1/16/2011 ~ Can A Man Be Religious And Wrong?
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Jesus did not come to make us religious.
What is Religion? ~
Belief – Higher Power
Participate – rite or act
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"... those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." ~ John 4:23-24
Appearance does not necessarily mean correctness.
"... according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. ..."
Acts 26:1-6
Paul went through the procedures of the Law of Moses.
└─> He was in error of what God wanted.
"... be holy in all your conduct, because it is written,
"Be holy, for I am holy." ~ 1st Peter 1:13-16
To be what God calls us all to be, Christ must be in us.
Our character has to be pure in developing for Him.
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: ... ~ James 1:27
We need to care for others to please God.
... in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself,
not discerning the Lord's body. ~ 1st Corinthians 11:29
If errors are made, we need the strength to make corrections for God.
... if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received,
let him be accursed. ~ Galatians 1:6-9
→ It is important what we practice with eternal life in view.
"If you love Me, keep My commandments." ~ John 14:15
"You are the salt of the earth; ..." ~ Matthew 5:13
God calls us to practice His truths.
People need to see our religion in us.
... continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is,
the fruit of our lips, ... ~ Hebrews 13:15-16
Give God the credit for all that you do.
"... they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
~ Matthew 5:14-16
"... But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny
before My Father who is in heaven." ~ Matthew 10:32-33
God does not want closet Christians.
Do you submit to the words of God?
Daily conduct shows our religion.
Many claim religion is our social problem or plague, for wars and hate.
It would appear atheism and or humanism is on the increase.
The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." ... ~ Psalms 14:1-2
Generally, people are religious because of conscience.
~ It is how God made us.
We need something Greater than ourselves or corrupt cultures.
"... I perceive that in all things you are very religious; ..." Acts 17:22
Religiousness does not make rightness.
... Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man's all. ...
~ Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
... what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy,
And to walk humbly with your God? ~ Micah 6:8
"... considering the objects of your worship, ..." ~ Acts 17:23
↓
Some think any God will do.
"God, who made the world and everything in it, ..." ~ Acts 17:24-25
God is who made us, NOT that we made Him.
"... I, even I, am the Lord, And besides Me there is no savior." ~ Isaiah 43:10-11
Our God is through a resurrected Jesus who gives light to all mankind.
... in Christ all shall be made alive. ... ~ 1st Corinthians 15:12-23
... let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.
... ~ Romans 13:12-14
There will be those that hate for the sheer sake of hating.
Agony has led many a soul to blame others, those lacking introspection.
To follow the religion of God you will pursue harmony and love.
The Gospel was sent to both Jews and Gentiles, - ALL PEOPLE.
... if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you,
So that you incline your ear ... Proverbs 2:1-5
... Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
And 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; ...
Proverbs 3:1-7
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To know, one has to hear truth to be correct.
Do you pursue His truth
or follow man’s adjustments?
↑ ??? ↑
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1/23/2011 ~ Principles of Judgment
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... the judgment of God is according to truth ... ~ Romans 2:1-2
There will be a judgment, the Bible teaches this.
... He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep
from the goats. ... ~ Matthew 25:31-46
We are all heading this way.
And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, ...
~ Hebrews 9:27
We must take preparation in this life for the coming judgment.
Principles of Judgment:
1. Of God.
2. According to truth.
3. Righteous judgment of God
4. According to one’s deeds
5. With no partiality
6. Judged according to His Gospel
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It will be God’s truth.
Sanctify them by your truth. Your word is truth. ~ John 17:17
God is fair with all of us, he has given what is sufficient for us to endure.
... "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect
in weakness." ... ~ 2nd Corinthians 12:9
It will be a final revelation too and for all.
There will be no disciples of men in which we are judged.
... the goodness of God leads you to repentance? ... ~ Romans 2:3-4
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REPENTANCE = A CHANGE OF MIND
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"Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, ..." ~ Matthew 3:8
... all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one
may receive the things done in the body, ... ~ 2nd Corinthians 5:10
... you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath
and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, ... ~ Romans 2:5
... who "will render to each one according to his deeds": ... ~ Romans 2:6-10
We hope in His promise to come; eternal life.
... hope of eternal life which God, ... ~ Titus 1:2
And this is the promise that He has promised us - eternal life. ~ 1st John 2:25
"... in the age to come, eternal life." ~ Mark 10:30
ETERNAL LIFE
HOPE
PROMISED
IN THE WORLD TO COME
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... for obedience to the faith ... ~ Romans 1:5
We all are called to obedience to the faith.
... prophetic Scriptures has been made known to all nations, according to
the commandment of the everlasting God, for obedience to the faith --
~ Romans 16:26
... by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law,
are a law to themselves, ... ~ Romans 2:11-14
Everyone should know there will be a judgment of God.
... the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, ...
~ Romans 2:15
Conscience of right and wrong is of God.
... God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.
~ Romans 2:16
All will be exposed for what it is.
All are under sin in need of the Gospel.
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1/30/2011 ~ Generation ME
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¤
... there is nothing new under the sun. ... ~ Ecclesiastes 1:8-10
Do not say, "Why were the former days better than these?"
For you do not inquire wisely concerning this. ~ Ecclesiastes 7:10
Generational Stumbling Blocks
1. Entitled
2. Not My Fault
3. Selfishness
4. Greediness
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For there is not a just man on earth who does good And does not sin.
~ Ecclesiastes 7:20
... for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, ... ~ Romans 3:23
... Says the Lord. "But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and
of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word." ~ Isaiah 66:2
Sinners either make excuses or open their hearts to the truth.
' "... Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn,
So that I should heal them." ' ~ Acts 28:26-27
Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, ... ~ Proverbs 20:6
"I Deserve"
"You Owe Me"
"I Should Have"
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... There is a generation-oh, how lofty are their eyes!
And their eyelids are lifted up. ... ~ Proverbs 30:11-14
Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, And prudent in their own sight!
~ Isaiah 5:21
... they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing
themselves among themselves, are not wise. ... ~ 2nd Corinthians 10:12
└───> self ... self <───┐
... who trusted in themselves that they were righteous,
and despised others: ... ~ Luke 18:9-14
"Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seats in the synagogues
and greetings in the marketplaces." ~ Luke 11:43
... If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. ~ 2nd Thessalonians 3:10
Pompous fools are left with nothing.
"Its my job"
"My Parents"
"My Friends"
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... "The serpent deceived me, ..." ~ Genesis 3:12-13
... And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground.
Look, there you have what is yours.' ... ~ Matthew 25:24-27
... He shall not die for the iniquity of his father; ... ~ Ezekiel 18:14-17
Life’s accountability is attributed to one’s own choices.
"I Don’t Care"
"I Don’t have Time"
"ME, ME, ME"
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... perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, ...
~ 2nd Timothy 3:1-5
... walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise
authority. They are presumptuous, self-willed. ... ~ 2nd Peter 2:9-15
... if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!
~ Galatians 5:13-15
"... For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?
Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" ~ Matthew 16:24-26
Self seeking can only lead to personal destruction and alienation.
"I Want More"
"I Want What They Have"
"I Need More Money"
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... who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare,
and into many foolish and harmful lusts ... ~ 1st Timothy 6:9-10
... They all look to their own way, Every one for his own gain, ...
~ Isaiah 56:11
... put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness,
passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. ~ Colossians 3:5
... he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. ~ Matthew 19:21-22
"... with their mouth they show much love, but their hearts
pursue their own gain." ~ Ezekiel 33:31
"... what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God."
~ Luke 16:15
"... not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall
we wear?' ... Father knows that you need all these things. ..." ~ Matthew 6:31-34
Disrespectful callous snobbish souls plague the social strength of a society.
... Let us not become conceited, provoking one another,
envying one another. ... ~ Galatians 5:22-26
... to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself
more highly than he ought to think, ... ~ Romans 12:3
... esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only
for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. ~ Philippians 2:3-4
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being
from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God, ... ~ 2nd Corinthians 3:5
INNER SANCTUARY?
IN DARKNESS
GOD
⭨↓⭩
→ SELF ←
INTERESTS
⭧ ↑ ⭦
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LEFT OUT
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IN LIGHT
SELF
⭨↓⭩
→ GOD ←
REGARDED
⭧ ↑ ⭦
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INTERESTS
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"... indeed, the kingdom of God is within you." ~ Luke 17:20-21
God's Call to Salvation:
Hear (Romans 10:17)
Believe (Hebrews 11:6)
Repent (Acts 17:30)
Confess (Acts 8:37)
Be Baptized (Acts 2:38)
Live Faithfully (Romans 6:4)
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Come to God over self.
I would like to thank my brother in Christ, Matt Parker
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2/6/2011 ~ Hated Without Cause
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"... 'They hated Me without a cause.' " ~ John 15:18-25
... who hate me without a cause. ~ Psalms 35:19
David, an innocent man was pursued by Saul’s unjustified hate.
... secretly cut off a corner of Saul's robe. Now it happened afterward that
David's heart troubled him because he had cut Saul's robe. ~ 1st Samuel 24:1-5
David wished no harm on Saul, his allegiance was to God and country ...
... They sought me without cause
Those who hate me without a cause Are more than the hairs of my head; ...
~ Psalms 69:4
... "The LORD forbid that I should do this thing to my master, the LORD'S
anointed, to stretch out my hand against him, ... ~ 1st Samuel 24:6
Perhaps we know someone who lives to hate,
always complaining with disgust on their hearts.
... evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be
exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, ... ~ John 3:16-21
Evil hates the light, especially the light of truth.
Proud hearts deceitfully planning is the playground of the wicked.
But they were filled with rage, and discussed with one another
what they might do to Jesus. ~ Luke 6:11
Jesus came as a friend to the whole world,
... not for the elite who oppressed and took advantage of the poor.
He was hated for the truth He gave for us all.
... who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
~ 2nd Thessalonians 2:10-12
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and
light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! ~ Isaiah 5:20
... disobedient, "The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief
cornerstone," and "A stone of stumbling And a rock of offense." ~ 1st Peter 2:7-8
We can not control those that would hate us.
Their passions are of the flesh self void of true godliness.
Job kept his eyes on God.
↓
"I have made a covenant with my eyes; Why then
should I look upon a young woman?" ~ Job 31:1
"If my heart has been enticed by a woman,
Or if I have lurked at my neighbor's door, ..." ~ Job 31:9
"If I have despised the cause of my male or female servant
When they complained against me, ..." ~ Job 31:13
"If I have made gold my hope, Or said to fine gold,
'You are my confidence'; ..." ~ Job 31:24
"If I have rejoiced at the destruction of him who hated me,
Or lifted myself up when evil found him ..." ~ Job 31:29
Job wants all to know he is conscientious.
Job is humbled by his plight allowing God to carry him.
Job searches to know why people hate him for no offence.
Job's love of God endures ...
For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again,
But the wicked shall fall by calamity. ~ Proverbs 24:16
Those that hate you may never be able to stop
because they have a different set of values.
It is said that if one does not serve the same set of values,
... hate or despising results.
Is it more important to esteem the values of man or to serve God's purpose?
People put faith in the image of man over the God of Creation.
Unity can only be found through the One Real Living God.
In returning to Him, there will be those that hate us.
"... 'a man's enemies will be those of his own household.' " ~ Matthew 10:34-36
... do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written,
"Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. ~ Romans 12:18-19
God will perform perfect justice.
Do not let anger and or hate for those that do you wrong
overwhelm or fester upon your heart, for by doing so
one’s relationship with God is alienated.
... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
~ Romans 12:20-21
... pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,
that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; ... ~ Matthew 5:43-48
It is difficult to pray for those that hate you,
but it is the will of God and in doing so, He will be glorified.
Hating those that hate you defeats God’s relationship
and reduces one to no better than those that hate.
For God or self ?
... "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." ... ~ Luke 23:34
To hate individuals brings one to the evil of those that hate life itself.
You who love the LORD, hate evil! ... ~ Psalms 97:10
To hate evil is to love God.
For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, ...
... living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another. ~ Titus 3:3
Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know
that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. ~ 1st John 3:15
If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; ...
~ 1st John 4:20
... hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness, and does not know
where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. ~ 1st John 2:11
GOOD
(Romans 12:9)
LOVE
(Proverbs 10:12)
(John 3:21)
TRUTH
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(Philippians 2:3)
MEEK
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(Ephesians 5:12-16)
EXPOSED
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LIES
(Romans 1:24-25)
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PROUD
(Proverbs 8:13)
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HIDDEN
(Luke 12:2-5)
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HATE
(Proverbs 6:16-19)
EVIL
(Matthew 6:22-24)
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... God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. ... ~ 1st John 1:5-7
... he who loves another has fulfilled the law. ~ Romans 13:8
SPIRIT CONDITIONS OF THE SOUL
For where envy and self-seeking exist,
confusion and every evil thing are there. ~ James 3:16
Pursue peace with all people, and holiness,
without which no one will see the Lord: ... ~ Hebrews 12:14-15
... cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith. Now the
purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, ... ~ 1st Timothy 1:3-7
Hate is not part of a pure heart.
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2/13/2011 ~ God’s Purpose for Marriage
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... "It is not good that man should be alone; ... ~ Genesis 2:18-25
~ Not to be alone
God had a purpose, companionship to meet the need.
It is natural for men and women to want and need each other.
... exchanged the natural use for what is against nature ... ~ Romans 1:24-32
NATURAL USE VERSES UNNATURAL USE OF GOD’S PURPOSE
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MAN ↔ WOMAN
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NATURAL
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HELPERS
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WOMAN ↔ WOMAN
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AGAINST NATURE
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DESERVING OF DEATH
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MAN ↔ MAN
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AGAINST NATURE
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DESERVING OF DEATH
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... who practice such things are deserving of death, ~ Romans 1:24-32
... Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, ... nor adulterers, nor
homosexuals, nor sodomites, ... will inherit the kingdom of God.
~ 1st Corinthians 6:9-10
Deceived or True Spiritual Growth?
... believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe
the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. ~ 2nd Thessalonians 2:10-12
The only relationship approved by God is between a Man and Woman
He who finds a wife finds a good thing, And obtains favor from the LORD.
~ Proverbs 18:22
God’s Ideal is to have children with both a Mother and a Father.
... do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in
the training and admonition of the Lord. ~ Ephesians 6:4
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old
he will not depart from it. ~ Proverbs 22:6
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PARENTS = God’s Custodians in rearing children
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⭨
They will become one.
'... the two shall become one flesh'; so then they are no longer two,
but one flesh." ~ Mark 10:6-8
└─> Purpose, flesh, the family unit.
Everything we do affects our spouse.
Marriage is established to protect against sexual immorality.
... because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife,
and let each woman have her own husband. ... ~ 1st Corinthians 7:1-7
Marriage is safe and serves a higher and noble service.
Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; ... ~ Hebrews 13:4
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Marriage = Safety from being defiled
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Fidelity is necessary for the peace of the soul.
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Marriage = Protection of and for each other
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... so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. ...
~ 1st Corinthians 7:5
... it is better to marry than to burn with passion. ~ 1st Corinthians 7:8-9
Satan wants to pull us away from this God ordained arrangement.
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Marriage = Resists the Devil
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... just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her ...
~ Ephesians 5:21-33
Husband and Wife mirrors Christ and His Church.
For your Maker is your husband, The LORD of hosts ... ~ Isaiah 54:5
God’s purpose for marriage is noble results.
Love conquers all.
Walking in unity praises God.
... holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves,
being submissive to their own husbands, ... ~ 1st Peter 3:5-6
It is to serve God more, even in the face of terror.
The end result is accomplished by being closer to God.
... as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers
may not be hindered. ~ 1st Peter 3:7
Marriage meets God’s purpose.
"... I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters,
Says the LORD Almighty." ~ 2nd Corinthians 6:16-18
Common sayings ...
So the family goes, so goes the country ...
... So goes the family, so goes the church.
GOD’S PURPOSE IN MARRIAGE HAS
NATURAL BLESSINGS UPON MANKIND.
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2/20/2011 ~ Drinking of One Spirit
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Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:
... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:1-3
~ We need to be of One Spirit.
The Bible lists nine supernatural gifts from God.
↓
... There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. ...
~ 1st Corinthians 12:4-11
Miraculous Gifts Given Through the Holy Spirit
1. Word of wisdom
2. Word of knowledge
3. Faith
4. Healings
5. Working of miracles
6. Prophecy
7. Discerning of spirits
8. Different kinds of tongues
9. Interpretation of tongues
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... by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body - ... - and have
all been made to drink into one Spirit. ~ 1st Corinthians 12:12-13
God teaches the truth universally.
... God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with
various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, ... ~ Hebrews 2:2-4
→ These are extraordinary gifts that can not just be conjured up.
Real Miracles involve no debate as they are without argument.
What these nine Gifts did:
1. Confirmed it was coming from God
2. Established the New Testament church
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It was to profit all ~
... manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: ...
~ 1st Corinthians 12:7
~ It was to benefit all.
It was to Glorify Him.
For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, ...
~ 1st Corinthians 14:33
\ | /
It speaks of how great God is.
/ | \
... for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, ...
~ 1st Corinthians 12:8
... now been revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets:
that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, ... ~ Ephesians 3:1-7
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Word of Wisdom = One Religion
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┌─> Resisted the Holy Spirit.
"... always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, ..." ~ Acts 7:51-53
└─> Does one choose God's way or construct a self-chosen way?
└─> A way of self-gratification and personal exaltation?
Knowledge and wisdom ...
Today, we get the Holy Spirit by reading the Bible.
● Miraculous Faith was given in the 1st century to launch the Gospel.
↓
... to another faith by the same Spirit, to another
gifts of healings by the same Spirit, ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:9
Healings were not marginal –
└─> Cripples Walking
└─> Blind Seeing
└─> Lepers Cured
└─> Dead Raised
"... In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." ~ Acts 3:6
We can not deny miraculous healings.
... to another the working of miracles, ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:10
... But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. ...
~ Acts 28:3-6
↓
... And these signs will follow those who believe: ... they will take up
serpents; ... it will by no means hurt them; ... ~ Mark 16:15-20
↓
Jesus said that signs would follow Him.
... to another prophecy, ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:10
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Prophesies = The Word of God through the mouths of men
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... he who prophesies edifies the church. ... ~ 1st Corinthians 14:3-5
... I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came
through the revelation of Jesus Christ. ~ Galatians 1:11-12
... to another discerning of spirits, ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:10
... But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filed your heart
to lie to the Holy Spirit ..." ~ Acts 5:1-11
↓
Peter was able to discern the spirits.
... to another different kinds of tongues, to another
the interpretations of tongues. ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:10
┌─> To bring to light God’s own message for sealing His church.
Tongues – Equipped to speak languages of the Earth.
└─> Something uttered that could be understood.
It was all meant to help people believe in God’s only begotten, Christ.
... "With men of other tongues and other lips I will speak to this people;
And yet, for all that, they will not hear Me," ... ~ 1st Corinthians 14:21-22
Knowledge, wisdom, faith, healings, miracles, tongues, prophesizing.
↓
... all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, ...
~ 1st Corinthians 12:12
↑
Not a multiplicity of ways.
\ | /
... have all been made to drink into one Spirit. ~ 1st Corinthians 12:13
/ | \
Today, people believe in many different ways.
⭩
Over time, this has been done through various charismatic individuals.
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Charismatics = Believe they have gifts
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All these religions claim the Holy Spirit directs them:
↓
1. Catholics
2. Methodists
3. Presbyterians
4. Lutherans
5. Baptists
6. Mormons
7. Jehovah Witnesses
8. 7th Day Adventists
9. Etc.
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If they were all put in separate rooms ...
... to receive instructions from the Holy Spirit ...
... they should all emerge with the same doctrine ...
... for the Holy Spirit agrees as One.
... However, they are dramatically opposed to each other.
Concerning the truth, there is only one.
... He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. ...
~ 1st John 4:6
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Hears God's Word
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Does not hear God's Word
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Clearly, there is more error than truth.
→ The Holy Spirit has no schism ←
For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point,
he is guilty of all. ~ James 2:10
Inside or outside His church?
His church takes precedence over that of man's.
The Lord will not accept deviations in what He has Once Delivered.
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HOLY SPIRIT = SPIRIT OF CHRIST
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Truth agrees with itself, not molding in intermittent adjustments.
God's true plan includes robust durability and lasting salvation.
Key is Love of Him and a willingness to continually seek out
His true word.
... understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have
all faith, ... but have not love, I am nothing. ~ 1st Corinthians 13:1-2
└─> - It is to employ and obey the Word of God.
Talent does not necessarily mean justification with God.
~ We can trust in our own sincerity, but it is no guarantee.
Ask, is it God's called for church or a man ordained social gathering?
Digression is a danger involving humans,
leaving or drifting away from God's own true plan.
Reformation is a constant striving to adhere to His once
delivered word, not an extravaganza of extra interjections.
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do,
do all to the glory of God. ~ 1st Corinthians 10:31
DRINKING OF THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH?
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2/27/2011 ~ Drinking of the Body of Christ
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... by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body - ... - and have
all been made to drink into one Spirit. ~ 1st Corinthians 12:12-13
All are baptized by the same Spirit
We are Christ’s bride and as such, we need the dedication.
~ Joined to Him.
For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.
~ Ephesians 5:21-33
● His citizens
● His sheep
→ He is the Great Shepherd
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"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep."
~ John 10:11
For in fact the body is not one member but many. ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:14-31
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THE WHOLE BODY IS NECESSARY
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... those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary ...
~ 1st Corinthians 12:21-23
~ Each part is vital no matter the condition
... with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, ...
~ 1st Peter 3:7
|
HONOR ALL PARTS OF THE BODY
|
Treasure = Value
Doormats ≠ Value
|
↑ ↓
Built up or Reduced to.
Each one has to:
1. Admit personal sin
2. Not better than anyone else
3. Dependant on each other
|
Take your place in the Body.
And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets,
third teachers, after that miracles, ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:28
Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miricles?
Do all have gifts of healing? ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:29-30
God gave each of us varying abilities.
... one body, but all the members do not have the same function, ...
~ Romans 12:4-5
↓
No matter how strong or weak.
... the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
~ James 2:26
Many do not get involved with others.
~ We are of one another.
... that there should be no schism in the body ... ~ 1st Corinthians 12:25-26
No one can save you but yourself.
Some think church or churches are not good enough.
Stops people from being part of Christ's active body. <─┘
... present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God,
which is your reasonable service. ~ Romans 12:1
\ | /
We need to be in the Body of Christ.
|
3/6/2011 ~ Is The Savior Your Lord?
|
And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, ... ~ 1st Timothy 1:12-17
The deeper one gets in to the word the richer it becomes.
~ It is growth in the truth that increases appreciation of God.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this
is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. ~ 1st Thessalonians 5:16-18
We give thanks to God always for you all, ... ~ 1st Thessalonians 1:2-3
→ Thankful for everyone in CHRIST.
... thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, ... ~ 2nd Thessalonians 1:3
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, ... ~ Philippians 1:3-4
Key to a pure he♥rt is thankfulness.
... Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, ... ~ 1st Timothy 1:12
└─> Paul’s strength comes from the Lord.
┌─> Paul had been zealously living in darkness.
... I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly ... ~ 1st Timothy 1:13
Moved from ignorance in to knowledge. <─┘
... they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. ~ Romans 10:2
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you ... ~ Hosea 4:6
... it is not good for a soul to be without knowledge, ... ~ Proverbs 19:2
Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
~ Ephesians 5:17
Christ came that we may know God.
And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, ... ~ 1st Timothy 1:14
By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. ... ~ 1st John 3:16
For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus:
that if One died for all, then all died; ... ~ 2nd Corinthians 5:14
↓
Christ loved us to death, so our reaction should mirror this.
... He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
~ 1st John 4:9-10
We love Him because He first loved us. ~ 1st John 4:19
The main point is that Jesus openly and genuinely loves us.
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a
defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope ... ~ 1st Peter 3:15
To sanctify Him we must make Him Lord.
|
POSITION
|
CONSIDERATION
|
JUDGMENT
|
|
Unsanctified
|
●
A Savior
|
Has favor with men
|
|
Sanctified
|
●
As Lord
|
Has favor with God
|
Jesus as a Savior has widespread appeal
but not making Him Lord thwarts salvation.
~
Christ is not just our Savior, He is our Almighty Lord.
|
●
CHRIST as LORD is then our SAVIOR
|
┌─> Read and increase your faith.
This is a faithful saying and worthy of all aceptance, that Christ Jesus
came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. ~ 1st Timothy 1:15
... concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; ...
~ Philippians 3:4-6
Paul acknowledged sins from his former self.
↓
... not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
~ 1st Corinthians 15:9
Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; ... ~ Philippians 3:13-14
... in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those
who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. ~ 1st Timothy 1:15-16
Paul is an example to us in his longsuffering for Christ.
The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, ... is longsuffering toward us, not
willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. ~ 2nd Peter 3:9
... and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation ... ~ 2nd Peter 3:15
● Paul can be saved.
● We can be saved.
|
Paul knew Christ in the flesh as a blasphemer and deceiver.
... we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him
thus no longer. ~ 2nd Corinthians 5:16
The truth of God is higher than men.
We need to see Christ in the light, not as in the flesh.
We need to meet with Him in spirit and truth.
"... those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." ~ John 4:24
With a sincere heart, we need to show Him Honor for the Glory that He is.
... to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise,
be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. ~ 1st Timothy 1:17
1st Timothy 1:12-17
12 The source of all power is Christ
13 Mercy can be shown for all previous sins
14 Christ’s love for us all provides our faith and love
15 We are all inexcusable sinners offered salvation through Christ
16 Each Christian is an example of God’s longsuffering for our return
17 Christ's all knowing life affords all honor in eternal glory
|
... the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, ... ~ Galatians 3:17
Do you wear Christ our Savior as Lord?
Thanks be to my good and dear heartfelt friend in Christ, David Finney.
|
3/24/2011 ~ Leaving A Legacy
|
The Greatest Generation?
└─> Normally associated with WWII veterans.
└─> Returning to build the greatest free country ever known.
... another generation arose after them who did not know the LORD ...
~ Judges 2:10
How goes the story? ...
Many ages and stories have been written in the time of man.
~ Those who have had better and worse ...
Renaissance out of the Dark Ages.
└─> Federalism in the early American States.
└─> The New Deal of Roosevelt.
For what we are remembered is known as impact → our collision with others.
Intensity is what moves both good and bad.
~ The question is, what will be each of our legacies?
... For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time
and then vanishes away. ~ James 4:14
We need to keep our eye ahead as we cherish the past.
|
DO NOT MISS THE TIME YOU HAVE
|
A lifetime is just a small window in time.
If you live just for the moment, you may miss an enduring impact.
Legacy. <─┘
... 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' ... ~ Matthew 6:31-34
└─> Temporal concerns.
It is more than the temporary mundane ...
"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, ..."
~ Matthew 5:13
"... but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, ..." ~ Matthew 6:19-21
↑
Store up treasure in heaven.
... things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.
~ Hebrews 11:1-3
~
Hebrews 11 is a chapter of legacies.
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
↓
Abel, Cain, Enoch, Noah, Sarah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, etc.
John is known as a legacy Gospel.
Jesus getting His disciples ready for when He departs. <─┘
"... I go to prepare a place for you. ..." ~ John 14:2-3
\ | /
The Legacy of JESUS.
/ | \
... that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken ...
~ 2nd Peter 3:1-2
↑
Peter writes us so that we can know, by remembrance.
Paul also dedicates his life for the benefit of others ...
↓
... I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and
the time of my departure is at hand. ... ~ 2nd Timothy 4:1-8
└─> Awaiting departure.
... the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; ...
~ Romans 1:17
What is it that we leave for others? ...
→ Every day is a page in your life.
|
Some days are dark where others are light.
|
| OOOOOOOO |
↓
Challenges
Trials
|
OOOOOOo |
↑
Joys
Contentment
|
|
WHEN PEOPLE COLLIDE = RELATIONSHIP
|
Relationships can build us up or wear us down.
Is your page today for good or bad?
~ Are you waiting to write that good page one day?
→ What is the bulk of your story?
|
REALITY = HOW YOU ARE REMEMBERED
|
... like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort,
who have strayed concerning the truth, ... ~ 2nd Timothy 2:17-18
A torch of light?
... for Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, ...
~ 2nd Timothy 4:10
\ | /
– or Darkness? –
/ | \
Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. ... ~ 2nd Timothy 4:14-15
↑
Wickedness obstructing the gospel?
... but all forsook me. ... ~ 2nd Timothy 4:16
⭨
┌─> All else were afraid to endure.
Paul as the sole light bearer.
Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him ... ~ 2nd Timothy 4:11
↓
A well of refreshing.
⭩ ↓ ⭨
Greet Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus. ~ 2nd Timothy 4:19
Still faithful to the end is key.
~ LEGACY ~
|
Memory
|
The First Page
|
The Last Page
|
|
DEMAS X
|
Started well
Col. 4:14
Philemon 1:24
|
Abandons the Work
2nd Timothy 4:10
|
|
JOHN MARK √
|
Starts as a Coward
Acts 13:13 ,
15:38
|
Finishes useful minister
2nd Tim. 4:11
|
... The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and
the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself. ... ~ Ezekiel 18:20-24
|
HOW DOES YOUR STORY FINISH?
|
What we must do –
1. Face the Foe
2. Complete the Course
3. Protect what is Precious
4. Collect the Crown
|
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, ...
~ 2nd Timothy 4:7-8
Hate evil, love good; ... ~ Amos 5:15
To hate evil is to be able to discern between good and bad.
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness,
but rather expose them. ~ Ephesians 5:11
And to have your actions planted in faithfulness.
"... as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." ~ Joshua 24:15
Alcohol in the home is most damaging to children as a legacy example.
└─> Corruption and lawlessness follow.
... "Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord,
that you may fulfill it." ~ Colossians 4:17
... Guard what was committed to your trust, ... ~ 1st Timothy 6:18-20
We write on other people’s hearts – how do your chapters go?
CHAPTERS WELL WRITTEN?
|
?
|
YOUTH
|
EDUCATION
|
FAMILY
|
CAREER
|
SPIRITUALITY
|
OLD AGE
|
→
H
I
S
B
L
O
O
D
→
|
KINGDOM
OF
GOD
Col.1:13-14
|
C
H
O
I
C
E
S
|
LOVE
|
Ec.11:9-10
|
Prov.12:1
|
Prov.22:6
|
1st Jo.2:15
|
1st Cor.16:14
|
Titus 2:1-8
|
|
HOLINESS
|
1st Tim.4:12
|
Prov.9:10
|
Col.3:17-22
|
Col.3:23
|
1st Pet.1:13-16
|
Rom.12:1
|
|
ANGER
|
Ec.7:9
|
Prov.1:7
|
Eph.6:4
|
Prov.27:4
|
1st Th.5:9-10
|
2nd Tim.3:1-5
|
→
S
E
L
F
F
O
C
U
S
→
|
SEPARATION
IN
DESOLATION
Ps.73:18-19
|
|
LUST
|
2nd Tim.2:22
|
Jude 1:16
|
1st Th.4:3-5
|
1st Jo.2:16-17
|
Mat.26:41
|
Gal.5:15-26
|
|
ARROGANT
|
2nd Tim.3:2
|
2nd Cor.10:5
|
Is.5:21
|
Is.56:11
|
2nd Th.2:4
|
Prov.16:18
|
Are you part of the family of God? – Part of the legacy of Jesus?
Depart from evil, and do good; And dwell forevermore. ~ Psalms 37:27
Embrace what is good and depart that which is evil.
Rejoice in the chapters you leave for others.
Keep your torch lit to be passed on.
| FAITHFUL
|
|
|
↑
|
|
| DOUBT? ⭦
|
|
⭧ ERRORS?
|
| ←
|
¤
|
→
|
| UNBELIEF? ⭩
|
|
⭨ LAWLESSNESS?
|
|
|
↓
|
|
| UNFAITHFUL
|
|
What is the compass of your story?
Trust in the LORD with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding; ... ~ Proverbs 3:5-8
IS YOUR LEGACY ~ A PERSON OF GOD?
Thanks be to my brother in Christ, Mark Moseley.
|
4/17/2011 ~ The Lord
|
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God. ~ John 1:1
By the word of the Lord the heavens were made,
And all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. ~ Psalms 33:6
/ | \
Our Lord God created all that is.
"Indeed heaven and the highest heavens belong to the LORD your God,
also the earth with all that is in it." ~ Deuteronomy 10:14
"God, who made the world and everything in it, ... ~ Acts 17:24
... the clouds are the dust of His feet. ~ Nahum 1:3
~
... in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. ...
~ John 4:23-24
He feels for His creation looking for praise.
Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is,
there is liberty. ~ 2nd Corinthians 3:17
He has given freedom to that which He created.
The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. ~ Psalms 33:13
↓
Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before
the LORD our Maker. ~ Psalms 95:6
He looks for our love.
The LORD opens the eyes of the blind; The LORD raises those
who are bowed down; The LORD loves the righteous. ~ Psalms 146:8
The LORD upholds all who fall, And raises up all who are bowed down.
~ Psalms 145:14
We must bow to him.
And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through Him. ~ Colossians 3:17
To be thankful for all that He is.
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, ...
~ Colossians 3:23
For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness;
His countenance beholds the upright. ~ Psalms 11:7
He calls for us to be righteous.
For the LORD takes pleasure in His people;
He will beautify the humble with salvation. ~ Psalms 149:4
(For the LORD is our Judge, The LORD is our Lawgiver,
The LORD is our King; He will save us); ~ Isaiah 33:22
For the Lord will judge His people,
And He will have compassion on His servants. ~ Psalms 135:14
To obtain salvation we must serve Him.
... The LORD of hosts is His name; And your Redeemer is the Holy One
of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth. ~ Isaiah 54:5
... the LORD, your Redeemer, And He who formed you from the womb:
"I am the LORD, who makes all things, ... ~ Isaiah 44:24
... Who did not create it in vain, Who formed it to be inhabited:
"I am the LORD, and there is no other." ~ Isaiah 45:18
The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him,
In those who hope in His mercy. ~ Psalms 147:11
To be awe struck by Him and hope for His mercy.
The LORD is good to all, And His tender mercies are over all His works.
~ Psalms 145:9
... He has made His wonderful works to be remembered;
The LORD is gracious and full of compassion. ~ Psalms 111:2-4
Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions;
According to Your mercy remember me, ... ~ Psalms 25:7
He will remember us for our goodness.
For the word of the LORD is right, And all His work is done in truth.
He loves righteousness and justice; ... ~ Psalms 33:4-5
As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven;
He is a shield to all who trust in Him. ~ Psalms 18:30
Trust in Him and ask for His wisdom.
... our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of
wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, ... ~ Ephesians 1:17
Buy the truth, and do not sell it, Also wisdom
and instruction and understanding. ~ Proverbs 23:23
... that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him,
being fruitful in every good work ... ~ Colossians 1:10
... singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord,
giving thanks always for all things to God ... ~ Ephesians 5:17-21
He asks to please Him by singing out in our hearts.
But the LORD shall endure forever;
He has prepared His throne for judgment. ~ Psalms 9:7
... The LORD'S throne is in heaven; His eyes behold,
His eyelids test the sons of men. ... ~ Psalms 11:4-5
The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears, And delivers them
out of all their troubles. ~ Psalms 34:17
... "How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood
on those who dwell on the earth?" ~ Revelation 6:10
We are asked to endure troubles as God waits for our return to Him.
... is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish
but that all should come to repentance. ~ 2nd Peter 3:9
And this is the promise that He has promised us - eternal life.
~ 1st John 2:25
... the LORD loves justice, And does not forsake His saints;
They are preserved forever, ... ~ Psalms 37:28
The Lord will choose those noble hearts passionate for Him.
"I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, ..." ~ Jeremiah 17:10
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts,
and always be ready to give a defense ... ~ 1st Peter 3:15
Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?
... ~ Psalms 15:1-2
TRUTH
"... love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul,
with all your strength, and with all your mind, ..." ~ Luke 10:27
"The Lord knows those who are His," and "Let everyone who names
the name of Christ depart from iniquity." ~ 2nd Timothy 2:19
... the Lord searches all hearts and understands
all the intent of the thoughts. ... ~ 1st Chronicles 28:9
Nothing is hidden from the Lord.
... The LORD will take vengeance on His adversaries,
And He reserves wrath for His enemies; ~ Nahum 1:2
These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: ...
~ Proverbs 6:16-19
You shall destroy those who speak falsehood;
The LORD abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man. ~ Psalms 5:6
Evil will receive nothing.
Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it. ~ Psalms 34:14
He asks we find tranquility in which He has given to us.
But as God has distributed to each one, as the Lord
has called each one, so let him walk. ... ~ 1st Corinthians 7:17
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.
Walk as children of light... ~ Ephesians 5:8
Come to the Light, He is there.
... God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted
beyond what you are able, ... ~ 1st Corinthians 10:13
Ask to escape in Him.
For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; ... ~ Galatians 5:13
... who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it,
and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, ... ~ James 1:25
He is found through His word.
"The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace
through Jesus Christ - He is Lord of all - ... ~ Acts 10:36-38
And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation
to all who obey Him, ... ~ Hebrews 5:9
Jesus is our example of God’s will.
And God both raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by His power.
~ 1st Corinthians 6:14
... glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
~ 1st Corinthians 6:19-20
For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait
for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, ... ~ Philippians 3:20
Citizen or subject?
The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men,
To see if there are any who understand, who seek God. ~ Psalms 14:2
... he who comes to God must believe that He is, ... ~ Hebrews 11:6
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice
of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. ... ~ 1st Thessalonians 4:16
Final judgment will be final.
in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those
who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. ~ 2nd Thessalonians 1:8
Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first
earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. ~ Revelation 21:1
Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right
to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates ... ~ Revelation 22:14
For those loyal to the one true living God, life.
... The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the
glory of God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light. ~ Revelation 21:21-23
Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint;
But happy is he who keeps the law. ~ Proverbs 29:18
Without regard for divine truth, rebellion in lawlessness follows.
But Jesus said to him, "No one, having put his hand to the plow,
and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." ~ Luke 9:62
Look forward to our Lord God.
WHAT IS THE LORD?
• THE WORD
• MAKER OF ALL,
OUR MAKER
• FORMED US
• UPHOLDS ALL
• GOOD TO ALL
• TENDER MERCIES OVER ALL
• ENDURES FOREVER
• IS FAITHFUL
• IS THE SPIRIT
• IS A UNIQUE SOUL
• HOLY
• TRUTH
• GLORIOUS
• GRACIOUS
• HONORABLE
• IS MERCIFUL
• SLOW TO ANGER
• GREAT IN POWER
• FULL OF COMPASSION
• IS RIGHTEOUS
• LOVES RIGHTEOUSNESS
• LOVES THE RIGHTEOUS
• HEARS THE RIGHTEOUS
• TESTS THE RIGHTEOUS
• SEARCHES ALL HEARTS
• TESTS THE MIND
• LOOKS
• SEES US ALL
• IS NOT PARTIAL
• CALLS TO EACH ONE
|
• IS MIGHTY
• UPRIGHT
• BEHOLDS THE UPRIGHT
• PLEASURE IN HIS PEOPLE
• WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE
• REWARDER
• LOVES JUSTICE
• HATES EVIL
• HIS SOUL HATES EVIL
• IS JEALOUS
• RESERVES WRATH
• AVENGES
• FURIOUS
• OUR JUDGE
• OUR LAWGIVER
• OUR KING
• OUR LORD
• NOT SLACK
• HAS PROMISED
• LONGSUFFERING
• WILL SAVE US
• AUTHOR OF ETERNAL SALVATION
• A SHEILD TO THOSE WHO TRUST
• OUR SAVIOR
• REDEEMER
• DELIVERER
• WILL RAISE US UP
• GIVES US LIGHT
• IS KIND
• etc.
|
WHAT THE LORD ASKS OF US
• KNEEL
• BOW DOWN
• WORSHIP
• HONEST
• HUMBLE
• PEACEFUL
• FEAR HIM
• BELIEVE THAT HE IS
• HOPE IN HIS MERCY
• SEEK HIM
• TRUST IN HIM
• LOYAL HEART
• WILLING MIND
• LOVE HIM WITH YOUR ALL
• HIS SERVANTS
• EAGERLY WAIT
• OBEY HIM
• PLEASE HIM
|
• WALK WORTHY
• WALK UPRIGHTLY
• GAIN KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
• UNDERSTAND THE WILL OF THE LORD
• PLEASURE IN KNOWING HIS WORKS
• SANCTIFY THE LORD GOD
• DO GOOD
• NOT TO FORSAKE HIM
• DEPART FROM INIQUITY
• NOT DECEITFUL
• DO NOT BE DRUNK
• WORK RIGHTEOUSNESS
• CALL TO BE REMEMBERED BY HIM
• SING IN YOUR HEART TO THE LORD
• GIVE THANKS ALWAYS
• REPENTANCE
• GLORIFY HIM
• etc.
|
|
~ TO MEET HIM IN THE CLOUDS ~
|
Will you meet the call?
... he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. ...
~ Matthew 10:37-39
|
5/8/2011 ~ LAW
|
"The law and the prophets were until John. ..." ~ Luke 16:16
The Bible declares that a change in Law was commencing
with the appearance and announcements of John the Baptist.
Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law,
that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.
~ Romans 3:19
Various laws were enacted by God to show the disobedience of the souls of men.
... law is good if one uses it lawfully, knowing this: that the law is not made for a
righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, ... ~ 1st Timothy 1:5-10
Law in itself cannot control the hearts of men
and so a greater law of life needed to be established.
His desire is for His given created souls to want Him in eternal mutual Love.
... that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one
all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth -- in Him.
~ Ephesians 1:10
God waited for the fullness of the times to establish His eternal Law.
EXTENT OF LAW IN A NUTSHELL
OUTER DARKNESS
|
|
XX |
HEAVENLY PLACES
|
|
XXXXXX |
JESUS
NEW COVENANT
|
A
P
O
S
T
L
E
S
|
MOUNT
SINAI
|
JOSHUA
SAMSON
SAMUEL
|
JUDGES
PEOPLE
PROPHETS
|
M
O
S
E
S
|
THE
LAW
OF
THE
JEWS
|
|
ADAM
ENOCH
NOAH
|
OOOo
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MELCHIZEDEK
PATRIARCHAL
ABRAHAM
AGE
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ISAAC
JACOB
JOSEPH
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3 |
FALSE
IDOLS
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SAUL
DAVID
SOLOMON
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KINGS
PEOPLE
PROPHETS
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P
A
U
L
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~ DISCIPLES ~
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XXXXXX
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1st John 3:2-3
Philippians 3:20-21
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XX
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BLACKNESS OF DARKNESS FOREVER
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Genesis 1:1
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TIME
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ACTION
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MATTER
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↓
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↓
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↓
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IN THE
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BEGINNING
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GOD
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CREATED
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THE HEAVENS
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AND
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THE EARTH.
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↑
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↑
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FORCE
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SPACE
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There are laws that endure as natural for all time as announced by our Lord God.
"... I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign
of the covenant between Me and the earth. ..." ~ Genesis 9:8-17
It is God’s prerogative to simply change anything as He wills.
... the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and did not hasten
to go down for about a whole day. ... ~ Joshua 10:12-14
\ | /
... Abraham obeyed My voice and kept My charge, My commandments,
My statutes, and My laws." ~ Genesis 26:4-5
Laws of conduct have been established from the beginning.
~ The natural course between man and woman.
↓
... a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife,
and they shall become one flesh. ~ Genesis 2:24
~ The need for evil to be terminated by the just.
↓
"... Whoever sheds man's blood, By man his blood shall be shed; ..." ~ Genesis 9:6
Because man could not abide in the natural laws of God,
specifics were given to Moses to show the inability of man
to submit wholeheartedly to God and offer simple obedience.
... the law of the burnt offering, the grain offering, the sin offering, the
trespass offering, the consecrations, and the sacrifice of the peace offering,
... ~ Leviticus 7:37-38
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Law of the burnt offering
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Law of the grain offering
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Law of the trespass offering
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Law of the sacrifice of the peace offering
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Laws for the atonement of the soul were given.
The Old Testament had many laws concerning the will of God for Israel.
"... the law of the animals and the birds and every living creature that
moves in the waters, and of every creature that creeps on the earth, ..."
~ Leviticus 11:46-47
|
Law of the animals and the birds and of every living creature that moves in the waters
|
|
Law of of every creature that creeps on the earth
|
"... to teach when it is unclean and when it is clean. This is the law of leprosy."
~ Leviticus 14:57
" 'This is the law of jealousy, ...' " ~ Numbers 5:29-30
"This is the law of the Nazirite who vows to the LORD
the offering for his separation, ..." ~ Numbers 6:21
"... to do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, ..." ~ Joshua 23:6-8
⭦ ⭧
⭩ ⭨
The Law of Moses is contained
in the first five books of the Bible known as the "Torah".
└─> Specifically outlined in Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
"... concerning Israel, that you may keep the law of the LORD your God. ..."
~ 1st Chronicles 22:12-13
For the commandment is a lamp, And the law a light;
Reproofs of instruction are the way of life, ~ Proverbs 6:23
Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way,
And he who hates correction will die. ~ Proverbs 15:10
"... are forbidden to be done by the commandments of the LORD, though
he does not know it, yet he is guilty and shall bear his iniquity." ~ Leviticus 5:17
Ignorance or denial does not exclude one from the Laws of God.
... he read from the Book of the Law of God. ... ~ Nehemiah 8:18
" 'You shall therefore keep My statutes and My judgments,
which if a man does, he shall live by them: I am the LORD.' " ~ Leviticus 18:5
Want to Live by obedience to God is the word.
I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart."
~ Psalms 40:8
Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint;
But happy is he who keeps the law. ~ Proverbs 29:18
"For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John." ~ Matthew 11:13
From the Prophets to John the Baptist ~ 400 years of silence from God.
Jesus himself split the Old Testament into three sections.
"... that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses
and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me." ~ Luke 24:44
|
OLD TESTAMENT = Law of Moses + The Prophets + The Psalms
|
"Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets.
I did not come to destroy but to fulfill." ~ Matthew 5:17
We needed Jesus that through faith in Him we could be free
of the condemnation and justified in the presence of God Himself.
"... by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things
from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses." ~ Acts 13:39
... no one is justified by the law in the sight of God ... ~ Galatians 3:11
Yet the law is not of faith, but "the man who does them shall live by them."
~ Galatians 3:12
~ Faith to do what God has asked of us in the embodiment of His Word ...
... from a free heart.
Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, ... ~ Galatians 3:13-14
... boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith.
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law.
~ Romans 3:27-28
The Jewish elite tried to establish their salvation based on their prideful
outward petty works, of goodness and or routine, neglecting those things of
wholeheartedness, which the Lord repeatedly has called out for in genuine God
fearing souls. While no one can earn their way in to Heaven, Christ paid
the price for us to enter humbly through our obedience in Him.
It is God who justifies.
... there is one God who will justify the circumcised by faith
and the uncircumcised through faith. ~ Romans 3:29-31
By our actions through faith in Him we will be judged.
... not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God,
but the doers of the law will be justified; ... ~ Romans 2:12-16
• We are called to become obedient as living by faith in His Word.
Faith is not selective or argumentative belief but one's all wholeheartedly.
Faith is action through understanding the once delivered word for us to know.
Faith in yourself is not the same as faith in God Almighty.
We are called to do good for the honor of Him.
Most will not heed the call.
Trust Him.
God made a promise that salvation for mankind
would come through the seed of Abraham.
... the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the
covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, ... ~ Galatians 3:16-19
... that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.
~ Hebrews 9:15
|
PROMISE —————————————→
|
E
N
D
ED
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CHRIST
|
⭨
↑
430 Years later
│
└─>
The Law of Moses.
─┘
(Tutor)
|
⭧
|
|
... before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for
the faith which would afterward be revealed. ~ Galatians 3:21-23
The Law was a custodian before God revealed the knowledge of the faith for all.
... the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. ~ Galatians 3:24-25
You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt
to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. ~ Galatians 5:4
It is not doing to obtain but submitting to doing.
... Israel, pursuing the law of righteousness, has not attained to the law of
righteousness. Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, ... ~ Romans 9:30-10:3
Israel fell short by not submitting to God's truths.
... "Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which
are written in the book of the law, to do them." ~ Galatians 3:10
No one can obtain perfection as Christ did for us.
Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight,
for by the law is knowledge of sin. ~ Romans 3:20
|
The Law = Knowledge of Sin
|
No mere mortal is exempt from the condemnation of God.
... because the law brings about wrath; for where there
is no law there is no transgression. ~ Romans 4:15
The disobedience of mankind is clearly manifest throughout The Word.
But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed,
being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, ... ~ Romans 3:21-26
Christ gives us more than just ourselves, through Him ~ God's Love.
For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
~ Romans 10:4
|
Christ = End of "The Law"
|
... you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ,
that you may be married to an other ... ~ Romans 7:4
We are no longer under The Law of Moses.
For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. ~ Galatians 2:15-20
We are now asked to live to God in Light of His only begotten Son.
... not according to the law of a fleshly commandment,
but according to the power of an endless life. ~ Hebrews 7:14-17
|
Law of a Fleshly Commandment
|
... law of commandments contained in ordinances ... ~ Ephesians 2:14-16
|
Law of Commandments contained in Ordinances
|
Christ has drawn both the Jew and the Gentile to himself.
... having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, ...
~ Colossians 2:14
... in the flesh, the sinful passions which were aroused by the law
were at work in our members to bear fruit to death. ~ Romans 7:5
It is not a religion of the flesh but of the spirit.
... we should serve in the newness of the Spirit
and not in the oldness of the letter. ~ Romans 7:6
How should we now serve?
Newness of the Spirit NOT The oldness of the letter
|
... "Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple,
nor against Caesar have I offended in anything at all." ~ Acts 25:7-8
It does not include any body of self seeking hypocrites.
It involves the heart of each individual, as God would have it.
For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. ~ Romans 7:22
No matter how much Paul loved the Law of God, he knew he fell short.
... with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.
~ Romans 7:25
... we shall be saved by His life. ~ Romans 5:10
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free
from the law of sin and death. ~ Romans 8:2
|
Law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus
|
God proclaims that His Promise found in The Law and The Prophets has come.
He uses His Inspired Word to expose His plan for salvation offered to all souls.
If one pursues fleshly satisfactions oblivious to God’s will, oblivion waits.
... Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is
not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. ~ Romans 8:5-7
For sin shall not have dominion over you,
for you are not under the law but under grace. ~ Romans 6:14
For the law was given through Moses,
but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. ~ John 1:17
To be under the shelter of God's Grace,
His ordinances found in the New Testament must be observed.
It is not a casual event but an active relationship and partnership.
To God … and to our fellow citizens.
Honor truth.
"... On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."
~ Matthew 22:36-40
Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
~ Romans 13:10
|
LOVE → FULFILLMENT OF THE LAW
|
For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this:
"You shall love your neigbor as yourself." ~ Galatians 5:14
Owe no one anything except to love one another,
for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. ~ Romans 13:8
If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture,
"You shall love your neighbor as yourself," you do well; ~ James 2:8
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. ~ Galatians 6:2
┌─> Intently into the word.
But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, ...
~ James 1:25
Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free,
and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. ~ Galatians 5:1
So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. ~ James 2:12
God calls out as His plan unfolds for our return.
Law of Moses
The Law
Law of God
Law of the LORD your God
Law of Righteousness
Law of the Jews
Law of a Fleshly Commandment
Law of Commandments contained in Ordinances
Oldness of the letter
|
God has given us all the freedom to choose pursuits of spirit over fleshliness.
Law of Christ
Christ = End of "The Law"
Newness of the Spirit
Law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus
The Law of Faith
The Royal Law
Law of Liberty
|
To defend ourselves, ready for eternal life, we must shun blatant sinfulness.
Grace
Law of sin
Law of sin and death
The Law = Knowledge of Sin
LOVE → FULFILLMENT OF THE LAW
|
God has made Himself known.
It is a serious question as to will one pursue knowing God,
and act upon understanding His will.
WE MUST SEARCH HIS WAY TO SALVATION
Our love of Him is essential to holding a true faithful heart.
... does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides
in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. ~ 2nd John 1:9
Psalms 53:2
Job 36:22,
36:26
Jer. 32:17
Prov. 3:19
1st Tim. 6:16
|
|
Deut. 10:14
|
God's Universal Laws in Truth
|
Psalms 86:15
|
Jeremiah 17:10
1st Chronicles 28:9
Ec. 8:17
Acts 15:18
John 4:24
|
|
|
OOOOO
|
Adam and Eve Genesis 1:27
OOOOOOJohn 12:47-48
|
↓
↑
|
Hebrews 10:12
|
↓
Genesis 3:9-19
Gal.3:16
Abraham
and
Gentiles
Rom.2:12-16
→
|
Moses Exodus 3:1-8
|
Heb.
7:
11-17
↕
D
O
N
E
↔
Heb.
10:
9-10
|
Titus 2:11-14
NEW COVENANT
Law of Liberty
James 1:25
James 2:12
1st Peter 4:11
Acts 17:30
Romans 7:4-7,
3:31
John 13:14-17
John 14:6
1st Timothy 2:4
2nd Peter 3:9-12
|
OOOOO
|
⭨OOOOOOOOOO
Nehemiah 9:13-14
Mosaic Law Given
Exclusively to the Jews
Deuteronomy 5:1-3
Lev. 11:44-45
Isaiah 42:5-6
Ps. 147:19-20
Gal. 3:10-12
2nd Chronicles 6:11
Amos 3:1-2
|
Ezekiel 39:23-28
Patrtiarchal
|
O
|
|
Pursue truth given of God, not man.
|
5/15/2011 ~ Evolution
|
Where did we come from is a valid question.
We live in an evolving universe of unique changes.
Many choose to believe in The Origin of Species,
~ Charles Darwin’s book of 1859.
The design issue is complicated by inferring God whereas
many evolutionists do not want to imagine God is necessary.
~ To write the Book of Nature.
... His invisible attributes are clearly seen, ~ Romans 1:20
One can observe God by witnessing the things made.
There are two basic inferences
with regard to the origin of life and its diversity:
|
|
Natural Causes
(General Theory of Evolution)
|
Life forms from simple
substances by natural means
|
Creation
(Intelligent Design)
|
Life forms by the
intelligent shaping of matter
|
LIFE
Easier → Was this designed? ← Easier
↕
Harder → Who designed this? ← Harder
↑
~ Both questions are worth examination …
- Is it an act of intelligence to discard the argument of Intelligent Design
because Evolutionists arrogantly and simply dismiss it as a consideration?
Faith lies at both ends of the dichotomy … ~
Extremes producing biased turmoil:
|
Faith in Science ←→ Faith in God
|
* Note: Origins of the universe and life are neither observable nor repeatable.
Can Science be used to determine whether or not the universe
has been designed over the haphazard occurrence assumption?
We must use the present to draw conclusions about our remote past.
It hurts the cause if we can not remain open to all aspects of knowledge.
God demands that we know and so we should for the sake of knowing.
Test all things; hold fast what is good. ~ 1st Thessalonians 5:21
Testing is what He calls us to do.
As individuals we should not dismiss opportunities
to become the best we can be in seeing, considering valid truths.
The question is are we genuinely open or closed minded?
- In regards to our world view.
Honesty
Most do not prefer change …
and resistance litters our past as well as our present.
“Don’t upset our world view.”
However, this universe prefers instant innumerable changes
~ as a natural event ~
Chemistry examines the tiny details of life.
Modern day brilliance plows through this ignorance.
The "Origin of Species" has valid observational points
attempting to explain the adaptive qualities of life
over extended time and it should not be wholly discarded.
We must cleave to what is good
~ for the sake of our children and future civilization.
We are their inheritance.
Made from atoms is subdued, but to evolve from monkeys is hot.
Underlying questions deeper than science can answer are at the pin head:
Why are we here?
~ Are we the product of something created or a product of
natural causes - which means there is no purpose for our existence.
Emotionally heated judgments can render us all to becoming irrational.
Do we really want mass hysteria as our legacy …
… for history to mock at our foolishness?
The Rational Approach:
Judgment of Reality?
⭩ ⭨
|
|
OOO Evolution OOO
|
|
Intelligent Design
|
Evidence
Facts of nature
Details are precise
Some aspects forever remain unknowable
|
|
⭦ ⭧
Which is more reasonable?
Evolutionists believe a God originated universe undermines science.
How to please God is not science, however, God’s characteristics fill nature.
Humans use intelligence acting upon nature to form specific realities
↓
Stonehenge was not made by nature
Natural Phenomenon or Required Intelligence?
Intelligence acting on nature can be observed.
~ Is human intelligence produced by nature or free of it?
Where did intelligence come from really is the question.
● Science can not demonstrate that intelligence is created of nature.
INTELLIGENCE
Nature does include numerous patterns.
Science admits finding these patterns as they search for intelligence.
Regular amplitude and wavelength signals from space occur due to pulsars.
These signals are not regarded as intelligence but natural occurring events.
We search for “outer” intelligence, SETI = Search for Extraterrestrial Life.
Does it contain information is prerequisite to concluding intelligence or not.
No certain data has been obtained from “outer” space showing intelligence.
How do we go about classifying intelligence or not?
OCCURING EVENTS ARE:
|
Inevitable
|
contingent, had to happen, random regularity
|
|
Chance
|
What is the complexity,
probability of it not occurring randomly
|
|
Designed
|
Specified, does it contain information?
Repeatable?
|
Intelligence has to be independent of the event described.
Event or phenomenon?
Which position of faith is more valid or reasonable?
It is ridiculous to exclude all that should be examined and or considered.
Searching for “outer” intelligence, we should not reject “inner” intelligence.
Prevailing World View:
Evolution or Intelligent Design
|
Arrogance has no part in the humble nature of truth.
● Personal bias can blur one from seeing truth.
● Emotions can obscure good judgment
● The data is that it is
● Methods of science judge the world,
- constructions of man or Intelligent Design?
|
The design can be analyzed mathematically.
There should be a unique mathematical signature common
to all points knowable inside the universe we live.
This mathematical model should and does reflect
the magnificence of all creation from the beginning to the end.
These unique and common laws of nature are repeated.
The universe holds together.
Cellular life holds patterns.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for;
the evidence of things not seen. ~ Hebrews 11:1
... without faith it is impossible to please Him,
for he who comes to God must believe that He is, ... ~ Hebrews 11:6
God is dead is and has been a prominent view among those who question.
┌─> You can learn about God by the things that are made.
... being understood by the things that are made, ... ~ Romans 1:20
God is beyond nature, He is divine in nature.
Intelligent Design believes God is convincingly real through manifestations.
From the top to bottom, the evidence needs to be examined.
Judge
⭩ ⭨
|
|
o Natural Causes oo
|
OOo Intelligent Design
|
Facts
|
|
From the distant stars to the microscopic cells of life.
ALL LIFE HAS:
20 Amino Acids
Proteins, enzymes
“Workers”
- Right and Left Nature
- Life is restricted exclusively
to left sided connectivity
Proteins = Shapes and mobility
Enzymes = Tools and machinery
|
Genes – Nucleic Acids
DNA, RNA
“Reproductive”
DNA ~ Double Helix
RNA protein assisted
1. Transcription
2. Migration
3. Translation
|
|
* Note: Both are required for the functioning of life.
There is a restriction in living things that only left sided
protein molecules are accepted as well as only right sided sugars.
These are monumental barriers challenging the random natural causes
explanations, which they have none. These functioning’s are deliberate.
Proteins actively assist the functioning of DNA to unwind
enabling the recreation of useful and needed cells.
The Genetic Code is each of our fingerprints of Light Matter
└─> Both start and stop codes are encoded into it.
It is a complex operation of precise selection suited to the specific need.
The DNA is copied in messenger RNA which migrates
outside the nucleus - then translated to make proteins.
Proteins needed to build proteins are coded in the DNA.
In every living cell an undeniable extreme intelligence
has been designed into it.
Darwin’s explanation is short as to explaining the unique cell complexities.
Special Creation can be the only conclusion.
The egg can not come before the chicken and so also is how
DNA-RNA-PROTIEN-ENZYME functions are dependant upon each other.
Miraculous creation can only explain simultaneous operations.
~ An intelligent designer magnificently shouts out from every cell.
The shear complexity of it. <─┘
And more than that, the organism provides an informational context.
DNA alone does not wholly determine the morphological form and
organisms cell types are made of among other things specialized proteins,
organs are made of specialized cell types and body plans of specific
arrangements of organs and tissues, so it is bigger than one can ever dream …
… it goes beyond the DNA.
Evolutionists have all but lost there purpose
dumfounded to explain the unexplainable explainable.
VOCIFEROUSLY, - INTELLIGENT DESIGN
It is as if from behind every matter particle is an angel laughing.
... in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me,
When as yet there were none of them. ~ Psalms 139:13-16
God knew us before we were ever born.
His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood
by the things that are made, ... ~ Romans 1:20
└─> Best argument from the Bible for Intelligent Design.
Proponents of Evolution
(Reductionism)
|
Proponents of Creation
(Intelligent Design)
|
Complex organisms arose
from simple incremental
steps
|
Complex organisms
were divinely created by
a miraculous occurrence
|
Darwin himself said that if it could be demonstrated that any complex
organ existed which could not possibly have been formed by numerous
successive slight modifications, his theory would absolutely break down.
So, Darwin admits that if a complex organ can
not reduce back to a common constituent simple form,
his theory breaks down or in other words, completely fails.
Darwin also admits how absurd it is to consider the human eye
as being an act of Natural Selection.
However he argues that small changes can lead
to all higher order organs through small adjustments.
Jellyfish
Limpid
Snails
Fruit Fly
Eagles
Human Eyes
|
– Light sensitive tissue
– Cup with light sensitive spot
– Primitive lens
– Compound eye
– Sharp long distance vision
- Miraculous or incremental?
|
|
Darwin dismisses or trivializes how light sensitive tissues originated.
and continues by discarding the significance of how life first originated.
He finds no necessity for a firm foundation.
Weak as water is sufficient.
The chemistry changes underlying these Darwinian “eye” leaps
are too colossal to be rational, with incalculable “incremental steps”
~ missing from the historical record.
Unprecedented three dimensional color vision!
The Rods and chemical processes occurring in Pico-seconds,
receiving light which changes protein shapes to alter molecular forms
connected to inner membrane processes influencing pressures
between ions stimulating electrical charges sent to the brain
is no trivial event, yet taken for granted by most.
|
Depolarization → Hyperpolarization → Charge to the Brain
|
This light impact or process has to be restored continuously,
repeatedly, in a balanced refreshing.
Reverse ↔ Forward in concert.
Is it reasonable to explain vision by natural selection?
● It never will be done.
Do we fear truth or deny regard for God?
The human immune system?
Antibodies and memory cells that stay with one indefinitely
can not be dismissed in its complexity.
A human body has some 15 billion potential antibodies
depending upon the invading disease.
Heavy chain genes and light chain genes.
↓
15 Billion Defenses:
|
Stem cell → B cell → antibody → virus, bacteria
|
The body is dependant upon all of its functioning’s to the degree
that if one part is damaged or removed, it can all shut down.
Irreducibly complex systems are dependant upon each other.
It is designed to work in concert with itself.
Blood, skin, etc.
The evidence is overwhelming.
We have more reason than ever in our age
to believe there is a Great God who created us.
Who has magnificent power beyond what we can even
imagine to design such things of which we have only just begun to
understand, but we know enough now where it ought to be completely
beyond question.
Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men,
and the weakness of God is stronger than men. ~ 1st Corinthians 1:25
There is not one scintilla of evidence to support evolutionist’s hopes.
Clearly, Intelligent Design has overpowering favor based on the facts.
It is not God that undermines science, that is left to the arrogance of man.
Why we miss the
Intelligent Design argument is because
we don’t want to acknowledge GOD.
Thanks be to my dear acquaintance and brother in Christ, "Buddy" Payne.
|
5/15/2011 ~ Pressing Toward the Goal
|
\ | /
It is a marvelous honor to glorify God.
~ God has revealed Himself to us through the Bible.
Testimony of His will and of His desires for all of us who would serve Him.
We have no excuse for not learning and knowing His will for us
and following it with all of our he♥rts.
... I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus
my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, ... ~ Philippians 3:7-12
Paul's purpose for God was paramount.
... reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for
the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 3:13-15
~ Paul discovered the most important thing in his life.
Once Saul of Tarsus became convinced that Jesus was the Christ,
the Son of the Living God, then everything about his life changed.
It comes down to the ONE thing that matters in your life.
How does the importance of God influence you?
~ Does it?
- Conviction, is it your passion?
Are you open to feel the power of God?
Can we have this vision?
Can we be settled in ONE unified confidence?
To know Him and immitate Him?
A massive amount of people are reluctant to believe in God when they
witness the examples of hypocrite Christians, of which is arena is vast.
Hypocrites are those that say they believe yet act otherwise,
in not adhering to God’s announcements for human conduct.
Do we reflect this?
ONE
thing
I do
|
Forgetting
what is
behind me
|
Pressing
on to what
is ahead
|
... the goal for
the prize of
the upward call
of God in
Christ Jesus
|
A Living illustration in You?
Conviction or not?
God over self?
Offered to us.
↓
... to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man,
that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; ... ~ Ephesians 3:14-21
To be full of Christ?
We are called to have this one mindedness,
~ it is essential to how God calls us.
God’s plan will work if it is applied as planned.
Christians should be intense in their desire to know The Book
It has to, in your heart, as an obsession.
ONE thing that guides your direction.
What is the focus of your soul?
"... shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.' " ...
~ Matthew 4:1-11
↑
Jesus our Lord, while He was on Earth,
fully experienced the human condition.
He knew God’s Will and Word and used it to defend Himself against Satan!
| Are you |
d |
e |
v |
G
O
D |
t |
e |
d |
to the word? |
→ Believing as God is speaking to us.
It is the difference between life and death.
Do you seek (read) to understand The Word?
... take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, ... ~ Acts 20:17-32
┌─> Members too.
Elders need to know our hope is through our convictions.
~ It is able to save our souls.
It is the only chance we have against Satan and His agents.
†
†
†
Obsession, passion, conviction, … with all your heart.
The Word of God is more important than anything else one pursues in life.
In fact, it is the source and judge of whether we will obtain life over death.
Do you walk the talk?
"... the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day." ~ John 12:48
"... pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you."
~ Acts 8:22
~ PRAYER ~
"... pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father
who sees in secret will reward you openly." ~ Matthew 6:5-6
One needs an intimate and private relationship with God.
It is spiritual life or death, to know Him.
God wants to be close to us.
... "Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away
from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will." ~ Mark 14:36
He wants our tender love where we call out … Abba Father.
For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received
the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." ~ Romans 8:15
"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens
the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, ..." ~ Revelation 3:20-21
Hear and overcome!
"... spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit,
and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." ~ John 4:23-24
From Jesus to every church: I’m knocking on the door of your heart.
The Light of this world wants us.
↓
... In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and
the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. ... ~ John 1:1-5
↑
The Creator of this Universe is speaking.
God wants to privately dine with you.
Do you cherish this as the ONE thing.
Is this your deepest desire?
Is God your sanctuary?
Christ’s pattern…
⭨
... Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened.
~ Luke 3:21
Now when it was day, He departed and went into a deserted place. ...
~ Luke 4:42
So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed. ~ Luke 5:16
↑
No matter how busy with people, He routinely sought after private prayer.
↓
... in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray,
and continued all night in prayer to God. ... ~ Luke 6:12-13
He prayed most deeply before important decisions.
... as He was alone praying, that His disciples joined Him, ... ~ Luke 9:18
└─> His disciples knew this was His pattern.
... He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray.
As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, ... ~ Luke 9:28-29
Our deepest connection to God is during prayer.
... as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one
of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, ..." ~ Luke 11:1
If Jesus needed prayer, we also must need it.
... He knelt down and prayed, saying, "Father, if it is Your will,
take this cup away from Me; ... ~ Luke 22:39-42
↓
No was the answer, one must endure.
Jesus’ pattern was to pray to God daily.
- God, His only hope.
... present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God,
which is your reasonable service. ~ Romans 12:1
└─> Spiritual service of worship.
Sacrifice, what is important?
"... 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by evey word
that proceeds from the mouth of God.' " ~ Matthew 4:1-4
⭧
Devoted to The Word?
... when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door,
pray to your Father ... ~ Matthew 6:5-6
⭦
Time spent in private with God?
... that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you,
... ~ 1st Corinthians 1:10-13
↑
Know the unity of what The Word delivers in Christ.
Love one another as Christ loved us.
↓
"... love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
By this all will know that you are My disciples, ..." ~ John 13:34-35
Jesus loved us enough to show us the way.
↓
... He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, ...
~ Philippians 2:5-8
If we could gain such a magnificent obsession,
look what God will do through us.
... according to the power that works in us, ... ~ Ephesians 3:20
It won’t work until you have the ONE thing straight.
Devoted to The Word
Time spent in private with God
Know the unity of what The Word delivers in Christ
Love one another as Christ loved us
|
~ Take the Gospel to the whole world ~
... Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them ...
~ Matthew 28:18-20
The Lord calls to us to evangelize the whole world.
We need to BROADEN OUR VISION of how we can do this.
The church exists to communicate God’s word.
Every Christian is a part.
Through the centuries ...
Disciples have passed on to disciples the message of Jesus:
● To make disciples of all nations ← COMMANDMENT
● Baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
● Teach these disciples to obey my commandments
|
... parable He put forth to them, saying: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man
who sowed good seed in his field; but while men slept, ... ~ Matthew 13:24-30
Jesus explains the parable of the wheat and tares …
... And His disciples came to Him, saying, "Explain to us the parable of the
tares of the field." He answered and said to them: ... Matthew 13:36-43
└─> The field is the world.
↓
195 countries or nation on the Earth
63 colonies or territories
258 places
|
258 locations with a planetary population of 6.79 billion people.
USA = 307 million = 4.5% total world population
→ No one can argue that the Lord has blessed US with surplus.
Personally, we are all charged to help take the gospel to all nations.
How can we touch the world and make a difference?
How big is your world?
● Self?
● Friends and or associates?
● A few ~ a State ~ or Nation.
● Jesus instructed us: The World.
|
Is your world BIG enough?
└─> Be In God
┌─> The Corinthians were asked to help those worse off in Judea.
... that now at this time your abundance may supply their lack, ...
~ 2nd Corinthians 8:12-15
For those that have more are asked to help those
that have less so equality may be established.
Our opportunities, from this nation, to evangelize,
are greater than ever before.
↓
~ Roughly in a broad inclusion,
13,000 congregations calling themselves “churches of Christ” in the USA.
└─> 2,200 “non institutional” churches of Christ.
┌─> The rest of the world, not including the USA.
13,000 congregations called “churches of Christ” in the rest of the world.
◎
Average size of churches in this country is 50 members or more.
The average size in the rest of the world is 10 members or less.
Current "Best Case" Scenario:
churches
of CHRIST
|
Population
|
Congregations
|
Members per
Congregation
|
Total
Members
|
Per
Person
|
|
USA
|
307 million
|
13,000
|
50
|
650,000
|
1 out of
472
|
USA
(Worst case)
|
307 million
|
2,200
|
50
|
110,000
|
1 out of
2,791
|
REST OF
WORLD
|
6.4 billion
|
13,000
|
10
|
130,000
|
1 out of
49,246
|
Roughly, the alarm sounds 1 out of 500 verses 1 out of 50,000!
The great majority of New Testament Christians are in this country.
4.5% of the world’s population holds the lion’s share of Christ’s messengers.
More than any other place in God’s Kingdom. <─┘
Increasing our advantage to globally evangelize is that
English is the most universal language of this world.
└─> The top of commerce and politics.
Yes, some parts of the world are dangerous to preach the gospel,
however, most of the world is open to the message of the Gospel.
Two choices:
1. Remain at home and stay involved.
a. Pray for evangelists.
b. Adopt an evangelist and his family (acquainted/reports).
c. Support evangelistic efforts personally.
|
┌─> Connection to other works.
EvangelismUpdate.com
BibleStudyGuide.org
└─> Correspondence courses via the Internet
⭨ with people all over the world.
These are just a few websites among numerous selections.
2. Go some where else and get involved.
a. Vacations well planned in foreign countries for a few weeks.
b. Coordinate your business trips.
c. Move your family to evangelize.
|
Atrociously, most Americans can not point out their State on a map.
Many have no identity other than self, missing the ONE that sheds light.
For those of ability and agility, we need to carry
The Word forward both at home and abroad.
We must use our skills for God.
And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit
these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. ~ 2nd Timothy 2:2
↕
God’s way is designed to work if we work it.
Share with someone is the call.
Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this
you will save both yourself and those who hear you. ~ 1st Timothy 4:16
We need to take confidence in our Lord.
~ To pursue His will.
Thanks again to my dear acquaintance and brother in Christ, "Buddy" Payne.
|
5/22/2011 ~ Follow-ship
|
What does it mean to walk with Jesus?
Who is the greatest leader that ever lived?
|
In Battle
|
In Business
|
In Religion
|
The Bible
|
|
Alexander the Great
|
Cornelius Vanderbilt
|
Buddhism – Buddha
|
Abraham
|
|
Napoleon
|
Henry Ford
|
Muslims - Muhammad
|
Moses
|
|
George Washington
|
Mary Kay
|
Hindus - Gandhi
|
Joshua
|
|
George Patton
|
Ray Kroc
|
Mormons - Joseph Smith
|
Solomon
|
|
Douglas Macarthur
|
Bill Gates
|
Scientology – L. Ron Hubbard
|
Paul
|
~ It depends who you are talking to.
How do we define leadership?
Who has had the greatest influence in the history of mankind?
⭨
Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
* Divine Leadership
|
Our biggest church problems are a result of
|
⭧
⭨
|
human philosophies.
|
|
human leadership.
|
Will we embrace divine revelation or contrived constructions of men?
"Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself,
and take up his cross, and follow Me." ~ Mark 8:34
└─> If we want Jesus, we must follow Him.
Jesus declared Himself as the leader.
└─> We have a divine leader. <─┘
"I am the good shepherd. ..." ~ John 10:11-14
"... I am the door of the sheep. ..." ~ John 10:7-9
We need the disposition to follow.
... "I am the way, the truth, and the life. ..." ~ John 14:6
... "I am the light of the world. ..." ~ John 8:12
... say that I am?" Peter answered and said, "The Christ of God." ... ~ Luke 9:20-24
... "Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" Jesus said, "I am. ..."
~ Mark 14:61-62
... "You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, ..." ~ John 18:37
"You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am." ~ John 13:13
"... I am gentle and lowly in heart, ..." ~ Matthew 11:28.29
"... I am among you as the One who serves." ~ Luke 22:24-27
... "I am the bread of life." ... ~ John 6:35
"I am the living bread which came down from heaven. ..." ~ John 6:51
... "I am the true vine, ..." ~ John 15:1-6
"... I am not alone, but I am with the Father ..." ~ John 8:16
"... I am in the Father and the Father in Me, ..." ~ John 14:10-11
"... I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world." ~ John 8:23
I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore.
Amen. ... ~ Revelation 1:18
"... I am with you always, ..." ~ Matthew 28:18-20
... "I am the resurrection and the life. ..." ~ John 11:25
JESUS IS:
|
the good shepherd
|
a king
|
not alone
|
|
the door of the sheep
|
with you always
|
with the Father
|
|
the way, the truth, and the life
|
One who serves
|
in the Father
|
|
the light of the world
|
gentle and lowly in heart
|
from above, not of this world
|
|
The Christ of God
|
bread of life
|
the resurrection and the life
|
|
Christ, the Son of the Blessed
|
living bread
|
He who lives, and was dead
|
|
Teacher and Lord
|
the true vine
|
alive forevermore
|
Is it just about leadership?
Who is the greatest follower that ever lived?
⭨ ⭩
~ JESUS ~
Jesus was the greatest leader and follower that ever lived.
Key was His relationship that He had with His Father.
"... I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself,
but what He sees the Father do; ..." ~ John 5:19-23
"... I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me." ~ John 5:30
"... He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory
of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him."
~ John 7:16-18
"... The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do
those things that please Him." ~ John 8:25-29
He came to do His Father's will!
|
Jesus
|
⭧
⭨
|
was the greatest leader that ever lived
|
|
because
|
|
He was the greatest follower that ever lived
|
He did exactly what was asked of Him.
~ He did nothing less than what God asked of Him.
In doing so, He pleased God and was rewarded.
He had Passion to please Him.
|
Jesus had Absolute Obedience
|
DO WE?
We want to follow and obey Jesus.
Do we have the mindset, that strength, conviction
to do exactly what He asks us to do?
┌─> We are called to go and preach and teach and lead in these areas.
Leadership is important, but leading by following is most effectual.
We should lead by how we follow.
"Therefore you shall keep the commandments of the LORD your God,
to walk in His ways and to fear Him." ~ Deuteronomy 8:6
To walk in His ways.
└─> Not paths pursuing others or your own agenda.
... "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." ~ Matthew 4:19
The apostles left everything to follow Jesus.
"Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say
all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake." ~ Matthew 5:11
Much ridicule comes from those that conform to the ways of man.
One must choose to follow in His word above all.
"Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself,
and take up his cross, and follow Me." ~ Mark 8:34
"If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; ..." ~ John 12:26
We don’t need more…
● Doctrines/Revelation
● Preachers who want to start their own church
● Spiritual leaders casting their own vision and plans
|
We need to…
● Follow and obey His revelation!
● Belong to His church!
● Walk in His Way!
● Follow His Plans!
● We have to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and
follow Him!
|
|
⭨ Your will?
|
T
|
⭧ His will?
⭨ Your will? |
Who will you follow?
↓
|
... "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes
to the Father except through Me." ~ John 14:6
... "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me
shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." ~ John 8:12
Who will be your master?
We have to and must follow Jesus.
What will you follow?
└─> His Steps - 1st Peter 2:21
└─> His Ways - Psalms 128:1
└─> His Example - 1st Peter 2:21
└─> His Commandments - John 14:21
└─> His Father - Matthew 7:21
└─> His Will- John 9:31
└─> His Love - John 15:10
└─> His Plan - Acts 5:38-39
... seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us;
and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.
~ 1st John 1:1-3
Without Follow-ship there is no Fellowship in Christ
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. ... ~ James 4:8
We can draw near to God by understanding our
responsibilities as followers of Jesus Christ.
↓
We need to spend time in His Word to understand
what He expects and demands from us.
↑
If we do this, we will have fellowship.
We will please Him as He pleased His Father
in following and doing the exact will of His Father.
LET JESUS LEAD AND LET US FOLLOW.
~ IT IS HIS WAY ~
Thanks to my special friend and brother in Christ, Rob Taylor.
|
5/29/2011 ~ What Makes Your Baptism Valid?
|
"He who believes and is baptized will be saved;
but he who does not believe will be condemned." ~ Mark 16:16
If one argues what Jesus Himself has said, doubt outweighs belief.
Jesus did not say, "He who believes and is not baptized will be saved."
|
BELIEVE + BAPTIZED = SAVED
|
In the first century, baptism was believed necessary as part of salvation.
It has since been removed as necessary and is even contested by many.
With so many scriptures alluding to the necessity of baptism for salvation,
it is hard to conceive how anyone would deny the significance of baptism.
There is also an antitype which now saves us - baptism ... ~ 1st Peter 3:21
The Bible includes examples of the urgency that it be done.
"... what shall we do?" Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of
you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; ..."
~ Acts 2:36-38
'And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized,
and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.' ~ Acts 22:16
|
BAPTIZED = SINS WASHED AWAY
|
Today certificates are given.
* CERTIFICATE OF BAPTISM *
This Certifies that ____________________________
was recieved into the Holy Christian Church.
at ________________________________________
on _____________________, in ________________.
Administering Pastor _______________________.
Sponsors: _______________________________.
Form # 1x2y3z, Faith Press
|
Baptisms can not be mimeographed.
CERTIFICATES?
Does it match up with New Testament Scripture?
~ Into the spirit of truth?
... hearing, believed and were baptized. ~ Acts 18:8
┌─> Cognitive act.
Baptism is instructed as a voluntary act.
└─> To admit having a sinful nature in the face of God.
... For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. ...
~ 1st Corinthians 15:9-26
↑
Absolute belief in the Son of God and His Grace.
Come to yourself.
1) Convicted of Sin
2) Believe → He is the way and the truth.
3) Repent → Want to change from wicked practices.
|
For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, ...
~ 2nd Corinthians 7:10
|
GODLY SORROW = REPENTANCE = SALVATION
|
... Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? ...
~ John 3:1-7
┌─> Higher order of knowing.
Nicodemus – Physical – Spiritual
└─> Change of will.
"... not My will, but Yours, be done." ~ Luke 22:42
⭩
To do His will, not your own.
Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized
into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? ... ~ Romans 6:3-11
To put off the “Old Man”
⭩
4) Confession
2) Believe → He is the way and the truth.
|
We don’t know what’s in the mind of man unless he tells us.
What is the enduring confession of one’s heart?
What do you stand for?
What do you live for?
|
ENDURES TO THE END = SAVED
|
"But he who endures to the end shall be saved." ~ Matthew 24:13
So too, God is and has told us to hear His truths.
This is presented in His Given Word.
|
CONFESS + BELIEVE = SAVED
|
... that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart
that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. ... ~ Romans 10:9-10
↑
This is the power by which I am saved.
Loyalty to God’s way through Jesus Christ.
To believe in all that Christ is and what He has called us for.
Not in the ways man explains, - what God Himself has announced!
... "Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame." ... ~ Romans 10:11-12
● I believe it is God’s way to be saved.
● It is not by self-righteousness, showing off to others.
● Because I believe in God’s power through Jesus Christ.
|
The how to is given in His Word.
It is our choice to be in submission to His Power or not.
● It has been done for God.
● If it is done for others, it is an invalid baptism.
● It is to join in God, not in man.
|
Human approval is not the same as God’s approval.
... There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. ~ 1st Corinthians 12:3-4
One Spirit calls to each.
Baptism is a commitment of spirit.
One’s truth comes from God and not from men.
... For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body ...
~ 1st Corinthians 12:11-14
... one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, ...
~ Ephesians 4:4-6
There is only One belief, the same truth abides forever.
THE DEPTH OF TRUTH
Convicted of Sin
Believe
Repent
Confession
Baptism
|
... "The Lord knows those who are His," ... ~ 2nd Timothy 2:19
Follow Him or men, He will know.
┌─> Complied with the truth.
... shall be able to separate us from the love of God which
is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~ Romans 8:38-39
What you believe and how you obey is what makes baptism valid or not.
... "Into what then were you baptized?" So they said,
"Into John's baptism." ~ Acts 19:3-5
└─> Invalid.
┌─> False practice.
... "I am of Paul," or "I am of Apollos," or "I am of Cephas,"
or "I am of Christ." Is Christ divided? ... ~ 1st Corinthians 1:11-15
┌─> Thinking.
One needs to correct one’s ways of living.
Baptism involves faith, not a phobia (fear).
... who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
~ 1st Timothy 2:4
All scripture has to be taken into account
and not just isolated selected scriptures.
"... Repent, and believe in the gospel." ~ Mark 1:14-15
|
REPENT + BELIEVE IN THE GOSPEL
|
SANCTIONED BAPTISMS ARE FOUND
IN THE WRITTEN WORD,
NOT IN THE MISCONCEPTIONS OF MAN.
As always, Thanks to my extraordinary brother in Christ, Carl Lungstrum.
|
5/29/2011 ~ Worship Principles
|
Worship is the act of praying and showing homage to God.
What does the Bible say about worship?
"God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."
~ John 4:24
IN SPIRIT
IN TRUTH
" '... And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines
the commandments of men.' " ~ Matthew 15:9
... who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus,
and have no confidence in the flesh, ... ~ Philippians 3:3
REJOICE IN CHRIST JESUS
NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH
"... whom you worship without knowing, Him I proclaim to you: ..." ~ Acts 17:23
Expressed outwardly, yet something more.
|
Worship = An External Act From An Inward Feeling
|
What are we giving God when we worship?
Hope, guilt, love, entertainment?
↑
True reverence
Why do we worship the way we do?
↓
To show reverence to our Creator
~
How is authority established?
↓
Because the Bible affords authority
How does the Bible teach us?
● Direct Command
● Specific Example
● Necessary Inference
|
|
Respect for Authority = Obedience
|
"If you love Me, keep My commandments." ~ John 14:15
"You are My friends if you do whatever I command you." ~ John 15:14
For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments.
And His commandments are not burdensome. ~ 1st John 5:3
KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS
Teach me Your way, O Lord; I will walk in Your truth;
Unite my heart to fear Your name. ~ Psalms 86:11
Teach me to do Your will, For You are my God; Your Spirit is good.
Lead me in the land of uprightness. ~ Psalms 143:10
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. ~ Acts 2:42
IN THE APOSTLES' DOCTRINE
IN THE BREAKING OF BREAD
IN PRAYERS
"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." ~ John 8:32
↑
Core of worship
|
WHO?
|
OOOOOOOOOOOOOO
|
Called by God in Christ
|
|
↓
|
↓
|
... to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all
who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ ... ~ 1st Corinthians 1:2
To the church of God
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering,
for He who promised is faithful. ... ~ Hebrews 10:23-25
HOLD FAST TO YOUR CONFESSION
... having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is,
the law of commandments contained in ordinances, ... ~ Ephesians 2:15-16
Christ came to offer us eternal life through Him.
... as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup,
you proclaim the Lord's death till He comes. ~ 1st Corinthians 11:23-26
EAT AND DRINK OF HIM IN REMEMBRANCE OF HIM
In remembrance of Him
● DEATH
● BURIAL
● RESSURECTION
|
What He did for each of us
... singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. ~ Ephesians 5:19
... singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. ~ Colossians 3:16
CALLED TO SING TO GOD FROM THE HEART
Scripture tells us exactly what to do.
On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside,
storing up as he may prosper, ... ~ 1st Corinthians 16:2
TO GIVE AS ONE PROSPERS
WE ARE TOLD TO PRAY
... pray without ceasing, ... ~ 1st Thessalonians 5:17
FAITH
... above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able
to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. ~ Ephesians 6:16
In all churches, some form of these things are present.
WORSHIP
IN SPIRIT
IN TRUTH
REJOICE IN CHRIST JESUS
NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH
IN THE APOSTLES' DOCTRINE
HOLD FAST TO YOUR CONFESSION
EAT AND DRINK OF HIM IN REMEMBRANCE OF HIM
CALLED TO SING TO GOD FROM THE HEART
TO GIVE AS ONE PROSPERS
WE ARE TOLD TO PRAY
FAITH
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→ All Christian churches are called to perform these things
We need to carefully observe what He specifically asks of us,
and not things we choose or create for self gratification.
For instance, there is no authority for choirs.
... which He had not commanded them. So fire went out from the LORD
and devoured them, ... ~ Leviticus 10:1-2
↑
Did it the way they wanted and were immediately punished.
Vaporized
It is abundantly clear that the Lord demands His way over our way.
If there is no authority, it is not called for by God.
Obedience is faithful to God’s way to the best of our ability
over doctrines introduced by men.
Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together
to break bread, ... ~ Acts 20:7
↑
An example is given to worship on the first day of the week,
the same day Jesus was resurrected.
WORSHIP?
Reverent and sincere worship in true obedience.
- Sound doctrine
"God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."
~ John 4:24
One's spirit in it.
Sanctify them by your truth. Your word is truth. ~ John 17:17
↑
Through the Word.
God’s Word should be what we use to understand how to worship.
God expects us to follow His word.
Or did the word of God come originally from you?
Or was it you only that it reached? ~ 1st Corinthians 14:36
Let all things be done decently and in order. ~ 1st Corinthians 14:40
We are called to abhor the sins of men, not individuals.
~ Observance ~
God looks at our hearts.
Are we growing in His Word?
NOT OUR WAY, HIS WAY
Thanks to my very close friend and brother in Christ, Ken Schoentag.
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6/5/2011 ~ The Door
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🚪
"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the
door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." ~ Revelation 3:20
THIS
DOOR
OPENS
FROM
THE
INSIDE
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Each moment is a door to the future.
A door defines exactly what it is, an opening or closing offered,
to a passing in time. Excellence of worth does not have minimal
in its’ vocabulary. The call is to come with your all.
... "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall
not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." ~ John 8:12
Love is a word short of expressing its’ totality.
If one decides to pursue Christ, genuineness opens the door.
Truly, the heart is brought to life in light when love is grasped.
... made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
and raised us up together, ... ~ Ephesians 2:4-10
↓
In to His Grace.
... that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, ...
~ 1st Corinthians 15:1-3
↓
Accepting of His death.
"... whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father
who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, ..." ~ Matthew 10:32-33
⭩ ↑ ⭨
Acknowledging He was raised from the dead.
⭦ ↓ ⭧
... that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart
that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. ~ Romans 10:9
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while
we were still sinners, Christ died for us. ~ Romans 5:8
... Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace
in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. ~ Romans 5:1-2
Christ shows us how to come to God.
"He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him
- the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day." ~ John 12:48
↓
Accepting His word
"... teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo,
I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen. ~ Matthew 28:18-20
↑
Accepting His plan of salvation
⭩ ↓ ⭨
... let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ
for the remission of sins; ... ~ Acts 2:38
"... if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins." ~ John 8:24
⭨ ↓ ⭩
Accepting and Confessing He is the Christ
↓
"... I will build My church, ..." ~ Matthew 16:18-20
↓
Admit His church
⭩ ⭨
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. ~ Acts 2:42
When He opens the door, one must enter into a place of Holy Worship.
... add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control,
to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, ... ~ 2nd Peter 1:5-8
To do His will; work to improve ourselves acting on the Word heard.
Life is a continuous act of improvement; otherwise oblivious to the reason why.
Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you.
~ Romans 16:16
... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. ~ Romans 12:20-21
Trust is synonymous with faith as is it with love; extended to those that violate.
~ To believe in all that He is and He rewards hearts who give ~
... This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, ...
~ Hebrews 6:18-20
... behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; ...
~ Matthew 27:50-53
Jesus has opened the door to eternity for each one of us.
And this is the promise that He has promised us - eternal life. ~ 1st John 2:25
↑
To accept His promise.
↓
"... and in the age to come, eternal life." ~ Mark 10:29-30
"I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, ..." ~ John 10:9
"... those who were ready went in with him to the wedding;
and the door was shut." ~ Matthew 25:10
If one puts off for to long this deepest of Unions, the door will close.
└─> Bonding with God.
All journey upon the waves to meet God
● God waits to hear from each heart given
● True believers follow God’s light of life
● God made Himself clearly known through Christ
● God stands by His love with His sacrificial call
● Faith is a call to a heart of action
● Snubbing words of truth renders a harsh judgment
● True belief in God is the hinge of life or death
● God has established His doctrine through His will
● Overcome those doing you wrong with a good heart
● Our anchor is God’s own truth in Christ
● Eternal life is the standard set by God
● The truth's given by God are the pathway to peace
● Neglecting God will close the door to eternal life
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What is tomorrow if one does not have today.
"... knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he
who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." ~ Matthew 7:7-8
... The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken ... ~ Acts 16:14
You have to allow the door to open.
Love is key, gratefulness for all on the path; just to be alive.
Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this
you will save both yourself and those who hear you. ~ 1st Timothy 4:16
Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it. ~ Psalms 34:14
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.
~ Psalms 141:3
... "Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep." ~ John 10:7
"... He who believes and is baptized will be saved; ..." ~ Mark 16:15-16
For the Life God gives, He calls us to respond
Believes + Baptized = Saved
Not Believe = Condemned
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... "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit,
he cannot enter the kingdom of God." ~ John 3:5
... "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness,
but have the light of life." ~ John 8:12
"... I have the keys of Hades and of Death." ~ Revelation 1:18
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
~ Matthew 11:28
"... I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; ..."
~ Revelation 3:7-8
It is Jesus who commands when this door will close.
Its gates shall not be shut at all by day (there shall be no night there).
~ Revelation 21:25
For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there
are many adversaries. ~ 1st Corinthians 16:9
"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." ~ Matthew 7:21
Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief
in departing from the living God; ~ Hebrews 3:12
Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned.
Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! ~ James 5:9
Submit to Him in Love.
Grateful accepting hearts do not question, this is faith.
Some claim God is a figment of delusional fanatics.
... "Where is the promise of His coming? ... ~ 2nd Peter 3:4
One’s beliefs warrants what will be as it is written.
"... their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, ..." ~ Matthew 15:8-9
God is not looking for organizations of men, but individuals of heart.
But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers
and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie. ~ Revelation 22:15
Too many see casual lying as a normal habit. Pray God we are not left
to the outside where darkness consumes the sense of light in the truth.
"And these will go away into everlasting punishment,
but the righteous into eternal life." ~ Matthew 25:46
The greatest of all doors: the door to eternity.
"... And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you,
but you should rule over it." ~ Genesis 4:7
One needs to push sin to the outside of this door.
LUST
1st John 2:16
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SIN
Romans 14:23
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PRIDE
Proverbs 21:4
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⭦ |
↑ |
⭧ |
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LAWLESSNESS
1st John 3:4
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← |
THIS
DOOR
OPENS
FROM
THE
INSIDE
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→ |
UNBELIEF
Hebrews 3:12-19
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WORKS OF THE FLESH
Galatians 5:19-21
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← |
→ |
EXCLUSION OF GOD
Romans 1:28-32
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CONSENT TO TEMPTATION
James 1:12-15
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← |
→ |
A DARK HEART
Mark 7:20-23
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UNRIGHEOUSNESS
1st Corinthians 6:9-10
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← |
→ |
WICKEDNESS
Ecclesiastes 8:8
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OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO |
⭩ |
↓ |
⭨ |
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO |
COVETOUS
2nd Peter 2:4-14
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EVIL
Ecclesiastes 12:14
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QUITERS
Revelation 21:7-8
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True knowledge is key to access Christ’s inside truth.
"... good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make
you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord." ~ Matthew 25:21
"Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under
heaven given among men by which we must be saved." ~ Acts 4:12
"... that the world may know that You have sent Me,
and have loved them as You have loved Me." ~ John 17:21-23
... you were called in one hope of your calling; ... ~ Ephesians 4:4-6
"... Watching daily at my gates, Waiting at the posts of my doors.
For whoever finds me finds life, ..." ~ Proverbs 8:32-36
Lift up your heads, O you gates! Lift up, you everlasting doors! ...
~ Psalms 24:9-10
Love is God’s design to come home
● Without a desire for God no answer is given
● Heed the Word as it saves both self and others
● Jesus is the door for all who follow Him to eternity
● Baptism is a key in unlocking heaven’s door
● Following Jesus is God’s own revelation of light
● Depart from evil; do good and pursue peace
● An open door is now set with Jesus as gatekeeper
● Eternity has the timeless reward of being
● Not believing in God leads to the death of a soul
● Mired in bitter self misses God’s door call to come
● God knows true humble hearts over proud liars
● God watches to see if we resist the knock of sin
● An open door to life is offered to all wisely hoping
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Can we help each other to open doors?
Thanks to one of my very dearest brothers in Christ, Mr. James Finney, who I dedicate this work on the event of his passing.
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Reactor
