evil, is described in Isaiah 2:10-22 and Revelation 19:11-21.
Christ returns the kingdom to God, the Father, and stops all earthly rulers and powers. He reigns till all enemies are conquered, including death. 1Cor.15:24-26
When Jesus returns to save the remnant of Israel, they will know their misconception about
Jesus as a lie. They will be so ashamed that they will kill their children if they try to speak for God as prophets. In effect, they will offer blood sacrifices of their children, and will be forgiven.
Zec 12:9 And it shall be in that day I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.
Zec 12:10 And I will pour on the house of David, and on the people of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of prayers. And they shall look on Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourns for his only son, and shall be bitter over Him, as the bitterness over the first-born.
Zec 13:3 And it shall be when any shall yet prophesy, his father and his mother who gave birth to him shall say to him then, You shall not live; for you speak lies in the name of Jehovah. And his father and his mother who gave him birth shall thrust him through when he prophesies.
Zec 13:4 And it shall be in that day, the prophets shall be ashamed, each one of his vision, when he prophesies. And they shall not wear a hairy garment to deceive.
Heaven and earth to be destroyed by heat with a great noise. 2nd Peter 3:10
Faith & Hope
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down for the Lord upholds him with His hand. Psalm 37:23-24
Surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Man is not justified (acceptable to God) by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. Galatians 2:16
Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Rom. 10:17
Faith in Christ requires believing that He rose from the dead. 1Cor.15:12-14 To believe is not to be ashamed. Rom. 9:33, 10:11
Each (believer) has been given a measure of faith. Paul was writing to a squabbling, prideful Roman church trying to show them that they were all blessed and loved by God. They
were not to be jealous of one another and should work in harmony. Romans 12:3 Believers do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is
being renewed day by day. 2ndCor.4:16 NSRV
Walk by faith, not by sight ( worldly understanding and knowledge) 2 Cor.5:7
An amount of faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains and cast out demons when fasting. Matt.17:20-21, Mark 11:23-24
A small amount of faith, as a mustard seed, can command a mulberry tree to be pulled up and cast into the sea. Luke 17:6
A small unwavering faith for a great task asked of God will be received. Matt.21:21-22, Mark 11:23
With God all things are possible. Matt.19:26, Mark 10:27
Faith is the substance (being sure) of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Heb.11:1 NIV
The just shall live by faith. Romans 1:17, Heb.10:38 If God is for us, who can be against us. Romans 8:31
Faith in Christ and His word gives God glory. 2Thes.1:10,12
I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep (the soul) what I have committed to Him until that day (when He calls me to Heaven). 2Tim.1:12,
Do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. You have need of endurance so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise. Hebrews 10:35-36
Without faith, it is impossible to please Him (God), for he who comes to God must believe that He is (God), and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Heb.11:6
Examples given of faithful people: Hebrews 11
Family
Should be provided for. 1 Tim 5:8
Fasting
Is to be done in secret to be rewarded openly by God. Matt.6:17-18 Christ fasted 40 days & nights. Matt.4:2
Look normal. Fasting in secret will be rewarded openly. Matt.6:17-18 Encouraged when Christ is not present on earth. Matt. 9:14-15 Required with prayer for difficult problems. Matt.17:20-21
Fear
Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! Psalm 27:14
Stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow and the Lord will be with you.
2Chron.20:17
Commit your way to the Lord. (After praying for guidance and doing what you can, as directed) Trust in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. Rest in the Lord and wait
patiently for Him. Do not fret because of those that prosper in (sin). Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret, it only causes harm. Psalm 37:5, 7-8
Thus says the Lord God, the Holy one of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” Isaiah 30:15
Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Isaiah 41:13 NIV
Wait on the Lord, be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm 27:14
Do not be afraid… I am with you and will rescue you, declares the Lord (to His faithful).
Jeremiah 1:8
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
(God says) I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and rescue you. Isaiah 46:4
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me besides the still waters; He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His namesake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surly, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23
Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. 1Cor.16:13
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication (a cry for favor and mercy), with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. Then His peace, which surpasses human understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians.4:6-7
When Christians stand together in faith, and not in fear, they are proof of perdition to the unsaved and proof of salvation to the saved. Philippians.1:27-28
Fear God who has the power to cast you into hell after death, the one who cares about even small sparrows and knows the number of hairs on your head. Luke 12:4-7
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound mind. 2Tim.1:7
Forgiveness
If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
When a man or woman wrongs another in any way, and so is unfaithful to the Lord, that person is guilty and must confess the sin he has committed. He must make full restitution for his wrong, and add to it one fifth of it, and give it to him against whom he has sinned. Numbers 5:6-7
Come let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be
white as snow. Though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Isaiah 1:18 Those who have accepted Christ and are obeying God’s Spirit are forgiven. Rom.8:8
Those who believe in Christ are forgive, but he who does not believe is condemned already because he has not believed in the name of the only-begotten Son of God. John 3:18 Because of Christ’s blood sacrifice, those who (in faith) believe in (and accept) Him are
forgiven of their previous sins through God’s grace. Romans 3:25, 8:1, Ephesians 1:7 Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as
yourself. I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:18
Forgive others to be forgiven. Matt. 6:14-15, Mark 11:25-26, Luke 6:12, 14-15, 11:4, Col.3:13
Christians required to forgive other Christians 490 times. Matt.18:21-22
If a brother sins against you, rebuke him. If he repents or sins and repents up to 7 times in a day, you shall forgive him each time. Luke 17:3-4
If a person sins, you who are spiritual should restore them with meekness, thanking God that you also have not been tempted. In this, we are to bear one another’s burdens as Christ commands. Gal.6:1-2
Giving
The sacrifices of (for) God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart– these, O God, you will not despise. Psalm 51:17
Honor the Lord with your possessions and the first fruits of all your (net) increase for you to have plenty. Proverbs 3:9,10
Israel’s kings took 1/10 of the wealth of the people. 1Samual8:15, 17
When you receive the tithe I give you as your inheritance, you must present a tenth of that tithe as the Lord’s offering. Numbers 18:26
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and prove (test) Me now in this,” says the Lord of hosts,” if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such a blessing that there will not be enough room to receive it.” Malachi 3:10
Giving & reaping are proportional. Give cheerfully out of generosity. 2Cor.9:6-11, Luke 6:38
Give in proportion to God’s blessings to you. Deut. 16:17
Give regularly according to how well you prosper. 1Cor.16:1-2
God notes peoples giving in proportion to their total wealth instead of how much is given.
Example: The widows two mites. Mark12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4
There is one who scatters (seeds of giving), yet increases more; and there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty. The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself. Proverbs 11:24-25
The first fruits should be to the church. Deut.18:4 (But not at the expense of canceling God’s commandments! See “Tradition”)
Before giving to God, resolve personal conflicts with other believers, to agree with God’s will. Matt.5:23-24
Giving to the poor encouraged. Deut. 15:7-8, Proverbs 14:21, 22:9 and 28:27, Matt.19:21
Blessed is he who considers the poor; the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him and keep him alive and he will be blessed on the earth; You (God) will not deliver him to his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him on his bed of illness; He will sustain him on his sickbed. Psalm 41:1-3
When you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame and the blind and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just. Luke 14:13-14
Pay to the government what is due and give to God what is due Him. Matt. 22:17-21, Mark12:14-17, Luke 20:22-25, Romans 13:7-8
Give blessings to God (and others) when you are able. Mark14:3-9
God will always make you rich enough to be generous at all times (causing us to be thankful to God). 2Cor.9:11 TEV
Give charitable deeds in secret to be rewarded in heaven. Matt.6:1-4
Pure undefiled religion before God is to visit orphans and widows in trouble and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. James 1:27
Give to everyone who asks you to and if they keep what is given, do not ask for its return.
Luke 6:30 God will reward you equally. Luke 6:35, 38
Lend even to enemies, hoping for nothing in return, to be rewarded of God. Be like God who is kind to unthankful and evil persons (hoping to draw them to Christ while there is a chance for salvation.) Luke 6:35
A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven (God). John 3:27 It is more blessed to give than to receive. Acts 20:35
Honor (help) widows without families of children or grandchildren. Those widows who do have families should be cared for by their own family. 1Tim.5:3-4
Do not take young widows into (your house to live) unless they have proven themselves interested in spiritual things more than worldly things or lustful desires. They should remarry and build a family to be fulfilled. 1Timothy 5:9-16
Provide for your own household, else you have denied the faith (of Christ) and are worse than an unbeliever. 1Tim.5:8
God
Described as a consuming fire & a jealous God. Deut. 4:24
Deu 10:16 Therefore, circumcise the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stiff-necked. Deu 10:17 For Jehovah your God isGod of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, the mighty,
and a terrible God, who does not respect persons (for their titles) nor take a bribe.
Deu 10:18 He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and loves the stranger in giving him food and clothing.
Seven things God hates: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies and one who sows discord among the brethren. Proverbs 6:16-19
The blessed and only potentate, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor
and everlasting power. 1Timothy 6:13, 15-16
The Father raises the dead and gives them life, and has given the Son the power to also give life to those He desires. John 5:21 The Father has life in Himself and has granted (Christ,) the Son, to also have life in Himself. John 5:26
God the Father provides the power to accomplish what He shows Christ to do. John 14:10 Christ tells the Holy Spirit what to say. John 16:13
God the Father is the source of will for Christ (and all His followers). John 4:34, Matt.6:10 God is light, and in Him is no darkness (evil) at all. 1st John 1:5
God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man that He should change His mind.
Numbers 23:19
So loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16
Commanded Christ. John 14:31
Sent His Son not to condemn the world but to save the world. John 3:17
Desires that Christ not lose any, but save all, that receive Him, through the last day. John 6:39-40
Is good. Matt.19:17, Mark 10:18, Luke 18:19 Is Holy. Leviticus 11:44
Does not chide (nag) Psalm 103:9
It is impossible for God to lie. (He is Holy and truthful.) Heb.6:18
Know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments. Deut. 7:9
God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone. James 1:13
God’s power & divinity are revealed in His works. Rom. 1:20 God saves people in order that He will be recognized as God. Ezekiel 13:23
God does not share glory. Isaiah 48:10-11
Christ sent a helper, the spirit of truth (the Holy Spirit ), to his followers by praying to the Father, who then sent the Holy Spirit. John 14:16, 15:26,16:7-15,20:22
God is not impressed by strength, but fear (high respect) of Him and those that hope in (for) His mercy. Acts 10:34,35, Rom. 2:10,11, Psalm 147:10,11, He is impressed by obedience to His commands, by love, mercy, truth and faithfulness. Proverbs 3:1-4
God shows no personal favoritism to any man (or person). Galatians 2:6 He is the only god. Deut.6:4, 1Cor.8:4-6, 1 Timothy 2:5
The only true Father. Christ is the only true teacher. Matt.23:9-10 God the Father is Spirit. John 4:23-24
The king eternal, invisible and the only wise one to be honored and receive glory forever.
1 Timothy 1:17
Is seeking true worshipers to worship him in spirit & truth. John 4:23 Gives the true bread (Christ) from heaven. John 6:31-35
Draws people to Christ. John 6:44-45
Provides the ability for people to come to Christ. John 6:65 Gives followers to Christ. John 17:6-10
Reconciled believers to Himself through Christ and gave them the ministry of reconciliation.
2Cor.5:18
God’s love and compassions for His people never fail. They are new every morning.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Put all things in subjection under Christ. Heb.2:8
Bears witness to the word of salvation, first spoken by Christ, by signs and wonders with miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit as He desires. Heb.2:3-4
The Father is greater than Christ. John 14:28
God and Christ are one in each other. (They are a part of each other and are in agreement) John17:11, 21 They both share glory. John 17:5, 22
There is only one God who justifies both Jew & Gentile by faith (in Christ). Romans 3:29-30 5:1
Now does not distinguish between Jew and Greek (gentile) and is rich to all that call upon Him. Romans 10:12 (Allowing gentiles to be grafted into God’s family came about after Israel rejected Christ and killed Him.)
Knows all people that love Him. 1Cor.8:3
Has inscribed a remembrance of each person on the palms of His hands. Isaiah 49:16 Knows each person in detail even to the point of having numbered the hairs on their heads.
Matt. 10:30 (Isn’t it nice to know He continues to know us throughout life as our hairs fall out and He continually recounts them.)
There is no creature hidden from His sight. Hebrews 4:13 Gives the saved victory (over death) through Christ. 1Cor.15:57
God, the Father of Christ, has prepared every spiritual blessing in heaven for those in Christ.
Ephesians 1:3
God predestined, called, justified and glorified those He knew would* become as Christ.
Romans 8:27, 29-30 Christ knew us before birth Jeremiah 1:5
*God knows the future as evidenced by Matt. 6:8 and 24:36. He tells the Holy Spirit things to come, for Him to pass on to (those seeking God in Christ and knowledge). John 16:13 He knows what we need before we ask. He alone knows when Christ will return and this generation will pass away.
God, the Father, predestined through His desired good will, a means of salvation through the spiritual covering of Christ’s blood over the sins of those* that become His sons (and daughters) by adoption, when they repent of their sins and accept Christ, as God’s son, into their lives. The Holy Spirit of promise is also sent as a guarantee of the future inheritance of salvation to those that are saved. Ephesians 1:3-14 *The “us” in verse 5 refers to the church of the saved represented by the followers at Ephesus. See verse 1. They are sanctified by the Spirit and the covering of Christ’s blood for obedience.
1Peter 1:2
God of His own will brought us (the saved) forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of His creatures James 1:18
God is to be praised for the glory of His grace that made (those in Christ) accepted through Christ, the Beloved (of the Father.) Ephesians 1:6
At the perfect right time, God will gather all things and peoples in Christ which are in heaven
and on earth. Ephesians 1:10 He will complete the good work, on the day of Christ, that He began when He called you to Christ. Philippians 1:6
Grace (undeserved forgiveness and blessing)
Christ gave grace in that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich (in glory). 2Cor.8:9, Romans 9:23
If there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what (abundance) one has, and not according to what he does not have. 2Cor.8:12, Mark 12:43-44
God’s grace is sufficient to withstand problems. God’s strength is made perfect (most powerful) when we are weakest (and cannot change the circumstances ourselves). 2Cor.12:9-10
The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches that denying sin and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and savior, Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify us for Himself as a special people zealous for good works. Titus 2:11-14
Let us (believers) come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need. Hebrews 4:16
Guidance
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
A (righteous) man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9
Do not withhold correction from a child, if you beat him with a rod he will not die, you will deliver his soul from hell. Proverbs 23:13-14 (Use wisdom though tempered with love)
God gives His people one heart and one way that they may fear (respect) Him forever, for the good of them and their children. He makes an everlasting covenant with His people that He will not turn from doing good to them. He puts fear in their hearts to keep (those He cares for) from turning from (leaving) Him.. He rejoices in doing good (to those He loves). Jeremiah 32:39-41
God waits to be gracious and have mercy on you in order that He will be exalted. Those who wait for Him are blessed and receive justice. Isaiah 30:18
Those who wait on The Lord shall renew their strength and be lifted as on eagles wings. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
God fulfills the vision of those who wait (on Him). Habakkuk 2:1-3
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Psalm 37:23 Be enthusiastic in all that you do, as though you are doing it for Christ your Lord, and not for
others. Know that the Lord will give you reward as an inheritance, for you are serving Christ. Each one will be repaid for what they have done, without partiality. Colossians 3:23-25
Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, break up your unplowed ground for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes and showers righteousness on
you. Hosea 10:12
God has shown what is good. He requires (those who have accepted Him as savior) to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God. Micah 6:8
Live by the word of God. Matt.3:4
Let your light (good works and faith in Christ) shine before men that they will give God glory. Matt.5:16
Everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to it, but he who does truth comes to the light that others may see the action is of God. John 3:20-21
We, as John, must decrease in order that Christ will increase. Christ is above all. John 3:30-31 Die (repent & submit) daily (to desires of the body, pride and self control). 1Cor.15:31 Abstain from every form of evil. 1Thes. 5:22
Deciples are to be fishers of men. Matt.5:19
Do unto others as you want them to do to you. Matt.7:12 Christians are guided by the Bible. Gal. 6:1
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. Isaiah 1:17
Daily living requirements. 1Thes.5:14-22, Rom.12:1-21, 13:7-10 Ten commandments. Deut.5:7-21, Rom.13:8-10
Guidance given, by Christ, to apostles (Deciples, ministers) for ministry. Matt.10:2-28 Spiritual understanding is given to the meek. Matt.11:25, Luke 10:21
Head coverings & praying. Men should not cover their heads, women should. 1Cor.11:4-10 Women’s appropriate dress described. 1Timothy 2:9-10
Submit to men’s laws (unless they conflict with God’s laws.) Rom.13, 1Peter2:13-14, Titus3:1
Walk by faith, not sight. 2Cor.5:7
Walk in a new life, being set free from sin. Romans 6:4-7, 11-13
Walk circumspectly in wisdom, redeeming (making good use of) your time. Eph.5:15-16 Use your talents wisely or lose them & risk punishment! Matt.25:29-30
Put away anger & bitterness. Eph. 3:31-32, 4:31, Col.3:8 Be patient, be determined, God is coming soon. James 5:8
Be humble and help others to be great in heaven. Matt. 18:4, 20:20-28, 23:11-12, Mark 9:35 Mark 10:43-45, Luke 9:48, 14:11, 22:24-26 God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble, therefor humble yourselves under the might hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time. 1st Peter 5:5-6
Humble yourself and serve others as a servant washes the feet of a master. John 13:5-18 Anyone thinking they are special, when they are nothing is deceived. Let each examine their
own works. Each will bear his own load. God is not mocked for whatsoever a person sows, that will they also reap. Gal.6:1-7
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but with a humble mind let each esteem others better than himself. Look out for the well-being of yourself and others (in the church). Philip.2:3-4
Think as Christ would. Philip.2:5
Clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, meekness and long suffering. Col.3:12
Do not take advantage of the poor or those who labor for you. Give all you owe to the poor and needy before sunset, for if they cry to God about it, it becomes sin to you.
Deut.24:12-15
Help the alien, the fatherless and widows by leaving some of your harvest (income) for them. God will then bless your work. Remember when God helped you when in need. Deut. 24:19-22
If anyone has much and has no pity on a brother in need, how can God’s love be in him. Do not show love with just words, but with actions and in truth. 1John 3:17-18
Do not show favoritism, doing less for the poor and more for those who can repay you. (This is sin born out of greed.) James 2:1,6,9
Help the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind (those who cannot repay you) to be blessed at the resurrection of the just Luke 14:12-14
Help those in prison as if you were a fellow prisoner, and those being mistreated as if you yourself were suffering. God helped you when you were imprisoned by sin. Hebrews 13:3
Help carry each others burdens to fulfill the law of Christ. Gal. 6:2
Do not prevent unbelievers to work miracles through the name of Christ. Mark 9:38-40, Luke 9:49-50
Let no one cheat you of Christ’s reward by (your) taking delight in (their) false humility and worship of angels, which they have not seen but imagined by their earthly mind being puffed up (by pride). They have not held fast to the Head (Christ) who holds the Church together, and nourishes it with the increase from God. Colossians 2:18-19
If you have truly have died with Christ to the old worldly nature, why worry about such things as what not to touch, taste or handle? These regulations are from men and give an appearance of wisdom, self imposed religion, false humility and a desire to neglect the fleshly desires of the body. They are of no real value against the indulgence of fleshly desires. If you are truly raised with Christ seek the things of Heaven above, where Christ is at the right hand of God, desire the things above and not on earth! Colossians 2:20- 3:2
Do not worry about earthly treasures, but spiritual ones. Matt.6:19-20
God is offended by the things the world values, but He will uphold His laws. The old testament laws were in effect until John taught. (They were then replaced by new and better covenants under Christ.) Luke 16:15-17
Follow Christ even if it means suffering & lack of worldly wealth. Mark 8:34-36
Do not be ashamed of Christ, but openly follow Him without thought of self. Matt.10:32-42, 11:6, 16:24-25, Mark 8:38, Luke 7:23, 9:26
Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right hand or the left. Isaiah 30:21
Trust in God for your needs and seek God & his will first. Matt. 6:25-33 Do not join with unbelievers. 2 Cor.6:14
Pray to help those suffering & sing psalms when you are happy. James 5:13
Have church elders and righteous believers pray, in faith, and anoint the sick with holy oil to be healed. A prayer of faith will also allow God to forgive sins. Confess trespasses (to church leaders) for healing prayers to be offered to God. James 5:14-16
A Christians body is the temple of God. Rom.8:9, 1 Cor.3:16-17, 6:19, 2Cor.6:16 What you see can lead to sin. Matt. 6:22-24, Luke 11:34-36
Remove anything that causes you to sin. Matt.18:8-9, Mark 9:43-49
Make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts (desires). Romans 13:14 Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. Gal.5:16
Be joyful. Philip.2:1-2 Rejoice in (the work) of the Lord. Philip.3:1 Rejoice in the Lord always. Philip.4:4, 1Thes.5:16
Think and meditate on good things having truth, justice, purity, that which is pleasing, commendable, virtuous, worthy of praise. Philip.4:8
To think as and be led by God’s Holy Spirit gives life and peace. Rom.8:6
Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you. Do not resist an attack or theft. Give to those that ask. Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you. Matt. 5:44, Luke 6:27-31, Rom. 12:20
Seek Christ’s guidance (as new each day), not relying on tradition. Mark 7:1-13 If someone wants to sue you for something, give more than he asks. Matt.5:40-41 Give to those that ask and loan to those who wish to borrow. Matt.5:42
Do not expect special recognition by those who know you well. Mark 6:4, Luke 4:23-24, John 4:43 Christ’s brothers did not believe in Him. John 7:5
Only call Christ Lord if you are obeying his will. 2Tim.2:19
Do not worry about what to say before those on earth who judge you. The Holy Spirit will teach you what to say at that time. Luke 12:11-12
Beware covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses. Luke 12:15
Walk in the fear of God. Acts 9:31
Abstain from things offered to idols, from (drinking) blood, from things strangled and from sexual immorality. Acts 15:29, 21:25
Keep yourself from (being involved with) idols (Anything you put ahead of God.) 1st John 5:21
Live, move and have being in God. Acts 17:28
Repent (of sins daily) Acts 17:30, 26:20 God’s love and compassions for His people never fail. They are new every morning. Lamentations 3:22-23
Support the weak. Acts 20:35
Search for things that will help the well-being of other church members. 1Cor.10:24 Encourage other believers daily to prevent your heart from becoming hardened by sin.
Heb.3:12-13
The just shall live by faith. Romans 1:17
Present you bodies a holy living sacrifice (submitted to God’s will) as a reasonable service.
Romans 12:1, 1Cor.6:13
Flee (run from) sexual immorality. Those in sexual immorality sin against their own body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1Cor.6:18-20
Flee youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith love and peace. 2Tim.2:22
Be sober, vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 1st Peter 5:8-9
Do not conform to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Romans 12:2
Do not repay evil for evil, but live peaceable with all men. Romans 12:17-18, 1Thes.5:15 Pursue peace and things that edify (build up) each other. Romans 14:19, 15:2
Greet one another with a holy kiss. Romans 16:16, 1Cor.16:20, 2Cor.13:12
Be as a servant of Christ and a faithful steward of the mysteries of God. 1Cor.4:1-2 Be as a servant to all to aid in winning them to Christ. 1Cor.9:19-23
Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king, servants be fearfully submissive to your master. 1st Peter 2:17-23
Eat whatever you want that is sold in the meat market, not worrying that it may not be approved by God. As a guest, eat whatever is set before you unless you are told that it has been offered to an idol, then do not eat it. Give glory (thanks) to God for all that you eat. 1Cor.10:25- 3, 1Timothy 4:3-5 Every creature of God is not to be refused as food when received with thanksgiving and sanctified by the word of God and prayer. 1Tim.4:5
Drink a little wine for your health, but not if it would lead another astray. 1Tim.5:23, Rom.14:20-21 Do not be drunk with wine, but filled with the Spirit . Ephesians 5:18 Deacons should not drink much wine. 1Timothy 3:8
Desire spiritual gifts, especially prophesy, speaking to build-up, to encourage and to comfort those in the church. 1Cor.14:1-4,12
Do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. Gal.6:10 Speak truthfully with love. Ephesians 4:15, 25
Lay aside all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy and evil speaking, desiring the pure milk of the word, as newborn babes, to grow. 1st Peter 2:1-2
Submit to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake. 1Peter 2:13-15
Count worldly things as rubbish to gain Christ, to know Him and His resurrection, to fellowship in His sufferings, even to death (if by others opposing Christ) and (receiving) the resurrection of the dead. Philippians.3:7-11
Forget what is behind and strain to what is ahead and press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians.3:13-14
Be content in whatever situation you are in, knowing that you can do all things through Christ who will give you strength. Philippians.4:11-13
As the Holy and beloved elect of God: put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, putting up with one another and forgiving one another even as Christ did. Above all have love , which is the bond of perfection and let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Love called you into one body (the church) where you should give thanks. Let Christ’s words dwell in you, richly giving wisdom, teaching and
admonition by psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. In whatever you say and do, do it all in the name of your Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God, the Father, through Him (Christ). Colossians 3:12-17
Lead a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your own hands. 1Thes.4:11 Do not rebuke an older person, but encourage them as a father or mother. 1Tim.5:1 Encourage younger men as brothers, younger women as sisters in complete purity. 1Tim.5:1-2 Do not become entangled in the affairs of this life, but compete (for the prize) according to
the rules, partaking first of (what God has given.) 2Tim.2:4-7
Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2
Borrowing: If one borrows and is hurt or dies, the possessor of the goods shall make it good.
Ex.22:14. The wicked borrow and do not return, but the righteous show mercy by giving. Psalms 37:21
Dressing properly for Old testament Israel. Deut.22:5, 11
Heaven & The Kingdom of God
The kingdom’s mysteries described in parables. Matt.13:24-52 Heaven’s real value is in worshipful fellowship with God, and peace and joy resulting from an absence of sin.
The kingdom of God is not found while on earth by looking (around you), it is within you.
Luke 17:20-21
The kingdom cannot be seen unless one is born again (spiritually). John 3:3
The kingdom cannot be entered unless one is born of water and the Spirit. John 3:5 All who ascended to heaven did so through the son of Man (Christ). John 3:13 Only attained by those that do God’s will. Matt.7:21-27
Peter given the keys to heaven to determine what things shall be bound in heaven or loosed on earth and in heaven. Matthew 16:18-19
Is attained only by conversion (to Christianity) and trusting as a child. Matt. 18:3
All are as angels. No earthly marriages are continued there. Matt.22:30, Mark12:25, Luke 20:36
Those who are to sit beside Christ have already been chosen by God. Mark 10:40
Trust God as a child trusts a parent to enter the kingdom of God. Mark 10:15, Luke 18:16-17 The least important in the kingdom of God will be greater than John the Baptist. Luke 7:28 Heaven is not fit for anyone who looks back and quits doing Christ’s work. Luke 9:62
The kingdom of God is difficult for a rich man to enter, but possible with God’s help.
Luke 18:18-27
There are different levels to heaven. Paradise is the 3rd level where John saw a man he knew.
2Cor. 12:2
Christians will also see and receive Christ’s glory. John 17:22-24
There are different glories ( wondrous characteristics) of types of flesh and celestial bodies as well as natural (human) bodies versus spiritual bodies. 1Cor.15:39-44, 50
We shall be as Christ is in heaven. Rom 6:5 For if we have been joined together in the likeness of His death, we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection;
1Jn 3:2 Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be. But we know that when He shall be revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
The kingdom is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit Romans 14:17
The kingdom of God is not just found in word (talk) but is living by God’s power. 1Cor.4:20 Angels and men are observing our actions on earth. 1Cor.4:9
Every high priest taken from among men is appointed to help men, in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins. Hebrews 5:1-4
A holy Jerusalem is described in Rev.21:10-27
The ark of the covenant ceases to be on earth when Christ returns. Jer. 3:16 It is in heaven. Rev. 11:19
History highlights of the Old Testament
God’s covenant with Abrams-Abraham at age 99. Gen.17
Jacob wrestles with an Angel. Gen.32:24-28 Jacob called Israel. Gen.35:10 God’s covenant with Jacob at Bethel. Gen. 35:12-15
Pharoah’s dreams interpreted by Joseph and Joseph made 2nd ruler over Egypt. . Gen.41 Twelve tribes of Israel created. Gen.49
God calls to Moses out of a burning bush. Exodus 3:4-6
Israel comes out of Egypt after 430 years of captivity. Exodus 12
A system of judges established on the advice of Jethro. Ex.18:13-26, Deut.1:9,12,13 God gives the 10 commandments to Moses. Exodus 20, 24:12-18, 34:1-32
God’s judgements given. Exodus 21, 22, 23
The ark of God’s covenant and tabernacle created. Exodus 25, 26, 27, 37 God’s cloud and fire guide Israel by day and night. Exodus 40:36-38
Offerings to God instituted and rules for eating, living, sexual morality, marriage, Holy Feasts and celebrations, penalties for sin and details for restoration given. Book of Leviticus
God promises His Glory to fill all the earth when Israel rejects His will. Numbers 14:20
God rejects those of Israel who rebelled (broke covenant) and does not allow them to enter the promised land. Numbers 14:23-29
Joshua replaces Moses to lead Israel into the promised land. Nu.27:18-23 Offerings and feasts started. Nu.28, 29 Vows given. Nu.30
Israel rejects the promised land and is made to wander 40 years. Nu.32:5-13 Summary of Israel’s 40 year wandering. Du.1, 2, 3
Review of God’s commandments and statutes. Deut.5, 6 What was allowed to be eaten. Deut.14:3-21
Debts released after 7 years. Deut. 15
Moses dies at 120 on Mt. Nebo and is buried in a valley opposite Beth Peor in Moab.
Deut.31:1-2, 32:48-49, 34:1, 5-6
Joshua divides the promised land among the 12 tribes of Israel at Shiloh. Joshua 18:10 Joshua dies at 110. Joshua 24:29, Judges 2:8
God defeats the Midianite army with 300 men having trumpets, pitchers & torches.
Judges 7:7-22
Forty two thousand men are killed when they cannot pronounce “Shibboleth”. Judges 12:6 Israel rejects God’s reign and desires an earthly king to rule them. Samuel chooses that the
kings shall come from the tribe of Benjamin. Saul is the first king. 1Samual10:19-21 Israel encouraged to: “Fear the Lord and serve Him, in truth, with all your heart; consider
what great things He has done for you.” 1Samual 12:24
Saul willing that his son, Jonathan, should die for disobeying his command not to eat until a battle was finished. The people of Israel intervened, and his life was spared. 1Samual 14:24, 27-30, 39, 45
Saul disobeys God by allowing the people to take spoils of war. 1 Samuel 15: 2, 3, 9, 11 Saul rebuked by Samuel. Verse 19 Saul rejected by God as king. Verse 23
Saul told by Samuel that “To obey (God) is better than sacrifice. Rebellion is like the sin of witchcraft. Stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.” 1Samual 15:22, 23
Samuel anoints David as king of Israel. 1Samuel 16:12, 13
David kills Goliath (9’9″ tall) 1Samual 17 David described. 1Samual 16:18 & 17:41 Goliath’s brother, Lahmi, killed by David’s brother, Jonathan. 1st Chronicles 20:5-7 David spares Saul’s life and Saul repents of trying to kill him. 1Sam.24:4-20 & 26:5-21
Samuel raised from the dead in a seance to prophesy to Saul of his death & Israel’s capture.
1Samuel 28:8, 15, 19
Two versions (3 accounts) of Saul’s death. 1st Samuel 31:1-6, 2nd Samuel 1:6-15, 1Chronicles
10:3-10
David anointed king of Judah. 2Samuel 2:4 then king of Israel 2Samuel 5:3
Uzzah killed by God for touching the Ark of God when it was about to fall. 2Samuel 6:6-7 God promises Israel a land to live in with peace. 2Samuel 7:10
David sees and desires Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah. When he knows a child was conceived by him, he seeks to hid his evil. When this twice fails, he orders Uriah sent to the front of the battle to be killed, freeing him to marry Bathsheba. 2 Samuel 11 God then judges David through Nathan, the prophet and David’s own words. David’s linage is cursed to always fight within the family and his wives to be openly taken. 2 Samuel 12: 1-12
Solomon made King of Israel. 1Kings 1 He loved God, asked for and received wisdom and a caring heart plus many riches. But he made the mistake of disobeying God when he married foreign wives. They influenced him to allow the worship of other false Gods. 1 Kings 3:3, 9-14, 11:1-3, 6-9 Because of this, Solomon’s kingdom was divided 11:11- 12 leaving his son, Rehoboam, with only Judah to reign.
God’s temple started by Solomon. 1 Kings 6
Moses’s bronze serpent destroyed. 2Kings 18:4
David encouraged by Satan to number (count) the people of Israel 1st Chronicles 21:1-6 God is displeased and gives David a choice of punishment. A plague is sent on Israel killing 70,000 and Jerusalem almost destroyed. 1 Chronicles 21:7-15
God tells David to have his son build Him a temple. God did not approve that David should build the temple because he had shed much blood in great wars. 2Samuel 7:4-7 and
1st Chronicles 22:8-10, 28:2,3 David proclaims God gave Jerusalem to be for Israel forever and the Levites to help the sons of Aaron in serving God in the temple. 1st Chronicles 23:25-28 David appoints 288 men to prophesy with harps, stringed instruments and cymbals in the temple. 1st Chronicles 25:1, 6, 7 God gave the plan for the temple through David. 1st Chronicles 28:19 The people rejoiced because they had offered willingly with a loyal heart (concerning the temple) to the Lord. 1st Chronicles 29:9 David reigned over Israel 40 years. 1st Chronicles 29:27
King Cyrus of Persia commanded to build God a temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 1:2
King Artaxerxes imposes a tax, as Ezra the priest desires, to build God’s temple. Ezra 7:21- 23
The men of Israel swear to separate themselves from their pagan wives an their children. Ezra 10:2-5
Nehemiah rebuilds the walls of Israel. Nehemiah
Ester risks her life, but finds favor with King Ahasuerus and deals with Haman to destroy Israel’s enemies. Mordecai, Ester’s Uncle is also advanced. Book of Ester
God and Satan test a righteous man named Job with numerous troubles. Job 1:7-12 Job’s friends think, without knowing God (Job 36:26), that the troubles are due to Job’s sins. In fact, one of Job’s faults was a lack of faith. He feared his good fortune would not continue. Job 3:25 We are justified by faith (Romans 5:1, Gal.2:16) and by Christ’s blood. Romans 5:9 Other possible faults enumerated by Eliphaz in chapter 22:5-9 charge Job with not caring for the needy. James 1:27 explains that religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father requires a love that cares for the orphans and widows as well as keeping onself unstained by the world around. His friends also felt Job was righteous in his own eyes. Job 32:1, 9 This is contradictory to Luke 17:10-14 that requires us to realize our sin, repent and ask for forgiveness.
David’s writings & songs proclaim the nature and wonder of God. Psalms
Solomon’s writings show his appreciation for the works of God & the wisdom given him by God. Proverbs, Ecclesiastes Solomon’s amorous thoughts on women are given in “The Song of Solomon”.
Jeremiah’s words: See prophecy.
Weeping over Israel’s waywardness and punishment. Lamentations Ezekiel’s prophecies. See prophecy.
Holiness
God has saved us (who obey Christ) and called us with a Holy calling, not according to our works, but His own purpose and grace given in Christ Jesus before time began, but now revealed in Christ who abolished (eternal) death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 2Timothy 1:8-9
Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. Be cautious not to fall short of the grace of God due to bitterness, bringing trouble by being defiled. Heb.12:14-15
Lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted
word, which is able to save your souls. Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourself. James 1:21-25
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father requires a love that cares for the orphans and widows as well as keeping onself unstained by the world around.
James 1:27
Followers are called to be holy because God is holy. 1st Peter 1:15-16
He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as Christ is righteous. 1st John 3:7, 10 (We practice because we are not perfect until we reach Heaven and will make mistakes. We are forgiven for errors when we judge ourselves for sin errors and ask God for forgiveness. However, this is not an excuse to purposely sin!)
Holy Spirit
God breathed into Adam and Eve the breath of the Spirit of Life. Gen.2:7, 7:22 Promised to all believers after baptism in the name of Jesus Christ . Acts 2:38-39 The (Holy Spirit) like new wine must reside in a new (body) wineskin to prevent the
destruction of the container. Mark 2:22 In like manner, un-shrunk new cloth is not attached to old cloth to prevent the old cloth from tearing. Mark 2:21 (This is one reason why new believers must be spiritually reborn when they receive God’s Holy Spirit. The other reason for spiritual rebirth is that it is a requirement to enter the Kingdom of God (as a spirit). John 3:3-8 One must have God’s spirit instead of Satan’s to come into God’s presence.) The coming of the Holy Spirit and the new covenant given by Christ is compared to when Jesus changed water into wine. John 2:2-10 (Just as the new wine created by Christ was better than the old, the Holy Spirit and the new covenant are better than what was before, even though they were saved to the last. The Holy Spirit is better than Satan’s spirit, and God’s new covenant guided by grace (love) is a great improvement over the old covenant attempting salvation through obedience to the law.)
Is sent as a seal & guarantee to the saved that they will inherit the promise of salvation.
Ephesians 1:13-14
Gives life (salvation & encouragement) instead of death trying to fulfill exact details. The old testament law was a guide even though it was impossible to achieve. 2Cor.3:6, 17
Gives power to witness (of God ). Acts 1:8
Gives access to the saved Jew & Gentile (through Christ) to God, the Father. Eph.2:18 Is not given in parts or portions. John 3:34
Flows as rivers of living water out of the belly. John 7:38-39
The (Holy) Spirit gives life. The words of Christ are Spirit & life, given by the Father. John 6:63, 12:49
The Spirit of truth. John 15:26 Is a comforter sent by God the Father, in the name of Christ, to teach all things and to recall the words of Christ. John 14:26 (Similar to a guidance counselor to the saved.)
The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness and judgement. John 16:8
The Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of truth, who speaks with authority what He hears (from the Father). He will also tell what is to come. John 16:13
The anointing (of the Holy Spirit) which you have received from Him abides in you for complete truthful instruction about all (spiritual) things, without help from anyone else. As you follow what you are taught, you will abide in Him (Christ). 1st John 2:27
Given to the Apostles, on the day of Pentecost, resulting in 3000 being saved. Acts 2:1-41 Holy Spirit promised to the saved who are baptized. Acts 2:38-39
Is upon those the Lord anoints to preach. He sends them to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness (sin) for the prisoners. Isaiah 61:1
Is received through prayer and the touch of other believers. Acts 8: 15-17, 19:5-6
Makes intercession, for the saved, by translating the desires of the heart to (Christ) as God the Father willed. Romans 8:26-27
The Spirit of God searches (tests & reveals) all things including the deep things of God and will reveal God’s hidden wisdom, planned before creation. 1Cor.2:7-10
The Holy Spirit leads believers to speak God’s wisdom and compares spiritual things which the natural (unchanged) man considers foolish. 1Cor.2:13-14
The anointing (of the Holy Spirit) which you have received from Him abides in you for complete truthful instruction about all (spiritual) things, without help from anyone else. As you follow what you are taught, you will abide in Him (Christ). 1st John 2:27
The letter (strict interpretation of the law) kills (discourages) but the (Holy) Spirit gives life (freedom & encouragement) 2 Cor. 3:6, 17
God’s Spirit is freely given to believers. 1Cor.2:12
The Spirit of God dwells in believers as their bodies are the temples of God. 1Cor.3:16
The believers body is a temple of the Holy Ghost, sent by God. That body, inhabited by God, does not belong to the believer, (but to God.) 1Cor.6:19
Gives life. 2Cor. 3:6
The Holy Spirit’s presence, in a persons life, is a guarantee of the coming inheritance of life with Christ in heaven, until the inheritance is received. 2Cor.5:1-5, Ephesians 1:13- 14
The Holy Spirit can be grieved. Ephesians 4:30
The Holy Spirit can be quenched. (Removed from a person by their actions.) 1Thes.5:19
Judgment
The Lord loves justice, and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever, but the seed (decedents) of the wicked shall be cut off. Psalm 37:28
Seven things God hates: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies and one who sows discord among the brethren. Proverbs 6:16-19, 12:22
Dishonest scales (incorrect justice) are an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight. Proverbs 11:1
With righteousness (Jesus) will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth. With the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. Isaiah 11:4
See, the day of the Lord is coming, a cruel day, with wrath and fierce anger, to make the land
desolate and destroy the sinners within it. Isaiah 13:9
To reject Christ’s words is to be judged by them. Since the words are given by the Father, it is He who sets the standard for judgement. John 12:48-50
None are righteous (under the law). Romans 3:10, 19-20
Judgement should not be done by appearance, but by righteous judgement (wisdom) John 7:24 God searches the heart and examines the mind to reward people according to their conduct
and what their deeds deserve. Romans 2:5-6, Jeremiah 17:10 Judgement is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. James 2:13
God said,”I will deal with them according to their conduct, and by their own standards I will judge them.” Ezekiel 7:27
If you judge others (outside the church), you will be judged equally. Matt.7:1-5, Rom.14:13, Luke 6:37, Romans 2:1-2
Let no one (outside the church) judge (those within the church) in what they eat or drink in (religious) festivals, in their observances of new moon (traditions) or how they observe the Sabbath as a holy day. These things are just a small shadow of the things to come, but they are in agreement with the substance of Christ’s will. Colossians 2:16-17
The church judges those within. (Loving encouragement is mostly called for, but Paul also spoke of church leaders having to make decisions as to how best to guide those within the church and to exclude those unwilling to change their old nature.) Reject a divisive man after the second admonition. Titus 3:9-10, God* will judge the unbelievers outside the church. Romans 15:14, 1 Cor. 5:11-13, 2Thes.3:14,15 *John 5:22, 17:2
Do not speak evil of one another else you are judging the person and speaking evil of the law and its judges. If you judge the law you are not under the law, but a judge. Yet, there is only one lawgiver (who is God). Therefore, who are you to judge? James 4:11-12
Watch out for those in the church that are ungodly as grumblers, complainers, seeking their own lusts and flattering others to put them off guard. Jude 4,14-19
Withdraw from those who do not teach the wholesome words of Christ and His doctrine.
1Tim.6:3-5
Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, homosexuals, sodomites, thieves, those who are covetous, drunkards, revilers or extortioners will not enter the kingdom of God. 1Cor.6:9-10, Ephesians 5:5 The church is not to have fellowship with any of the above persons (continuing in their old ways) that are within the church. 1Cor.5:11
The works of the flesh are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries and the like. Those who practice such things will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Gal. 5:19-21, Ephesians 5:5
Put to death these parts you have while on earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desires and covetousness, which is idolatry. These things bring the wrath of God. Take off the old nature to: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy and speaking filthy language. Do not lie. Put on your new self that has been renewed with knowledge of Him (Christ) who has created the new you. Here there are no race or class differences, but Christ is everything in each one. Colossians 3:5-11
Do not swear or God will judge you for it James 5:12
God will judge Christians by their works. 1 Peter 1:17, Rom. 2:5-11,13, 1Cor 3:8, 13-15, 2Cor.5:10
Believers are to judge (test) all things (as good or evil) guided by the Holy Spirit who knows the mind of Christ 1Cor.2:15-16
If we judge ourselves, God will not have to. 1Cor.11:31
Do not take communion if you judge yourself unworthy ( purposely in sin), rejecting Christ’s sacrifice, else God may judge you and cause sickness or death to come. 1Cor.11:27-32
If we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins (by Christ), but a certain fearful expectation of judgment and fiery indignation which will devour (God’s) adversaries. Hebrews 10:26-27 (There is still hope though, if real repentance comes, we turn from our wicked ways, and we ask for God’s forgiveness and grace to return.)
Make no (absolute) judgements until Christ returns and reveals the hidden things of sin and the hidden thoughts of all hearts. 1Cor.4:3-5
People will be judged by everything they speak. Matt.12:36-37, 15:11, 15:18-20, Mark 7:15- 23
Teachers are judged more strictly, for they lead others. The tongue can set fire (for good or) defiling the whole body. It sets the course of nature. No man can tame the tongue (without Christ). James 3:1-12
Gentiles will be judged by the morals in their hearts, their conscience bearing witness.
Romans 2:14-16
Whoever causes a little one (a believer) to sin, by an offense they caused, will be judged harshly. Matt.18:6-7, Mark 9:42, Luke 17:1-2
Christ is given all judgement authority by God. John 5:22, 17:2
Christ gave his deciples, having the Holy Spirit), the ability to forgive sins of others.
John 20:23
Christ in turn gave the 12 Deciples charge to judge the 12 tribes of Israel and each receive a kingdom. Matt.19:28, Luke 22:29-30
Christ will judge all who, having heard his words, do not believe in God. John 5:22-30 Moses will accuse those being judged. John 5:45
Christ will judge the living and the dead when He appears (returns) and his kingdom (begins.) 2Tim.4:1
The words of Christ will judge those who do not believe. John 12:47-48 The words represent the authority of the Father. John 12:49 See also “End times” 2Thes.2:10-12.
The saved will judge the angels. 1Cor.6:3
Christ’s words clarify what is sin and remove any excuse for it. John 15:22
Judgement of the nations and peoples by Christ described. Giving to those in need, as though they were Christ is required Isaiah 3:13, Matt.25:31-46
The day of the Lord will come unexpectedly as a thief in the night. The heavens will pass away with a great noise, the elements will melt with fervent heat and all the earth, and its works, will be burned up. The heavens will be dissolved by fire. Believers look forward for new heavens and a new earth, promised by God, where righteousness dwells. 2nd Peter 3:10-13, Rev.3:3
The (judgement) day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you. Your deeds will return upon your own head. Obadiah 1:15
Those who lead people away from God, who take unjustly from widows, pray to receive worldly attention and are blind to the important things of God shall be judged very harshly and will not enter heaven. Matt.23:13-15, 23-33, Mark12:38-40, Luke 20:46- 47
Woe to those who appear to be and do good but are full of greed and wickedness on the inside. They are like the graves of the dead which are not seen. Luke 11:39-44
God will destroy anyone defiling his body, which is the temple of God. 1Cor.3:16-17 Abstain from sexual immorality, taking charge of your vessel (body) in sanctification and
honor instead of lustful passion. God called you to holiness. If you reject this warning, you reject God and the Holy Spirit. 1Thes.4:3-8
Homosexual activity is unacceptable to God. Lev.18:22, Romans 1:22-32 There is nothing that is covered or hidden that will not be known. Luke 12:2-3
The soul of one who sins shall die. The actions of each person determine their own fate. If the wicked turn from sin and keep God’s commandments they shall live and not die. Ezekiel 18:20-21, 24, 27
If a righteous person turn from righteousness, their past righteousness is not remembered and they shall die. Ezekiel 18:24 Similar to Hebrews 6:4-6
To die in sin prevents one from being with Christ (in heaven). John 8:21 To die not believing in (Christ as the son of God) is to die in sin. John 8:24
The normal wages of sin is death, but God gives (a gift) of eternal life to those in Christ Jesus their Lord. Romans 6:23
To be carnally minded results in death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Rom.8:6 Let all persons be subject to the governing authorities as they were appointed by God.
Romans 13:1-2
God will not allow temptation, leading a person to sin, to be greater than they can resist. A means of escape from sin will always be provided by God. 1Cor.10:13
God has no pleasure in the death of one who dies (in sin). He desires that the wicked turn from sin and live (eternally). Ezekiel 18:32
Evidence of the righteous judgement of God is when love, patience and faith abound in the midst of persecutions and tribulations endured. 2Thes.1:3-5
God thinks it righteous (for Him) to repay tribulation to those persecuting those who are His.
2Thes.1:6
“As surely as I live,” declares the Lord, “I will do to you the very things I heard you say: In this desert your bodies will fall” Numbers 14:28-29
The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in Me enough to honor Me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the Land I gave them” Numbers 20:12 (God had instructed Moses to speak to a rock to receive water, but Moses chose instead to strike the rock.)
Ananias & Sapphira die for withholding from the early church and lying about it. Acts 5:1-10 King Herod eaten of worms because he did not give glory to God. Acts 12:21-23
Sorcerer Bar-Jesus blinded for a time for lying about God. Acts 13:6-11
Those starting into the desert with Moses sinned and complained causing many to be destroyed (by Satan) and only Joshua and Caleb of the original travelers to reach the promised land. 1Cor.10:1-12, Numbers 14:38
God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains and darkness, to be reserved for judgement. 2nd Peter 2:4, Jude 1:6
The Lord knows how to deliver the Godly out of temptations and reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgement. Especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanliness and despise authority. They are like brute beasts made to be caught and destroyed. They speak evil of things they do not understand and will utterly perish in their corruption and will receive the wages of unrighteousness, as those who count it a pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are spots and blemishes being deceived and having eyes full of adultery, and cannot cease from sin as they
entice the unstable souls of others. Their hearts have been trained in covetous practices and have gone astray. They speak great swelling words of emptiness, and allure through lusts of the flesh and lewdness. They promise liberty while they are slaves of corruption. If they escape the pollutions of the world through knowledge of Christ, but are again entangled and overcome, the latter end is worse for them. 2nd Peter 2:9-22
“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I (Jesus) will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” Revelation 3:5
The judgement of the world, by Christ, and its punishments described. Rev .chapters 4-11 The history of Christ interacting with Israel, Satan and his fallen angels and mankind. Rev.12 The anti-Christ described deceiving the world during the end times. Rev.13
The redeemed of God contrasted with any who worship Satan or receive his name as a mark on their forehead or hand, then the final reaping of the earth described. Rev.14,16
The redeemed seen in heaven Rev.15:1-4
The history of earthly iniquity with resulting judgement. Rev.17,18
Praises given God. Christ and His army war with Satan and his army who are overcome and bound 1000 years. Rev.19, 20:1-3
Christ reigns 1000 years, Satan released a short while then judged with all the unsaved and all are cast into the lake of fire for an eternity of torment. Rev.20:4-15
The new heaven and earth described with Christ ruling in a new Jerusalem on earth.
Rev.21,22
So the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. Isaiah 51:11
Love
Love is described as the highest calling, even above tongues, prophecy, wisdom, faith & charity. It suffers long, is kind, does not envy or parade itself, is not puffed up, is not rude, does not seek its own ends, is not provoked, thinks no evil. It does not rejoice in iniquity but truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. It never fails. 1Cor.13:1-8
God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes on Him shall have everlasting life. John 3:16
First, love God with all your heart, soul and mind. Matt.22:37-38, Mark12:29-30 Love your neighbor as yourself. Rom.13:8-10
We know love in the example of Christ laying down His life for (His followers). In like manner we should lay down our lives for the brethren. 1st John 3:16
Nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus or Lord. Rom.8:38-39 God’s love and compassions (for His people) never fail. They are new every morning.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Love your enemies and do good to those who hate you. Luke 6:27
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. We love because God first loved us. 1 John 4:18-19
God demonstrated His own love for us, that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8, 1st John 4:9-10
Jesus said,”As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.” John 15:9 To abide is to keep the commandments of Christ. John 15:10
Now faith, hope & love abide, (brought by Christ), and the greatest of these is love.
1Cor.13:13
Love for Christ is proven by obeying His commandments. John 14:21, 23-24
Love for Christ compels those who live because of Him should live for Him instead of self.
2Cor.5:14-15
Christians are to have the same love in them that God had for Christ. John 17:26 Increasing and abounding love, in those who are Christ’s, to those within and without the
church, can establish their hearts blameless in holiness before God when Christ returns with all the saints. 1Thes.3:12-13
Love from a pure heart, a good conscience and sincere faith is the purpose of the commandments (and scripture). Not just fables and genealogies which can cause disputes instead of Godly edification. 1Timothy 1:4-5
Above all have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 1st Peter 4:8
Let us not love just in words of speech, but in deeds and truth. 1st John 3:18
Let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Those that do not love, do not know God, for God is love. 1st John 4:7-8
Then I (God) will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within them, and take the stony heart out of their flesh , and give them a heart of flesh, “that they may walk in my statutes and keep my judgements and do them; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God.” Ezekiel 11:19-20,36:26-27
Marriage
Better to dwell in the wilderness than with a contentious and angry woman. Proverbs 21:19 Marriage is honorable for all and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will
judge. Hebrews 13:4
It is best if a person is only married to (serve) Christ, however, knowing human needs, God approves of marriage (one man to one woman until separated by death). 1Cor.7:1-2, 7- 9, 10-11, 26-29
Christians are not to marry unbelievers. 2Cor.6:14-18
If a Christian does marry an unbeliever, who is willing to live with the believer, they should not divorce. If the unbeliever leaves there is no bondage by God. 1Cor.7:12-15
The husband and wife are to be caring and loving one to another (sexually active and primarily thinking about the others needs) except for mutually consented periods of prayer and fasting.1Cor.7:3-5
The husband is to be led by Christ. The woman by her man and Christ by The Father 1Cor. 11:3
Husbands are to love their wives and not be angry with them in order to present them to Christ as part of an unblemished church. Col.3:19, Eph.5:25-28 The husband is to love and care for his wife even as he does for himself and as Christ cared for His church.
Eph.5:28-29, 33
Husbands give honor to your wife, as a weaker vessel, that your prayers may not be hindered.
1st Peter 3:7
Fathers are not to provoke their children unjustly, but train them and admonish them according to God’s desires . Col.3:21, Eph.6:4
Woman was created to be a comparable helper to man. Genesis 2:20
A wife attends to the ways of her household and is not idle. Proverbs 31:27
(When married), a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. Genesis 2:24
Husband & wife become one (in unity), joined by God. Matt.19:4-6, Eph.5:31
Wives are to submit to husbands.(Especially if they are godly) Col.3:18, Eph.5:22-24, 1Cor.11:3, 1st Peter 3:1-2 They should be adorned with a good appearance on the outside, and within with a gentle and quiet spirit. 1st Peter 3:3-6
Husbands and wives think as one, having compassion for one another, loving as brothers, tenderhearted, courteous, not returning evil for evil, without abusive language, but blessing each to receive a blessing. 1st Peter 3:8-18
Children are to obey and honor (godly) parents to have a long life. Col.3:19, Eph.6:1-2 Whoever divorces a wife without cause, except sexual immorality, causes her to commit
adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery. Matt.5:32, 19:9, Mark10:1-12 Early divorce laws given. Deut.24
Under Jewish law, a woman is not able to divorce a husband unless he dies. Romans 7:2, 1Cor.7:39
A (Christian) wife should not leave her husband (if he is following Christ), but if she does they are not to divorce or remarry, leaving an option to reconcile. 1Cor.7:10-11
Mercy extended
God waits to be gracious and have mercy on you in order that He will be exalted. Those who wait for Him are blessed and receive justice. Isaiah 30:18
Those who wait on The Lord shall renew their strength and be lifted as on eagles wings. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
God fulfills the vision of those who wait (on Him). Habakkuk 2:1-3
He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy. Proverbs 28:13
The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; do not forsake the works of your hands. Psalm 138:8
God’s love and compassions for His people never fail. They are new every morning.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Jesus calls sinners to repentance in a tax collector’s house. Matt.9:13, Luke 5:32 Be merciful to receive mercy from God. Luke 7:36
A womans sins forgiven due to her faith and love for Christ and humble repentance. She had washed His feet with her tears & hair and anointed them with costly oil. Luke 7:36-50
Mercy given to an adulteress. John 8:3-11
Mercy was available to Timothy because his sin was done ignorantly (of God’s will) in unbelief, and because Christ was to use him as an example of His longsuffering (with man) and desire to save sinners. (When Timothy heard the truth he changed.) 1Timothy 1:12-16
Miracles of the Old Testament
Creation of the heavens, earth and all creatures on the earth. Genesis 1 The great flood over all the earth for 150 days. Genesis 7
A sudden change to many languages divides the people. Genesis 11:6-9
Molten rock and fire destroy the wicked cities of Sodom & Gomorrah Gen. 19:24 Moses rod becomes a serpent then a rod again. Ex. 4:3-4, 7:10
Moses hand made leprous then whole. Ex. 4:6-7 Water turned to blood. Ex. 4:9, 30 and 7:20 Plague of frogs. Ex. 8:6, 13
Plague of Lice. Ex. 8:17
Plague of flies. Exodus 8:21, 31
Plague of murrain kills asses, cattle, sheep, camels and oxen. Ex.9:3 Plague of boils. Ex.9:10
Plague of hail. Ex. 9:23 Plague of Locusts. Ex.10:13, 19 Plague of darkness. Ex.10:22
Plague of Egyptians first born children killed. Ex.12:29
Red sea divided & returned to overwhelm the Egyptians & Wheels taken off chariots.
Ex 14:21-28, Joshua 2:10
Water sweetened by a branch Ex. 15:25
Water comes from a rock. Ex.17:6 also Numbers 20:11 below. God’s fire consumes some Israelite complainers. Nu.11:1
Manna sent to feed Israel for 40 years during their wandering. Ex.16:4-36 Joshua 5:12 Quail brought by a God sent wind to provide meat for a month. Nu.11:18-23, 31
God sends a plague that kill those Israelites that eat quail, given by Him. They had
yielded to their craving (Nu.11:33-34) and had been complaining about wanting meat (Nu.11:4) and were not thankful about being rescued from Egypt. Psalm 78:21-31
Miriam was given leprosy (for 7 days) when she spoke against Moses for marrying an Ethiopian woman. Numbers 12:1, 9-15
The earth swallows 3 families that would not follow Moses’s commands. Nu.16:12-33 Holy fire kills 250 not appointed by God as holy when they try to perform a priestly duty.
Numbers 16:35
A plague kills 14,000 Israelites that murmur against Moses and Aaron. Nu.16:41-49 Aaron’s rod buds, blooms and grows almonds proving his tribe is appointed by God to be
priests. Numbers 17:5, 8
Water from a rock at Meribah (meaning contention). Numbers 20:8, 11-12 Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it as ordered by God. Because of his disobedience, he was not allowed to enter the promised land.
Fiery serpent of brass heals those bitten by other fiery serpents. Numbers 20:5-9, 21:6-9 Balaam’s donkey speaks when unjustly struck 3 times. Numbers 22:28
Clothes lasted 40 years and feet of Israel did not swell during their wandering. Deuter.8:4 Moses did not eat bread or drink water for 40 days & nights while on Mt. Horeb. Du.9:11,18 When Moses died at 120, his eyes and strength were still good. Deuteronmy.34:7
Jordan river waters stopped while Israel crosses. Jos.3:13-17, 4:18, 2nd Kings 2:8, 14 Town of Jericho taken when the walls fall as foretold by an angel. Joshua 5:13-15, 6:1-20 Sun and moon stopped for a day of battle. Joshua 10:12-14
Fire comes out of a rock to consume Gideon’s offering. Judges 6:9-21 A wool fleece tests God’s will. Judges 6:37-39
Sampson kills a young lion barehanded. Judges 14:5-6 God brought tumors on the men of Ashdod. 1 Samuel5:9
50,070 men of Beth Shemesh killed by God for looking into the Ark of the Covenant.
1 Samuel 6:19
Samuel causes thunder and rain. 1 Samuel 12:18
King Jeroboams hand withered then restored. 1 Kings 13:4, 6 The altar rent and its ashes scattered. 1 Kings 13:5
Elijah fed by ravens and God causes a drought for 3 years 1 Kings 17: 1, 4-6 and 18:1, 45 A widow’s flour and oil continues from God. 1 Kings 17: 12-15
A child restored to life by Elijah. 1Kings 17:17-22 A wet sacrifice consumed by fire 1 Kings 18:20-38
Captains and men killed by fire 2nd
Kings 1:10,12
Elijah escapes by dividing the waters of the Jordan river after he struck the water with his
mantle. 2nd
Kings 2:8 His son, Elisha, also uses his father’s mantle to divide the river.
2nd
Kings 2:13-14
Elijah taken into Heaven by a whirlwind. 2nd Kings 2:11 Deadly water cured by salt. 2nd Kings 2:19-21
Forty- two mocking children torn by bears 2nd Kings 2:24
Water supplied into a valley of trenches without wind or rain 2nd Kings 3:16-20
Widow’s oil multiplied 2nd Kings 4:1-6 Her son raised from death. 2nd Kings 4:20,32-35
Poison pottage made harmless by adding meal/flour 2nd Kings 4:39-41 Barley loaves and corn multiplied 2nd Kings 4:43
King Naaman healed from leprosy by washing in the Jordan river 2nd Kings 5:10-14 Leprosy given to Gahazi for lying. 2nd Kings 5:20-27
An iron ax floats on water 2nd Kings 6:6
A servant sees God’s army around Elisha. 2nd Kings 6:15-17
Syrian army blinded by Elisha’s prayer. They were led to Samaria where they were fed and sent home. 2nd Kings 6:18-23
Syrian army routed by a noise, sent by God, of many chariots and horses. 2nd Kings 7:6,7 Samaria gains much food from a routed army and a guard dies as predicted by Elisha, because
he doubted God. 2nd Kings 7: 1, 2, 16, 17
A man is raised from death by touching the bones of Elisha. 2nd Kings 13:21 Syrian army of 85,000 killed by an angel. 2nd Kings 19:35
King Hezekiah’s boil healed by Isaiah with figs and he is given 15 more years to live.
2nd Kings 20:1-7
Sun’s shadow returned 10 degrees by Isaiah’s prayer as proof to Hezekiah that God would heal him. 2nd Kings 20:8-11, Isaiah 38:8
Ornan sees an angel coming with David. He tries to give land for an altar, but David buys it instead. God sends fire to consume the offering. 1st Chronicles 21:20-27
Miracles of Christ and the Apostles
Miracles done that people might believe in Christ as part of God the Father. John 10:37-38, 20:30-31
Water turned into wine at a wedding feast. John 2:1-10
A centurion’s paralyzed servant near death is healed. Matt. 8:5-13, Luke 7:1-10 Peter’s mother-in-law healed of fever. Matt.8:14-15, Luke 4:38-39
Evil spirits cast out with a word. Matt.8:16
A demon cast out of a man in the synagogue. Luke 4:33-36 Caused a great catch of fish. Luke 5:1-9
A leper healed. Luke 5:12-15
Ten lepers healed as they went to the priests. Luke 17:12-19
A sea tempest calmed. Matt.8:24-27, Mark 4:37-41, Luke 8:22-25
Christ & Peter walk on water and the sea & wind calmed. Matt.14:23-33, Mark 6:45-51 Christ walks on water. John 6:16-22
A man’s many demons cast into swine. Matt.8:28-34, Mark 5:2-20, Luke 8:26-39 A paralytic man healed and his sins forgiven. Matt.9:1-8, Luke 5:17-26
Jairus, a synagogue ruler’s dead daughter raised. Matt.9:18,19,23-26, Mark 5:22-24, 35-43, Luke 8:40-42 & 49-56
A woman’s 12 year issue of blood stopped by touching His garment. Matt.9:20-22, Mark 5:24-34, Luke 8:43-48
Two blind men healed. Matt.9:27-31, 20:29-34
A blind man at Bethsaida healed with spit. Mark 8:22-26, John 9:1-3 , John 9:6-15& 18-30 (Jesus also explains in John 9:3 that the man and his parents had not sinned. This still would not conflict with the consideration of original sin passed on from Adam. The
specific curses for that offense are given in Genesis 3. This issue of sin causing sickness was also dealt with in Luke 13:1-4 where some had died, but not as a result of sin.)
A blind, lame, paralyzed man a the pool of Bethesda healed by word. John 5:1-15 A blind beggar at Jericho given sight. Luke 18:35-43
Blind Bartimaeus healed. Mark 10:46-52
A demon cast out of a mute. Matt.9-32-33, Mark 7:32-35, Luke 11:14
An unclean spirit cast out of a boy, after the Deciples could not. Mark 9:17-29 (Prayer & fasting required.), Luke 9:38-42
A demon cast out of a Greek woman’s daughter due to her faith & humbleness. Matt.15:21- 28, Mark 7:24-30
A hand healed. Matt. 12:13, Luke 6:6-10
Demons cast out, speech & sight restored. Matt. 12:22
Seven demons cast out of Mary Magdalene and other women. Luke 8:2
Feeds 5000 with five loaves of bread & two fish. Matt.14:16-21, Mark 6:34-44, Luke 9:12-17 John 6:1-13
Feeds 4000 men + women & children with 7 loaves of bread & a few fish. Matt.15:32-38, Mark 8:1-9 (This is a separate miracle from feeding the 5000. Mark 8:19-20)
People healed by touching the hem of Christ’s garment. Matt.14:35-36, Mark 6:54-56 Multitudes healed. Matt.15:30-31, Luke 4:40-41, 6:19, 7:21-23, 9:11
Finding money for a temple tax in a fishes mouth was for-told. Matt.17:24-27 The blind and lame healed in the temple. Matt.21:14
A womans dead son in Nain given life. Luke 7:11-17
A woman’s 18 year back infirmity healed by touch. Luke 13: 11-13
Doing good, and overcoming emergencies should be done whenever needed. Luke 13:14-17 Christ healed the cut-off ear of the high priest’s servant. Luke 22:50-51, John 18:10
A nobleman’s son healed of a critical fever. John 4:46-54 Lazarus raised after four days of death. John 11:1-44
Peter speaks healing to a man lame from birth. Acts 3:1-11, 4:10 Many healed by the apostles and Peter’s shadow. Acts 5:15-16 The apostles released from prison by an angel. Acts 5:17-23
Saul (Paul Acts 13:9) receives sight and the Holy Spirit after receiving Christ. Acts 9:17-18 Aeneas healed of an 8 year paralysis through Peter’s words. Acts 9:33-34
Tabitha Dorcas raised from death through Peter’s words. Acts 9:36-41
Peter released from prison by an angel after prayer by the church. Acts 12:3-10 A crippled man of Lystra healed with Paul’s encouragement. Acts 14:8-10 Paul rises afer being stoned (after prayer by the deciples). Acts 14:19-20
Paul, Silas and other prisoners freed from prison chains. Acts 16:23-33 Healings occur by touching Paul’s clothing. Acts 19:11-12
Eutychus raised from death after a fall. Acts 20:912
Paul predicts a sea storm and is saved from a poisonous snake bite. Acts 27:9-44, 28:1-6
The father of Publius healed of dysentery & fever through the hands of Paul, plus many others healed. Acts 28:7-9
Christ transfigured & meets with a revived Elijah & Moses to learn of what is to come
concerning His death and resurrection. God also affirmed to Peter, John and James that Christ was His son and they should listen to Him. Matt. 17:2-8, Mark 9:2-8,
Luke 9:28-36 Note in Luke 9:31 Jesus learns of his coming death.
Order
Women not to speak to ask questions during church (about things they did not understand from a lack of education.) They were to ask their husbands later. 1Cor.14:34
Prophesy & tongues not to be forbidden if done in order. 1Cor.14:39-40
Parables (with interpretations)
Parables were used to help and encourage only believers. Matt. 13:10-23, 34-35
Parables were used to teach as much as people were willing and able to understand. Truth was hidden from unbelievers who did not give honor to Christ. Mark 4:33-34
A wise man builds his house on a rock. (Christ should be our foundation.) Matt.7:24-27, Luke 7:46-49
A mourning bridegroom. ( People should seek the correct action for the present time and act accordingly) Matt.9:16-17, Luke 5:33-39
Christ promised that anyone who has left home or family or lands for His sake will receive one hundred fold of these things in this time (while on earth) along with persecution from the world, plus in the age to come (time in heaven) eternal life. Mark 10:29-30 (The first part of this promise agreed with popular Jewish tradition that expected when the messiah came He would usher in His earthly rule and would give many earthly rewards. It was not understood that Christ’s 1000 year rule on earth would come later when He returned the second time and overcame evil on earth. By this time He had already defeated evil in Heaven.)
The (Holy Spirit) like new wine must reside in a new (body) wineskin to prevent the destruction of the container. Mark 2:22 In like manner, un-shrunk new cloth is not attached to old cloth to prevent the old cloth from tearing. Mark 2:21 (This is one reason why new believers must be spiritually reborn when they receive God’s Holy Spirit. The other reason for spiritual rebirth is that it is a requirement to enter the Kingdom of God. John 3:3-7 One must have God’s spirit instead of Satan’s to come into God’s presence.) The coming of the Holy Spirit and the new covenant given by Christ is compared to when Jesus changed water into wine. John 2:2-10 (Just as the new wine created by Christ was better than the old, the Holy Spirit and the new covenant are better than what was before, even though they were saved to the last. The Holy Spirit is better than Satan’s spirit, and God’s new covenant guided by love is a great improvement over the old covenant attempting salvation through obedience to the law.) (See also questions and answers.)
Two sparrows sold for a copper coin.(Shows the value of a lowly individual to God.)Matt.10:29-31
Children in the marketplace. ( Look beyond what you expect.) Matt.11:16-19, Luke 7:30-35 Seed sower. (Seek likely good areas for bountiful gain. The parable shows the different ways
God’s word is received.) Matt. 13:3-9, 19-33, Mark 4:3-20, Luke 8:4-15
Seeds scattered. (God’s kingdom began on earth by sending God’s good news of salvation
first to many unimportant people. It continues to grow, almost unnoticed, but will result in a huge harvest of saved souls.) Mark 4:26-32
A lamp is made to be seen. (All truth & works will be revealed) Mark 4:21-23, Luke 8:16-17 The lamp of the body is the eye. When the eye sees pure things, the body will be full of light
(purity). When the eye sees wickedness, the body will be full of wickedness. Luke 11:34-36
Seed & weeds, treasure, pearls & a dragnet. (Good and evil are to be together until God’s judgement day. Then there will be a separation by judgement.) Matt.13:24-30, 37-50
A mustard seeds growth into a tree is like the kingdom of heaven which grows large and has room for many. Matt.13:31-32, Luke 13:18-19 (Heaven is also to be hidden until the proper time, similar to a woman who hid meal until it had risen.) Matt.13:33, Luke 13: 20-21
A narrow gate and the need to be prepared describes the difficulty of entering heaven. Luke 13:23-30
Heaven is compared to beautiful pearls. Matt.13:45-46 The important qualities of heaven are the presence of God and other believers in Christ and peace brought about by the absence of sin. These things are worth giving up all other things to receive.
A king (Jesus) forgives a servants (followers) debt and requires the servant to do the same.
Matt.18:23-35
Laborers paid equally, though some came late. (Salvation can be obtained at any time until one dies having accepted Christ’s grace.) Matt.20:1-16
Two sons sent to work. (Worldly position is not important, but a humble attitude and obeying God is.) Matt.21:28-32.
A vineyard owner’s servants & son are killed. (Respect those whom God sends and especially Christ or be judged harshly.) Matt.21:33-44, Mark 12:1-11, Luke 20:9-18 See also the Vines parable under questions and answers.
A bountiful harvest is not meant to be stored for the sake of excess riches. Riches are not important to God for salvation. God provides for our needs even as He provides for the birds. Lilies do not work, yet they are beautiful to God. Do not be anxious about eating or drinking, but seek the kingdom of God and these things shall be given you. Give alms to God to build treasure in heaven. Luke 12:16-34
Marriage of a king’s son. (All were invited, but those who reject God’s invitation to salvation & heaven & those sent to bring the message or are not prepared to enter heaven will be cast out. Matt.22:2-14 The guest that did not have on a proper wedding garment in verses 11-13 was thrown out. The garment was representative of the covering of Christ’s blood over the saved. The king is God the Father.)
Ten virgins waiting for the bridegroom. (Only those who are ready to meet Christ, when He returns, at God’s appointed time will enter heaven. The church is to become the bride of Christ.) Matt.25:1-13
Servants given talents. (To everyone who uses what he has been given wisely, more will be given. Those who do not use their God given talents and blessings will lose them and will not be saved. Matt.25:14-30, Luke 19:12-26
A kingdom or house divided cannot stand. (God and Satan are separate and do not work against themselves) Mark 3:24-26, Luke 11:17-23
The blind leading the blind. Followers become equal to the teacher. Good trees bear like fruit. (Do not look at others hypocritically without first judging yourself, then lovingly help. Speak only if your heart is prepared in love.) Luke 7:39-44 See also Judgement relating to what is spoken.
The good Samaritan. (A neighbor is defined as the person giving help to those in need of help.) Luke 10:29-37 (This was a surprise to the listening Jews since they did not like the Samaritans.)
A friend needing food for a journey & a son asking for food. (A loving God always gives good gifts to those He cares about.) Luke 11:5-13
Scribes & Pharisees: Woe to those who appear to be and do good but are full of greed and wickedness on the inside. They are like the graves of the dead which are not seen. Luke 11:39-44
Lawyers: Woe to any who cause unjust or unreasonable burdens to be put on others and do not help them. Woe to any who, by harsh treatment, prevent others from learning about and accepting the key of knowledge (leading to Godliness). Luke 11:45-52
Watch for the master (Christ’s return) at an unexpected time and be ready to go. Luke 12:35-48 Watch for the signs signaling the event. If you do not correct your ways while there is time, you will pay the total price before the judge. Luke 12:54-59 One sin is not greater than another. God accepts no sin. If you do not repent, you will perish. Luke 13:1-5
Christ cursed (killed) a fig tree that gave a false hope for food. See “The parable of the fig tree”on page 93.
If a fig tree (or a person) does not bear fruit after a time of cultivation, it/(he or she) is in danger of being destroyed. Our time on earth is such a time of cultivation. Luke 13:6- 9
Christ, in righteous anger, cleansed the temple of those making a profit in the name of religion and stopped disrespect towards God’s house of prayer. He turned the people to God’s desire for prayer, restored respect for God and signaled a change in how to please God with a new type of sacrifice. Now, God desires the wills of men’s hearts to be sacrificed instead of animals. They were now to submit their lives to Christ in godly living, and in return God would live in the temples of their bodies and speak directly, through His Holy Spirit and scripture, to them. Matt.11:15-18
Lowly seating at a wedding feast. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 14:8-11
The unattended feast. (Come when God calls, lest He change His mind and you are left out.) Luke 14:15-24
Counting the cost. (To be a deciple, one must be willing to forsake family, bear suffering and not have worldly wealth as an idol.) Luke 14:26-33
Salt without flavor cannot fix itself and is worth nothing. (Without deciples encouraging people to turn to God, the world would become evil and worthless.) Luke 14:34-35
Searching for a lost sheep & a lost coin. (Heaven rejoices more over one lost repentant person saved than over 99 just persons already safe. God desires none to be lost and earnestly tries to lead them.) Luke 15:4-10
Sheep (people of the world), are called by the good Shepard (Christ), to follow Him to
(Heaven). The other sheep, vs. 16, refers of the gentiles to be included with the Jews. John 10:1-16
The prodigal, lost, son returns home. (See searching for a lost sheep.) Luke 15:11-32
The ineffective steward, rebuked by the master, settles debts quickly at reduced requirements. (Encourages the lost to seek salvation quickly by repenting and accepting Christ as Lord instead of having to pay the much more severe penalty of being separated from God throughout eternity.) Luke 16:1-13
Lazarus, a sickly beggar, and a rich man are compared before and after death. Positions of comfort are reversed. ( It is implied that the rich man did not seek God in life and Lazarus did, thereby each received his proper reward after death. When the rich man pleads for a warning to his living brothers God replies that is what Moses and the prophets are for.) Luke 16:19-31
Servants doing their jobs are not worthy of special attention. (Don’t expect special rewards for doing God’s will as is owed Him.) Luke 17:7-10
In the day when the son of man is revealed (as our Lord coming in the sky) and as the saved are being taken to meet Christ in the air, some will be drawn to think about what and who they are leaving. Christ warns that we are not to look back for an instant, remembering what happened to Lot’s wife. Luke 17:20-37 In verse 22 Christ seems to extend the warning not to think back and desire the old earthly life to those who are in Heaven.
The unjust judge and the persistent widow (God will speedily avenge those elect who cry out to Him) Luke 18:1-8
The Pharisee and the tax collector in the temple (Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted.) Luke 18:9-14
A taxing question is explained as: (Give the government and each other what is owed and give God His due.). Luke 20:22-25
My (Christ’s) grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness. (When we have no ability to change undesirable circumstances, God’s grace becomes our mainstay to be again shown stronger than the circumstances.) 2Cor.12:9
A Samaritan woman at a well is told her life and how to receive everlasting life. John 4:6-24, 25-29 (Understatement revealed when she perceives Him a prophet for telling her about her life.)
Christ came into the world (to prepare) for judgment (of the world), that those who do not see (understand what is sin in God’s eyes, but are open to change) may see, and that those who see ( think they know what sin is, but are wrong) may be blind (deceived, convicted and judged). John 9:39-41
A grain of wheat must die to produce much grain. (Those who give their life for God will produce many followers of Christ that are saved for eternal life.) John12:24-26
Christ is the true vine and His Father the vine dresser. (A godly spiritual life that results in salvation and produces results can only be kept alive through Christ.) John 15:1-8 God gets rid of sin and builds faith in the lives of those doing His work, that they may be more effective. God gets rid of those that are not actively doing His will. John 15:2
By man (Adam) came death, by Man (Christ) also came the resurrection. 1Cor.15:21-23 Christ came by water and the blood. (Water represents the cleansing act of baptism. The
blood indicates Christ’s human suffering and sacrifice on the cross. The life of the flesh is in the blood, therefore, it is through blood sacrifices that atonement is made for the soul. Leviticus 17:11) These things are witnessed (were seen & now upheld) by God’s Spirit speaking truth. 1st John 5:6
If you have left your first love (The joy and excitement of Christ in your submitted life), remember where you fell, then repent and do the first works (repeat what led you to salvation), or else your lampstand (light of salvation) will be removed. Rev.2:5
Those who do not repent of sexual immorality shall become sick and their children shall know death (instead of salvation). Rev.2:21-23
Those that have the name of life (of Christ) but are dead in works, repent or Christ will surprise you. Those who overcome this will remain in the book of life and Christ will support you (at judgement) Rev.3:1-5
Those who do not deny the name of Christ and do his works with perseverance shall not have to endure the tribulation that comes on the whole world, and Christ will write on him His new name. Rev.3:7-12
Those who are neither hot or cold, but only caring a little about Christ will be spewed out and rejected by Christ. They do not even know they are in need. They must repent and be zealous in seeking Christ to be forgiven and redeemed. Rev.3:14-20
Power given to followers
The deciples were told to wait in Jerusalem for God’s promised power. Luke 24:49, Acts 1:4 You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit is come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to
Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Acts 1:8 Power given over unclean spirits, sickness & disease. Matt.10:1, Mark 6:7, Luke 9:10 Power given to bind and loose (spiritual things) on earth and in heaven. Matt18:18-19 Power given to trample serpents & scorpions and power over evil spirits. Luke 10:19-20 Power given over the tongue and evil powers. Though we are human we fight (with God’s
Spirit) casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. We do this by giving our every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. 2Cor.10:3-5
The Lord’s prayer given to Christ’s Deciples. Matt 6:9-13, Luke 11:1-4
Deciples encouraged to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Eph.6:10 Followers protected by the armor of God against the devil’s schemes. Eph.6:11-18, 2Cor.6:7,
10:4
The gospel (of Christ) has power and the Holy Spirit. 1Thes.1:5
Prayer protects believers from unreasonable and wicked men and guards against Satan.
2Thes.3:1-3
Everyone who partakes only milk (the simple things of God) is unskilled in the word of righteousness. Solid food (of the power and intimate knowledge of God) belongs to those seasoned with age, who have exercised and used their senses to discern both good and evil. Hebrews 5:13-14
Whatever is born of God overcomes the world. 1st John 5:4-5
Prayer
“It shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer; and while they are still speaking, I will hear.” Isaiah 65:24
He (mankind) shall pray to god, and He will delight in him, He shall see His face with joy, for He restores to man His (God’s) righteousness. Job 33:26
I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.
Psalm 18:3
Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things (clothing, food, drink as necessities of life) will be provided. Matt.6:28,30,31,33
Pray for the will of God the Father to be done. Matt.6:10
Prayer encouraged to raise-up ministers and evangelists. Matt.9:36-38, Luke 10:2
If you abide in Christ, you* will ask what you desire and it shall be done. John 15:7 *(You is in the plural form written to the church. They were to pray collectively for God’s will, the needs of the church (and it’s members) and the spiritual guidance of all to draw all closer to God and salvation.)
Ask for (real, true) needs in faith without wavering. James 1:6-7
Pray according to God’s will to be heard and receive what is asked. 1 John 5:14,15
Ask and it will be given you, seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened. God does not give bad gifts. Matt.7:7-1, Mark 11:24, Luke 11:11, Gen.6:5 & 8:21
God does not hear our prayers when we have regard (respect) for the iniquity in our heart.
Psalms 66:18
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but the prayer of the upright is His delight. Proverbs 15:8
Prayers for our own pleasures (instead of God’s) will not be answered. James 4:3, Matt.6:19,20 Pray for wisdom. James 1:5
Pray in faith and forgive others (to be heard) and receive miracles. Matt.11:23-26 Pray in faith without doubting. James 1:6,7
Have church elders and righteous believers pray, in faith, and anoint the sick with holy oil to be healed. A prayer of faith will also allow God to forgive sins. Confess trespasses (to church leaders) for healing. James 5:14-16
Desire (and pray for) Spiritual gifts including prophecy. 1Cor.14:1-4,12
Pray in secret, without vain repetitions, to be blessed openly by God. Matt.6:6-7, 2 Kings 4:33, Luke 6:5-8, Ecclesiastes 5:2
Lord’s prayer given to the Deciples. (Which includes all followers) Matt 6:9-13, Luke 11:1-4 Pray for those who spitefully use you. Luke 6:28
The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses, for we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Romans 8:26
Husbands give honor to your wife, as a weaker vessel, that your prayers may not be hindered.
1st Peter 3:7
Pray always persistently crying out to God, through the Spirit, for favor and mercy, and including prayer for all the saints. Eph.6:18
Pray humbly and earnestly as intercessors, and giving thanks for, for all men (and women).
1 Timothy 2:1-2
Pray without ceasing, giving thanks for everything. Do not quench the Holy Spirit. Respect prophesies. Test all things, holding onto that which is good. Abstain from every form of evil. 1Thes.5:17 -22
Pray to help those suffering & sing psalms when you are happy. James 5:13
Pray for church leaders that God will give them bold words to proclaim Christ’s teachings. Eph.6:19, Col.4:3 That Christ’s words may spread swiftly and be glorified. 2Thes.3:1 That God will protect other believers from unreasonable and wicked men. 2Thes.3:2
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving. Col.4:2
Pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 1 Timothy 2:8
“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3
Praise
You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 1Peter2:9
O praise the Lord all you gentiles! Laud Him all you peoples! For His merciful kindness is great toward us, and the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.
Psalms 117:1-2
Enter God’s courts with praise. Psalms 100:4
Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty firmament! Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness!
Psalms 150:1-2
We are to praise God and His name, for in perfect faithfulness, He has done marvelous things, planned long ago. Isaiah 25:1
Praise & fear God. Psalms 111
Praise God with uplifted hands. 1Tim.2:8
Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises to the Lord! Psalms 68:32
In the name of Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father. Eph.5:20
Now (give praise, worship and honor) to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory, with exceeding joy, to God our savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen. Jude 24-25
Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in His Holy mountain.
Psalms 48:1
Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful. Psalms 147:1
I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalms 34:1 Because your loving kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise you. Psalms 63:3
Promises (See also salvation)
The Lord is near to all who call on Him. Psalm 145:18
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them..
Psalms 34:7
The Lord is a shield to those that walk uprightly (in God). He guards the paths of justice and preserves the way of His saints. Proverbs 2: 7, 8
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh and strength to your bones. Honor the Lord with your possessions and the first fruits of all your increase and you (will have plenty.) Do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor detest His correction, for the Lord chastens those He loves. Proverbs 3:5-12
Whoever finds (God), finds life and obtains favor from the Lord. Proverbs 8:35
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who trust Him. Proverbs 30:5
Obey me, and I will be your God an you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command, that it may go well with you. Jeremiah 7:23
I am sending my angel ahead of you (Those in Christ) to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. Exodus 23:20
The Lord replied,”My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” Exodus 33:14
God waits to be gracious and have mercy on you in order that He will be exalted. Those who wait for Him are blessed and receive justice. Isaiah 30:18
Those who wait on The Lord shall renew their strength and be lifted as on eagles wings. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
God fulfills the vision of those who wait (on Him). Habakkuk 2:1-3
I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Isaiah 41:13 NIV
I will bring the (spiritually) blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, and crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, and not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with my eye.
Psalms 32:8
When you pass through the waters, I (God) will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Isaiah 43:2
God promises to blot out transgressions and not remember sins. Isaiah 43:25
(Christ and God said) I will never leave you or forsake you. Deut. 31:6,8, Joshua 1:5, Hebrews 13:5 This does not mean that we cannot leave God.
God promises to hold our (the believers) right hand and help. Isaiah 41:13 Promises to the saved. Isaiah 54-56, 60-61.
God’s word will accomplish what He desires. Isaiah 55:10-11 The Lord is near to all who call on Him. Psalm 145:18
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them.. Psalm 34:7 Whoever teaches God’s commandments will be called great in Heaven. Matt.5:19
With God all things are possible. Matt.19:26
Christ promised that anyone who has left home or family or lands for His sake will receive one hundred fold of these things in this time (while on earth) along with persecution from the world, plus in the age to come (time in heaven) eternal life. Mark 10:29-30 (The
first part of this promise agreed with popular Jewish tradition that expected when the messiah came He would usher in His earthly rule and would give many earthly rewards. It was not understood that Christ’s 1000 year rule on earth would come later when He returned the second time and overcame evil on earth. By this time He had already defeated evil in Heaven.)
Disciples of Christ shall know the truth, and be set free (from sin) by the truth. John 8:31-32 Anyone who makes the words of Christ (Gods will) a part of them self may ask what they
desire (that agrees with the will of the Father), it shall be done. John 15:6
If we walk in the light (of God), as He (Christ) is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His son, cleanses us from all sin. 1st John 1:7
Anyone who keeps (obeys) the words of Christ shall not see (spiritual) death. John 8:51 Those who believe in Christ, while living, shall never die. John 11:25-27, 17:2-3
“For you shall go out with joy, and be led out with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth into singing before you, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.” Isaiah 55:12
Believers shall see Christ after death. John 16:16
When Christ’s followers see Him revealed, they shall be like Him, for they shall see Him as He is. Everyone who hopes this, works to purify himself, just as He (Christ) is pure
1st John 3:2-3
Those who serve Christ will be honored by the Father. John 12:26
A crown of righteousness will be given to all who, Christ judges, love His appearin.g 2Tim.4:8 When in heaven, followers will be given whatever they ask of the Father in the name of Christ.
John 16:22-24
Christ has prepared a home for all his followers in heaven. 2Cor. 5:1 He will come and bring each one there to be with Him. John 14:2-3
Whoever believes in Christ will do greater works than He did. Whatever is asked in Christ’s name (and agrees with God’s will) will be done by the Father. John 14:12-14, 15:7
Christ gives peace to his followers and drives out fear. John 14:27 To obey Christ’s commands is to be His friend. John 15:14-15
Pray to God the Father in the name of Christ to have prayers answered. John 15:16 All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 2Tim.3:12
No tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, sword, death, life, angels, principalities, powers, things present or to come, height depth or any other thing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:35-39
Mark (take note of) the blameless man (and woman), and observe the upright; for the future of that (person) is peace. Psalm 37:37
God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to a man who is good in His sight; but to the sinner He gives the work of gathering and collecting, that he may give to him who is good before God. Ecclesiastes 2:26
Through God’s grace, given by Christ it is possible to be blameless when He returns.
1Cor.1:4-8
The faithful that suffer will be consoled by God. 2Cor.1:3-7
We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed but not in despair, persecuted but not forsaken; struck down but not destroyed. 2Cor.4:8-9
We do not lose heart even though the outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being
renewed daily. Our light affliction is but for a moment and is working to cause us to see the unseen (spiritual things) which are eternal. 2Cor.4:17-18
Anyone in Christ is a new creation, the old (ways) have passed away. 2Cor.5:17
Those in Christ will become perfect and will know all (when they enter heaven). Eph.4:13 The words of God effectively work to change those who believe (in Christ). 1Thes.2:13
If we die (to self desires) with (Christ), we shall also live with Him. If we endure, we shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He will deny us (before God the father). If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself. 2Tim.2:11-13, Rom. 5:17, 8:17, Matt.10:33
When God’s laws and covenants are in our hearts and minds God says, “Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no more.” Hebrews 10:16-17
Christ washed the faithful in His own blood to cleanse their sins and make them as kings and priests to God the Father. Rev.1:5-6
The Spirit says to the churches, he who overcomes (the tribulations of life by faith and perseverance) shall not be hurt by the second death. Rev.2:9-11 They will receive hidden manna to eat and a white stone with a new secret name on it, known only to you. Rev.2:17
They will be given power over nations. Rev.2:26-29
Prophecy (God’s spoken will through men)
Isaiah’s visions for Israel. Isaiah chapters 1-11, 27, 36-41, 43-46, 48-49, 51-52 Christ’s coming seen. Isaiah 7:14-15 Christ’s breaking of Satan’s yoke with His own blood found in Isaiah 9:4-5. God’s everlasting government and peace for-told in Isaiah 9:6-7. End time world predictions given in chapters 12, 13, 24, 30-35. Chapters 13, 47 deal with Babylon (Iraq). Lucifer’s fall seen in Isaiah 14:12-15. Specific national visions: for Moab (chapters 15, 16), Damascus (chapter 17), Ethiopian nations such as Africa, Arabia & Madagascar (chapter18), Egypt (chapters 19, 20), Tyre (a worldly merchant trading city of Lebanon on the Mediterranean Sea)(chapter 23), God’s judgement seen in chapters 24, 25, 26, 30-35, 42, 49-50. Samaria, Assyria (chapter 28), Gentiles seen in
chapter 42. Christ described 52:7, 53
Promises to the saved. Isaiah 54-56. Adultery rebuked. Chap.57 Fasting. Isaiah 58:3-6 Justice turned back. Isaiah 59:1-15 Justice reclaimed by Christ. Isaiah 59:15-21 God’s blessings to the saved. Isaiah 60, 61 Blessings to Israel. Isaiah 62, 66 New heavens, new earth, new Jerusalem. Isaiah 65:17-25
Jeremiah the prophet’s visions: He was known, sanctified & ordained before he was in the womb.
Jeremiah1:4-5 Northern countries to attack Israel. 1:13-16 Israel told how God blessed them and how they turned against Him. Chap. 2 Rain withheld. 3:3 God pleads with Israel to acknowledge their sins, repent and return to Him for forgiveness.3:12-25, 4:, 5: Israel’s walls to be destroyed. 5:10 Destruction from the North to overcome Israel. 5:15-17, 6:1, 22 They are asked to return to the old ways to find spiritual rest. 6:16 Their offerings and sacrifices were not acceptable. 6:19-20 God causes them to stumble. 6:21 Specific reforms given. 7:5-6 The temple to be as was done to Shiloh. 7:14 Prayers of intercession would not be heard by God. 7:16 Obedience required. 7:23 The valley of slaughter to display open bones. 7:31-34, 8:1-3,
9:22, 19:6 Iniquities exposed. 8:10-12, 9:2-8, 9:14 Future punishment to come on all nations. 9:25-26 Israel cursed if they do not obey God’s covenant. 11:1-5 Total destruction of Anathoth proclaimed. 11:21-23 Israel to be removed then returned to the land promised by God. 12:14-15 The parable of the destroyed waist sash shows how God to cause Israel to cease their pride and cling to Him. 13:1-11 New wine to be given that causes distress. 13:12-14 (Recall Christ’s first miracle & the results of His coming! See also questions and answers page ) Judah to be carried away captive by peoples from the North. And scattered. 13:19-20, 24 False prophets to be overcome by what they prophesy. 14:15 Four forms of destruction. 15:3 These are punishments because of what king Manessh did in Jerusalem. 15:4 If you return! 15:19-21 Judgements against families during punishment. 16:1-21 Blessings for those that trust and hope in the Lord. 17:7-8 Keep the Sabbath Holy. 17:21-22, 24 The potter’s hand on Israel.
18:1-6 The broken potter’s flask. 19:1-15 Pashhur and Israel to be captured by Babylon (Iraq). 20:1-6, 21: Demands & consequences given the King of Judah by God. 22:2-7 Understanding of God’s will for Israel to be understood in the latter days. 23:20 God against those who prophesy false dreams and call themselves oracles of the Lord. 23:32, 34, 36-40 Parable of the good and bad figs: Those of Israel in captivity, in Chaldea (Iraq), that turn to the lord will be brought back to Israel and not removed.
Those who remained in Babylon and Egypt were to be cursed. Chap.24 Seventy years of captivity for Israel in Babylon. 25:4-14 Many nations to be cursed and their leaders to go mad. 25:14-26, 26:4-6 unless ways changed & the Lord’s voice obeyed. 26:13 Prophet Urijah killed for his words also against Israel. 26:20-23 God gives Israel to king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. 27:6-7 Hananiah killed by God for lying to the people in His name. 28:15-17 Captured Israel encouraged. 29:1-32 A record kept. 30:1-24 David foretold as king. 30:9 Nations that capture and prey on Israel to be punished. 30:16 Israel to be rebuilt. 31:1-28 A new covenant to come. 31:31-40, 32:38-40 Jeremiah imprisoned then told to buy a field in Anathoth for 17 sheckels of silver. 32:2, 7, 10 A covenant with David to come. 33:19-22 Covenant with Israel after Egypt. 34:13 Covenant broken and Israel to be given to sword, pestilence and famine. All kingdoms to give trouble. 34:16,17 Judah to be desolate. 34:22 Sons of Jonadeb not to drink wine, but to serve God forever. 35:6, 14-19 King Jehoiakim burns words of prophecy against Israel. His dead body to be left in the open. 36: Jeremiah warns King Zedekiah that the Chaldeans will burn Jerusalem. 37:7-8 Jeremiah beaten and put in prison. 37:15 He fortells of Israels capture by Babylon (Iraq). 37:17 Jeremiah put in a dungeon of mire without water. 38:6 He is taken out of the dungeon.38:10-13 Jeremiah secretly warns King Zedekiah and tells how the king can save his life. 38:17 The king flees, is caught, his sons killed and his eyes put out. 39:4-7 The city burned and the walls broken down. 39:8 Jeremiah taken home. 39:11-14 Ebed-Melech, an Ethiopian, to be saved. 39:16-18 Jeremiah freed and invited to go to Babylon. He stayed in the land. 40:4 The Jews return to their land. 40:12 Ishmail and 10 kill the appointed governor over Judah. 41:2 Johanan causes Ishmail to flee to Ammon. 41:11-15 Johanan asks Jeremiah to pray for them and God to guide them. 42:2-3 God replies that He will bless them if they stay in their land. 42:10-12 Or they will be cursed and killed if they go to Egypt. 42:15-16 Jeremiah called a liar by the hypocrites. 42:20, 43:2 The people go to Egypt. 43:7
Most of Israel to die in Egypt as they worship other Gods. 44:12, 23 A small number
will return to Judah knowing God has punished them. 44:28 The king of Egypt and Judah to be captured by their enemies as a sign. 44:30 Further words against Egypt. Chap.46 Words against the Philistines. Chap.47 Against Moab. Chap. 48 Against the Ammonites. Chap. 49 Against Babylon and the Chaldeans. Chap. 50 The fall of Jerusalem and exile to Babylon. Chap. 52
Ezekiel the priest’s visions: A whirlwind out of the North. 1:4 Four living creatures. 1:5-14 Wheels beside each creature 1:15-21 The likeness of the firmament, with rainbow, above each creature and the noise/ voice of God. 1:22-28 Ezekiel sent to Israel. 2:3 After he eats God’s words. 2:9 – 3:3 If God tells Ezekiel to warn and no warning given, the person’s blood is required at his hand. 3:17-21 Four punishments: Fathers and sons to eat each other, 1/3 to die of pestilence and famine, 1/3 to fall by the sword, 1/3 to be scattered. 5:10-12 High places and altars to be destroyed. 6:3-7 An appearance of fire from the waist down and bright amber above. 8:2 Jerusalem’s North gate of jealousy. 8:3-5 Heavenly vison, above the head of cherubim, of a sapphire throne. 10:1 Description of cherubim and wheels in wheels. 10:8-22 East gate iniquity brings a sword of judgement. 11:1-10 Those scattered among the gentiles to be given a heart of flesh to obey God. 11:14-21 Israel to be desolate due to anxiety and violence. 12:18-20 God against the false prophets. 13:1-8 God against women practicing divination. 13:18-23 Any people that is persistently unfaithful will have a famine, and man and beast cut off to become desolate. Only the very faithful would be spared, not
their children. 14:14-16 Israel to be useless. 15:1-8 God’s love for Jerusalem repaid by harlotry. Chap.16 The riddle of 2 eagles. 17:1-10 A just man described. 18:5-9 a repentant wicked man is forgiven and his sins forgotten. 18:21-22 A righteous man turned evil shall die. 18:24 Every person judged individually. 18:30 Lesson of a lioness. Chap 19 God punishes Israel that His name should not be profaned by the gentiles watching Israel’s rebellion. 20:9, 14, 22 God pleads with Israel in the wilderness and purges the rebels out before Israel enters the promised land. 20:34,35,38 God kindles a fire to the South of Jerusalem to consume the forest & people South and North. 20:46-48, 21:4 Babylon to attack Jerusalem and the Ammonites. 21:21-32 Israel’s failings (chap.22): Fathers and mothers not honored. God’s holy things despised and the Sabbaths profaned. Prophets see false visions and lie. The people use oppression, rob, mistreat the poor and needy and oppress the stranger. 22:8, 27-29 Samaria and Jerusalem both sought after the Assyrians when Israel was in Egypt.
Therefore, God sent Babylonia, the Chaldeans, others and the Assyrians against them. 23:3,4,9,11,22-24,27 Israel committed adultery, defiled the sanctuary, profaned the Sabbaths, shed innocent blood, sacrificed children to idols then came to worship God. 23:36-39 God to take Israel’s sons and daughters. 24:25 The Ammonites to be given to the men of the East, not top be remembered. 25:2, 4, 7, 10 Tyre (a rich costal trading city in Lebanon) to be destroyed by Babylon for desiring to plunder Jerusalem. 26:2-5, 7, 12, 19-21 Prophecy against Sidon 28:20-23 Prophecy against Pharaoh and Egypt lasting 40 years. 29:2-15 Egypt’s wealth to be taken by Babylon. 29:19-20 Egypt’s allies of Ethiopia, Libya, Lydia & Chub to fall. 30:5-7 Egypt’s rivers to dry up. 30:12 Egyptians to be scattered. 30:23, 26 The garden of Eden described in Egypt, sent to Hell with Lebanon. 31: Ezekiel made a watchman for Israel. 33:7 God’s judgement for life. 33:15-16, 19, 20 God’s judgements upon the wicked of Israel. 33:27 God judges
Israel’s shepherds (religious leaders). 34:10 God’s own shepherd (Christ) to come. 34:23 Showers of blessings foretold. (1000 year reign) 34:26-31 Prophecy against
Mt. Seir range (between the Dead Sea and South to the Gulf of Aquabe in the Northern Red Sea) 35: The Mts. of Israel to be farmed and a blessing to Israel. 36:8-15 Israel to be blessed when the people turn to God. Israel’s men to be increased as flocks for sacrifice. 36:23-38 A valley of Israel’s bones comes alive. 37:1-14 Israel to be gathered together, never to be divided again. 37:21-22 They will be cleansed, obey God and be led by David forever more. A new covenant with God to be struck. 37:23-28 The lands of Magog, Rosh, Meshech, Tubal, Persia (Iran), Ethopia, Libya, Gomer & Togarmah attack a peaceful Israel. 38:1-17 When Gog attacks, God intervenes with an earthquake in Israel that upsets the entire world. 38:18-20 Gog’s men will attack each other. 38:21 Pestilence, floods hailstones and fire come against the attackers. 38:22-23 God, Rosh, Meshech and Tubal fall upon the mountains of Israel and are devoured by birds & beasts. 39:1-5 Fire rains on Magog’s costal lands. 39:6 God will no longer allow His name to be profaned. 39:7 Israel burns the enemies weapons for 7 years and buries the solders of Gog, for 7 months, in a valley to be called the “Valley of Hamon Gog”. 39:9-16 The Gentiles see that Israel was made captive for their unfaithfulness to God, but they were later restored and God’s Spirit poured out on them afterward. 39:21-29 A man (Christ) with the appearance of bronze, having a line of flax and measuring rod, standing in the gateway shows Ezekiel a vision of a new temple on a mountaintop, a sanctuary and courtyard. Chap.40, 41, 42 God’s glory enters the temple. 43:2-5 The altar and its ordinances are given. 43:13-27 The Prince (Christ) sits in the temple and eats before the Lord. 44:3 Who may enter the temple. 44:9-16 Regulations for the priests. 44:17-31 The Holy land about the temple. 45:1-7, 48:8-14 Honest offerings required and interactions with the Prince described. 45:10-25, 46:1-
24 A river of about 8,000 cubits width of water flows from under the East temple door from the right side of the temple, near the altar. It flows to the East, through the valley and into the sea. Fish abound in the river and food trees abound along its sides. The fruit is used for food and the leaves for medicine. 47:1-12 The land divisions for the 12 tribes of Israel are given. 47:13-22, 48:1-7 The city’s size. 48:15-20 The Prince’s property. 48:21-22 Lands of other tribes. 48:23-34 The name of the city shall be, “The Lord Is There”. 48:35
Daniel’s visions: Daniel given the name “Belteshazzar”. Daniel 1:7 Daniel given the dream of the king of Babylon and its interpretation. Dan.2:9,19, 31-35 The dream of five kingdoms: the present gold kingdom, an inferior kingdom of silver, then bronze, then iron, then God’s everlasting. 2:36-44 Three men thrown in a fiery furnace become four. The fourth has the appearance of the son of God. None are hurt or clothes burned by the fire. 3:12-27
The king has another dream of a huge tree destroyed. 4:10-26 Daniel, Belteshazzar, interprets that the king will be driven into the fields to eat grass for 7 times (years) until he knows that “heaven rules”. Nebuchadnezzar’s dream fulfilled until his hair appears as eagle feathers and his nails are like bird’s claws. Then his kingdom is restored and he praised and honored God. 4:28-37
Nebuchadnezzar’s son, Belshazzar, throws a feast with, Jerusalem’s plunder, honoring
false Gods. He sees a finger write on the wall. 5:1-16 Daniel interprets the writing that God has numbered his kingdom and finished it. The king was found wanting and his kingdom would be divided. The king was slain that night and the kingdom given to Darius. 5:18-31
Daniel found favor with king Darius, who wanted to put him in charge of the kingdom. The other governors devise a plan to get rid of Daniel by convincing the king to make a decree to throw anyone asking help from any but the king into a den of lions. When Daniel heard the decree was signed, he was found praying to God. Daniel was then thrown to the lions, with the king believing that God would save him. A stone was put to seal the lion’s den and the king fasted and could not sleep. The next day Daniel was found safe, therefore, the king had the others that had accused him, with their wives and children, thrown into the lions den. They were eaten before they hit the den floor.6:1-24 Daniel’s God is honored throughout the kingdom. 6:25-27
Daniel has a dream of 4 heavenly winds stirring up the sea. Four beasts (kings): a lion with eagle wings, a bear with 3 ribs in its mouth, a leopard with 4 bird wings and 4 heads and a very strong beast with huge iron teeth and 11 horns (kings). The Ancient of Days (Christ) comes and the large beast is destroyed in flames. 7:1-12 Daniel sees the Son of Man (Jesus) coming with the clouds. 7:13-14 Daniel is told the interpretation of the dream. 7:16-27 Daniel has another dream of a ram with two uneven horns pushing West, North and South. Then a male goat from the West, with a horn between his eyes, attacked the ram and his small horn changed into 4 large horns. And out of one horn grew a small horn that grew to the South and East toward the Glorious Land. He exalted himself as high as the Prince of the host and took away the daily sacrifices and cast down the sanctuary. Due to transgression an army was given to the horn (the anti Christ) to oppose the sacrifices, casting the truth down as he prospered.
Then two holy ones discussed how long this would be endured. The reply was 2300 days. Then one with the appearance of a man told that the vison was of the end time. 8:1-19 The interpretation of the dream is given in 8:20-26. (In the latter time Satan will be allowed to become powerful and destroy much of that which is Holy. Then, he will be spiritually broken by God.) Daniel understands by the books the number of years told by Jeremiah. Seventy years would be accomplished in the desolations of Jerusalem. 9:2 He saw man’s sin and how many of Israel, and especially Jerusalem, were driven to far lands and punished because of their unfaithfulness to God an not believing His truth. (Jesus Christ is the son of God) 9:5-7,11-13 Daniel prays for God’s mercy on Israel’s behalf. 9:15-19 Daniel fasts for 3 weeks and sees a man (Christ) in linen richly arrayed and with a fierce countenance and strong voice. 10:3-11 He tells Daniel that “from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before God, your words have been heard. I have come because of your words.” He was delayed but came to help Daniel understand what was to happen in the latter days. He told of 4 kings out of Persia. The fourth, richer than all the others, would stir up the world against Greece. Then another mighty king would have his kingdom divided in four and ruled by outsiders. The king of the South and one of his princes shall gain power over him. The daughter of the South king would be taken by the king of the North, but a branch of her roots (children), one would prevail over the North king. 10:13-21, 11:1-7 The North king will go to the Southern
king’s kingdom and return. His sons assemble an army that is overcome by the king of the South. The South king’s heart will be lifted up and tens of thousands will be cast down. But the king of the North again returns to fortify a city that the king of the South cannot take. 11:8-15 One shall come against the king of the North with upright people and shall take the Glorious Land. He then attacks the coast lands, but another enters causing the attacker to turn back to his homeland where he stumbles and falls (making an error resulting in defeat) and is destroyed. He is replaced by one that taxes the glorious kingdom. Within a few days that one is destroyed, not by anger or battle. He is replaced by a vile person who does not receive honor or royalty. He comes in peaceably, but takes power by intrigue (deceit). 11:16-21
A force as a flood takes away his people and the prince of the covenant. A pact is then made with the leader, who by deceit and a small force becomes strong. He enters peaceably and disperses the plunder and spoils. For a short time he makes plans against the strongholds. He comes against the king of the South with a great army. The king of the South is defeated by plans against him. Both kings are desiring evil and speak lies at a meeting. As one (the anti-Christ) returns to his own land, he does damage to the holy covenant. As he turns South, ships from Cyprus attack and he returns to attack the holy covenant again. He allies with those rejecting the holy covenant. They defile the sanctuary fortress (temple), stop the daily sacrifices and replace them with the abomination of the desolation. (An idol causing desolation). From the time that the daily sacrifices are stopped and the abomination of desolation is set up shall be 1290 days. 12:11 The evil ones corrupt with flattery, but the godly people remain faithful and resist greatly. Eventually, they are overcome by sword and flame, captivity and plundering. A few help due to their understanding, but many join the battle by intrigue. Those that fight for the truth are overcome to purify them for the appointed time. The evil king (anti-Christ) exalts himself and speaks lies against God. He has no regard for God or the desires of women. He honors a fake god of fortresses with many riches and pleasant things, and divides the land for his gain. 11:22-39 Then the kings of the South and North attack him with successes. He, in turn attacks Egypt to gain riches.
But news of battle failures infuriates him to destroy many. He finally makes a stand between the seas and the holy mountain. 11:40-45 Now Michael, (God’s angel) pours out troubles on the world to deliver the holy people. All people living and dead are judged.12:1-3 (John 5:28-29)
Daniel then saw two others standing with the man in linen (Christ) by the river. One asked the man in white how long before all these things happen. His reply, a time, times and ½ a time when the holy people are completely shattered. 12:5-7
Problems come upon the holy ones to purify and refine them. The wise will understand this. 12:10
Hosea told to marry a harlot because the land (Israel) had committed great harlotry in departing from the Lord. Hosea 1:1-2 He married Gomer and had a son, Jezreel.God promises to avenge the house of Jehu for those Jezreel killed, by ending the kingdom of Israel in the valley of Jezreel. 1:3-5 A daughter, Lo-Ruhamah, was then born to Hosea. Her name signified that God would no longer have mercy on Israel, except the house of Judah, and would totally take the lost away from the land. Judah’s people would be saved by God. 1:6-7 A second son named Lo-Ammi, was born to Hosea.
His name meaning that God recognized Israel was no longer a people of God and therefore God rejected Israel. 1:8-9 However, the remaining people of Israel were to become as many as the sand of the sea in the same place that God rejected Israel. God further would tell them that “you are sons of the living God” in that same place. (They were to be redeemed again.) They were to come out of the land with a leader they choose in the day of Jezreel! 1:10-11
Hosea told to tell Israel that they were children of a harlot and God would not have mercy on them. Their way was to be thorny, for they would chase the evil that they loved without satisfaction. God would take away the religious celebrations. Ultimately, they would turn back to God. He would comfort them and give them vineyards in the wilderness and a door of hope in the Valley of Achor*. Then God would make a covenant with them and all creatures to be at peace on the earth with righteousness, justice, lovingkindness and mercy in harmony with God forever. Hosea 2.
* Valley of Achor: Joshua 7:24 Where Joshua brought his family and the house of Israel.
Joshua 7:26 Where God turned from the fierceness of anger. Joshua 15:7 South of Gilgal in Palestine.
Isaiah 65:10 A place of peace where flocks can lie down and God’s people can rest.
(Where Armageddon’s final war occurs between good and evil.)
No prophecy of scripture is by a private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. Beware the destructive ways of false prophets and teachers that blaspheme the way of truth.
2nd Peter 1:20 through 2:3
Heaven and earth to be destroyed by heat with a great noise. 2nd Peter 3:10
Prophets (God’s old testament communicators to the people)
Originally called seers. 1 Samual9:9
(God) spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, who have been since the world began, to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our way into the way of peace. Luke 1:70,79
Test if they are real by their fruits (what they produce for God). Matt.7:15-20 Stephen’s synopsis of the old testament. Acts 7:2-50
Paul’s history lesson. Acts 13:16-41
Protection
The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10 Put on the armor of God and pray. Eph.6:13-18
Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:7-8
God exhaults those who are humble before Him. James 4:10
Punishment
God does not cause bad to come to those saved in Christ who obey him. Psalm 103: 10, 12, 18 Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord, though they join forces, none will go
unpunished. Proverbs 16:5
Rapture then Return
The day of the Lord will come unexpectedly when people are saying peace and safety, but there is no escape. It will come as surly as labor pains come to a pregnant woman. 1Thes.5:2-4 Watch and be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love and the hope of salvation as a helmet, living together with Christ and encouraging one another. 1Thes.5:6-11 (This is the second coming to earth to fight against evil after the Rapture)
The saved are raised and changed in a moment.1Cor.15:23, 51-52, Heb.10:36-37 (This is before the second coming. Christ comes near the earth to retrieve the bodies of the saints.)
Christ return descriptions. Matt.24:30, Mark 13:26, Luke 21:27, Rev.1:7
When Christ, who is the life of those in His church, appears then they will also appear with Him in glory. A warning is also given to put to death the old nature of sin that will not be allowed in Heaven. Colossians 3:4-6 (This is the second coming to earth.)
When Christ returns from heaven as the archangel shouts and the trumpet of God blows, the dead in Christ will rise first, then those who are still alive will be caught up together to meet Christ in the clouds and be with Him forever. 1Thes.4:15-17 (This is before the second coming.)
The dead will rise as angels not given in marriage. Mark 12:25
In the day when the son of man is revealed (as our Lord coming in the sky) and as the saved are being taken to meet Christ in the air, some will be drawn to think about what and who they are leaving. Christ warns that we are not to look back for an instant, remembering what happened to Lot’s wife. Luke 17:20-37 In verse 22 Christ seems to extend the warning not to think back and desire the old earthly life to those in Heaven as well. (This is before the second coming.)
Christ is coming (again) in clouds and will be seen by every eye, even those who killed him.
Rev.1:7 (This is the second coming.)
Repentance
(To have true remorse for past wrongs done through a sinful nature, to decide to do better and to cry out to God for forgiveness and help.)
God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. 2nd
Peter 3:9
If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Repent, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38
Godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, which will not be regretted, but the sorrow of the world produces death. 2Cor.7:9-10
Thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength. Isaiah 30:15
Revenge
Seek no revenge. Romans 12:19
Do not be prideful. Repay evil with good. Romans 12:16-21
Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the Lord see it, and it displease Him, and He turn away his wrath from him. Proverbs 24:17-18
Salvation
Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55:6-7
Stand at the crossroads and look. Ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. Jeremiah 6:16
The only path to God, the Father, is through Christ. John 14:6, Acts 3:20-23, 4:10-12 Christ is the only mediator between God (the Father) and man. 1 Timothy 2:5
Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace.
Nahum 1:15
In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength. Isaiah 30:15 “Come now, and let us reason together,” says the Lord, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18
“ I will cleanse them from all their iniquity by which they have sinned against Me, and I will pardon all their iniquities by which they have sinned and by which they have transgressed against Me.” Jeremiah 33:8
God saves people in order that He will be recognized as God by Satan. Ezekiel 13:23
Man is not justified (acceptable to God) by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ.
Galatians 2:16
All who calls on the name of the Lord (Jesus) shall be saved. Joel 2:32 We are saved by grace through faith in Christ. Eph 2:8, Romans 3:24
Through Christ’s mercy, He saved us through the washing of His regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs, by hope, to eternal life. Titus 3:5-7
Verbally accept Christ and believe God raised Him from the dead to be saved.Rom.10:9, 13 Whoever confesses (belief and trust in) Christ before men Christ will also confess that person
before the angels of God. Luke 12:8
Whoever believes in Christ has everlasting life. (Shall live forever) John 3:16, 36, 4:14, 6:47, 1st John 5:12-13
Souls are purified by loving one another with a pure heart, having been born again by the incorruptible word of God which lives forever. 1st Peter 1:22-23
We see that they (those led by Moses) could not enter in (to their promised land) because of unbelief. Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest (in heaven), let us be careful lest any seem to have come short of it. God’s word was preached to us and them, but the word they heard did not profit them since those that heard it did not mix it with faith and obedience. Hebrews 3:16-19 and 4:1-11
Salvation, to the saved, is made perfect by suffering. Hebrews 2:10
God opens salvation and access to the Holy Spirit to the gentiles seeking God through repentance and Christ . Acts 10:9-16, 22, 34-35, 45-48, 11:18, 28:28, Romans 9:24-26,
Gal.3:8, 26-29, Eph.2:11-18, Colossians 1:27 (This was a change that God instituted after the Jews broke covenant with God by rejecting Christ and killing Him. In His early ministry, Jesus directed the deciples to avoid the Samaritans and Gentiles and reach out only to Israel in Matt. 10:5-6.)
The gospel of Christ is the power of God to salvation to Jew & Greek (gentile). Romans 1:16, 1Cor.1:24
The gentiles were included in God’s salvation plan to provoke the Jews to jealousy.
Rom.11:11
Of those that were given to Christ (before his death) only the son of perdition (Judas Iscariot, a deciple chosen in Luke 6:16) was lost. This was a requirement of scripture prophecy.
John 17:12
Christians are cleansed by grace. Rom. 3:24
God chose those to be saved in Christ, before the foundation of the world, that they should be holy and without blame in His presence, surrounded in love. (God knew who would accept Christ and created a path for their salvation.) Ephesians1:4 They are sanctified by the Spirit, belief in the truth and the covering of Christ’s blood for obedience. 1Peter 1:2, 2Thes.2:13
God predestined a way that those who accept Christ can, through His desired good will, become His sons (and daughters) by adoption. Ephesians 1:5
Christians are sanctified by God’s words of truth. John 17:17
When Christ sacrificed His body on the cross, those in Christ became holy and blameless (without sin) and above reproach before Christ. Colossians 1:21-22
Those having trusted Christ and hearing and believing of salvation through the word of truth (scripture) are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. The Holy Spirit’s presence is a guarantee of the coming inheritance until it is received. Ephesians 1:13-14
Christ explains that he came to seek and save the lost. Luke 19:10
Faith with works justify when works result from faith. James 2:14-17, 20-26 The just shall live by faith. Habak.2:4, Gal.3:11
(It is possible to fall from grace by rejecting God after salvation.) For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened and have tasted the heavenly gift and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they fall away, to be renewed again to repentance. They have crucified again for themselves the Son of God and subjected Him to open shame. Heb. 6:4-6 Example: In John 17:12 Christ, in prayer, says he kept (saved) all those given him except the son of perdition (Judas).
Faithful Christians are to God the fragrance (the sweet drawing) of Christ among others being saved and those perishing. 2Cor.2:15-16
Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Philip.2:12
Those in Christ have been delivered from the power of darkness and transported into the kingdom of Christ. They are redeemed through Christ’s blood and their sins are forgiven. Colossians 1:13-14, 1st Peter 1:18-19
“I (God), even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins.” Isaiah 43:25
Those that receive Christ find completeness in Him who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10
Salvation given to Zacchaeus’s family when Zacchaeus, a tax collector, repents and submits to Christ. Luke 19:1-9
A thief on a cross pardoned. Luke 23:40-43
Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in mercy. He will again have compassion on us, and will subdue our iniquities. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. Micah 7:18-19
As far as the East is from the West, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him. Psalm 103:12-13
Who may ascend to the hill of the Lord? Or who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully. Psalm 24:3-4
We are reborn (spiritually) when we accept Christ John 3:5 (We receive a new start as we are helped by the Holy Spirit to know and obey God. As in any birth, some pain is normally involved. Jesus suffered the pain that we might be born again.)
We come to God as children. Luke 18:16-17 (As children, we are to trust God and obey Him and receive correction when we make mistakes.)
When we receive Christ, we are also compared to servants. Luke 12:43-48 (We are to obey and honor God to give Christ glory.)
Satan, Lucifer, Beelzebub, Belial, The Devil, Prince of the air, Prince of this world
Created beautiful, wise and perfect by God. (As an angel) Ezekiel 28:12-15
Desired to be equal to God when pride crept in. Five “I will” statements. Isaiah 14:12-15 Fought with his angels against Michael and God’s angels in heaven, but lost. Rev.12:7,8
Was overcome by the blood of the Lamb (Christ when He rose from the dead) and by the word (of God). Rev.12:11 and 5:9 The kingdom given to the Father, by Christ when death was destroyed as the last enemy. (Christ did this when He rose from the grave.) 1Cor.15:20-27
Was cast with his angels (which became demons) into the earth. Rev.12:9 Christ saw Satan fall from Heaven like lightning. Luke 10:18
Now called Lucifer Isaiah 14:12 Called Beelzebub Matthew 12:24
Called the God or Prince of this world or age John 12:31, Ephesians 2:2, Blinds the unbelieving ones to the truth. 2nd Cor. 4:4
Called the Father of lies. John 8:44
Called the great dragon, Serpent of old, the Devil and Satan. Rev. 12:9 Called the accuser of the brethren. Rev. 12:10
Called Abaddon and Apollyon (destroyer). Rev. 9:11 Called an adversary or enemy. Matt. 13:28, 39
Called the wicked or evil one that snatches away. Matt. 13:19 Is a liar. John 8:44
Deceives and leads astray people. Rev. 12:9, 13:14, 1 Timothy 4:1,2
Is a murderer from the beginning and a liar from the beginning. John 8:44 Is a tempter (with evil and doubt). Matthew 4:3
Tempted Christ in the wilderness. Matt. 4:1-11 (Temptation can be overcome by recalling,
speaking and obeying scripture of God’s will.)
Was limited in what he could to Job. Job 1:12, 2:6
Is angry, knowing he only has a short time (on earth). Rev.12:12
Walks about as a roaring lion seeking who he can devour. 1 Peter 5:8 Persecutes the woman (speaking of Israel) that gave birth to (Jesus) Rev.12:13 Wars with those who follow Christ. Rev. 12:17
Gives power to the Beast. Rev. 13:2 Signified by 666. Rev.13:18
Will be bound and thrown into a bottomless pit for 1000 years. Rev.20:2,3 & 9:11 After the 1000 years will again deceive people for a short time. Rev.20:3,7,8
Will ultimately be thrown into the lake of fire forever. Rev.20:10
Scripture
Your word have I hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against you (Lord). Psalm 119:11 All scripture is given by the inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, reproof,
correction, instruction in righteousness that the man (and woman) of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2Tim.3:16
The word of God is living and powerful, sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit and of joints and marrow. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
Sin
Seven things God hates: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies and one who sows discord among the brethren. Proverbs 6:16-19
He who despises his neighbor sins. Proverbs 14:21
God promises to blot out transgressions and not remember sins. Isaiah 43:25
To obey (God) is better than sacrifice. Rebellion is like the sin of witchcraft. Stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. 1Samual 15:22, 23
David explained how to avoid sin by trusting in the Lord, doing good, living in the (kingdom) land, being nurtured by God’s faithfulness, delighting in the Lord, committing your life to the Lord and resting in Him. Patiently wait for God, not being jealous of those seeming to prosper in evil. Cease from anger and do not worry, the meek shall inherit the earth and have an abundance of peace. Show mercy and give and even though you may fall, you will not be destroyed. God loves justice and will not forget His saints.
The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell in it forever. God saves those that trust in Him. Psalms 37:3-8,11, 21-24, 28-29, 39-40.
Do not take advantage of the poor or those who labor for you. Give all you owe to the poor and needy before sunset, for if they cry to God about it, it becomes sin to you.
Deut.24:12-15
A child shall snot suffer for the parent’s sin, or a parent for the sins of the child. Each is judged for his/her own sin. Ezekiel 18:20
We sin if we do not obey God’s commandments. See “Commandments.”
We sin if we do anything to cause another person to sin. 1Cor. 8:8-13, Romans 14:13, 21
We sin if we do anything that we believe is unclean (sin). Romans 14:14, 22-23 God said,”I will deal with them according to their conduct, and by their own standards I will judge
them.” Ezekiel 7:27
We sin if we know to do good and do not do it. James 4:17 We sin if we show partiality (between people). James 2:9
Sin occurs when we think, speak and do things that are evil and wrong in God’s sight. Things conceived in our hearts as: Evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander arrogance and folly. These things make one unclean. Mark 7:20-23 Example: If a man looks at a woman (not his wife) lustfully, he has committed adultery with her in his heart. Matt. 5:28 Job knew that the eyes can lead the heart to sin. Job 31:1,7
The more that we give into sin, the more power it has over us. That is why God tells us to think on good things and to run from sexual temptation. He knows that if we dwell on sinful things, the harder it is to resist them. The more that we think about things that anger us, the more likely we are to speak or act in a sinful nature. Thus, thought leads to speech. Speech leads to actions. Actions lead to habits. Put away anger and bitterness. James 4:7 Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Ephesians.3:31,32, 4:31, Colossians.:3:8, Colossians.3:12-17, Philippians.4:8, 1Corinthians 6:18-20, 2Timmothy 2:16,22, 1Peter2:1-2, Titus 3:2
Whoever hates his brother is a murderer and does not have eternal life in him. 1st John 3:15 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our
sins, He is faithful and just to forgive them and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. 1st John 1:8- 10
Whoever abides in Him (Christ) does not sin (purposely) for Christ is in him and Satan does not touch him.. 1st John 3:6,9, 5:18
God rejects those that do not give Him glory and thanks and leads them into various sins.
Romans 1:21-32
Whoever commits sin commits lawlessness, because sin is lawlessness. 1st John 3:4 Do not live as a drunk, in lewdness or lust, strife or envy. Romans 13:13
It is unimportant to God what is eaten unless it creates a stumbling block to lead someone else into sin. If another sins as a result of seeing a Christian eat something they consider wrong, it is counted as a sin to the Christian. 1Cor.8:8-13
When God’s laws and covenants are in our hearts and minds God says, “Their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no more.” (This applies to past sins. New sins need fresh repentance and requests for forgiveness.) Hebrews 10:16-17
Give all you owe to the poor and needy before sunset, for if cry to God about it, it becomes sin to you. Deut.24:12-15
Do not show favoritism, doing less for the poor and more for those who can repay you. (This is sin born out of greed.) James 2:1,6,9
Evil is hidden to those who are to die (without Christ’s salvation). 2nd Corinthians 4:3,4
Sin enters a person through fornication (illicit sexual intercourse with either sex), uncleanliness (specified in Christ’s time as coming from bad foods, dead bodies or diseases), incorrect passions (such as pride, greed or lust) and covetousness (the worship of idols).
Colossians 3:5,6
Some sins, (even committed by those following Christ) do not lead to death. All
unrighteousness is sin, but some sins do not lead to death. 1st John 5:16-17
If we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins (by Christ), but a certain fearful expectation of judgment and fiery indignation which will devour (God’s) adversaries. Hebrews 10:26-27 (There is still hope though, if real repentance comes, we turn from our wicked ways, and we ask for God’s forgiveness and grace to return. See “Repentance”)
Witchcraft and fortune telling not allowed. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 False prophets in old Israel were killed. Deuteronomy 18:20-22
If one man sins against another, a judge will judge him, but if a man sins against the Lord who will intercede for him? 1Samual 2:25
Sin (unforgivable)
Pride causes sin to enter a person. 1 Timothy 3:6
Blasphemy (Speaking) against the Holy Ghost will not be forgiven. Matt. 12:31-32 Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost (Spirit) will not be forgiven. Mark 3:29, Luke 12:10 Grieve not the Holy Spirit that seals you until the day of redemption. Eph.4:30
To rebel and vex the Holy Spirit is to fight against Him and become His enemy, whom He will fight against. Isa.63:10
Souls
Whoever commits adultery destroys their own soul. Proverbs 6:32 The Lord will not allow a righteous soul to famish. Proverbs 10:3 The merciful man does good for his own soul. Proverbs 11: 17 The generous soul will be made rich. Proverbs 11:25
A desire accomplished is sweet to the soul. Proverbs 13:19
He who keeps the commandment(s) keeps his soul. Proverbs 19:16
Do not rob the poor because he is poor, nor oppress the afflicted at the gate; for the Lord will plead their cause, and plunder the soul of those who plunder them. Proverbs 22:22-23
Fleshly lusts war against the soul. 1st Peter 2:11
Speaking
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord, but the words of the pure are pleasant. Proverbs 15:26 The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil. Proverbs 15:28
The preparations of the heart belong to a man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.
Proverbs 16:1
He who has knowledge spares his words. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace. When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive. Proverbs 17: 27-28
A fool’s lips enter into contention, and his mouth calls for blows. A fool’s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. Proverbs 18:6-7
Death and life are in the power of the tongue. (People encourage others to correct living or tempt them into evil by what they say.) Proverbs 18:21
Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.
Proverbs 23:9
Through (Christ) let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, as the fruit of our lips,
giving thanks to His name. Hebrews 13:15
Let your speech be gracious, seasoned with salt, that you may know how to answer everyone.
Col. 4:6
Speak truthfully with love. Ephesians 4:15, 25
Speak in psalms, hymns & spiritual songs, singing and making melody I your heart to the Lord.
Ephesians 5:19
Let no corrupt word come out of the mouth, but only that which builds up to those that hear.
Ephesians 4:29
Do not even speak of fornication, uncleanness, covetousness, filthiness, foolish talking or course jesting. These things are not fitting for saints. Ephesians 5:3-4, 12
If anyone thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue, deceiving his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. James 1:26
We are accountable for every word. Matt. 12:36
Words out of the mouth come from the heart and defile a person. Matt. 15:18
Do not swear at all. Matt.5:34 Do not swear or god will judge you for it James 5:12
The tongue can set fire (for good or) defiling the whole body. It sets the course of nature. No man can tame the tongue (without Christ). (All things are possible with Christ) James 3:1-12
Women not to speak in church. They were to ask their husbands about any questions they had later. 1Cor.14:34-35 Paul felt that women were not to teach or usurp the authority the authority of men due to Eve’s leading Adam into sin. 1 Timothy 2:12-14
Let your speech have grace, seasoned with salt (having a pleasant flavor) that you will know how you ought to answer (those outside the church). Col.4:5-6
Avoid profane and idle babblings & contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge. By professing it some have strayed from the faith. 1Timothy 6:20-21
Shun profane and idle babblings, they increase to more ungodliness. 2Tim.2:16
Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard (or read) in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Keep these by the Holy Spirit who dwells within. 2Tim.1:13-14
Do not refuse the words of Christ spoken on earth, for if there was no escape when He spoke on earth, how much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him speaking from heaven. Hebrews 12:25
Do not say you are planning this or that, for you do not know what tomorrow will bring and life is fleeting. Instead say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that” instead of boasting what you shall do in arrogance to God as a sin. James 4:13-17
Speak evil of no one, be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. Titus 3:2 The worlds were framed by the word of God. Hebrews 11:3
God’s word goes forth from His mouth; and does not return void, but accomplishes what He pleases and prospers in the thing for which He sent it. Isaiah 55:11
The heavens and the earth that are now preserved by (God’s) word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition for ungodly men. 2nd Peter 3:7
Christ cursed (killed) a fig tree that gave a false hope for food. (In like manner, Christ came to destroy Satan who seeks to destroy the hope of people with his lies.) He also used the incident to teach how words spoken in faith can do miracles when God’s will, for forgiveness, is being followed. Matthew 21:19-21, Mark 11:13-14 & 20-26
Spirit
Holy Spirit. (See Holy Spirit)
Spirit of divination removed. Acts 16:16-18
Unclean spirits can return stronger to the wicked. Matt.12:43-45, Luke 11:24-26
A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
Proverbs 15:13 Spiritual gifts. (See blessings.)
Spiritual growth
With all diligence begin with faith and add: virtue, knowledge, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. If these abound in you, you will be fruitful in the knowledge of Christ and will not fall. 2nd Peter 1:5-10
Tabernacle of God ( A holy place where God’s laws were kept, in early times, and sacrifices and worship were offered to God.)
The old testament tabernacle described: Hebrews 9:1-10, 19-22
The new tabernacle,(within the body of each follower), sanctified by Christ’s sacrifices as a high priest is described: Heb.9:11-15, 23-28 (Here we are also to offer sacrifice and worship to God and keep His laws.)
Taken to heaven miraculously Enoch Gen. 5:24, Heb.11:5 Elijah 2nd Kings 2:11
Testing
God waits to be gracious and have mercy on you in order that He will be exalted. Those who wait for Him are blessed and receive justice. Isaiah 30:18
God fulfills the vision of those who wait (on Him). Habakkuk 2:1-3
God invites testing to prove His blessings when tithing is done. Malachi 3:10 Christians are tested by their fruit. (Bringing in new Christians) Matt. 12:33
No one can say “Jesus is Lord” (and mean it) except by the Holy Spirit. 1Cor.12:3 Every spirit that does not confess Jesus came in the flesh, is not of God. 1John 4:3
Whoever speaks of Jesus as the son of God, God abides in him & he in God.1John 4:15, Romans 10:9
One who speaks of himself seeks glory for himself, but those that seek glory for (Christ) are true and have no unrighteousness in them. John 7:18
Those who do not hear God’s words are not of God. John 8:47
Christians are tempted in order that they may grow and help others. Hebrews 2:18 Rejoice that testing of your faith develops patience (perseverance). James 1:2-3 God will not allow temptation beyond our ability to resist. 1Cor.10:12-13
Active Christians will be persecuted by the world. John 15:18-23
Those who live according to the flesh think about things of the flesh. Those who live according to the Spirit think about things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5, 1st Cor.2:14
Those not saved think the message of Christ’s cross is foolishness. 1st Cor.1:18
Believers are to judge (test) all things (as good or evil) guided by the Holy Spirit who knows
the mind of Christ 1Cor.2:15-16, 1Thes.5:21
Pray without ceasing, giving thanks for everything. Do not quench the Holy Spirit. Respect prophesies. Test all things, holding onto that which is good. Abstain from every form of evil. 1Thes.5:17, 21, 22
Carnal people, and churches, show envy, strife and division. 1Cor.3:3
By two or three witnesses every word shall be established (proven). 2Cor.13:1 Test (examine) yourself to know that Christ is in you. 2Cor.13:5
He who says that he is in the light, but hates his brother is in darkness and is blinded, because those that are in the light love their brothers. 1st John 1:6-8, 4:19-21
Do not love the world or the things of the world; the lust of the flesh, the pride of life, or else the love of the Father is not in you. 1st John 2:15-16
We are assured that we know Him (Christ), if we keep His commandments. 1st John 2:3-6, 5:2-3
Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either. He who acknowledges the Son has also the Father.1st John 2:23-24
Whoever has been born of God does not sin (purposely). 1st John 3:9-10
If our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. 1st John 3:21
Whoever sins (purposely) and does not abide (live) according to the doctrine of Christ does not have God. Whoever lives by the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.
2nd John 1:9 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house or greet him, else you share in his evil deeds. 2nd John 1:10-11
Those that keep Christ’s commandments abide in Him and He in them. This is proven by the Holy Spirit being given to those that abide in Him. 1st John 3:24, 4:12-16
We are told to test people’s spirits to see if they are of God. The specific test is if they confess that Jesus has come in the flesh. 1st John 4:1,2 The reverse is also true as a description of the spirit of the Anti-Christ. 1 st John 4:3 The Antichrist spirit speaks the base language of the world and the worldly people listen. 1st John 4:5 Those that know God listen to other godly people. 1st John 4:6 Once a person has passed the test, other Christians are to love them. Verse 7
If a person does not love as they should, they are not of god. (This can also be a self test)
God gave the example of what it is to love by showing the love of Christ. Verses 9, 10 One Christian loving another is a self test to know that one is abiding in Christ and He in
them since He has given them of his spirit. 1st John 4:12-13
When Christians stand together in faith, and not in fear, they are proof of perdition to the unsaved and proof of salvation to the saved. Philip.1:27-28
Beware that none cheat you out a belief in Christ through philosophy, deceit, tradition or the base principles of the world which are not in agreement with Christ’s teachings.
Colossians 2:8
The gospel is to be spoken so as to please God, not men, as a means of testing the hearts of those who speak it. 1Thes.2:4
What we speak is important for the things said will eventually become the basis for much of our judgement. Matthew 12:36
Notice, that all of these check tests do not involve time, gender, location, race or age. They are
universal helps to better know ourselves and those that we come in contact with. Their primary concern is for our welfare and our relationship to God. They are not complicated, but are as simple as taking ones temperature. Isn’t it nice that God loves us so. He wants us to judge ourselves now, knowing that if we do not, He will eventually have to.
Tidbits of trivia
Another name for Hell in the earth is Tartarus. 2nd Peter 2:4 Time reversed by God. Isa 38:8
Tithing See Giving
Tradition
Religious traditions were developed by man as aids to prevent a person from sinning. If a person only obeys traditions and does not honor God with their heart (and correct actions as defined by God) their worship is in vain. Mark 7:1-9
God’s requirement to honor (& help) father and mother is not to be canceled by tradition to give to the church. Mark 7:9-13
Transformations
John the Baptist became Elijah. Malachi 4:5, Matt.11:12-15, Mark 9:13, Luke 1:13-17, Luke 9:7-8
Christ transfigured Matt. 17:2, Mark 9:2-3, Luke 9:29
Trinity (God the Father, Son Christ & Holy Spirit)
All present together at the same time. Matt.3:16-17, Luke 3:21-22
The (Holy) Spirit descended from heaven, as a dove, and remained on Christ. John 1:32 There are three that bear witness in heaven: The Father, the Word (Christ described John 1:1),
and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one. There are three that bear witness on earth: The Spirit, the water and the blood; and these three agree as one. 1st John 5:7-8
See also “The Trinity” on page 80.
Tongues
Prophesy & tongues not to be forbidden if done in order. 1Cor.14:39-40
Unity
Christ’s grief over the Jewish church’s waywardness. Matt.23:37
Speak in agreement with other believers, that there are no divisions among you, but that you are perfectly joined. 1 Cor.1:10
God is not the author of confusion, but of peace. 1Cor.15:33
There is only one body (the church), one Spirit, one hope for salvation, one God and father of all who is above all, through all and in you (those in Christ) all. Ephesians 4:4-6
Do all things without complaining and disputing. Philip.2:14
Do not grumble against other believers. The judge is standing at the door. James 5:9 Be one with other believers as Christ is one (caring and acting in unity) with the Father.
John 17:22-23
Avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing they generate strife. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, encouraging Godly repentance, that they may know the truth and escape the devil’s snare. 2Tim.2:23-26
Avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable (spiritually) and useless. Reject a divisive man after the second admonition. Titus 3:9-10
Waste
Do not give what is Holy to the dogs (unbelievers). Matt 7:6, 15:26, Mark 7:27
Wisdom
To obey (God) is better than sacrifice. Rebellion is like the sin of witchcraft. Stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. 1Samual 15:22, 23
The Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. 1Samuel 16:7
God’s people are destroyed (or fail) from a lack of knowledge. Hosea 4:6
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever. Psalm 111:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. Proverbs 1:7
God is not impressed by strength, but fear (high respect) of Him and those that hope in (for) His mercy. Acts 10:34,35, Rom. 2:10,11, Psalm 147:10,11, He is impressed by obedience to His commands, by love, mercy, truth and faithfulness. Proverbs 3:1-4
Fools hate knowledge and turn (reject God) at His rebuke. When God calls and we refuse Him; when He reaches out to us and we do not regard Him; then when calamity comes and we seek God and call on Him He will not hear and will not be found. Prov.1:23, 24, 27, 28, 29
God gives (is the source of) wisdom. Prov.2:6
Do not rely on what you think you know (by reasoning born of the world, but trust God’s Spirit and His word.) Proverbs 3:5
Adultery destroys the soul. Proverbs 6:32
Whoever finds (God), finds life and obtains favor from the Lord. Proverbs 8:35
He who walks with wise men (company) will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed. Proverbs 13:20
A wise man fears (God and the law) and departs from evil. Proverbs 14:16 Wisdom rests in the heart of him who has understanding. Proverbs 14:15 A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9
Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18
Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Proverbs 19:20, 12:15 The righteous & merciful perish and are taken from evil to enter into peace & rest.
Isaiah 57:1-2
Eating vegetables and drinking water is good for the body. Daniel 1:12-16
Do not expect spiritual wisdom if you have a hardened heart (unwilling to seek and obey Christ or give to the needy) Mark 6:52
To be wise without knowing God and giving Him glory & thanks is impossible.
Romans 1:21-22
If any lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith with no doubting. James 1:5-6
Call to God and He will answer to show you great and mighty things you do not know.
Jeremiah 33:3
Those who are wise should show good conduct by works done in the meekness of wisdom. If there is bitter envy in your heart do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom is earthly, sensual and demonic, for where envy and self seeking exist, there is confusion and every evil thing. Wisdom from above is pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partially and hypocrisy. James 3:13-17
When an unclean spirit is cast out of a person and the person return to sin, seven additional unclean spirits will return back into the person. Luke 11:24-26
There is nothing that is covered or hidden that will not be known. Luke 12:2-3
Much will be required from those to whom much has been given; and to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded. (By God) Luke 12:48
To know Christ is to know (God) the Father. John 8:19 Whoever commits sin is a slave to sin. John 8:34
The devil is a murderer from the beginning. He is not surrounded by truth because there is no truth in him. He speaks lies and is the father of lies. John 8:44
Those who do not hear God’s words are not of God. John 8:47 When Christ is received, the Father is received. John 13:20
It is hard to go against God (plus truth & His will). Acts 9:5, Romans 1:18
Tribulations produce perseverance, perseverance produces character and character produces hope. Hope does not disappoint. Romans 5:3-5
Do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives. If you endure chastening, God deals with you as sons. Heb.12:5-11
Do not think yourself wise or think on high things, but associate with the humble.
Romans 12:16
Be wise in what is good, simple (unknowing) of evil. Romans 16:19
God is the true wise one, due glory through Christ forever. Romans 16:27
Do not worry that you have to save others through wise speech, but allow Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross to work. 1 Cor.1:17
God chose the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise and the weak things to shame the mighty. The base (simple) things and things not seen overcome the things esteemed and highly thought of. 1Cor.1:27-28
Put faith (and trust) in the power of God instead of the wisdom of men. 1Cor.2:5 The wisdom of the world is foolishness with God. 1Cor.3:19-20
Walk in wisdom concerning those outside (the church), redeeming (making good use of) the time. Col.4:5
Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all. Proverbs 28:5 The letter (attention to detail) kills, but the Spirit gives life. (Look at the big picture and ask
God’s Spirit to guide you into truth and liberty.) 2nd Corinthians 3:6, 17 If anyone receives glory, it is given by God. 2nd Cor.10:17
There are false apostles (church leaders). Even Satan can appear as an angel of God.
2Cor.11:13-14
There are many outside the church, and especially within the church, who are circumcised (as religious) that are insubordinate, idle talkers & deceivers, subverting whole households and teaching that which they should not for dishonest gain. Their mouths must be stopped by sharp rebukes. Titus 1:10-13
To the pure, all things are pure. But to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure.
They profess to know God, but in their works they deny Him being abominable, disobedient and unqualified for all good works. Titus 1:15-16
Those who work to fulfill the desires of the flesh will be corrupted by those things. Those who work for the things of the Spirit will receive eternal life from the Spirit. Gal.6:8 (Unchecked anger, greed, lust or jealousy leads to sin. These are self fueling fires that consume the owner but do not satisfy.)
People are tempted when drawn away by their own desires and are enticed. Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin , when full grown, brings forth death.
James 1:14-15
People stumble (spiritually) when they are disobedient to God’s word. 1st Peter 2:8
Satan can hinder, and tempt those in Christ. 1Thes.2:18, 3:5 But, they should not worry, knowing that (these battles) are a part of God’s plan. 1Thes.3:3
(The saved) are created by God in Christ to do good works, that were prepared in advance for (them) to do. Ephesians 2:4-10
God created all things through Christ. Ephesians 3:9
We are created that we might live for the praise of God’s glory. Ephesians 1:12 Godliness with contentment for basic needs shows spiritual maturity. Those who greedily
desire to be rich can fall into temptations, snares and lusts that lead to destruction and sorrows. Flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith and hang onto eternal life to which you were called and confessed before many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:6-12
With the Lord, one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 2nd Peter 3:8 God knows infants even before they are created in the womb. Jeremiah 1:5
He that hides his sin shall not prosper, but whoso confesses and forsakes sin shall have mercy.
Proverbs 28:13, similar 1John 1:9
When an unclean spirit is gone out of a man, the man will walk through dry places (hard times) seeking rest and finds none. Matt. 12:43-45 (This is a period of testing) for the unclean spirit may return and bring 7 more unclean spirits with him (if the man does not refill himself with godly things first.)
Spiritual understanding is given to the saved that they might know that they have eternal life and continue to believe in the name of Christ. 1John 5:13
Work(s)
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2Tim.2:15
Christians are to do all work well as though they are working for Christ. Col.3:23
Works are noted by God and rewarded accordingly. Psalms 33:15, Matt. 16:7, Rev. 2:2, 22:12 Do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Heb.13:16
The works of Christ bear witness (prove) that God (the Father) sent Him. John 5:36
Faith without works is dead. You are justified by faith and resultant works. James 2:14-26 All things work together for good to those who love God. Romans 8:28
Methods of ministry described. 2Cor.6:3-10
God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we (those that are His) ask or think, according to the power that works in us. Ephesians 3:20
Work with your hands, doing what is good, that you may give to someone in need. Eph.4:28 Those that please God can be fruitful in every good work, increasing in knowledge of God;
strengthened with His power, patience and longsuffering with joy, and giving thanks to the Father. Colossians 1:10-12
Commit your works to the Lord and your thoughts will be established. Proverbs 16:3 Those who will not work should not eat (food provided by the church. Some who were
appointed to work in the church were just being busybodies and gossiping. This was a correctional method to get them back into productive pursuits.) 2Thes.3:10-12
Maintain good works that are good and profitable to men. Titus 3:8
Worry
Anxiety weighs down the human heart, but a good word cheers it up. Proverbs 12:25 Do not worry about earthly treasures, but spiritual ones. Matt.6:19-20
Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Life is more important than all these. The birds do not sow or reap or gather into barns, yet God as the heavenly Father feeds them. Don’t you think you are of more value (to God) than them? Is there anyone that can become taller by worrying? Why worry about clothes?
Think of the lilies in the fields, how they grow, but neither work or spin (make clothes); yet even Solomon, as king, in all his glory was never dressed as well. So if God clothes the grass in the field, which is (temporary), won’t He much more clothe you, you of little faith? So do not worry about what you will eat or drink or wear. Your heavenly Father knows you need all these things. Instead, seek first the kingdom of God and His (Christ’s) righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Also, don’t worry about tomorrow, but let tomorrow worry about its own things. Every day has enough problems and troubles (for you to be concerned and pray about, then trust in God.)
Matthew 6:25-34
Worship
Give thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 5:20
Worship to God is in vain for those that only honor God with their speech and not with their hearts. Example given of teaching the traditions of man as God’s commandments.
Mark 7:7-9
Questions and answers: Index
Why are some people apparently not blessed when they tithe?
How do I know God and Christ’s resurrection were real?
Is it possible that Judas Iscariot was saved for Heaven?
How accurate is the Bible?
I’m supposed to love my enemies, blessing them and praying for them? God, surely you are kidding!
The three faces of God (The Trinity)
What in the world is a Behemoth and a Leviathan?
How could God lose glory as described in John 17:5 ?
Why was Christ’s first miracle turning water into wine at a wedding?
What is the meaning of a white stone and a new name received in heaven? Rev.2:17
How could Christ escape all sin including the sin of Adam, passed on by blood?
How to interpret the parable of the Vines
Jacob’s curse
PRAYER – Blessing BLOCKERS
Ask – Believe – Speak – Receive
God the Master Gardener
Victory
God’s Rx for Healing Body and Soul
Healing
Why did God choose Job for trouble?
God does not change
Why did the crowed turn on Jesus when he was being judged by Pilate?
Why God told Moses not to cross the Jordan River
Praying Effectively
Why Christ killed the fig tree
Holiness originates with The Father
Are there people on other planets?
Intimacy with the Holy Spirit
Why should one desire the Holy Spirit (plus other evidences of the Holy Spirit)
Why do troubles happen?
Why God Does What He Does
At times we all wonder why an all powerful, all knowing, righteous & Holy God does what He does and allows certain things to happen. His word tells us that we cannot know His ways which are higher than ours. But, we are given many clues in scripture by how He treated the people there. We also know the nature of God because He has been very transparent in how he feels, what He desires and how and why He meets out reasonable corrective discipline in love, as a parent should, or disciplines for punishment. In any event, God wants us to know His will and tells us to seek Him first, knowing that He will reveal Himself to us. God saves people in order that He will be recognized as God. Ezekiel 13:23 He also promises that when we humbly seek knowledge, He will provide it. James 1:5-6 God truly desires a loving, trusting relationship with all people*. That relationship can only exist when people accept Christ, follow The Father’s rules and allow the influence of Christ and the Holy Spirit to control their lives as they are being changed into the nature and personality of Christ. We know how Jesus thought because he told us his feelings in scripture and the Holy Spirit is available to guide us with God’s will. 1Cor.2:11-16 He puts His laws into our hearts and minds. Heb.10:16
Becoming as Christ is never fully achieved here on earth, but is completely reached upon entry into heaven. We know that perfection and holiness must be completed in heaven because scripture relates that now we only know in part, but there will be a time when we know (all) and are completely known. 1 Cor.13:12 We also know that, by God’s nature, He does not allow anything unholy in His presence. * The relationship God desires is ongoing and is renewed daily. Just as the children of Israel were dependant on God for daily bread, that only lasted for a day (Exodus 16:19-20), Christ instructed the deciples to pray for daily bread (physical and spiritual nourishment)(See prayer)
Why do Christians suffer?
There are several possible reasons. Change is never easy. When Christians are being changed from people caring about worldly things into people caring about spiritual goals the transition is often painful. Lessons sometimes involve correctional discipline by God as He molds our new character. Our faith must be strengthened, James 1:2- 4, as we learn to trust God more and more relying on things we cannot physically see and hear. We are taught to trust our spiritual senses more and more. The main way faith becomes stronger is by testing which often involves trials and temptations which cause us to flex spiritual muscles. Each time we persevere and trust in God, He brings us through the problem or gives us the strength to endure the pain. Either way, we can understand more and can honestly testify to others that God is with us and has helped us. God desires us to give Him glory and honor, John 9:1-3. Not all problems come as a result of sin. Some suffered without having undue sin in Luke 13:1-4. A man near a temple had not sinned, nor his parents to cause the man to be blind from birth. Christ healed him to reveal God in him, John 9:1-3. Job feared God and shunned evil, Job 1:8, but was given troubles and illness to prove to Satan that Job was strong in God. His life and faith gave God glory and honor. Although, at one point Job admits a flaw in faith in that he had feared troubles might come to him. Job 3:25. Paul had an infirmity that he prayed to God about. 2 Cor.12:7-9 God told him that His grace was sufficient and that when nd he, Paul, was weak physically, he became stronger spiritually because he was forced to trust in God instead of himself. Paul accepted the illness as a means that he could glorify God and draw closer to Him. Some times God may use pain to cause us to slow down, reflect and seek Him. When things are going to well, pride or striving for worldly things may begin to draw us away from God. Perhaps, we are being taught humility as in 2 Corinthians 12:8-10. Or perhaps, there nd is unconfessed sin, 1 Corinthians 11:28-32. Taking communion without forgiving others can cause sickness or death. 1 Cor. 11:27-32. The best way to avoid judgement by God is to judge ourselves and daily repent where we are at fault and ask God for forgiveness. In this way, God does not have to judge us for those things. 1 Cor. 11:31 We have already judged ourselves guilty by God’s standards. See also the topic “Why did God choose Job for trouble” do Troubles Happen” , will also be helpful.
Why are some people apparently not blessed when they tithe?
First, know that blessings come in many ways and in many forms. Blessings can be of a spiritual or physical nature. Some spiritual blessings are reserved for heaven. Ephesians 1:3 75 Blessings can be hindered by unbelief or a lack of faith. Matt. 13:57-58, Mark 6:4-5 Blessings can be canceled if they are desired for our own pleasures with no thought of pleasing God. James 4:2-4 There are also times when God may open a door of potential blessing but we may not choose to enter in. Sometimes we have to be willing to accept new opportunities where God desires to bless us. Blessings usually happen after difficult times of testing. It may be that some cannot endure the testing and fail. God’s greatest blessing is salvation through Christ, which we have to choose to accept. Seldom do miraculous gifts of blessing come as cash in the mail. We have a great deal to do with our own worldly success. To receive high pay we must choose work that is in demand and highly valued. A newspaper carrier will never earn a doctor’s salary. Another option is to gain wealth by managing many people, who are doing something needed well, and to gain income through their work. A third method for income is to develop and earn money on something desired by many. Of course, God always has options for miracles.
Do not give up on God! All things are possible through Christ. Attitudes are very important when working for others. If a person does not try to do good work, they will not and they will fail. If anyone is often negative in speech or appearance, or is perceived in a bad way, people will not desire their presence or work. To compete with others, people must aggressively pursue success. Good advertising, modern methods, timely responses and reasonable rates are important tools to seek and retain customers. Personal salesmanship and desire to fulfill the needs of the customer are parts of the bold spirit required whether obtaining promotions or winning people to Christ. Abilities and interest are basics in being successful. It is just as bad to be unprepared to work as it is not to want to work. With sufficient desire most people can become prepared for any job. However, if a person’s attitude leads them to dislike a work, the work may suffer and they will assuredly suffer also. Perhaps, even to the point of harming their health.
Consider also the possibility that God may desire to use people to encourage others who are also suffering or who are working alongside. Opportunities for service to God may require that some rewards be given in non-tangible ways which nonetheless give present happiness or peace of mind in the midst of hard times. How can we put a price on healing, a healthy body or the salvation of a loved one. Scripture tells us to think on positive things and rejoice even if we can only envision future better times to come. God is still in control. One reason he tells us to count our blessings is because in counting them, we are forced to look for them. Tithing is a way that we honor God and show that we appreciate His blessings. It shows how much value we believe that God has in our lives. God could have just withheld the tithe amount from our income, but He knows that true relationships involve giving gifts and trust between the participants. Tithing allows us to return part of His gift back to Him to show our care and honor for Him and the importance of our relationship with Him.
How do I know God is real, scripture is true and Christ’s resurrection really happened?
• There has to be a creator to have made our complex universe so large, beautiful and intricately made working together in harmony. This is to say that the things God made, such as our bodies, work in harmony, but what worldly people do seldom results in harmony. Worldly mankind tends to create discord, born out of greed, lust or pride but God creates harmony in His works and in scripture.
• The resurrection is proved in that: There was a sudden change in the attitude of the deciples and in people in general. The disciples, who were discouraged after the death 76 of Christ, suddenly became energized and powerful witnesses. There were over 500 people who personally saw the risen savior. 1Co 15:4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures; 1Co 15:5 and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the Twelve. 1Co 15:6 Afterward He was seen by over 500 hundred brothers at once, of whom the greater part remain until this present day, but also some fell asleep (died). 1Co 15:7 Afterward He was seen by James, then by all the apostles.
• Rome reacted to the resurrection of Christ. After Jesus rose from the dead and was seen by many, Rome thought they better find out who he really was. Investigations and interviews were conducted with those who were involved with Christ. The actions of Pilate and Herod Antipas, for the death of John the Baptist, were called into question. Reports were written for the Roman Senate to review. Eventually, records found their way to Constantine in 337 AD and later to the Vatican in Rome. Doctors McIntosh and Twyman worked on studying those scrolls relating to the records of the Sanhedrin and the Talmuds of the Jews and produced a book called “The Archko Volume” about 1887. The accounts add further insight to the happenings of that time and in no way conflict with scripture.
• Our present calendar was even begun in a way that honors Christ’s birth and death with “BC” and “AD”added. This has never happened for any other individual throughout history.
• The gospel and worship of Christ has persevered over 2000 years and was foretold by scripture long before he was born. A remnant of believers has always remained to witness to future generations.
• God did many miracles through Christ when He walked on earth and God still creates miracles that we cannot explain today. One of the greatest miracles is that of how people are changed for the better in personality and goals when they receive Christ in their hearts. God’s power is also evident in how He strengthens people emotionally to be over comers no matter what trial or temptation is encountered. Prayer coupled with humble obedience to Christ’s words, faith and patience works
• Followers of Christ when empowered by the Holy Spirit spoke in tongues, on the day of Pentecost, which they had never learned but which were understood by other peoples present.
• Scripture prophecies are true and valid and still are coming to pass.
• Archeological digs continue to prove the validity of scripture. Noah’s ark has been found in Turkey. Multiple writings of scripture and artifacts found in several countries agree with each other in content and the telling of biblical events and peoples. The site of the Tower of Babel has been found in Iraq.
. Christ fulfilled over 80 prophecies about him as Savior. He could not have influenced these prophecies because they were translated into the Greek Septuagint 200 to 300 years before Christ was born.
• Do you still have a hard time believing? Then just accept Christ by faith. God has provided you faith for that purpose. Rom 12:3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to every one who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think. But set your mind to be rightminded, even as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith.
Is it possible that Judas Iscariot was saved for Heaven?
Judas doesn’t seem to have much going for him on his own merit. He was a thief that stole from the deciples. John 12:6 He even complained when expensive perfume was lavished on Christ because he wanted some of the value it represented for himself. Christ correctly spoke of him as a devil He had chosen. John 6:70, 71 We are told that Satan entered the heart of Judas in Luke 22:3 and John 13:26. He betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver in Matt. 26:16, Mark 14:10 & 11 and Luke 22:6. Christ even says that it would have been better that Judas had never been born if He betrayed Him as the son of man (God). Mark 14:21 Based on his greed, it appears that Judas might have only joined the deciples hoping to receive power and riches when Christ became an earthly king. Most Jews at that time were looking for a messiah that would deliver them by force from Roman oppression. They even went so far as to choose Barabbas over Christ at His trial because he acted more like the savior they were expecting when he killed the Roman soldier and desired to lead the people in a revolt against their oppressors. Judas could have even rationalized that by betraying Jesus he would force Christ to assume his kingly role to save Himself. Christ kept explaining that He desired no personal glory on earth ( John 8:50). How the deciples had to become servants in order to receive a heavenly reward Luke 22:26-27 and had told how He and the deciples would be beaten, scorned and put to death. Mark 13:3-13 Certainly, these were not things Judas had planned on. How could he make Jesus into an earthly king and reverse these outcomes? Judas had missed the point of Jesus’s ministry.
However, Judas did have true remorse when he realized Christ was condemned to die. Matt. 27:3-4 He even went so far as to return the 30 pieces of silver to the priests. Then he hanged himself in Matt. 27:5, (an act of murder that is unacceptable to God. Mark 7:21) but the sash he used for the hanging broke or came undone and when he fell on rocks below (Acts 1:18) his bowels gushed out. The priests meanwhile realized they could not accept Judas’s tainted blood money and purchased the “field of blood” for Judas’s burial. Matthew 27:6-9 and Acts 1:16-19 So, was Judas lost to sin? Well, Christ said he was in John 17:12. We should take note though, that in order to be lost, at some point prior he likely had to be found (saved). Probably, this would have happened after Jesus had knowingly chosen Judas as one of his flock. Still, when Christ prayed to the Father just before His capture, He counted Judas, the “son of perdition”, as lost. But, then something miraculous happened.
Jesus began praying for the deciples and the world in John 17:14-20. His compassion welled up and He even asked that the Father keep all in unity that they all might be with Him in heaven and see His glory and God’s love. John 17:21-26 Then, when the troops came to arrest Him Jesus told them to release the others. John 18: 4-9 This was to fulfill a prophecy that, “Of those whom You (the Father) gave Me, I have lost none. Was this just physical loss, or did it include spiritual loss as well? Isn’t it conceivable that, realizing Jesus was the true son of God, Judas in his remorse, accepted Christ as savior and asked for forgiveness before killing himself. Oh Lord, how great is the mercy of God! But, you ask, didn’t Judas also commit murder after this when he hanged himself? Surly, then he became condemned again. It would seem so, except for the pardon Jesus prayed on the cross, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” He spoke of all those who had a part in His suffering and death. Could not Judas also be counted there?
Don’t you feel hope rising that God’s mercy is great enough to forgive anyone that Christ testifies for? Christ even tell us to pray for our enemies. Judas could certainly be counted there. And, Christ was not a hypocrite to tell others to pray for their enemies while He would not. This also brings us to the question, why would an all knowing God have ever chosen a Judas to be a deciple in the first place? God needed a Judas after the priests and pharisees first rejected Jesus in Luke 5:21, for Christ was sent to be betrayed and killed that others might live. God also uses Satan in the world, for without evil there would be no choice to choose God. There would be no testing to build faith. God controls Satan’s evil for good to those that love Him, for God can do no evil Himself. The Father cannot even be in the presence of evil. Then perhaps, like the man blind from birth who had done no evil, perhaps God wanted to use Judas to show just how great His works can be. Great enough to forgive even the man who betrayed and sold His Son for money. This is not to say that God’s forgiveness is automatic for everyone! It does show that anyone can have hope, through Christ, that salvation is possible. There is only one sin so great that God cannot forgive it. See Sin (unforgivable) above. Praise God whose great mercy endures forever. Those who seek Him find Him.
How accurate is the Bible?
The bible is a collection of the works of many authors writing over a long period of time. The Old Testament was likely passed down verbally at first as people sang of their history around the campfires and told stories of how God had worked in the lives of their ancestors. While it is true that people make mistakes and tend to remember events by highlighting what is important to them, it is encouraging that the stories basically agree in content and much of the individual details are confirmed by multiple writings. This is especially true in the New Testament as various deciples recount the same events surrounding Jesus. Certainly, verification lends credibility as well as knowledge as we seek to understand the works of God and the heart of Jesus. The accuracy of the hand copied scroll writings is also built on multiple findings of similar documents in various regions and even some accounts being confirmed in other religious writings completely foreign to Christianity. The words of Christ, the deciples and the prophets hold more value in finding God’s truths for without God’s help, people are much more apt to come to wrong conclusions. For example, take the incorrect conclusions that Job’s friends came to about the circumstances of his problems that conflict with why God actually allowed his testing. It is encouraging that God wanted the whole story accurately told even though the “friends” were wrong. We also see the humanness of Job as he struggled without personal understanding or moral support. The point being that God does not lie but humans do err. Scripture faithfully records the whole story. The best method of understanding scripture is to look at the big picture of who God is and how Jesus came in love to save a lost world. In 2 Corinthians 3:6 we are told that the letter (attention to small details) kills, but the Spirit gives life. Here, the Spirit refers to the Holy Spirit as well as the open acceptance of the general nature of what is being said. God’s Spirit helps us to understand all things when our faith helps us align details with the nature of God.
I’m supposed to love my enemies, blessing them and praying for them? God, surely you are kidding!
Luke 6:27-28 says to love our enemies, blessing those that curse us and pray for 79 them that spitefully use us. Romans 12:14 says to bless those that persecute us. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 speaks of praying as intercessors for all men and women giving thanks to God for them. God’s message is unmistakable. Something in my thinking has to change. How can I honestly pray for somebody I don’t like and that doesn’t seem to like me? I don’t like them because of their actions, their words and even the way they think. But, how does God see them? He see people as moldable individuals that He created equal. He cares about all individuals enough that He sent Jesus to die that the doors might be opened for their choice to enter into Heaven and live with Him for eternity. God knows that the actions and words that come out of us are a product of the influence of Satan’s trickery or Christ on our lives. In Matthew 15:18 Christ says that the words we speak come from the heart. These words defile or justify us on the day of judgement. There are also earthly consequences to our actions as surely as natural laws (such as gravity) must be obeyed. We are a spiritual and physical vessel for evil or good. But, we are able to choose who we shall be according to how well we obey and accept help from God or Satan. Our actions are a result of our choices of who’s spirit we are following. Therefore, when we pray for a person, we are praying for the vessel that God created and desires fellowship with. We are not praying that the persons actions are to be blessed, but rather that the individual can be blessed by God. What better way for the person to be blessed than to know the love and truth of God? Through God’s love, and ours, God desires to draw all people to Him. When they accept Him and follow Him their actions will change for the better and they will become the person that I would also care about and want to have fellowship with. God also knows the future and He can freely give good gifts to those whom He knows will change and accept Him. as a result of being blessed. But, it is important that the person know the blessing is from God. I have to be transparent to tell the person that they are being prayed for and they should look for God’s blessing. They also need to know that it is only God that gives good gifts. Satan kills, steals and destroys. I should also not feel bad if anyone receives gifts from God. Earthly gifts of things are temporary. Only the spiritual things will last. Also, when I act as an intercessor, helping others find God, I am also blessed in that my faith and relationship with God is also strengthened. Besides, I have already received God’s greatest gift. His grace and love are mine forever. I also was in sin when God forgave me! How can I not also agree with God and offer my forgiveness along with His? I also find help for me when I pray for others. God knows that when I pray for my enemies, I cannot also develop hate for them. Hate is not of God and would eat at me like a cancer. I need to forgive for my own health. Besides, it would do no good to pray for someones destruction for God says prayers are not answered when they are made for our own desires and not God’s. James 4:3 I do not believe that God is ever motivated to act though negative prayer born out of Satan’s purposes. Things like revenge, greed or anything involving hate or destructive intentions are not part of God and will not be answered by God. God only gives good gifts anyway. James 1:17 and Satan isn’t going to punish someone that is doing his will. Remember, a house divided against itself cannot stand? However, God would be moved by prayer born in love for positive change or pleas for needed help from the loving Father God that all Christians are dependant upon and have relationship with. Paul said he was strongest in God when he was weakest in himself. 2 Cor. 12:9-10 Of course, it is up to God how best to help His children in trouble. Two nd possibilities open to God are to judge incorrect actions and take corrective measures, or allow 80 Satan to bring destruction to the guilty. Now, one last thought. Am I open to the possibility that God sent this person in my path in order to test me, or to teach me something about myself, or cause me to re-evaluate something, perhaps force me closer to God or strengthen my faith & prayer life? Or, is it possible God sent me to cross paths with these people to witness to them about God? If so, would these things change how I feel about the person? Whoa! What a consideration. Or as God might put it, ”Selah.”
The three faces of God (The Trinity):
Just as we can be described as a physical body, a spirit and a will, so God is made up of 3 parts called the Trinity.
God the Father is spirit and the source of all holiness, wisdom and power that is directed by His will. He makes the rules or laws of how heaven and earth operate within His kingdom. The Father sent Christ to us as shown in John 8:42,11:42, 17:18,23. The Father does what is asked in the name of Christ (John 14:13,14) that agrees with His will. Remember, “Seek first the kingdom of God.” Matt. 6:33 The Father asks that Christ should receive all glory for His overcoming human temptations, suffering to save mankind and defeating Satan. All will eventually bow and honor Christ when they are judged or sooner. The Father has life in Himself and raises the dead as does Christ. John 5:21, 26 The Father gave Jesus the power to raise himself from the dead in John 5:26. He did this because He could not be in the presence of the sin that Jesus had assumed for mankind. Also, The Father could not go to a sinful Hell where Jesus was preaching after His death. Christ was telling those who had died before him who he was and gave them a chance to accept him then. The Father allows Christ to judge mankind because He was a man, subject to the same temptations yet always following the Father’s will. God, the Father, has willed that, as a completley Holy God, He is the source of truth, morality and purity. He cannot even be in the presence of evil or look upon it. Likewise, anyone in sin cannot exist in the presence of His Holy face. Exodus 33:18-23 They could not even exist in Heaven without being covered by Christ’s blood and made sinless. Joh 8:42 Jesus said to them, If God were your father, you would love Me, for I went forth and came from God; for I did not come of Myself, but He sent Me. Joh 11:41 Then they took away the stone where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. Joh 11:42 And I know that You hear Me always, but because of the people who stand by I said it, so that they may believe that You have sent Me. Joh 17:18 As You have sent Me into the world, even so I have sent them into the world. Joh 17:23 I in them, and You in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that You have sent Me and have loved them as You have loved Me. Joh 14:13 And whatever you may ask in My name, that I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Joh 14:14 If you ask anything in My name, I will do it. Joh 5:20 For the Father loves the Son and shows Him all the things that He Himself does. And He will show Him greater works than these, so that you may marvel. Joh 5:21 For as the Father raises the dead and makes alive, even so the Son of Man makes alive whomever He wills. Joh 5:22 For the Father judges no man, but has committed all judgment to the Son, Joh 5:23 so that all should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. Joh 5:26 For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has given to the Son to have life within Himself, Joh 5:27 and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man. Joh 5:30 I can do nothing of My own self. As I hear, I judge, and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of the Father who has sent Me. Exo 33:18 And he said, I beseech You, let me see Your glory. Exo 33:19 And He said, I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of Jehovah before you. And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will have mercy on whom I will have mercy. Exo 33:20 And He said, You cannot see My face. For there no man can see Me and live. Exo 33:21 And Jehovah said, Behold! There is a place by Me, and you shall stand upon a rock. Exo 33:22 And it will be, while My glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and will cover you with My hand while I pass by. Exo 33:23 And I will take away My hand, and you shall see My back parts. But My face shall not be seen. 1Ti 6:16 (Christ) who alone has immortality, dwelling in light which cannot be approached, whom no one of men have seen, nor can see; to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen. This was the full glory of the Father when He indwelled Christ. Joh 17:5 And now Father, glorify Me with Yourself with the glory which I had with You before the world was. Christ created all things speaking them into existence. He spoke and The Father’s power worked. The Father dwells within Christ. (John 14:10)
Christ became the physical part of God that came to earth and suffered as a human sacrifice for mankind, thus finishing a path of salvation that The Father willed. John 4:34 At other times He was and is now transfigured as spirit and heavenly body able to eat, be touched and yet walk through earthly walls. Christ as “The Word” came as a teacher to define sin and witness to all the light of His Father’s truth and will. Christ is the perfect example to all that wish to follow Him. He always does the will of The Father. (John 4:34, 6:38, 8:29) Christ speaks what the Father, who is within Him, desires and speaks to Him. (John 12:49) He taught by example all that he desires us to be. Christ was given the power to lay down and take up again His life by the Father (John 10:18). The Father provides the power to do the works Jesus asks. (John 14:10) Christ and the Father both receive glory. (John 5:23, 17:1,4,5) and had glory before the world existed. (John 17:5) Christ intercedes for those that are His and tells the Father of their desires. (Romans 8:34) His blood, shed on the cross, covers their sins from the Trinity and all the hosts of Heaven. Christ judges from what he hears compared to the words He spoke. (John 12:48) We are judged by what we say according to Matt.12:36-37. Those that are saved do and say the words Christ spoke and heard from the Father, and in so doing become one with Christ and The Father. (John 17:11) When Jesus left earth, he prayed to The Father to send the Holy Spirit, which He did at Pentecost. (John 14:16) Joh 4:34 Jesus said to them, My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work. Joh 6:38 For I came down from Heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me. Joh 8:26 I have many things to say and to judge of you, but He who sent Me is true, and I speak to the world those things what I heard of Him. Joh 8:27 They did not understand that He spoke to them of the Father. Joh 8:28 Then Jesus said to them, When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you shall know that I AM, and that I do nothing of Myself, but as My Father has taught Me, I speak these things Joh 8:29 And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things which please Him. (At this point , the Father had never left Jesus. However, this would change for a short while when Jesus assumed all mankind’s sins and went to Hell to preach for 3 days.) Joh 10:18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down from Myself. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it again. I have received this commandment from My Father. Joh 12:48 He who rejects Me and does not receive My Words has one who judges him; the Word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. Joh 12:49 For I have not spoken of Myself, but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say, and what I should speak. Joh 12:50 And I know that His command is life everlasting. Therefore whatever I speak, even as the Father said to Me, so I speak. Joh 14:10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father in Me? The Words that I speak to you I do not speak of Myself, but the Father who dwells in Me, He does the works. Jesus came out of God the Father to be manifested in the flesh and save those who accept Christ. The father lives within Christ just as the Holy Spirit lives in those who have accepted Christ. The Father guides Jesus just as the Holy Spirit hears from the Father and guides those who are saved. Joh 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, so that He may be with you forever, Joh 17:1 Jesus spoke these words and lifted up His eyes to Heaven and said, Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son so that Your Son also may glorify You, Joh 17:2 even as You have given Him authority over all flesh so that He should give eternal life to all You have given Him. Joh 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. Joh 17:4 I have glorified You upon the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. Joh 17:5 And now Father, glorify Me with Yourself with the glory which I had with You before the world was. (This was after His resurrection.) Joh 17:6 I have revealed Your name to the men whom You gave to Me out of the world. They were Yours, and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. Joh 17:7 Now they have known that all things, whatever You have given Me, are from You. Joh 17:8 For I have given to them the Words which You gave Me, and they have received them and have known surely that I came out from You. And they have believed that You sent Me. Joh 17:9 I pray for them. I do not pray for the world, but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. Jesus prays for the world just as we should. Joh 17:10 And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine; and I am glorified in them. Joh 17:11 And now I am in the world no longer, but these are in the world, and I come to You, Holy Father. Keep them in Your name, those whom You have given Me, so that they may be one as We are. Rom 8:34 Who is he condemning? It is Christ who has died, but rather also who is raised, who is also at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. Mat 12:36 But I say to you that every idle word, whatever men may speak, they shall give 83 account of it in the day of judgment. We are judged by our words whether they be of faith, truth, compassion and reverence toward God or they come from satan. Our words should align with the words given by God. Mat 12:37 For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned. Jesus had glory before the earth was formed. John 17:5 When He came to earth His glory was diminished because he was among the sinful about him. Heb 2:6 But one testified in a certain place, saying, “What is man, that You are mindful of him; or the son of man, that You visit him? Heb 2:7 You have made him a little lower than the angels. You crowned him with glory and honor and set him over the works of Your hands. Then, when Christ rose triumphant from the grave and Hell, He was re-elevated even higher in glory above the angels. He had conquered satan and death on his own as he fulfilled the will of God his Father. Heb 1:1 God, who at many times and in many ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, Heb 1:2 has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds, Heb 1:3 who being the shining splendor of His glory, and the express image of His essence, and upholding all things by the word of His power, through Himself cleansing of our sins, He sat down on the right of the Majesty on high, Heb 1:4 being made so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.
The Holy Spirit is spiritual life. (Basic spiritual life was placed in physical bodies: Genesis 2:7) (It is the spirit that makes the flesh alive: John 6:63) The Holy Spirit was sent by the Father in the name of Christ (John 14:26, 15:26) at the request of Christ (John 14:16) to be a helper comforter & teacher to those who have accepted Christ as their lord. (John 14:16,26), The Holy Spirit was sent in Christ’s absence to convict the world of sin, righteousness and judgement (John 16:8). The Holy Spirit comes to live in those who have accepted Christ and entered into God’s kingdom by accepting God’s rules and Christ as ruler. The Holy Spirit as teacher and guide, recalls the words of Christ (that have been read or heard) to those who are “in Christ” as they are needed, especially in making decisions when wisdom is asked for. At these times the Holy Spirit aids in understanding the meaning of Christ’s words, scripture and all spiritual things in general. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of what is sin. John 16:8 The Holy Spirit can be hurt and offended, but is never described as having anger (He is pure love). The Holy Spirit is a messenger. He tells Jesus the thoughts of our hearts, and tells those in Christ what the Father and Christ says (John 16:13), the words of Christ (John 14:26), the truth (John 14:17) and what is to come (John 16:13). When wisdom is asked for from God, it is the Holy Spirit that is the teacher or that who causes lessons to be dealt with that teach. The Holy Spirit (and Christ) intercede for those in Christ according to the will of God. The Holy Spirit intercedes by translating needs, faith and guidance, in agreement with the will of the Father, to Jesus, who in turn intercedes for them with the Father. (Romans 8:26,27) The Holy Spirit also intercedes by telling Christ and the Father our heart feelings. (Acts 15:8) The Holy Spirit is not spoken of as having glory. (He is a true servant seeking no reward.) The Holy Spirit has always been on the earth from the beginning (Genesis 1:2) and 84 continues to do the will of the Father. Gen 1:2 And the earth was without form and empty. And darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved on the face of the waters. Gen 2:7 And Jehovah God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. Lev 17:11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood. And I have given it to you on the altar to make an atonement for your souls. For it is the blood that makes an atonement for the soul. Deu 12:23 Only be sure that you do not eat the blood. For the blood is the life. And you may not eat the life with the flesh. Isa 38:16 O Jehovah, by these things men live, and in all these is the life of my spirit; so You will recover me, and make me to live. Joh 6:63 It is the Spirit that makes alive, the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit and are life. Joh 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, so that He may be with you forever, Joh 14:17 the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive because it does not see Him nor know Him. But you know Him, for He dwells with you and shall be in you. Joh 14:26 But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatever I have said to you. Joh 15:26 And when the Comforter has come, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He shall testify of Me. Joh 16:8 And when that One comes, He will convict the world concerning sin, and concerning righteousness, and concerning judgment. Joh 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth. For He shall not speak of Himself, but whatever He hears, He shall speak. And He will announce to you things to come. Rom 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Rom 8:27 And He searching the hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Act 15:8 And God, who knows the hearts, bore them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit even as to us. Zec 4:6 Then he answered and spoke to me, saying, This is the Word of Jehovah to Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says Jehovah of Hosts. (The Holy Spirit speaks to the hearts of men and women and causes them to do the will of the Father. He also speaks to all that God created. Do you think the whale swallowed an coughed up Jonah by accident? The wind and waves also obey Christ’s words and the Holy Spirit. Psalms 107:25 ) Zec 4:7 Who are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you shall become a plain; and he shall bring forth the top stone with shoutings, Grace! Grace to it!
What in the world is a Behemoth and a Leviathan?
Job 40:15-24 describes the behemoth as a huge land animal that ate grass, had strong hips and stomach with a large tail and huge ribs. He lived near low marshy areas. See also Psalm 74:14 and 104:26 Also mentioned in 4Ezra 6:51 of Apocalyptic literature. Sure sounds like a type of dinosaur to me. Job 41:1-34 describes a leviathan as a huge sea serpent with nose, jaw with teeth and skin of scales. He had a strong neck and an underbelly with sharp points. He could breath out fire and smoke and was hot enough to heat the sea around him. He was large enough to leave a wake where he swam. He was capable of jumping out of the water high enough to come crashing down. Psalm 74:14 says he had multiple heads that could be crushed, allowing the wilderness people to eat him. Psalm 104:26 also confirms him as a sea swimming beast. Isaiah 27:1 describes him as a fleeing sea serpent. He is described briefly in 4 Ezra 6:52 of Apocalyptic literature. This guy sounds a lot like the dragons described in mystical tales or perhaps an early relative of the whale. He sounds like he would be really awesome at night.
How could God lose glory as described in John 17:5 ?
In this verse Jesus asks God the Father to glorify them both with the same glory they had before the earth was created. This implies that they had lost glory after the earth was created. Knowing God from scripture and being taught all spiritual things by the Holy spirit (John 14:26 and 16:13) in faith, I offer this reasoning: We know God The Father is completely holy and would desire perfection in all that He does. He would even extend his responsibility to creating all good things. Recall that when the earth and its inhabitants were created that God inspected His works and certified that they were good. But, since mankind was created with personal wills and the ability to choose good and evil, Michael and 1/3 of heaven’s created angels were tempted by pride to consider themselves equal to God and in competition with God for His creation. Big mistake! Then Adam and Eve chose sin over God’s will and were doomed to death and struggle on earth.
Even though “The Law” was given to guide the Old Testament peoples, we are told they could not achieve salvation through the Law. People were imperfect and could not comply with all God’s given standards. Mankind was doomed to fail and could not achieve an eternal relationship, as God desired, with Him. God wanted more. He had failed in His own standard. It was necessary that Christ, who had created all, come to earth to correct the problem. Christ overcame Lucifer’s temptations after His 40 day preparation fast in the desert. He was not tempted in the same way that Satan was and His rebukes to Satan’s temptations chose the Father’s will every time. This was Christ’s first major battle victory. Recall, that as we obey The Father’s will here on earth, there are also equal victories gained in Heaven’s spiritual domain. The last battle was won on the cross when Christ took up His own life and conquered death. Now His sacrificial blood could cover those that accepted and believed in Him. God had overcome Lucifer and had created a means to achieve His early intent for a continuous relationship with His creation. Heaven was once again holy with the evil angels thrown out. Men and women could choose their eternal destination and have hope to achieve it. God was again perfect and totally worthy of praise and glory.
Why was Christ’s first miracle turning water into wine at a wedding?
John 2:1-10 For many years I wondered why this miracle might be especially important to be recorded. Then, I read God’s judgmental prophecy against a wayward Israel found in Jeremiah 13:9-14. Jeremiah tells of how God would take away Judah’s pride by filling all bottles with wine so much so, that all the inhabitants would be drunk and would destroy each other. Now things made more sense! What if God were announcing the beginning of Jesus’s ministry by saying He was about to fulfill Jeremiah’s prophecy? The plentiful wine showed how the people would be confused and not understand or accept the magnitude of what Jesus was telling them. The new revelations of a changed covenant that was better than the old testament commandments became unacceptable in the minds of the priests and people. Recall, that the wedding wine Jesus created was better than the first wine served. The new covenant was also better. Just as new wine could not be kept in an old unyielding container, the new moving of God divided the people due to the inflexibility of their traditions. Jesus and the Holy Spirit as the new wine were unaccepted. The rulers and priests found they could not fight against a risen savior they had rejected. All people were divided as to what should have been done with the man of miracles claiming to be God’s son. They have been destroyed and put upon by much of the world ever since. When the people come to their senses and realize they killed God’s son, their shame and guilt will totally destroy their pride and they will be totally open to a God of love and grace. This comparison was Israel’s wake up call. The nation has yet to comprehend what really happened! When they do, their remorse will indeed cause them to even kill sons and daughters that prophesy.
What is the meaning of a white stone and a new name received in heaven? Rev.2:17
The ancient Greek culture used a white stone : 1. When acquitted of a crime in court. 2. A stone of honor given to victors in arena games. 3. A sign of open hospitality to be able to receive what was desired, similar to the key to a city today. These would all make sense to the saved as being forgiven of earthly sins due to the covering of Christ’s blood. A sign of victory over Satan’s earthly temptations. Being open to the hospitality of God and receiving the desires of the heart prepared by Christ for those that love and obeyed His instructions while on earth. The mention of a new name also received is likely the name, given by God, that fits the nature of the person. It would be appropriate that God, as the true Father, would be able to give the name as the person enters into a new changed state of eternal life. Name changes occurred throughout scripture when a person was radically changed spiritually and emotionally or as a reward, by God, for their faithfulness. Abraham and John come to mind as examples.
How could Christ escape all sin including the sin of Adam, passed on by blood?
Remember that Jesus was immaculately conceived through the Holy Ghost in the womb of Mary, and no bloodline of Adam or Joseph or Mary was involved. He always chose to do the perfect will of his Father in heaven, and always gained the upper hand over sin by using God’s word as the ultimate weapon against evil. I believe that He receives all honor because He always gave honor to God his Father in all His testing on earth. He also overcame Satan and sin.
How to interpret the parable of the Vines:
God gives several lessons about vines. Hosea 10:1 speaks about Israel being blessed by a good harvest and subsequently setting up altars to thank God for the harvest. A harvest is only gotten when a crop is planted and tended. God wanted to get a good harvest of souls, love and praise from Israel, but it was not to be. Ezekiel 15:1-8 explains that the vine is not of value in the world of itself. It is only useful to nourish and hold the fruit. Verses 6 and 7 indicate that since Israel failed as a vine to bring forth God’s fruit, he would allow then to be attacked (burned & destroyed). The gentiles became the new vine to nourish God’s fruit. Isaiah 5:1-7 shows how God had planted and provided for good fruit through Israel, but it grew into bitter fruit. Therefore, He decided to almost destroy Israel by taking away their hedge of protection, verse 5, and make their land barren. The people of the world have done that very well over time. Matthew 21:33-46, Mark 12:1-11 and Luke 20:9-18 tell how a landowner, God, planted a vineyard, provided for it and went away. The people of Israel were the vine dressers that refused to give God the fruits of love, glory, praise and souls when due. They even attacked and killed the beloved son, Christ, when he came. Therefore, God decided to take away their protection and allow them to be attacked by the world. He then put the gentiles in charge of taking care of the fruit for Him.
Note that only God allowed Israel’s punishment. He never voided His covenant to take away their land, to be available when they have a change of heart and their eyes are opened to give God and Christ glory. God will curse any people that try to take what He has promised and given.
Jacob’s curse:
The Jacob of Genesis 27 began a young thief for a good cause. He stole his brother Esau’s birthright blessing from his father by trickery. Esau had devalued the blessing and made it equal to a meal of stew when he sold it to Jacob. (Gen.25:29-33) Jacob’s mother, Rebekah, had led her son into sin just as Eve had encouraged Adam. Jacob knew that his deceit of tricking his father, Isaac, was wrong. He even pronounced God’s response to the sin in Gen.27:12. Rebekah tried to calm his fears by saying that she should be the one to receive the curse, however, no price had been paid to God and Issac who gave the blessing. It was intended for the firstborn. (There is only one instance where personal sin was transferred to another person. That was when Christ Himself took on our sins because there was no other way we could be forgiven.) God gave Jacob over to his guilt and a curse. (Isa.43:28) But God also blessed Jacob by promising his offspring to multiply and receive the land they were on at that time, which became Israel. Gen.28:10-14
Jacob had to flee and never received his father’s land. He and his family wandered in the desert in a foreign land where he fell in love with Rachel. Treachery was returned to Jacob by Rachel’s father, Laban, when he bargained for 7 years of Jacob’s labor to allow Rachel’s marriage, but instead received Laban’s firstborn, Leah. Ironic , yes. It took another 7 years of labor to finally win Rachel’s hand in marriage. More problems became apparent when Rachel could not conceive children for several years. Gen. 30:1-3 When she did finally bear Joseph, Jacob loved him more than the children born to him by Rachel’s handmaid, Bilhah or his other wife, Leah. The first children became jealous and were deceitful to Jacob when they plotted to get rid of Joseph. Joseph was sold as a slave and sent to Egypt, where his morals and God’s blessings elevated him to power. I believe Jacob’s curse over his own deceit and God’s blessings caused him to draw closer to God. Eventually, at God’s urging, he returned home and made peace with his brother, Esau. Then he wrestled with an Angel to obtain God’s blessing. Gen.32:9-28 Jacob was then renamed Israel. It is to Jacob’s credit that he earnestly desired God’s blessings. We all should. He was willing to risk much to receive it as a young man, and he was willing to fight (the Angel) as an old man to be blessed. We all need to draw near to God and hold on until we receive His blessings. I think God likes that. But, Jacob had a dark side also.
He constantly wanted to do things his own way instead of God’s way. Ultimately, this resulted in his blessing a grandchild of Joseph’s incorrectly. Joseph, who was a true man of God, saw this as sin. Joseph’s children believed their father and Ephraim thought he had been blessed through sin. He and his family turned from God because of this and all his family became cursed by God later. God would not even hear prayers in their behalf after they had totally rejected Him and mocked His messengers. The story account is a warning, that we are to honor God and accept His total will instead of seeking our own desires as the world does.
PRAYER – Blessing BLOCKERS
1. Sin . God cannot be where there is sin. Psalm 66:18, Isa.1:15, Jer.14:7,12, Ezekiel 8:18, John9:31, 1 John 3:22-23, 1 Peter 3:12 The Holy Spirit can be grieved and leave. No hearing equals no answers and no power.
2. Not accepting Christ: John 8:47, 10:27
3. A hardened heart unwilling to listen to God. Mark 6:52, Jeremiah 7:13-16
4. Prayers for personal pleasures. Mark 4:19, James 4:3
5. Pride 2 Chronicles 7:14, 32:16 Mark 7:21-29 Psalms 138:6 Proverbs 8:13, 16:15,18 nd 29:33, 1 Corinthians. 11:28-30, James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5-6 st st
6. Husbands not giving honor to their wives. 1 Peter 3:7
7. Lack of Faith: a. God isn’t: Christ is not who He says. Matt. 13: 57-58, Mark 6: 4-5, 11:24
b. God can’t. The mountain is to big. Remember, all things are possible with Christ. Mark 6:45
c. God won’t: Someone (me or thee) isn’t worthy. Remember, Christ’s blood and daily repentance/forgiveness cover all sin. Besides, God saves and heals through grace.
d. Wavering faith Matthew 21: 21-22, Mark 6: 4-5, James 5:13-16
e. Giving up: Change is not always evident right away. Remember, a miracle only takes a moment. It is darkest before the dawn, etc. Ask God what He wants!
f. Asking the same thing over and over prevents increasing faith. Mark 11:24 says ask and then believe. If we keep on asking, we are not believing. Ask once, then let praise and thanksgiving take over. The friend in Luke 11:5-10 helped after the first request so he would not have to be bothered again.
g. More faith and focus is needed: Fasting required. Matt.17:20-21, Mark 4:19 & 9:28-29 h. Non-acceptance: Who, me? Be alert, believe and receive.
8. Unconfessed sin: James 5: 14-16, 1 John 1:9, 1 Corinthians. 11:28-30 st st
9. Unforgiveness Matt.6:12-15, Mark 11:25-26 shows the sins of the prayer remain, Luke 6:37, 11:4, 1 Corinthians. 11:28-30 st
10. Vain repetitions Matthew 6:6 Luke 6:5-8 Ecclesiastes 5:2 2Kings 4:33, Job 35:13
11. Lack of Compassion: Matt.14:19, Mark 1:41 Without love all else means nothing. 1 Cor. st 13:2 Love God first then your neighbor as yourself. Christ always had compassion leading to grace and healing.
12. Ignorance of the word. Hosea 4:6, 2 Timothy 2:15 The word of God is used to do battle. nd
13. Fear 2 Chron.20:17, Jer.1:8, Phil.4:6-7 nd
14. Faith without works is dead. James 2:14-26
15. Earthly covetousness desiring false idols. Ezekiel 14:2-5
Ask – Believe – Speak – Receive
We are told that we must ask in order to receive, and that we must ask for the right reasons following God’s will. That which is asked for in greed or to feed our pride or lusts will not be given. These things are not of God and would not benefit us. When we ask God for help we admit we need Him, believe in Him and will honor Him for giving the answer. Jas 4:2 You desire, and do not have. You murder, and are jealous, and cannot obtain. You fight and war, yet you have not because you ask not. Jas 4:3 You ask and receive not, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it upon your lusts. When Jesus fought Satan in the wilderness, He used God’s spoken word as His weapons. He spoke the living word, believing that it was true. Satan could not argue or stand against God’s word. Mat 4:3 And when the tempter came to Him, he said, If You are the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. Mat 4:4 But He answered and said, It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” Mat 4:5 Then the Devil took Him up into the holy city and set Him upon a pinnacle of the Temple. Mat 4:6 And he said to Him, If you are the Son of God, cast yourself down. For it is written, “He shall give His angels charge concerning You, and in their hands they shall bear You up, lest at any time You dash Your foot against a stone.” Mat 4:7 Jesus said to him, It is written again, “You shall not tempt the Lord your God.” Mat 4:8 Again, the Devil took Him up into a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. Mat 4:9 And he said to Him, All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me. Mat 4:10 Then Jesus said to him, Go, Satan! For it is written, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.” We bind or loose things using the spoken word which fixes our position and affirms our faith, giving honor to God. When we honor and trust God, God the Father supplies the power for change. When others agree with our position, God’s power is multiplied. Two or three establish the word even as the death penalty was established for criminals during the time of Moses. Mat 18:18 Truly I say to you, Whatever you shall bind on earth shall occur, having been bound in Heaven; and whatever you shall loose on earth shall occur, having been loosed in Heaven. Mat 18:19 Again I say to you that if two of you shall agree on earth as regarding anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them by My Father in Heaven. Doubting indicates a lack of faith and hinders the answer to our prayers being received. Jas 1:6 But let him ask in faith, doubting nothing. For he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven by the wind and tossed. Jas 1:7 For do not let that man think that he shall receive anything from the Lord; Jas 1:8 he is a double-minded man, not dependable in all his ways. Dan 10:12 Then he said to me, Do not fear, Daniel; for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and to chasten yourself before your God, your words were heard. And I have come for your words. Dan 10:13 But the ruler of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days. But lo, Michael, one of the chief rulers, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia. (Persia 90 was representative of a worldly evil domain that was uncaring of Godly things. Persia , Media and Greece were wealthy trading states seeking earthly gain. Michael represented a heavenly guardian angel of Israel. ) When there is a stable faith present and the word of God is spoken anything is possible. Our words become God’s words when we are in agreement with God’s will. We are in unity with God. Mat 21:21 Jesus answered and said to them, Truly I say to you, If you have faith and do not doubt, you shall not only do this miracle of the fig tree, but also; if you shall say to this mountain, Be moved and be thrown into the sea; it shall be done. Mat 21:22 And all things, whatever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive. Mar 11:22 And answering Jesus said to them, Have faith of God. Mar 11:23 For truly I say to you that whoever shall say to this mountain, Be moved and be cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he said shall occur, he shall have whatever he said. Mar 11:24 Therefore I say to you, All things, whatever you ask, praying, believe that you shall receive them, and it will be to you.
Note that in verse 23 the mountain is being spoken to. It was created by God and must obey God’s will. Therefore, whenever two faith partners agree together to bind and cast out sickness and infirmity both must speak in faith believing God that what is asked in God’s will is accomplished. All believing partners must agree that their speech will align with God’s word. Conversations between faith partners should continue speaking as though what was asked is received as they build each others faith. At the very least, we can agree that “God’s word says ___________ and I believe God, who does not lie.” We also continue speaking to the specific infirmity, reminding Satan that he is cast out and calling the infirmity healed, while praising God. The healing answer begins when we ask in faith. When we believe that it is completed we can truly testify to God’s power and grace and praise Him even though the answer to the prayer may not have been manifested yet. Overcoming the devil results from the cleansing of Christ’s blood (which allows God to hear and answer our prayers) and the spoken word of our testimony. Overcoming the devil applies to salvation, healing and anything that is asked in agreement with God’s will. Rev 12:11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony. And they did not love their soul until death.
God the Master Gardener
God is a master gardener who desires to reclaim souls just as one might reclaim an old garden. First, God removes the hindrances to growth, The weeds of sin that have crept in and choked us and prevent us from healthy spiritual growth. God forces us to recognize, confess and clean out old sins. Things like un-forgiveness, pride guilt, lust, hate. The scars of old spiritual wounds of rejection and fear, like rocks, causing us to harden our hearts. God says He will give us a new heart. Then He cleanses the wounds of the soul and promotes healing with His forgiveness. Good seed is sown through the reading and the preaching of the word of God and the prayers of others. The seed is now embedded in the good soil as faith prevents erosion. Next, a growth stimulant is applied. We call this love and compassion which is at the heart of God’s grace. God’s blessings surround us though we have done nothing in the past to warrant God’s favor. God’s promises for help abound. Then the soul is placed in a good environment. We are put in the midst of a caring people called the church. We are told to seek and dwell on the good things about us. The Holy Spirit surrounds us and teaches us the things of God, cares for us and protects us. We are watered and encouraged with God’s word found in the bible. Jesus provides a light that we are drawn to. Growth and praise to God is inevitable. Continual weeding is done as we daily seek God, repent for new sins and ask for forgiveness. Weed inhibitors are applied when we rebuke Satan by the power of the name of Jesus Christ and cast out devils, seeing ourselves as belonging to God, even as His children. Eventually, as we mature, through testings that deepen our faith and love of God, we begin to produce good fruit and the cycle of new gardens and regeneration is spread to those about us. We are called to share the blessings of God and the good news of Christ as new seeds are planted. And God is in the middle of it all!
Victory
Exploring scripture with 3 base premises: 1. The Bible is accurate. 2. God does not lie. 3. God the Father loves His son and all mankind. I had long pondered how Christ on the cross could tell the thief beside Him,”Today you will be with me in paradise” and then go to preach in Hell for 3 days and nights? Matthew 12:40 Eventually, the answer came that Jesus told the truth as He knew it at the time. He did not know that He was bound for Hell, just as He did not realize that the Father had to leave Him when He assumed our sins. His cry of “My God, My God why have you forsaken me?” in Matthew 27:46 shows His surprised anguish. A loving Father had withheld the full knowledge of what Christ had to endure when He, the Father, must abandon the son because of the presence of sin. When Christ died as a sinner, He was destined for hell, not because of His desire to go, but because He became sin and needed to give His message to those who had not heard it. The Father knew that all that had died before Christ must be sent to Hell because they could not attain Heaven through the “Law”. No one could be that perfect! They had no salvation through the Grace of Christ. Christ, in fairness, must give them an opportunity for grace. Jesus must be separated from the presence of the Father for a time and be bound within Hell. This may well have been worse than the physical torment that He endured on earth. Now He had to endure the Spiritual torment of loss of the Father’s presence for a season. He still had the Father’s love though, just as we do, even when we sin. While in Hell Jesus likely only did one miracle. He threw open the doors of Hell and rose to life, taking with Him the captives who believed in Him. This was total victory over the physical and spiritual weapons of Satan. Christ’s ministry had started with a 40 day temptation by the devil. It had ended with escape from the last weapons that Satan had, physical death and spiritual separation from the Father. Jesus had indeed achieved total victory for Himself and mankind. God had proved His perfect love for mankind and had created a bridge of escape, called Grace, for others to follow.
Jesus truly is Lord over all. He was now worthy to be raised above even the angels, Hebrews 1:4, and worshiped by the Angels, Hebrews 1:6. He is worthy of our praise also.
God’s Rx for Healing Body and Soul
Because of God’s love He sometimes physically heals through miracles of grace without the person doing anything, however, scripture does show that God is also moved by faith and obedience to His word. The following are thoughts to what we can do to help encourage God for physical healing and spiritual healing.
1. Repent and receive Christ (If you have not already) John 3:16, Romans 10:9
2. Pray for the in-filling of the Holy Spirit for power (If you have not already)
3. Build faith: Study the Bible, speaking positive words of faith. Speak in tongues if you have received the Holy Spirit. Pray and fast if the problem is large. Matt.17:20-21
4. Forgive those who have hurt you by word or deed or action.
5. Turn from the world and seek God by what is seen, heard, done and said. God desires regular fellowship with us as we share our daily lives, dreams, questions and concerns. Love the lord thy God with all thy heart. Matt.22:38 Because he has set his love on me, I will deliver him. Psalms 91:14
6. Confess sins to God, repent and ask for forgiveness. James 5:13-16
7. Cast out spirits of negative words, pride, guilt, lust, hate, rejection and fear from the body, bad attitudes (anything not of God) rebuking Satan with scripture. James 4:7-8
8. Be compassionate as Christ is: Help others and pray for others
9. Enter God’s courts with praise and worship, then agree with another faith partner to Ask the Father in earnest once for healing in the name of Christ. After that continue to give thanks and worship God as you receive the healing through faith. Speak positively.
10. Do actions of faith and continue in faith remembrances using prayer cloths or things that encourage you in Christ . Speak positively in faith. You get what you say!
11. Give the problem to God and rest in His love. Continue to speak God’s healing words and let them sink into your spirit.
12. Accept God’s grace and compassion for healing! Expect a miracle! Praise God! If, after a long time the healing has not manifested (become evident), ask yourself these questions.
1. Is my faith strong enough to absolutely know God should receive the glory for the healing that He has done? Am I sharing the good news joyfully?
2. Am I doing what God wants these days? Am I loving and kind in the image of Christ?
3. Could God be testing me to build me in righteousness for my own good or His? Hebrews 12:5-13 Be encouraged…
a. Time is short before the rapture of the righteous.
b. God could be preparing you for a ministry calling?
c. If your illness is serious, God could be ready to call you to a reward you will not regret.
HEALING
is grace born of God’s compassion. Christ only asked the sick what they wanted when they believed in Him and came to Him. Sickness is brought by Satan and therefore only gives him glory. God desires to release people from sin and sickness and give us victory through our testimonies. He healed them all! Matt.12:15 Dear Lord: Knowing that your word says the following:
1. Men and women are given authority by God over all living things on earth and told to subdue earthly things. Genesis 1:28 This ought to include Satan and sickness.
2. Whatever is bound on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever is loosed on earth will be loosed in heaven. If any two on earth agree concerning anything they ask, it will be done for them by God the Father in heaven. Matthew 18: 18-19 3. The just shall live by faith. Romans 1:7, Hebrews 10:38 4. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Heb.1:1 5. Faith is necessary to please God. We must believe that He is and is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6
6. Through faith in God we can move any mountain by believing what we say and ask in prayer with fasting. Matthew 17: 20-21
7. We are judged by what we say. Luke 19:22
8. Seek first the kingdom of God then: Ask and it will be given, seek and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you. Luke 11: 9 -10
9. All things are possible with God. Matthew 19:26 and Mark 10:27 Luke 18:27
10. God is able to do far more than we can ask or imagine according to His power working within us. Ephesians 3:20
11. Prayers of constant faith are effective to help the suffering. James 5:13-16
12. Christ suffered stripes (horrible whipping wounds) for our healing. 1Peter 2:24
13. Those that are born of God can overcome the world. 1 John 5:4,5 John 16:33
14. Prayer desires are to be made in the name of Jesus. John 14: 12-14, 15:7 Acts 4:30
15. We are to confess our trespasses against the will of God for healing. And that the church elders and the righteous believers are to pray in faith for the healing of the sick in each other and anoint them with Holy oil for their recovery. James 5:14-16
16. Christ’s followers are to resist the devil to cause him to flee. James 4:7,8
17. When those of faith touched even the garments of Christ and Paul they were healed. Matthew 9: 20-22 and 14:35-36, Mark 5:24-34 and 6:54-56, Luke 8:43-48, Acts 19:11-12 18. The power of Christ is available to overcome Satan by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. Revelation 12: 10-11
Dear Jesus: I choose to enter into covenant with you to believe and stand upon your word even in the face of seeming impossible odds. I agree to trust you with not only my life, my salvation for eternity, but also my healing. I shall, to the best of my ability, try and do the will of God The Father as described by your words and teaching as I continually grow closer to you. I shall enter into your courts praising You Lord where I shall earnestly request your help. I shall continually release my faith in power, rebuking Satan, using your words and remembrances of this covenant such as prayer cloths, acts of faith and those things that remind me of you and the prayers of others for this healing. (This does not mean to stop medical advice until the healing has occurred.) I agree to listen for the voice of your Holy Spirit and act upon what agrees with your word. I agree to bond and multiply my faith with others of like mind, speaking your word in power and full agreement, praying for others as well as this healing. I shall view this healing as a thing you desire and have already brought about, even though it may not have been manifested in my sight yet, I shall trust you and the promises of God’s word which have been spoken in faith. I shall continue in this covenant forever in the hope that you alone bring. I shall rejoice in your power, brought by the Holy Spirit. I shall expect a miracle for this request and shall expect other daily miracles from you all the days of my life. Name:___________________________________ Dated: _________________________
Why did God choose Job for trouble?
Job 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job. And that man was perfect and upright, and one who feared God and turned aside from evil. Job 1:5 And when they had gone around the day of feasting, Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts. So Job did always. Truly, God was proud of Job for Job was good and honored God in all his ways. But, when Satan came to God, he asks an important question. See below. Job 1:6 And a day came when the sons of God came to present themselves before Jehovah. And Satan also came among them. Job 1:7 And Jehovah said to Satan, From where do you come? Then Satan answered Jehovah and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. Job 1:8 And Jehovah said to Satan, Have you set your heart against My servant Job, because there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and upright man, one who fears God and turns away from evil? Job 1:9 And Satan answered Jehovah and said, Does Job fear God for nothing? Job 1:10 Have You not made a hedge around him, and around his house, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his livestock have increased in the land. God was protecting Job, but God allowed him to be tested to find if Job truly trusted Him completely. Job 1:11 But put forth Your hand now, and touch all that he has, and he will curse You to Your face. Job 1:12 And Jehovah said to Satan, Behold, all that he has is in your power. Only do not lay your hand upon him. And Satan went forth from the presence of Jehovah. And Job was greatly tested in many ways. Even his friends falsely accused him of evil instead of giving him comfort and encouragement. Yet, Job endured and did not blame God. Job 1:22 In all this Job did not sin, nor charge God foolishly. A similar account is given in chapter 2. Job 2:1 And it happened that a day came when the sons of God came to present themselves before Jehovah. And Satan also came among them to present himself before Jehovah. Job 2:2 And Jehovah said to Satan, From where do you come? And Satan answered Jehovah and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. Job 2:3 And Jehovah said unto Satan, Have you set your heart on My servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one who fears God and turns away from evil? And still he is keeping hold of his integrity, although you moved Me against him to destroy him without cause. Job 2:4 And Satan answered Jehovah and said, Skin for skin, yea, all that a man has he will give for his life. Job 2:5 But indeed put forth Your hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse You to Your face. Job 2:6 And Jehovah said to Satan, Behold, he is in your hand, but save his life. Job 2:7 And Satan went forth from the presence of Jehovah and struck Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot to the top of his head. Job 2:8 And he took a broken piece of pottery to scrape himself with. And he sat down among the ashes. Job 2:9 And his wife said to him, Do you still hold to your integrity? Curse God and die! Job 2:10 But he said to her, You speak as one of the foolish ones speak. What? Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this Job did not sin with his lips. So, what was the result of Job’s testing? Job 3:25 For the thing which I greatly feared has come upon me, and that which I was afraid of has come to me. Job 3:26 I was not in safety, nor did I have rest, nor was I quiet; yet trouble comes.
Job had a lack of faith in God’s love for him and did not believe that God could or would completely protect him. Perhaps, he realized that sin and trouble had entered the world through Adam and Eve and that he was not exempt? He was correct that testing does come to all people. Mar 4:17 But they have no root in themselves, but are temporary. Afterward when affliction or persecution arises for the Word’s sake, they are immediately offended.
Testing is done to see if we truly believe in our heart what we say. 1Th 2:4 but as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who tries our hearts. The gospel is spoken as a means of testing the heart. In this, it becomes public what we believe or do not believe. Mar 4:22 For there is nothing hidden which shall not be revealed; nor became covered, but that it might come to the light. Mar 4:24 And He said to them, Take heed what you hear. With that measure which you measure, it shall be measured to you. And to you who hear, more shall be given. Mar 4:25 For he who has, more shall be given to him; and he who has not, from him shall be taken even that which he has.
Testing is done to prove lessons learned, that we may be able to receive more from God. If the test is failed, something can be taken away as a means of demoting to re-learn the lesson. Testing is also done to make us realize that we need God. 1Jn 3:18 My children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 1Jn 3:19 And in this we shall know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him, 1Jn 3:20 that if our heart accuses us, God is greater than our heart and knows all things. 1Jn 3:21 Beloved, if our heart does not accuse us, we have confidence toward God. When our heart agrees with what we say in faith during and prior to testing, we can 96 know that we are in God’s will and have believed Him. Php 1:27 Only let your conduct be as becomes the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you, or else am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, striving together with one mind for the faith of the gospel, Php 1:28 and terrified in nothing by your adversaries. For this is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. Php 1:29 For to you it is given on behalf of Christ not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake, Just as Christ suffered, we suffer to strengthen our faith (holiness) and to feel and know empathy for His gift. Also, when Christians stand together and encourage each other in faith (not fear) they are proof to the world of perdition for the unsaved and proof of salvation for the saved. Faith tests passed honor God and open the doors for blessing to the one being tested.
God does not change.
Mal 3:6 For I am Jehovah, I change not. Because of this you sons of Jacob are not destroyed. Psa 89:34 I will not break My covenant, nor change the thing that has gone out of My lips. Heb 6:17 In this way desiring to declare more fully to the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, God interposed by an oath, Heb 6:18 so that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us, 1Jn 1:5 And this is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. Given the facts that God does not change, does not break a covenant, does not lie and does not sin, how do we explain the following changes? In the beginning, we are led to believe that God regularly walked with Adam & Eve in the garden. Gen 3:8 And they heard the voice of Jehovah God walking in the garden in the cool of the day. And Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of Jehovah God in the middle of the trees of the garden. Gen 3:9 And Jehovah God called to Adam and said to him, Where are you? Gen 3:10 And he said, I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I am naked, and I hid myself. Yet, later, it was necessary that Moses not see God directly and that priests could only go into the Holy of Holies in God’s temple or they would die. Why could man no longer walk with God? Exodus. 19:22 And let the priests also, who come near to Jehovah, sanctify themselves, lest Jehovah break forth upon them. Exo 33:17 And Jehovah said to Moses, I will do this thing also that you have spoken. For you have found grace in My sight, and I know you by name. Exo 33:18 And he said, I beseech You, let me see Your glory. Exo 33:19 And He said, I will make all My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of Jehovah before you. And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will have mercy on whom I will have mercy. 97 Exo 33:20 And He said, You cannot see My face. For there no man can see Me and live. Exo 33:21 And Jehovah said, Behold! There is a place by Me, and you shall stand upon a rock. Exo 33:22 And it will be, while My glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and will cover you with My hand while I pass by. Exo 33:23 And I will take away My hand, and you shall see My back parts. But My face shall not be seen.
The answer: Man had changed. Sin had entered into man and since sin cannot even be in the presence of God, neither could man without God’s protection. Eventually, in heaven, this barrier will be no more and once again man and God may walk together. Likewise, in the beginning, it was perfectly acceptable for man to be naked, but after sin had entered the picture, God covered them physically, but not spiritually until they once again were willing to give Him total control. Gen 2:25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife; and they were not ashamed. Gen 3:21 And for Adam and his wife Jehovah God made coats of skins, and clothed them. Now, because Adam and Eve saw nakedness as sin, God provided a means that they would not consider they had to be in sin. The fig leaves that Adam and Eve had made were not a good covering. In another sense, God also provided a covering since they no longer had God’s spiritual covering to protect them against sin. The spilt blood necessary for the animal covering also became their sin covering offered during old testament sacrifices.
Why did the crowed turn on Jesus when he was being judged by Pilate?
As Jesus approached Jerusalem just prior to his capture and crucifixion Luke 19:29-37 showed the crowds greatly rejoiced and honored him. They had seen and heard of the many great works and miracles that he had done and were praising Him. What changed their attitude that they would cry for him to be killed a short time later, and for a killer to be released by Pilate instead? We must understand that the Jews were under a Roman oppression at the time and had been looking for a godly leader that would free them from the harsh rulers. After all, God had saved them many times before and had shown His power against their enemies. Now, they believed that Jesus was the miracle man that God had sent as their deliverer. Suddenly, they saw Him before Pilate’s judgement bloodied, beaten and bleeding and saying nothing. They were forced to understand that He appeared unable to save himself and certainly not them. They were confused and angered, feeling that they had been tricked or betrayed by God. They did not know that God’s plan was for a different type of deliverance to release them from the bonds of spiritual evil that also held them captive more so than their physical oppressors. They saw Barabbas, not as a criminal, but a freedom fighter. He became their hope for an earthly physical salvation. Jesus was, in fact, offering much more. God was offering eternal freedom and a joy and faith capable of overcoming earthly fear and a sinful death. So the people cried for Christ’s crucifixion, for they had lost faith in Christ. They did not know that they were really resigning themselves to an earthly hell with tribulations that God would use to draw them back to Him over the next 2000 years.
Why God told Moses not to cross the Jordan River by
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After knowing the years of faithful service to God by Moses we all would have liked him to enter the promised land of Israel, but God said no. How could this be?
1. At the age of 120 Moses was mentally tired. His body was ready to slow down even though he had not lost his natural strength. He and God had put up with a stubborn and rebellious people for a long time. However, these were not the primary problem. Deu 34:4 And Jehovah said to him, This is the land which I swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, I will give it to your seed. I have caused you to see it with your eyes, but you shall not go over there. Deu 34:5 And Moses the servant of Jehovah died there in the land of Moab, according to the Word of Jehovah. Deu 34:6 And He buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth-peor. But no man knows of his grave to this day. Deu 34:7 And Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died. His eye was not dim, nor had he lost any of his natural strength.
2. Moses’s mind may not have been as sharp as it used to be. He likely made a mistake in following God’s direction to “speak to the rock” to get water. Instead he struck it. I do not believe he deliberately disobeyed God, putting himself in the place of honor. In his anger at the people, I believe he got confused as to the specifics God had instructed him. He also had a problem with anger when he killed the slave master in Egypt 40 years earlier. Anger caused him to break the stone tablets God had written the 10 commandments on. No excuse! God took his disobedience as a lack of faith. This is always the most important issue with God. Faith shows trust in God and gives Him honor. It may well be that when faith is present there is no excuse for anger and sin in our lives. Anger results from fear or frustration. Where there is perfect love there is no fear or frustration. Fear is replaced with trust and frustration is replaced with grace. God is our source for all. The issue of faith is the single most important issue that God is interested in. Faith in Christ as God’s son who rose from the dead by His own power provides god’s grace to get us into heaven. Lack of faith in god was the cause of god allowing Job to be tested by trouble. Job did not trust God to continue to bless him and by his fear he imagined Satan to be stronger than God. Job 3:25 For the thing which I greatly feared has come upon me, and that which I was afraid of has come to me. Faith was the primary reason that Jesus looked for when he healed the sick and the dead. Remember the great faith of the Centurion when asking for Christ to raise his daughter from death. The faith of the woman with the issue of blood was critical for her healing on touching the robe of Jesus. Faith is the only thing that we can offer god who has the power to do all things. A lack of faith would be a sign that a person does not believe God is sufficient and thus makes God imperfect. God is perfect, and just the uttered name of Christ in faith is sufficient to cause God to spring into positive action. Num 20:3 And the people contended with Moses and spoke, saying, Oh that we had died when our brothers died before Jehovah! Num 20:4 And why have you brought up the congregation of Jehovah into this wilderness, so that we and our cattle should die there? Num 20:5 And why have you made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us into this evil place? It is no place of seed or of figs or of vines or of pomegranates. And there is no water to drink. Num 20:6 And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they fell upon their faces. And the glory of Jehovah 99 appeared to them. Num 20:7 And Jehovah spoke to Moses saying, Num 20:8 Take the rod, and gather the assembly, you and Aaron your brother, and speak to the rock before their eyes. And it shall give forth its water, and you shall bring forth to them water out of the rock. So you shall give the congregation and their animals drink. Num 20:9 And Moses took the rod from before Jehovah as He commanded him. Num 20:10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said to them, Hear now you rebels. Must we bring water for you out of this rock? Num 20:11 And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he struck the rock twice. And the water came out plentifully, and the congregation and their animals drank. Num 20:12 And Jehovah spoke to Moses and Aaron, Because you did not believe Me, to sanctify Me in the eyes of the sons of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.
3. The lack of faith issue was God’s reason for preventing Moses to continue as leader of His people. From an earthly viewpoint, we could also imagine God desired to graduate Moses to a better promised land to be with Him. He was still given honor there and was released from earthly cares and frustrations. He would have found real joy in the presence of God. However, faith will always remain most important issue in God’s eyes. Mat 17:1 And after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and brought them up into a high mountain apart. Mat 17:2 And He was transfigured before them. And His face shone as the sun, and His clothing was white as the light. Mat 17:3 And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah talking with Him.
4. Also, from an earthly view we would have seen that Joshua had the new vision of faith to continue on and conquer the land. Moses and Aaron were also in disfavor of the people. It was time for a change. Num 14:2 And all the sons of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron. And the whole congregation said to them, Oh that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or, Oh that we had died in the wilderness! Num 14:3 And why has Jehovah brought us into this land to fall by the sword, so that our wives and our sons should be a prey? Would it not be better for us to return to Egypt? Num 14:4 And they said to one another, Let us make a leader, and let us return to Egypt. Num 14:5 And Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the sons of Israel. Num 14:6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, of those that searched the land, tore their clothes. Num 14:7 And they spoke to all the company of the sons of Israel saying, The land which we passed through to search is an exceedingly good land. Num 14:8 If Jehovah delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land which flows with milk and honey. Num 14:9 Only do not rebel against Jehovah, neither fear the people of the land. For they are bread for us. Their protection has moved from them, and Jehovah is with us. Do not fear them.
5. The young army of Israel could identify better with a younger leader. Similar to “be not unequally yoked” as Christ encouraged husbands and wives to share the same ideals and 100 beliefs. Shared faith is needed to bond leaders and warriors together with god and each other.
PRAYING EFFECTIVELY Preparation:
Accept Christ to become sons & daughters. John 1:12 , 2Cor 6:18, Romans 8:14,15 Luke 11:17 Love God Matt 22:37, Mark 12:30, 1 John 3:18 Obey God’s will. 1 John 3:22, Romans 8:1 Do not tempt (test) God. Luke 4:12, 1Cor.10:9 (Except where He tell you to, as in tithing resulting in blessings.) Be cleansed. Psalm 66:18 Repent Acts 3:19 Submit & be humble James 4:6-10,5:5-6, 1Cor.8:2 Confess faults. James 5:16, 1 John 1:9 Judge our own actions. 1 Cor 11:31, 2Cor.13:5 Love (care about) neighbors. Matt 5:22-24, 22:39, Mark 12:31, St John 13:34, Romans 13:9 Love & pray for enemies. Matt 5:44 Seek first God’s kingdom. Matt 6:33 Fear God & do right. Acts 10:34-35 Seek God’s will. Isaiah 30:21, Acts 2:38 & 39, James 1:5, 4:3, 1 John 5:14-15 Allow the Holy Spirit to guide to know what to pray. Proverbs 3:6, John 14:26, 16:13 Do not try to impress God with strength or titles. Psalm 147:10-11, Romans 2:11 Humble yourself before God Help others Hungrily seek God’s help in earnest.
The Prayer: Praise God (even if it is a sacrifice) to enter His courts. Psalm 100:4, Heb.13:15 “Our Father” sets proper relationship. Matt 6:9 “Hallowed be thy name” recognizes God’s holiness. Matt 6:9 Pray for God’s kingdom again puts God’s will before ours. Matt 6:10,33 “Give us our daily bread” encourages us to repent daily and ask for daily help. Matt 6:11 “Lead us not into temptation” shows who is in charge and helps us pray correctly. Matt 6:13 Forgive to be forgiven. Matt 6:14 & 15, 18:15-17 & 21-22, Mark 11:25, Luke 17:3 -4, Eph. 4:32 Pray in secret. Matt 6:6 And ask for help from others. Matt 7:11, 18:19, James 5:14-16, Luke 11:10, Romans 10:17 Pray about the specific problem. Matt 7:17, 17:20, Mark 11:23, Luke 17:6 , Philip. 4:6 Be verbal psalm 33:6,9 See also the last 4 verses immediately above. Quote applicable scripture. Luke 4:4-8 Validate using the name of Christ. St John 14:13-14, 16:23-26 Bind Satan. Matt 16:19, 18:18 Fast for large problems. Matt 17:21 Give to God’s work. 2Cor:9:6-11 Be thankful that the Holy Spirit interprets for us to Christ. Romans 8:16,26-27 and Christ intercedes for us. Romans 8:34 Be thankful for God’s good gifts. James 1:17 Pray believing in faith that God has answered. Mark 11:24 Ask once then continue to say thanks. Be encouraged that the Holy Spirit interprets how we should pray. Rom 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. After: Do not waiver in faith. Matt 17:20, Mark 11:24,Rom 4:19, Heb 11:6, James 1:6-7 Do not fear Satan. Matt 6:34, 2 Timothy 1:7 Fear God a do right. Acts 10:34-35 Believe and trust God. 2 Cor 5:7, 1 John 4:18, Nahum 1:7, Romans 4:3, Heb.11:6 Give God the glory and credit. Romans 15:6, 1 Cor. 10:31, Ephesians 2:8, Philip.4:13 Do good deeds. Romans 2:6, 1 Cor. 3:13, 2 Cor. 5:10, Galatians 6:7-10, Col.3:23-25, James 2:17 Speak positive in faith as we are accountable for each word. Matt 12:36 “ ” for faith to increase. Romans 10:17 “ ” for proper actions to follow. James 3:2-6 Resist Satan. Matt 16:23, 17:18, Mark 8:33, James 4:7 Protect yourself. Eph.6:13-18, 1Thes.5:8, Hebrews 4:2 Listen for instructions and be alert. John 10:27, 14:26 Study scripture. 2 Tim. 2:15 Act as God directs, giving credit to Christ. Colossians 3:17 Be temperate. 1 Cor.9:25 “ ” to be justified. James 2:24-26, Luke 17:14 While waiting: Think on these things. Philippians 4:8 Rejoice. Philippians 2:1-2, 4:4
Be patient. Isaiah 40:31, Romans 8:25, 1 Thes. 5:14 Do not complain. 1Cor. 10:10 Be in a continuous attitude of prayer. 1 Thes 5:17-18, Luke 18: 1-8 Know that it is still up to God to answer yes or no to your prayer according to His will. He knows what we truly need, and may also choose to use us in our suffering as an example of faith covered by grace. Consider, could God be testing me to build me in righteousness for my own good or His according to Hebrews 12:5-13 ? Be encouraged…
a. Time is short before the rapture of the righteous.
b. God could be preparing you for a ministry calling?
c. If your illness is serious, God could be ready to call you to a reward you will not regret. The parable of the fig tree Mat 21:18 And returning early to the city, He hungered. Mat 21:19 And seeing a fig tree in the way, He came to it and found nothing on it except leaves only. And He said to it, let no fruit grow on you forever. And immediately the fig tree withered away. Mat 21:20 And when the disciples saw, they marveled, saying, How quickly the fig tree has withered away! Mat 21:21 Jesus answered and said to them, Truly I say to you, If you have faith and do not doubt, you shall not only do this miracle of the fig tree, but also; if you shall say to this mountain, Be moved and be thrown into the sea; it shall be done. Mat 21:22 And all things, whatever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive. Mar 11:19 And when evening came, He went out of the city. Mar 11:20 And passing on early, they saw the fig-tree dried up from the roots. 102 Mar 11:21 And Peter, remembering, said to Him, Rabbi, behold, the fig tree which You cursed has withered away. Mar 11:22 And answering Jesus said to them, Have faith of God. Mar 11:23 For truly I say to you that whoever shall say to this mountain, Be moved and be cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he said shall occur, he shall have whatever he said. Mar 11:24 Therefore I say to you, All things, whatever you ask, praying, believe that you shall receive them, and it will be to you. Christ cursed (killed) a fig tree that gave a false hope for food. (In like manner, Christ came to destroy Satan who seeks to destroy the hope of people with his lies.) He also used the incident to teach how words spoken in faith can do miracles when God’s will is being followed.
The fig tree was often used to represent Israel. Christ desired Israel to have faith, but instead found a false outward show of faith (for God) when, in fact, Israel followed a dead formal religion of tradition that bore no fruit of Godliness. Judgement resulted in God’s covenant with Israel being broken. The words of “have faith in God” also encourage that when earthly hopes and desires are shattered, we can still have faith that God will supply our needs when we ask and speak in faith believing. Jesus knew that shortly His earthly ministry would be ended and the deciples would think that all was lost. He was encouraging them not to give up on God, who would overcome Satan in whatever they spoke in faith.
The spoken word shows all that we believe and honor God to have power for change. It commits us and God to a course of action. It shows that we are in agreement and unity of purpose with God for His will to be done. All deciples needed this hope to sustain them in the coming days. remember that Jesus verbally spoke nearly all the miracles that He prayed. Remember, how He called Lazarus from the grave as one of the greatest examples.
That which is above was given to me awhile back, but I have not felt peace that it was all of the story. Yesterday morning, the day after Valentines day, God woke me at 4AM and told me to look up what had happened just before this story. Sure enough, it added a whole new dimension to what Jesus was thinking and greatly humbled me.
Mat 20:17 And going up to Jerusalem, Jesus took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said to them, Mat 20:18 Behold, we go up to Jerusalem. And the Son of Man shall be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes, and they shall condemn Him to death. Mat 20:19 And they shall deliver Him to the nations to mock and to scourge and to crucify. And the third day He shall rise again. These thoughts were weighing heavily on Christ’s mind and set the background for all else that was to come. Mat 20:20 Then the mother of Zebedee’s children came to Him with her sons, worshiping and desiring a certain thing from Him. Mat 20:21 And He said to her, What do you desire? She said to Him, Grant that these my two sons may sit in Your kingdom, the one on Your right hand and the other on the left. Mat 20:22 But Jesus answered and said, You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They said to Him, We are able. Mat 20:23 And He said to them, You shall indeed drink of My cup and be baptized with the 103 baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but to those for whom it has been prepared by My Father. Mat 20:24 And when the ten heard it, they were indignant concerning the two brothers. Here, Jesus finds that his disciples were not spiritual, as He desired. They had been with Him a good while, but still had not learned to care for the Father that He served. They were still more concerned with their own prideful selfish interests instead of seeking only the will of the Father as He did. Mat 20:30 And behold, two blind men were sitting by the wayside. When they heard that Jesus passed by, they cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David! Mat 20:31 And the crowd rebuked them, saying that they should be silent. But they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David! Mat 20:32 And Jesus stood still and called them, and said, What do you desire that I should do to you? Mat 20:33 They said to Him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened. Mat 20:34 So Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. And immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed Him. Jesus’s first response to the blind men did not indicate a great compassion for them, but rather a tired response for how all were only seeking what His miracles could do for them. They cared not for the spiritual things of God, but only for how the miracles could help them. They had no love of God, but instead were only seeking self benefits. Mat 21:8 And a very great crowd spread their garments in the way. Others cut down branches from the trees and spread them in the way. Mat 21:9 And the crowds who went before, and those who followed, cried out, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest! Riding into Jerusalem, the multitudes were honoring Jesus for His works, but He knew they would shortly turn on Him with cries of “Crucify Him”. They had no real love for Him as the Son of God. It was a false show of religion. Mat 21:12 And Jesus went into the temple of God and cast out all those who sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of those who sold doves. Mat 21:13 And He said to them, It is written, “My house shall be called the house of prayer”; but you have made it a den of thieves. Mat 21:14 And the blind and the lame came to Him in the temple, and He healed them. Mat 21:15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things which He did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David, they were angry*. *Also translated “indignant” from John 7:42. Jesus saw how the religious leaders reacted to His righteous anger and miracles for the good of the people. They cared not for the things of God but only reacted in self pride. They were false spiritual leaders. who had not heard His messages from the Father. All His desires to reach His people had failed. He was spiritually crushed by the failure. So much so, that He could not later even answer the trial accusations by the priests. Yet, He doggedly resolved to go through with the Father’s plan for His humiliation and crucifiction. He trusted completely 104 in His love for the Father even though He saw no reason of success from His ministry. Later, when He was hungry and saw the fig tree barren, it represented another let-down from human circumstances. It also represented a false show of empty promise. Hunger was not the overriding reason for His anger. He could have overcome that easily. This was the man who had gone without food or water 40 days. He had turned water into wine and had fed multitudes with God’s miracles. He was angered at His lack of ability to make a difference in the lives of His people and their refusal to be open to God’s leading. The shallow desires of mankind had left no room for a real relationship and love for God.
Therefore, in response to Peter’s amazement that Jesus’s words had killed the fig tree, Jesus responded with a lesson on the power of spoken faith and what was really on His mind for some time. Even, in the face of crushed dreams and terrible circumstances, we (as He) must still have faith in and trust God’s will. Jesus had always trusted in The Father even though He had not always known what the final will of God was to encompass. In this instance, The Father had a larger plan to offer salvation not only to the Jews, but also to all mankind. Christ’s sacrifices were not to be in vain. Christ’s total love for the Father also mirrored the Father’s total love for His son and all mankind. What a Valentines day message!
Now, with understanding of how deeply Jesus depended on The Father, we can better understand His shock and total pain when The Father had to leave Him alone on the cross. He had assumed the burden of all sin which The Father had willed that He would never be in the presence of. Thus, the cry from the cross, “Why have you forsaken me??” Now, we also understand why The Father spoke “This is my son in whom I am well pleased.” Now we see why even the name of Jesus is to be honored above all names. His devotion to The Father is complete and perfect even to the point of a willingness to suffer and die for a cause He felt He had failed in. How can we continue to now rationalize and put self desires above the will of The Father? Jesus calls us to continue in His words and example. Glory to God! Now, I appreciate more fully the song we sang the day after valentines, “He is faithful.”
Holiness originates with The Father
Holiness is more than just perfection and great morality. According to Unger’s Bible Dictionary it also means wholeness and sanctity or separation from all that is sinful, impure or morally imperfect. The separation applies to persons, places and things. Many times scripture reminds us that God is holy and resides in a holy place. This is confirmation that in order to be totally holy, a total separation from impurity is necessary. Complete wholeness comes both from ordered agreement from within and without. God knows this and has purposely ordained that the part of God who is The Father, will not come in contact or proximity with sin in any form. He is totally Holy and pure. 1Ki 9:3 And Jehovah said to him, I have heard your prayer and your cry which you have made before Me. I have made this house which you have built holy, to put My name there forever. And My eyes and My heart shall be there perpetually. Psa 3:4 I cried to Jehovah with my voice, and He heard me out of His holy hill. Selah. Psa 15:1 A Psalm of David. Jehovah, who shall dwell in Your tabernacle? Who shall dwell on Your holy hill? Psa 15:2 He who walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart; Psa 15:3 he does not backbite with his tongue, nor does evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor; Psa 15:4 in whose eyes the reprobate is despised, but he honors those who fear Jehovah; he 105 has sworn to his hurt, and does not change it; Psa 24:3 Who shall go up into the hill of Jehovah? Or who shall stand in His holy place? Isa 41:14 Do not fear, worm of Jacob and men of Israel; I will help you, says Jehovah, and your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel. Isa 47:4 Our Redeemer, Jehovah of Hosts is His name, the Holy One of Israel. Isa 54:5 For your Maker is your husband; Jehovah of Hosts is His name; and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; the God of the whole earth shall He be called. Isa 62:9 But its gatherers will eat it and praise Jehovah; and they who collected it will drink it in My holy courts. Jer 51:51 We have turned pale because we have heard reproach; shame has covered our faces, for foreigners have come into the holy places of Jehovah’s house. Eze 42:13 And he said to me, The north chambers and the south chambers which are in front of the separate place, they are holy chambers, where the priests shall eat, those who approach to Jehovah shall eat the most holy things. There they shall lay the most holy things, and the food offering, and the sin offering, and the guilt offering. For the place is holy. Isa 51:6 But My salvation shall be forever, and My righteousness shall not be broken.
God tells us that even looking upon someone (or something) with sin created in the heart can defile a man (or a God). Note that God walked with Adam and Eve until sin entered their lives. But, after that, the relationship had been broken and there were no more close encounters. Adam and Eve had to leave for the garden was holy. Mat 5:28 But I say to you that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Gen 3:8 And they heard the voice of Jehovah God walking in the garden in the cool of the day. And Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of Jehovah God in the middle of the trees of the garden. Gen 3:9 And Jehovah God called to Adam and said to him, Where are you? (God no longer knew Adam and Eve after sin changed them.) The entire Trinity is holy, but lets go one step further to see where Holiness originates.
We know that Jesus and the Holy Spirit always do the will of the Father and desire that followers do the same. Mat 7:21 Not everyone who says to Me, Lord! Lord! shall enter the kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in Heaven. Mat 12:50 For whoever shall do the will of My Father in Heaven, the same is My brother and sister and mother. Mat 26:39 And He went a little further and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will. Mat 26:42 He went away again the second time and prayed, saying, My Father, if this cup may not pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done. Mar 14:36 And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible to You. Take away this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will. Luk 22:42 saying, Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done. John 5:19 Then Jesus answered and said to them, Truly, truly, I say to you, The Son can do nothing of Himself but what He sees the Father do. For whatever things He does, these also the Son does likewise. 106 John 5:30 I can do nothing of My own self. As I hear, I judge, and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of the Father who has sent Me. John 6:38 For I came down from Heaven, not to do My own will but the will of Him who sent Me. John 6:39 And this is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all which He has given Me I should lose nothing but should raise it up again at the last day. John 8:28 Then Jesus said to them, When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you shall know that I AM, and that I do nothing of Myself, but as My Father has taught Me, I speak these things. John 8:29 And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do t hose things which please Him. John 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth. For He shall not speak of Himself, but whatever He hears, He shall speak. And He will announce to you things to come. Gal 1:4 who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world according to the will of God and our Father, Rom 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Rom 8:27 And He searching the hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 1Co 2:10 But God has revealed them to us by His Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of God. 1Co 2:11 For who among men knows the things of a man except the spirit of man within him? So also no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. 1Co 2:12 But we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit from God, so that we might know the things that are freely given to us by God. Jas 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness nor shadow of turning. (lights=multiple physical suns and spiritual sons/daughters described in Johnn 8:12) Jas 1:18 Of His own will He brought us forth with the Word of truth, for us to be a certain first fruit of His creatures.
We know that the will comes before action just as our thoughts dictate subsequent actions. Therefore, God the Father must be the source of God’s will and Holiness. In like manner, The Father is the source of power since Jesus always prayed to the Father and He said The Father would do what He asked. Example: Jesus prayed to the Father to send the Holy Spirit when He left the earth. This understanding does not diminish Christ, but gives Him more glory because He was human and tempted as we are. Yet, He overcame all that Satan put upon Him and always won the battles using the Word inspired by the Father’s will. We are expected to do the same. John 14:10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father in Me? The Words that I speak to you I do not speak of Myself, but the Father who dwells in Me, He does the works. John 14:26 But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatever I have said to you. John 14:28 You have heard how I said to you, I go away and I am coming to you again. If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, I go to the Father, for My Father is greater 107 than I. John’s writings, shown above, give insights of more about The Father. In John 15:19 we know that Christ only does what He sees The Father do. John 8:28 shows how Jesus receives knowledge from The Father. In Johnn16:13 The Holy Spirit speaks truths heard from the will of The Father, and in 14:26 The Holy Spirit teaches all things. Since all these things come from the will of The Father, we can understand that The Father is the source of wisdom and knowledge. It is also known that Jesus and the Holy Spirit make intercession for us. So, when the Holy Spirit interprets our needs and prayers that agree with the will of The Father, The Spirit passes on the need to Jesus, who is sitting at the right hand of the Father. Jesus then speaks to The Father on our behalf and the Father provides the power to accomplish what is needed. Thus, the entire Trinity of God are in agreement at all times as to what is to be done. 1Ti 2:5 For God is one, and there is one Mediator of God and of men, the Man Christ Jesus, Heb 7:25 Therefore He is able also to save to the uttermost those who come unto God by Him, since He ever lives to make intercession for them. The Father’s Holiness also explains why The Father gave Jesus the power to raise himself from death. The Father, who was separated from Christ at that time needed Jesus to have total control for His victory over Satan. After Jesus won that battle and ascended to Heaven, He could then receive all glory and be raised above the angels in glory. He had been reduced in some of His glory when he came to earth as a human for His earthly ministry. He also had been reduced in glory for when He assumed the sin of mankind on the cross. Heb 2:6 But one testified in a certain place, saying, “What is man, that You are mindful of him; or the son of man, that You visit him? Heb 2:7 You have made him a little lower than the angels. You crowned him with glory and honor and set him over the works of Your hands. Heb 2:8 You subjected all things under his feet.” For in subjecting all things to Him, He did not leave anything not subjected to Him. But now we do not see all things having been subjected to him. Heb 2:9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor, that He by the grace of God should taste death for all. John 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and tabernacled among us. And we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and of truth. John 5:26 For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has given to the Son to have life within Himself, John 10:18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down from Myself. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it again. I have received this commandment from My Father. John 17:4 I have glorified You upon the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. John 17:5 And now Father, glorify Me with Yourself with the glory which I had with You before the world was. John 17:22 And I have given them the glory which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one, Heb 1:4 being made so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. (This was after the resurrection.) 108 Heb 1:6 And again, when He brings in the First-born into the world, He says, “And let all the angels of God worship Him.” 1Jn 2:2 And He is the propitiation concerning our sins, and not concerning ours only, but also concerning the sins of all the world. (propitiation= atoning sacrifice= substitute) Rom 3:25 whom God has set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness through the passing by of the sins that had taken place before, in the forbearance of God;
Now, with the understanding that The Father must always remain in a place completely free from sin, we can understand Jesus’s anguished cry on the cross,”Father why have you forsaken me?” Before the cross, in John 8:29, Jesus believed that The Father would always be with Him. On the cross, the torture of physical pain was bad enough, but unexpected separation from the presence of the Holy Spirit and the Father was exceedingly worse. Jesus had never before been separated from The Father and the Holy Spirit. They were the most important ones in His eternal existence. When Jesus took on the sin of mankind and went to Hell to preach salvation to those dead in sin, The Father could not be with Him. The Father could not be in the presence of sin. Mat 27:46 And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? That is, My God, My God, why have You forsaken me? Mat 12:40 For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the huge fish, so the Son of Man shall be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Act 2:27 because You will not leave My soul in Hades, nor will You allow Your holy One to see corruption. Act 2:31 seeing this beforehand, he spoke of the resurrection of Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor would His flesh see corruption, Eph 4:9 (Now that He ascended, what is it but that He also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? Eph 4:10 He who descended is the same also as He who ascended up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things.) 1Pe 3:18 For Christ also once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, indeed being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit; 1Pe 3:19 in which also He went and preached to the spirits in prison, 1Pe 3:20 to disobeying ones, when once the long-suffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared (in which a few, that is, eight souls were saved through water); 1Pe 4:6 For to this end the gospel was preached also to the dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the Spirit. Why, would The Father not have told Jesus that He had to leave Him when He fought the last battle over death from Satan? The Father’s love is the answer. Just as Abraham did not tell Issac, in advance, that he had to kill him to obey God. He wanted to spare him the pain of for-knowing what he must endure. Gen 22:7 And Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said, My father. And he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood. But where is the lamb for a burnt offering? Gen 22:8 And Abraham said, My son, God will provide Himself a lamb for a burnt offering. So they both went together. Now, it makes sense that when God was dwelling in the Ark of the Covenant, there was no choice but that Uzzah had to die when he touched the ark, even with the best of intentions. He represented sin and could not be allowed in the presence of The Father. He had not been sanctified as the priests who served God in the Holy of Holies. Num 18:3 And they shall keep your charge and the charge of all the tabernacle. Only they shall not come near the vessels of the sanctuary and the altar, so that neither they nor you also may die. Num 18:22 Neither must the sons of Israel come near the tabernacle of the congregation from now on, lest they bear sin and die. 2Sa 6:6 And when they came to Nachon’s threshing-floor, Uzzah reached out to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen upset it. 2Sa 6:7 And the anger of Jehovah was kindled against Uzzah. And God struck him there for the error. And he died there by the ark of God. 1Ch 13:10 And the anger of Jehovah was kindled against Uzza, and He struck him because he put his hand to the ark. And he died there before Jehovah.
With the knowledge that The Father is the source of power, will, knowledge and the Holiness of God, we can see that it is no big leap to understand why God put the family fathers in responsible charge for the family. Just as The Father directs the heavenly Trinity and heavenly host, earthly fathers are planned to direct earthly families. Thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven should be the prayers of all, but especially fathers. When we submit to Christ, we are also submitting to the will of The Father. Are there people on other planets? The short answer is no, but let me explain. Mat 24:29 And immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun shall be darkened and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from the heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. Mar 13:24 But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, Mar 13:25 and the stars of Heaven shall fall, and the powers in the heavens shall be shaken. Luk 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars. And on the earth will be anxiety of nations with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Luk 21:26 men fainting from fear, and expecting those things which have come on the earth. For the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. Heb 1:10 And, “You, Lord, have laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the works of Your hands. 2Pe 3:7 But the present heavens and the earth being kept in store by the same Word, are being kept for fire until the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. 2Pe 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a rushing noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat. And the earth and the works in it will be burned up. Clearly, the above verses show that the heavens and their changes are tied to the happenings of our earth (singular) and our peoples, not someone on another planet. Rom 6:10 For in that He died, He died to sin once; but in that He lives, He lives to God. 110 Heb 7:22 by so much was Jesus made a surety of a better covenant. Heb 7:27 who does not need, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice daily, first for his own sins and then for the people’s sins. For He did this once for all, when He offered up Himself. Heb 9:12 nor by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered once for all into the Holies, having obtained eternal redemption for us. Heb 9:26 (for then He must have suffered often since the foundation of the world), but now once in the end of the world He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. Heb 9:28 so Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many. And to those who look for Him He shall appear the second time without sin to salvation. Heb 10:10 By this will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. 1Pe 3:18 For Christ also once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, indeed being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit; The above verses also show that Christ died once for our sins to create a path for our atonement that we might be with God. It is inconceivable that God would suffer in this way at any other time for any other people on a different planet. Therefore, unless another people were perfect, not needing atonement, there would be no possibility that they could be saved. If they were perfect, without sin, they would not be like any creature that I would know to call a person. They would also be without the free will that God bestowed upon us, for it is man’s nature to do evil and need redemption. Neh 1:9 but if you turn to Me, and keep My commandments and do them, though you were cast out to the outermost part of the heavens, yet I will gather you from there and will bring you to the place that I have chosen to set My name there. God chose this earth to be the special place where His name will be honored. Neh 9:6 You, even You, are Jehovah alone. You have made the heavens, heaven of the heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things on it, the seas, and all in them, and You preserve them all. And the host of the heavens worships You. Psa 19:1 To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the expanse proclaims His handiwork. The heavens declare God’s glory to us and to the angels. Psa 33:6 By the Word of Jehovah were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. Gen 2:7 And Jehovah God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. All the host of heaven describes mankind on earth. Psa 69:34 Let the heavens and earth praise Him, the seas, and everything that moves in them. Psa 97:6 The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the people see His glory. Psa 102:25 Of old You have laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the work of 111 Your hands. Psa 115:16 The heavens, even the heavens, are Jehovah’s; but the earth He has given to the sons of men. There is only one earth given to us to inhabit and maintain. The earth has the only foundation laid in heaven. It is the showcase of God’s creations. Can you imagine how special God considers mankind that He would create all on earth and the heavens for us to admire and praise Him for. We are the only ones He suffered for.
Intimacy with the Holy Spirit
Bevere & lcl
Jas 4:8 Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners; and purify your hearts, double-minded ones. God yearns for continuous fellowship with mankind. He says to Pray without ceasing. This also implies that He is continually available for us in a two way conversation. Joh 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, so that He may be with you forever, Joh 14:17 the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive because it does not see Him nor know Him. But you know Him, for He dwells with you and shall be in you. Joh 16:7 But I tell you the truth, it is expedient for you that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Comforter will not come to you. But if I depart, I will send Him to you. Christ knew that the Holy Spirit would be able to do more for us than He could because God’s spirit would be an integral part of us, not just a companion with us. He also could only be in one place at a time, but the Holy Spirit can be everywhere at the same time. This represents total intimacy and knowledge of God and His creation. Remember, that the Holy Spirit is the teacher, and that tongues allows one to speak on the same level as God. Some works of the Holy Spirit are as follows: Joh 16:8 And when that One comes, He will convict the world concerning sin, and concerning righteousness, and concerning judgment. Joh 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth. For He shall not speak of Himself, but whatever He hears, He shall speak. And He will announce to you things to come. Joh 16:14 He will glorify Me, for He will receive of Mine and will announce it to you. Act 1:4 And having met with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to await the promise of the Father which you heard from Me. Act 2:1 And in the fulfilling of the day of Pentecost, they were all with one accord in one place. The Holy Spirit can be sent to a group as well as an individual if they are focused on God, ask and expect God to fulfill His promise. to be baptized in the Holy Spirit is to be immersed (overwhelmed) with God. Interesting, that of the 500 that Christ showed himself to, prior to His departure to Heaven, there were only 120 devout believers that believed enough to wait for God’s promise in the upper room. They had denied self desires and had simply obeyed in giving up self control to do other things. Act 2:2 And suddenly a sound came out of the heaven as borne along by the rushing of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 112 Act 2:3 And tongues as of fire appeared to them, being distributed; and it sat upon each of them. Act 2:4 And they were all filled of the Holy Spirit, and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Act 2:5 And dwelling at Jerusalem there were Jews, devout men out of every nation under heaven. Act 2:6 But this sound occurring, the multitude came together and were confounded, because they each heard them speaking in his own dialect. The speaking in tongues got the attention of the crowed. Then, explanation followed as to what this meant. This is still true today with tongues then interpretation. The speaking in other tongues was evidence that God had fulfilled His promise. Seeing and hearing an earthly witness primes the pump for God to act. Note, that the Holy Spirit comes in with sudden change, but will, if necessary, leave quietly. The reverse is true of Satan. He sneaks in but leaves when a tumult of God’s power forces him to. Act 2:32 God raised up this Jesus, of which we all are witnesses. Act 2:33 Therefore being exalted to the right of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He has poured out this which you now see and hear. Act 2:38 Then Peter said to them, Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ to remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Act 2:39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all those afar off, as many as the Lord our God shall call. Act 2:41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized. And the same day there were added about three thousand souls. The Holy Spirit is available to all in Christ. The Holy Spirit normally comes after Christ is accepted as a separate act of God from salvation. Normally, preaching occurs, then faith rises, then asking prayer to receive the Holy Spirit occurs and may be accompanied with touching as a laying on of hands. Act 8:5 And Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed Christ to them. Act 8:6 And the people with one accord gave heed to those things which Philip spoke, hearing and seeing the many miracles which he did. Act 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the gospel, the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Act 8:14 And the apostles in Jerusalem hearing that Samaria had received the Word of God, they sent Peter and John to them; Act 8:15 who when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. Act 8:16 For as yet He had not fallen on any of them, they were baptized only in the name of the Lord Jesus. Act 8:17 Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. In Paul’s experience , below, he had to first give up his will to ask God what was desired by God. God had already chosen him against his contrary behavior, but needed to get his attention that he might become submissive. Sound familiar??? Act 9:6 And trembling and astonished, he said, Lord, what will You have me to do? And the Lord said to him, Arise and go into the city, and you shall be told what you must do. Act 9:15 But the Lord said to him, Go! For this one is a chosen vessel to Me, to bear My name before nations and kings and the sons of Israel. Act 9:17 And Ananias went and entered into the house. And putting his hands on him, he 113 said, Brother Saul, the Lord, Jesus, who appeared to you in the way in which you came, has sent me to you that you might see and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Paul’s seeing/believing the truth was necessary before God would act to send His Spirit to support him. Act 10:1 And a certain man named Cornelius was in Caesarea, a centurion of the Italian cohort, (A gentile) Act 10:2 one devout and fearing God, with all his household, both doing many merciful deeds to the people, and praying continually to God. Act 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said, Truly I see that God is no respecter of persons; The Holy Spirit is available to all in Christ. Act 10:38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and He went about doing good, and healing all those who were oppressed by the Devil, for God was with Him. Just as The Father gave th Holy Spirit to Christ to aid in His ministry, He also gives to Holy Spirit to aid in our ministry for Him. Act 10:42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained of God to be the Judge of the living and the dead. Act 10:44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those hearing the Word. Act 10:45 And those of the circumcision, who believed (as many as came with Peter), were astonished because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out on the nations also. Act 10:46 For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then Peter answered, Act 10:47 Can anyone forbid water that these, who have received the Holy Ghost as well as we, should not be baptized? Act 10:48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they begged him to stay certain days. Here, only God’s spoken word was necessary to bring the faith in Christ necessary for God to further bless the crowed with the Holy Spirit as a tool of ministry, guide and comforter. The baptism with water, as a physical sign of change, was superceded with speaking in tongues as another greater spiritual sign of change. Again, both signs were separate experiences. Act 19:1 And it happened in the time Apollos was at Corinth, Paul was passing through the higher parts to Ephesus. And finding certain disciples, Act 19:2 he said to them, Have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed? And they said to him, We did not so much as hear whether the Holy Spirit is. Act 19:5 And hearing, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Act 19:6 And as Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. 1Co 13:8 Charity never fails. But if there are prophecies, they will be abolished; if tongues, they shall cease; if knowledge, it will be abolished. 1Co 13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 1Co 13:10 But when the perfect thing comes, then that which is in part will be caused to cease. 1Co 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall fully know even as I also am fully known. Here, “the perfect thing” is speaking of being with God in heaven. When we are face to face with Christ. Currently, God knows us because he sees our hearts. Then, we will also completely know God, being in His presence and having the mind of Christ. 114 1Co 12:7 But to each one is given the showing forth of the Spirit to our profit. 1Co 12:8 For through the Spirit is given to one a word of wisdom; and to another a word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit; 1Co 12:9 and to another faith by the same Spirit; and to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 1Co 12:10 and to another workings of powers, to another prophecy; and to another discerning of spirits; and to another kinds of tongues; and to another the interpretation of tongues. 1Co 12:11 But the one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing separately to each one as He desires. God gives different gifts to different ones in the church so we will not become to prideful and will see a need to band together for guidance, healing and power. There are 4 types of tongues. Two are for public use as for a sign and interpretation. Private use includes intercession for others and for building our faith. 1Co 12:27 And you are the body of Christ, and members in part. 1Co 12:28 And God set some in the church, firstly, apostles; secondly, prophets; thirdly, teachers, then works of power, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, kinds of languages. 1Co 12:29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of power? 1Co 12:30 Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak languages? Do all interpret? 1Co 14:2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. For no one hears, but in spirit he speaks mysteries. 1Co 14:4 The one speaking in a tongue builds himself up, but he prophesying builds up a church. 1Co 14:22 So that tongues are not a sign to those who believe, but to those who do not believe. But prophesying is not to those who do not believe, but to those who believe. 1Co 14:26 Then how is it, brothers? When you come together, each one of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be for building up. 1Co 14:27 If one speaks in a language, let it be by two, or at the most three, and in succession. And let one interpret. 1Co 14:28 But if there is no interpreter, let him be silent in a church; and let him speak to himself and to God. 1Co 14:30 If a revelation is revealed to another sitting by, let the first be silent. 1Co 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Rom 8:16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God. This is a test for us to know we are God’s and are in His will. Rom 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Rom 8:27 And He searching the hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 115 So
why should one desire the Holy Spirit:
1. As an aid in communication & allow a higher level of worship 1Co 14:2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. For no one hears, but in spirit he speaks mysteries. 1Co 14:14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. 1Co 14:15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the mind; I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the mind. 1Co 14:16 Else, if you bless in the spirit, he occupying the place of the unlearned, how will he say the amen at your giving of thanks, since he does not know what you say? 1Co 14:17 For you truly give thanks well, but the other is not built up. Heb 5:11 of whom we have much to say, and hard to be explained since you are dull of hearing. If we do not stay close to God, out ears do become plugged where we cannot hear Him as much as we do the world. Trained senses come from practice and are the mark of the mature Christian.
2. To defeat weakness (strengthen faith) and pave the way for prophecy, healing and power Rom 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
3. To edify and build up the spirits of the saved Jud 1:20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, 1Co 14:3 But he who prophesies speaks to men for building up, and exhortation, and comfort. 1Co 14:4 The one speaking in a tongue builds himself up, but he prophesying builds up a church.
4. For guidance to know the hidden counsel (truth) of God (past, present & future) Pro 20:5 Wisdom in the heart of man is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out. Joh 7:37 And in the last day of the great feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. Joh 7:38 He who believes on Me, as the Scripture has said, “Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.” 1Co 2:6 But, we speak wisdom among those who are perfect; yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the rulers of this world, that come to nothing. 1Co 2:7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, which God has hidden, predetermining it before the world for our glory; 1Co 2:8 which none of the rulers of this world knew (for if they had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory). 1Co 2:9 But as it is written, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,” nor has it entered into the heart of man, “the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1Co 2:10 But God has revealed them to us by His Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of God. 1Co 2:11 For who among men knows the things of a man except the spirit of man within him? So also no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. 1Co 2:12 But we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit from God, so that we might know the things that are freely given to us by God. 1Co 2:13 These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches, but which 116 the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 1Co 14:2 For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. For no one hears, but in spirit he speaks mysteries. Joh 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth. For He shall not speak of Himself, but whatever He hears, He shall speak. And He will announce to you things to come.
5. To give rest and refreshing 2Co 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen. Fellowship means an intimate communion for exchange of thoughts and feelings. Isa 28:11 for with stammering lips and another tongue He will speak to this people. Isa 28:12 To whom He said, This is the rest; cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing. Yet they were not willing to hear.
6. To make intercession to Christ and the Father for the saved Rom 8:27 And He searching the hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Thus the Holy Spirit interprets those desires that are in agreement with the Father’s will and sends them, by spirit, to Christ at the right hand of the Father. He, in turn, as our advocate speaks to the Father concerning us and the Father responds. Therefore, the entire person of God is involved and in agreement, in unity, with answered prayer.
7. To glorify Christ Joh 16:14 He will glorify Me, for He will receive of Mine and will announce it to you.
8. As a confirmation to others and ourselves that God is in us 1Co 14:22 So that tongues are not a sign to those who believe, but to those who do not believe. But prophesying is not to those who do not believe, but to those who believe. Rom 8:16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God.
9. To convict the world of sin, God’s righteousness and judgement Joh 16:8 And when that One comes, He will convict the world concerning sin, and concerning righteousness, and concerning judgment. Allow God’s truth to dictate experience instead of the other way around. Jas 4:4 Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever desires to be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Jas 4:5 Do you think that the Scripture says in vain, The spirit that dwells in us yearns to envy? We cannot love the world and have a relationship with the Holy Spirit. 2Co 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen. Examples of the Holy Spirit’s communications: Act 8:29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, Go near and join yourself to this chariot. Act 10:19 And while Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said to him, Behold, three men are looking for you. Act 10:20 Therefore arise and go down and go with them without doubting, for I have sent 117 them. Act 11:27 And in these days prophets from Jerusalem came to Antioch. Act 11:28 And one of them named Agabus stood up and signified by the Spirit that there should be great famine over the world (which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar). Act 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, So, then, separate Barnabas and Saul to Me for the work to which I have called them. Act 15:27 Therefore we have sent Judas and Silas, who will also announce to you the same things by word. Act 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these necessary things: Act 16:6 And coming through the Phrygian and the Galatian region; and by the Holy Spirit being forbidden to speak the Word in Asia; Act 16:7 having come to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia. But the Spirit did not allow them. Act 18:5 And when Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ. Act 19:21 After these things were ended, passing through Macedonia and Achaia, Paul purposed in the spirit to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have come there, I must also see Rome. Act 20:21 testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. Act 20:22 And now, behold, I am going bound by the Spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall happen to me there, Act 20:23 except that the Holy Spirit witnesses in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. Rom 9:1 I tell the truth in Christ, I do not lie, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, Rom 9:2 that I have great heaviness and continual pain in my heart. Psa 28:1 A Psalm of David. I will cry to You, O Jehovah; my Rock, do not be deaf to me, lest, if You be silent to me, I become like those who go down into the pit. Without a closeness to God and the Holy Spirit we feel no different than those who are unsaved and destined for hell. God desires to have fellowship with us as much as we need His closeness. God’s desire is for all to receive all that He has to give. Only we will limit how much we receive by how much we understand, earnestly desire and have faith for. Mar 16:15 And He said to them, Go into all the world, proclaim the gospel to all the creation. Mar 16:16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved, but he who does not believe will be condemned. Mar 16:17 And miraculous signs will follow to those believing these things: in My name they will cast out demons; they will speak new tongues; Mar 16:18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will be well. Paul also encouraged the church: 1Co 14:5 I wish all of you to speak in languages, but rather that you may prophesy; for greater is he prophesying than he speaking in tongues, He was not against speaking in tongues, but was encouraging how it was proper, in public ministry with tongues, to explain the meaning of what was said so that all might be built up. 118 To be intimate with God requires good communication. There are two types of speaking in tongues. Both types give evidence of the overwhelming power and presence of God. Corporate speaking in tongues is for instruction, encouragement and praise in the body of Christ, The Church. When an interpretation of the tongues is given, it provides clarity of what God is speaking to the church. There should be no conflict or confusion. When another’s tongues are interpreted differently from what has been given us at that moment by the Spirit, we are to remain silent to prevent confusion. Thus, it is also very important that we truly believe that God desires to speak through us at any given time or else we should remain silent for fear that God’s true message will not be given. 1Co 14:30 If a revelation is revealed to another sitting by, let the first be silent. 1Co 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Personal speaking in tongues allows one to speak God’s will without the worries of how to pray or what to say. There is freedom from self doubts and misconceptions. One can affirm God’s will without even knowing what is being said. There is total freedom from earthly cares and the influence of sin. That which is said is guaranteed to be heard and answered because it represents God’s pure and perfect will.
Why do troubles happen?
1. Sometimes we reap the results of dumb decisions. Doing trick stunts, falling in love with bad characters, racing in dangerous sports, driving and drinking or doing drugs are a few examples of decisions that we should only make with great caution. Don’t blame God when expected problems arise. Remember to put brain in gear before making decisions! Asking for God’s guidance and studying scripture also are good ideas to make wise decisions. Then listen hard for God’s still small voice. Do not act unless you have complete peace about the decision. All can ask God for and receive grace for bad decisions made when in Christ when they judge themself as guilty and intend to do better. However, God’s grace does not mean man’s forgiveness follows for broken laws. There is an earthly price to be paid. Remember that God always gives good gifts, but will sometimes remove His hedge of protection around nations and people who allow satan to kill, steal and destroy through them. Give credit where credit is due. However, even adversity can work to our good if we have the right attitude and continue to seek God. Rom 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. The following are a few reasons why Satan is allowed to bring havoc and pain to people and nations:
2. Necessary correction is sometimes needed when people purposely ignore or rebel against God’s will. Just as children need encouragement (both positive love and negative pain) to learn right actions, so do adults. We are learning out entire life how to seek God’s will and work toward it. When someone has a lot of bad things happen to them, others often assume incorrectly that surely the person must have done wrong to bring on these things. Job’s “friends” assumed that he was to blame for his calamities. In a way, he was, but not for purposed rebellion. Job’s faith in God needed help. 119 Job 3:25 For the thing which I greatly feared has come upon me, and that which I was afraid of has come to me. Of course, the loss of a loved one is seems difficult to justify from our viewpoint. Our only solace comes from viewing their passing from God’s viewpoint. If they gain heaven they will be happier there and can look forward to other family joining them in a brief time. Children are thought to all receive grace unless they have passed the age of accountability into adulthood without accepting God’s grace and Christ’s lordship. If they are not bound for heaven, due to rejecting Jesus Christ’s offer of grace, their final condition is justified. All will have an opportunity to make a decision for Christ. Jesus proved that when He preached in Hell after His death on the cross. He allowed all who had died before to accept Him then. Now, who would reject that deal? 1Pe 3:18 For Christ also once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, indeed being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit; 1Pe 3:19 in which also He went and preached to the spirits in prison, 1Pe 3:20 to disobeying ones, when once the long-suffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared (in which a few, that is, eight souls were saved through water); 1Pe 4:6 For to this end the gospel was preached also to the dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the Spirit. God ultimately restored all Job had lost 10 times over, plus Job found that He had come through a terrible time and God was found faithful to again bless him. No longer would Job see Gods gifts to be a source of worry, and he would never doubt that God could bring him through any trial. Job’s pain was really sent for the next reason given below.
3. Pain can be a drawing motivation. God draws us to Christ and His will through positive love or negative pain. Both are powerful encouragements. We easily desire the positive inducements of God’s love, but can also be moved by negative results bringing pain. Fear causes us to question if we are in the will of God. When we continue to seek God and His will, pain can lead or refine our path to a closer relationship with God. Just because a parent disciplines a child does not mean that they do not love the child. Quite the contrary, proper discipline ultimately leads to a better attitude and life for the child. God sees us as children with free will that need to learn to make good decisions in order that we may be blessed. Accentuating and accepting self judgement and self correction is always preferable to having to be disciplined by painful circumstances.
4. Some pain may be the best answer to our own prayers. If we ask for patience, intellectual or spiritual growth often struggle is required. More is learned from valley experiences than from mountain-top views. Learning requires effort. Unfortunately, pain often is a path for more strongly reinforced learning than is pleasure. We tend to want to rest in pleasures without growing further in grace and seeking God’s will. Many temporary pleasures lead people to seek worldly things that should be avoided. Greed, lust and desires for power always lead to incorrect actions against the will of God. On the other hand, pain meted out in love is always used for refining to bring out the best qualities for those seeking God.
5. Problems can be a path to ministry. When God desires to prepare a person for his ministry, pain may be involved. We gain knowledge and empathy for others going through life’s similar tribulations when we have personal experience. Overcomers can find purpose in their trials and testing by helping others overcome or avoid what they or other loved ones 120 have endured. Wise learners can find wisdom by seeing God or satan act in the lives of others and act to avoid wrong lessons.
6. Problems can produce positive results when faith in God is involved. The early deciples of Christ were severely persecuted. However, God used the attacks to spread the gospel to distant parts of the earth when the early church sought relief through escape. Much like wind-blown embers of a fire, the early church ignited other fires of faith where-ever they went. God won again!
7. To those who are going through difficult heart rending times God would tell you that He loves you and has not forgotten you. It is His desire that you would know His love through compassionate sympathetic friends who offer their support and encouragement. This is His encouragement to all in Christ. Rom 12:15 Rejoice with rejoicing ones, and weep with weeping ones; Rom 12:16 minding the same thing toward one another, not minding high things, but yielding to the lowly. Do not be wise within yourselves. God is also a very good listener who would encourage you to pour out your heart to him and ask for help. Who knows, with the right attitude you may get a miracle. At the very least, just talking to a caring God is therapeutic. Mat 7:7 Ask and it shall be given to you; seek and you shall find; knock and it shall be opened to you. Mat 7:8 For each one who asks receives; and he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, it shall be opened. Mat 21:22 And all things, whatever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive. One caution, God may answer your request in a different way than you expect. Trust, that He knows what is best. Continue asking until god gives you a peace that he has answered. Then continue to say thanks to god and wait patiently. Know that Christ, through the Holy spirit, can give those who have accepted Him peace, even in the midst of the storm. John 14:26 But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatever I have said to you. John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. This can be an opportunity for you and those who come to your aid to all become closer and stronger individually, collectively and closer with God. God desires that you rest in Him and give Him your burdens. This will pass, but God is forever. God also suffered for your grace. 10-8-2017
(a work in progress begun about 2001) by lcl
References: New King James Bible, 1980 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Unger’s Bible Dictionary, 1966 by Merrill Unger, Moody Press Acknowledgment:
Thanks be to God who made, saved, heals, guides and blesses me through Christ and the Holy Spirit. Let all obey the will of God the Father.