That is certainly a true observation & understanding of the true child of God. Thanks Dpaulw.
Unfortunately, as Christians, we take hold of certain beliefs and practises seen in the Bible and then confidently apply it to our lives and profession, whether rightly or wrongly. The Scriptures you shared are indeed the true nature of the one who is truly in Christ and we must allow the Holy Spirit to develop and mature us into the Image of Christ, which can take much time & crucifying of the flesh.
But some believers may also read those same verses in agreement but also read many other instances of God's condemnation of Israel and the nations; one such is in Amos 2:1-3 (the nations: Moab), and in Amos 2:4-8 (of Judah). So, in their thinking, if God can be violently against such for their many sins (via the prophet's voice), why shouldn't we stand tall, be bold and vocal, and condemn others today for engaging in godless pursuits?
I also don't believe any good can come from this sort of behavior, rather Christ's name and His people will be spat upon. Titus 3:2,3, as you quoted, would instruct us well in this matter. Even to follow the Apostle Paul's manner in this: he 'reasoned' with the people (be it the Jews ( Acts 18:19) or Gentiles ( Acts 24:24,25). Screaming at and belittling the unsaved does great damage to Christ's Name and the Gospel; but entering into clear, concise, reasoned discussion may cause the wayward to reconsider his life and ways & not make him resistant to the Gospel that can save him. Blessings.
Thank you for your response Bennymkje. This question from your comment seems to reflect how you understood mine to Lbooth1955, "We walk by faith which entails work, don't you think?"
You may have misunderstood my comments, believing that I was denouncing works as the proper response to a genuine faith. Not at all, works that follow such a God-given faith must exist, or else it is no faith at all (and James deals with this quite well). So, it is not a work that results from faith that I refer to, but a work that must accompany faith to make our salvation real & effective.
The point I tried to make earlier, was that water baptism that accompanies repentance, belief, and faith, is a true baptism and not a work for it is part & parcel of one's testimony of a new life identified and received in Christ. And this is what I read in the Word by the many examples given ( Acts 2:38,41; Acts 8:12,13; Acts 8:36-38; Acts 9:17,18; Acts 10:21,44-48; Acts 16:14,15; Acts 16:30-33; Acts 18:8). All these folk were baptized immediately, or very soon after repenting and believing. Baptism here was not a 'work' added to salvation, but a very real part of one's witness before man & within oneself. In those days (as in some countries now), many would have suffered great loss or ostracization for turning to Christ, so baptism at that early stage was truly a bold declaration of love for the Savior & turning away from religion (& family) as a very real part of conversion.
Anything we do that adds to our salvation (even water baptism, if we deem it necessary to make our salvation real), is a work. And if that work, whether baptism, doing good deeds for others, attending to Jewish Law, etc., ensures our salvation, then our salvation is no longer of faith, but of works. For the salvation of God through His Son to be effective in our lives, it must be devoid of anything that attaches to that God-given faith; for that faith does save when it remains pure, free from all associations.
Hello Doodie65. The references you gave refer to the Church located in Smyrna and Philadelphia respectively. These, as all the other Church gatherings mentioned in these two chapters, refer to those believers living in Asia Minor, now modern Turkey. These two Fellowships in Smyrna and Philadelphia were praised for their faithfulness to the Lord in spite of their sufferings and temptations. But in both locations, the "synagogue of Satan" is mentioned, which may be what you are enquiring about.
Even though these Fellowships were established by the apostles & those who traveled with them, after the ransacking of Jerusalem in AD70 by Gen Titus of Rome, many more Christians and Jews dispersed all over the Roman world. So when we get to these two chapters of the Book of the Revelation, we read of these Churches and their trials and spiritual condition in not only a pagan society, but also being affected by the Jews who also established themselves there and set up synagogues. You can read an instance where the Apostle Paul ministered to the Jews in one of their synagogues in Ephesus ( Acts 18:18,19).
So, when Jesus speaks to the Apostle John from Heaven in Revelation 2 & 3, we can understand that at least those two Church groups (Smyrna & Philadelphia) were being harrassed by the Jews living there. We are not told what they actually did to the Church, but it seems the Jews there were particularly antagonistic towards the Gospel & the believers, blaspheming the God Whom they were supposed to be worshiping by rejecting His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus calls them "the synagogue of Satan", for the true God is not, and cannot be, worshiped if He is being blasphemed. As Satan filled the hearts of Ananias and Sapphira to lie to the Holy Spirit ( Acts 5:1-11) and they suffered for it, so too, Satan had filled the hearts of these erring Jews who did Satan's bidding & no doubt they too would not be spared, unless they repent; and some would ( Revelation 3:9). Blessings.
Regarding Eph. 3-5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit
The Apostle Paul labored with many faithful co-workers to spread the gospel of the grace of God ( Acts 20:24) during the dispensation committed to him ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). These individuals helped preach, teach, and establish churches among the Gentiles.
Barnabas was Paul's companion on his first missionary journey ( Acts 13-15) and helped him gain acceptance among believers.
Silas traveled with Paul on his second journey ( Acts 15:40), enduring persecution and planting churches in Macedonia and Greece. Timothy, Paul's "dearly beloved son" in the faith ( 1 Tim 1:2), served closely with him and was entrusted with important ministry tasks ( Phil 2:19-22; 1 Cor 4:17).
Titus, a Greek believer, was sent to Corinth and later to Crete to set church leadership in order ( Titus 1:5).
Luke, the physician, was a faithful companion and authored the Gospel of Luke and Acts ( Col 4:14; 2 Tim 4:11). Apollos, though not directly sent by Paul, was mighty in the Scriptures and preached effectively in line with Paul's message ( Acts 18:24-28; 1 Cor 3:6). Priscilla and Aquila, Paul's fellow tentmakers, taught Apollos and hosted churches in their home ( Rom 16:3-5).
Other trusted workers include Tychicus, a faithful messenger ( Eph 6:21), Epaphroditus ( Phil 2:25), Onesimus, a converted runaway slave ( Philemon 10-13), Aristarchus, Erastus, Sopater, and Gaius. Sadly, Demas abandoned Paul, loving this present world ( 2 Tim 4:10).
These men and women formed the core team Paul used to carry the grace message throughout the Gentile world.
With the exception of Luke I find none of the Disciples of Christ preaching faith without works.
c. Paul's baptism. I mentioned this earlier with Scriptures that Paul continued to baptize, at least accepted its relevancy, during his ministry. I quoted, Acts 18:7,8 (Jews and Gentiles in Corinth); Acts 19:1-5 (disciples at Ephesus); Romans 6:3,4 (the meaning & relevance of water baptism); 1 Corinthians 1:14-17 (Paul's ministry was to preach the Gospel, but he still baptized); Colossians 2:11,12 (baptism as identification with Christ). So baptism in water was still very much practised during Paul's ministry. I can't think of any Scripture showing that Paul "later taught that baptism was not part of the gospel of grace revealed to him."
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"
Acts 22:16
"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
Acts 18:8
"And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized."
Acts 18:8
"And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized."
Acts 16:15
"And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us."
Matthew 24:35
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
It is true that Peter preached to Israel who were under the Law (and also to the Gentiles: Acts 15:7), but I cannot see that his message was anything of Grace under the Law. Rather Acts 15:7-11 was Peter's direct confrontation to those "Pharisees which believed" (Judaizers?) who promoted circumcision and the keeping of the Law of Moses for the Gentiles, when Peter stated that it would be "a yoke upon the neck of the disciples (new converts), which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear".
So clearly, the Law of Moses (including "obedience to commands and rituals") was removed from those now believing from both Jewish & Gentile stock. So, why didn't Peter preach this "mystery of the Gospel (which included Gentiles)"? Maybe, that wasn't an essential part of his preaching to the Jews, yet the message of salvation remained the same.
And, did Paul not believe in water baptism? He must have: he was baptized himself ( Acts 9:17.18) and spoke of it ( Acts 18:7,8; Acts 19:1-5; Romans 6:3,4; 1 Corinthians 1:14-17; Colossians 2:11,12). So whatever differences we might perceive between the two apostles, would be so minor as to be inconsequential when understanding the vital message of the Gospel, that it was faith alone that saves plus nothing else. GBU.
When we look at the two examples from Agubus' prophecies in Acts; we see in the first case (the Acts 11 one to be chronologically accurate) that wisdom needed to prevail once the warning about famine was given. This would involve material things being prepared for distribution; and more importantly involve the unity of the Body of Christ in meeting needs of their own; first and foremost which no doubt had some further ramifications among those needing help who weren't saved at the time.
The second case in Acts 21:11. This declaration leaves us with more questions than answers; perhaps. There was no clear indication that Paul had to go to Jerusalem; and perhaps another who would receive such a message could legitimately at least postpone such an endeavor. Paul himself didn't resist being taken down in a basket earlier on in the book of Acts shortly after he began his ministry to escape. The overriding theme here is Paul's state of mind and being totally submitted and "sold out" in the Spirit. Perhaps His greatest motivation was love for His fellow countrymen; the Jews which is even more profound considering his temporary "shaking off the dirt" and ministering to the Gentiles after their resistance became a real pain in Acts 18:6.
Perhaps we can look to the gift of wisdom here as to applications related to prophecy; as one example. Just how to store supplies for disaster is something I can only wish the church in this country would consider with the clear indications of supply shortages in the near future because of several factors (war; destruction of the electric grid; insurrections; economic crash; etc).
Worldly wisdom would say to get more guns than butter; for instance. Practical wisdom certainly has taken a back seat today with a society that by and large is dependent on being taken care of; lacking many survival skills and an ethic of hard work in general; not learning how to save money; etc.
Apostle Paul the preacher was making tents for income.
Acts 18:3
And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they weretentmakers.
Apostle Paul warns the preacher Timothy of the money being collected for the poor Jews in the Kingdom.
1 Timothy 6:10
For the love ofmoneyis the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
I think it's best not to judge a Pastor of how much he takes in for a payroll. If a Pastor doesn't want to get judge, it would be better to have a job besides the tithing payroll , like Apostle Paul.
Should we baptize a baby ? ? I got baptized as a baby and don't remember it and didn't understand it . As a grown man, I got baptized twice, but I was still confused why we had to do it. The church told me it wasn't for Salvation, it's a membership and an example of Jesus Christ resurrection.
1 Corinthians 1:17
For Christ sent me not tobaptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made ofnoneeffect.
Jesus Christ only baptized his disciples only.
John 4:2
(ThoughJesushimselfbaptizednot, but his disciples,)
The baptism of Moses was not water, the Jews walk the sea on dry land.
1 Corinthians 10:2
And were allbaptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
Apollos only knew the Baptist of John. John baptized in water .
Acts 18:25
Thismanwas instructed in thewayofthe Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the thingsofthe Lord, knowing only the baptismofJohn
My question is, why are we baptizing a baby when they don't understand. I don't believe that Jesus Christ was baptize as a baby ?
Romans 6:3
Know ye not, that so many of us as werebaptizedintoJesusChrist werebaptizedinto his death?
Today, we are baptized by the Holy Spirit, the minute we believe the gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
1 Corinthians 12:13
For by one Spirit are we allbaptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
May we all believe that baptism is in the Holy Spirit by believing the gospel of grace.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
The Holy Spirit baptized me into Christ Jesus by believing the gospel.
Acts 17:19 - And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?
Areopagus is Mars Hill. This is the place where the Areopagites, a whole council of people would listen to what people had to say and they would judge whether it is correct or not. So, they took him to Areopagus (Mars Hill), saying, May we know what this new teaching is, which you are speaking?
Acts 17:23 - For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.
For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.
Notice there is no "THE." It is to an unknown god." The translators are trying to make us think that they thought the unknown god is The God. They are just trying to cover all their bases. They go worship an unknown god in case they missed him, because with all these other statues and idols, they might have forgotten somebody. "You don't want to make one of these little guys angry, you know if you forget him?" Especially if you are superstitious!
Acts 17:28 - For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
For in him we live, and move, and have our being;
That is from a Cretan poet. Epimenides said that "For in him we live, and move, and have our being." As also certain of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. This comes from a Cilician poet by the name of Orothis who said that we are Gods offspring. So, Paul used those two quotes.
Acts 18:12 - And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,
This would be the Bema Seat. It is a big judgment seat that they would bring people to and the proconsul makes decisions.
Hi Jema: I know I'm a bit late replying to this but I just now read the whole thread of what happened and I am so glad you and GiGi and Giannis are good to go with each other and I'm sorry my reaction was so strong and I caused trouble. I'm trying not to do that again. I am back to discussing the Sabbath with Giannis again, unless he doesn't want to then I won't. The only reason I continue to discuss the Sabbath is because (I'm not insulting Giannis, only stating my perception of these discussions and why I'm hanging on like a Pitbull LOL.) I don't feel like he has responded to my questions about why he believes that the breaking of bread can only mean the weekly service of the Early Church - that there can be no other possible interpretation. All his beliefs in the Early Church abandoning the Sabbath for Sunday worship are based on the breaking of bread premise that it had to only mean that it refers to the weekly meeting of the Early Church. Some scriptures do state that the Church met on the first day of the week, Sunday but that could just simply mean the church met on Sunday at different times other then on the Sabbath just as churches meet on different days today. For example, John 20:19 (the Church gathered together on the first day of the week because they were afraid of the Jews, not because it was time for church.) Giannis also used historical writings to back up his belief that the Early Church stopped worshipping on the Sabbath and I couldn't agree to that. (Giannis if you read this post, please don't think I am talking behind your back. I would never do that I am just trying to explain why I haven't given up on the Sabbath.) He asked me to provide scripture that validated they didn't give up on the Sabbath and I gave him a lot but he just wouldn't accept them with no real response why. All you have to do read these few and you can see that the Early church was keeping the Sabbath holy.. Acts 17:2, Acts 13:14, Acts 15:21, Acts 18:4. God Bless :)
Hi Momsage. You asked for "biblical proof that the early church worshiped on the first day of the week". The verses already given, I admit, don't specifically show that day to be Sunday. But was wondering, are there any verses that show the the early Church worshiped on the Sabbath? I know that the Apostle Paul frequently went to the synagogue on the Sabbath ( Acts 13:14, Acts 18:4), but clearly that wasn't to celebrate the day with the Church, but to minister to the Jews. I just can't think of an occasion where it stated that the Church met on the Sabbath for worship, in spite of 'Jeremy Taylor' stating that they did (without Scriptural references given).
What David has stated directly contradicts God's words, denies the Truth, makes God a liar. it's dishonor God, insults His Person & slanders His integrity. I recall you speaking somewhat of this to Spencer, What about our God
You don't call this hardness of heart? Speaking such things before a holy & pure God, as this is what God means, interpreting God's words, When God has given us Light & has not left us in the dark in such matters, 2Cor 2:10-13
Isaiah 1:27
Gigi, in truth, what I spoken is a token, a extension of God grace, mercy & love Him
Grace reveal God's judgments upon all ungodliness & righteousness that leads us to godliness, convicting of one & teaching the other.
John 16:8
Psalms 89:14 & if he would receive it as such, he would see God's face in repentance, not to be repented of.
In love for his eternal welfare & his calling of God in this life, I've waited on the Lord for instructions & so I spoke, as of now, I'm clear of this man's blood Acts 18:6 & if I'm clear in my conscience before God, no mortal can condemn me for it, & if not
Concerning our conversation continuing as being unfruitful, that will depend on our love for the Truth,
Right now, Apollos is the most popular theory. The more they study the texts, the more Apollos stands out. Apollos was one of those who passed through Corinth. And Pricilla and Aquila heard him preach. He was very eloquent in his preaching.
But he wasn't complete in his knowledge and understanding of Christ, so they took him aside and taught him about Christ more accurately. Well, because of the eloquence of the Greek style of Hebrews, and the organization of the letter to the Hebrews, many believe Apollos wrote it.
In Acts 18:24-28, this tells us he was a Jewish Christian from Alexandria. So, he knows about the Jewish rituals and ceremonies, and he's from Alexandria, and many theorize that the letter was written from Alexandria.
Another indication that Apollos might have written it, is that the Old Testament quotes in Hebrews are taken from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament.
So, no quotations and references to the Hebrew text, but actually to the Old Testament text from the Septuagint. Jesus Himself quoted from the Septuagint, so it should at least be taken into consideration.
After Silvanus and Timothy returned, Paul wrote the first letter to the Thessalonians based on Timothy's good report. ( Acts 18:5) Paul then wrote the second letter to the Thessalonians after the courier that took the first letter returned and reported to Paul the new problems in Thessalonica.
IV. THE HISTORY OF THE CITY OF THESSALONICA:
Thessalonica was 50 miles west of Philippi and 100 miles north of Athens. It was the chief city of Macedonia and was a Roman Colony. The population of Thessalonica in Paul's day was 200,000 people. The city was first named Therma because of the hot springs in the area. In 316 B.C. Cassander made Therma his home base. He renamed the city Thessalonike in memory of his wife. Today it is called Salonika.
V. DATE OF THE LETTER:
Galatians was Paul's first letter written around 49-50 A.D. I Thessalonians was Paul's second letter written around 51 A.D. from Corinth. II Thessalonians was Paul's third letter written around 51-52 A.D. from Corinth. The date is certain because of historical writings found in archaeological discoveries that state that Gallio served as deputy of Achaia between 51-52 A.D.
( Acts 18:12-17).
VI. THE DOCTRINAL THEMES OF I & II THESSALONIANS:
I Thessalonians is the Instruction of Paul on the Rapture of the Church
II Thessalonians is the Instruction of Paul on the Second Coming of Christ
VII. SECTION OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF II THESSALONIANS:
Chapter 1: The Introduction: Comfort to the Thessalonians
Chapter 2: The Instruction: Concerning the Day of the Lord. That is the biblical term for the tribulation period, right before the second coming of Christ.
We find in 2 Thessalonians that Paul's going to say that if anybody comes to you, whether it's through a spirit, making reference to somebody giving "personal revelation," by a spirit! Or whether it's through a letter, and 2 Thessalonians was written because a false letter was being circulated by false teachers that had Paul's name on it.
So, he says even if it's through a letter, or through a spirit, and it counters and contradicts what we're saying, it's false! Of course, how would the Christians in Thessalonica know that some of the things went against what Paul taught? And that's why he hurried and turned around and wrote a second letter to the Christians in Thessalonica.
I. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( II Thessalonians 1:1; 3:17). Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also (Acts17:4).
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey along with Silvanus and Timothy ( Acts 17:1-9).
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
Thessalonica was 50 miles west of Philippi and 100 miles north of Athens. Thessalonica was the chief city of Macedonia and a Roman Colony. The population in Paul's day was 200,000 people. The city was first named Therma because of the hot springs in the area.
In 316 B.C., Cassander, one of the Generals of Alexander the Great, when he did pass away, his kingdom was divided up amongst his commanders. Cassander made Therma his home base. He renamed the city Thessalonike in memory of his wife. Today it is called Salonika.
V. DATE OF THE LETTER:
Galatians was Paul's first letter written around 49-50 A.D. I Thessalonians was Paul's second canonical letter written around 51 A.D. from Corinth. The date is certain because of historical writings found in archaeological discoveries that state that Gallio served as deputy of Achaia between 51-52 A.D. ( Acts 18:12-17).
VI. THE THEMES OF I THESSALONIANS:
There are two themes that are found in Thessalonians. This is what is call an eschatological letter. ESKATOS means last days.
We study the rapture of the church in 1 Thessalonians, and the second coming of Christ in 2 Thessalonians. He's dealing with last days issues.
VII. SECTION OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF I THESSALONIANS:
CHAPTERS 1-3 - The Inspiration of the Church in Thessalonica. Paul uses them as an example to all the other churches on how to follow Christ. Other churches were inspired by the way they were obedient to Christ.
Chapter 1: The Testimony of the Thessalonians.
Chapter 2: The Testimony of Paul.
Chapter 3: The Testimony of Timothy, what he told Paul when he came back about the condition of the church there.
CHAPTERS 4-5 - The Instruction of Paul on the Rapture of the Church.
Chapter 4: The Testimony Concerning the Lord's Return, and that's coming from the Lord Himself.
Chapter 5: The Testimony Concerning Believers, how believers are to live in the last days.
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( I Thessalonians 1:1; 2:18). Again, Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters. He personally wrote 1 Thessalonians, but he has Silvanus (and we see that he's the same as Silas in the scriptures), and then Timothy. They traveled with him during his 2nd missionary trip. And so, they are with Paul in Corinth when he is writing this letter back to the Christians in Thessalonica.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also. Acts 17:4 tells us about Paul's ministry there in Thessalonica.
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey, along with Silvanus and Timothy. That's recorded in Acts 17:1-9.
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
After Silvanus and Timothy returned, Paul wrote the first letter to the Thessalonians based on Timothy's good report ( Acts 18:5).
So, John pastored there. And like I said, Paul was there for about three years. Timothy took over after him for a year and a half, and the letters and the missionary efforts coming out from here went all the way through and the seven churches in Revelation had actually started from out of Ephesus, one of the capitals and the main encampment of Christianity.
Right outside of Ephesus is where the tomb of Mary is supposed to be, as history tells us that Mary actually wound up in Ephesus and spent her last days there. Ephesus was the Roman capital of Asia. Ephesus was known for having one of the seven wonders of the world - the temple of Artemis (or Diana).
Ephesus is believed to be evangelized by Priscilla and Aquila. ( Acts 18:18-19). The church in Ephesus was later established by Paul during his third missionary journey. ( Acts 19). Paul ministered there for three years. After Paul left, Timothy pastored the church for about 1 1/2 years.
Paul wrote to Timothy in Ephesus to counter false teaching by two leaders in the church in Ephesus - Hymenaeus and Alexander ( I Timothy 1:3 and I Timothy 1:20).
Thirty years later, Christ gave the message to Ephesus in Revelation 2:1-7. So, thirty years later, the Lord said that you have left your first love. And that was Christ's message to them!
IV. THE THEME OF EPHESIANS:
It presents the believer's position in Christ. The term "in Christ" is the key phrase in the letter to the Ephesians.
It was written around 56 A.D. So, it's about a year after what we know was the first letter. And it was written from somewhere in Macedonia. We don't know exactly where. Tradition says it might be Philippi, but it's somewhere in Macedonia where Paul is traveling.
Now you should know that we have what is known as 1st and 2nd Corinthians because we only have two letters. We know that there were at least three. According to 1 Corinthians 5:9, Paul makes reference to another letter that he had sent to them, which apparently is lost.
Some even believe that right before Paul wrote what we call 2 Corinthians that there was a third letter written, taken by Titus, and that Paul was waiting for him, and when Titus came back and gave Paul word that the people were scoffing at some of Paul's teachings, then he wrote what we call 2 Corinthians.
But we only have two of the letters. Whether there were three or four, or more, we only have two.
III: WHY IT WAS WRITTEN:
First of all, about Corinth itself, Paul evangelized Corinth during his second missionary journey in Acts 18:1-18. He was there for about a year and a half. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians after being visited by some of the house of Chloe. Paul was in Ephesus.
1 Corinthians was a letter of correction. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address the corruption in the church.
The city of Corinth was so corrupt that any immoral person within the Roman Empire was called a Corinthianized person. 2 Corinthians was written about a year later than 1 Corinthians. It was written to counter false teachers that had come into Corinth.
So not only was Paul battling with the believers of their disobedience to the truth, and their rebellion against his authority, but now false teachers had come into Corinth, and they too were attacking Paul's teaching. Paul calls them "super apostles" in Chapter 11.
Paul evangelized Corinth during his second missionary journey beginning at Acts 18:1. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians after being visited by some from the house of Chloe.
1 Corinthians is a letter of correction. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address the corruption that was in the church.
Now the city of Corinth was so corrupt that any immoral person found anywhere in the Roman Empire was called a Corinthianized person. So, no matter where you were, you could have been in Rome, and somebody would say "There's a Corinthianized person!" Everybody knows what Corinth means, corruption and sin!
And these Gentiles, the church in Corinth, mostly and mainly Gentiles, had to come out from that atmosphere. They had church in Corinth. It was pagan worship and prostitution was part of the worship service. And people brought their families. And this was a constant seven day a week influence on that city!
And so now these people have received Christ, and they're gathering together as followers of Jesus after He has saved them, but they still have to live in this environment. They are in a community where this is all the people do, is participate in perversion and corruption as part of their worship, and it's part of their lifestyle. So, they had a great struggle in the church there because a lot of the problems that they struggled with was in the church in Corinth.
It was written around 55 A.D. during Paul's third missionary journey. It was written from Ephesus according to Acts 18:10. And Paul wrote both 1 and 2 Corinthians to these people about three to five years after evangelizing them.
So, when he stopped off at Corinth during his first visit, many people were saved, and of course the riots started so he left. On his third missionary journey, he came straight to Ephesus. And he was there for quite some time and that's where he met up with Sosthenes because Sosthenes left after the riot. And Paul met him there. And so, the two of them were there.
And also, we're going to hear from the household of Chloe. The household of Chloe is going to make a trip. They know that Paul is in Ephesus. It's about three to five years after Paul made his visit on his third missionary journey. And so, a delegation leaves Corinth to go talk to Paul about the problems in the church. And that's what we are studying. We are studying about the problems in the church.
It appears; after looking at the KJV and another translation that Peter was simply to be used by God as a vessel to reach the Gentiles. There were individuals such as the Centurion at the crucifixion ( Mark 15:39) who truly believed; this would also be the case for the Samaritan woman at the well earlier (half Jew and half Gentile) in John 4; the Roman Centurion whose faith was great according to Christ when his daughter was healed in Luke 7:9; where Christ stated that He had hadn't seen such faith in all Israel.
We also; of course see individuals such as Nebuchadnezzar who was converted in charge of Babylon; a pagan nation as well as individuals assimilated in such as the mixed multitude in Exodus; Ruth and Rahab; and likely Naaman the Syrian not to mention for a time the population of Nineveh; at least in momentary repentance.
There was a time earlier when Jesus instructed the Disciples to only preach to the lost sheep of Israel ( Matt. 10:5-6). However; in the case of the woman praying for her daughter; the only other individual Jesus stated had great faith and also a Gentile went though a discourse in Matthew 15:26-27 and then her prayers were answered. This appears on the surface to be cruel; but Jesus was drawing her out; and this allowed His glory to be put on display and signifies to us for all time perseverance.
Acts 18:6 shows a similar pattern with Paul after he had more than worn out his welcome in preaching Christ in their midst. Now; Israel will have to wait until the Lord's return for all of the cities of Israel to be reached ( Matt. 10:23). Thus; until the "fullness of the Gentiles come in" ( Romans 11:25) Israel is blind in part.
These things are according to God's pattern; and eventually will fulfill verses such as Isaiah 56:7 when in God's Holy mount; there will be a place for prayer for all nations. Mark 11:17 shows how the Jews themselves failed in understanding their own destiny by making a marketplace in the Temple as a mockery.
You are replying to a comment by "Bagwill" 5 days ago:
Where in the Bible does it say that it's okay for women to be preachers.
MOUNTHOREB REPLY: Woman can prophecy not new info outside of the scriptures 2 Timothy 3:15-17. However, They preach what they have learned to others outside of the church or congregation. When asked a question about the bible. a woman can reply to anyone who is asking the question. even if it's a man, elder 1 Timothy 3 or someone in authority. but within the church or congregation 1 Timothy 3, a woman does not have authority over a man to speak to the whole church or Congregation 1Timothy 2:11,12,14 (unless there's no men available, if this is the case she covers her head within the congregation to PREACH 1 Corinthians 11:5;16 because of the angels in heaven) however, Outside of the building, yes a woman can teach others outside (family, neighbors etc.) Acts 2:16,17.
Jesus allowed women to speak to him and listen. even sit at his feet and ask questions. he allowed woman to speak and listened to them. and to follow him as he preached. Luke 1:36-38; John 4:7-54; John 11:20-29; John 20:11-18; Acts 1:14; Luke 8:1-3; Luke 10:38-42; Romans 16:1-5; Acts 18:2; Acts 18:24-26;
In marriage: Ephesians 5:21-33
These are all the scriptures I can think of. Revelation 22:17 "Its free"
Lets assume your are right about people in Samaria. So how about the apostles? Weren't they born again before Pentecost? But Jesus called them clean during the last supper i.e. in John 13:10.
When Peter preached to the Jews on Pentecost he said at the end, Acts 2:38, "..., Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.". Shall I assume that Peter said to people to just have a knowledge about Christ then get water baptised and then get born again? Hard to believe. I don't think there is any christian church of any denomination that teaches such a sequence of salvation.
Question. What is baptism? In Colossians 2:12 says "Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.".
Also in Romans 6:3-7, "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: ..."
So the baptism among other is symbolic for the burial of our old sinful man and the subsequent erection of the new man. But we bury something that is dead not alive. Baptism has to come after the death of the old man, not before.
Lets go to that incident that Paul met those disciples in Ephessus.( Acts 18:1-7). He asks them if they received the Spirit after they believed? Strange question, isn't it? He also asumes that they were water baptised, because he asks tthem in what name they were baptised. (since they told him that they had never heard of the Holly Spirit, he wonders how come they had never heard of it since we are baprised in the name of the Father, the Son and HTE HOLLY SPIRIT). So Paul assumed in the begining that they were also w/baptised.
Verse 5 in this short Psalm indicates vows that David made; unknown as to exactly what they were. The next verse states assurance of long life which Solomon was promised in 1 Kings 3:14 IF He would remain obedient and not stray as warned in the conditions listed there as well as in 2 Chronicles 1:11 and sequential verses (without the promise of long life there). Solomon's sins probably shortened his life; however despite his lengthy reign.
In David's case vows were given; whereas in Solomon's case I know of no such example. There are warnings; in fact in Ecclesiastes which Solomon wrote after learning some bitter life lessons where he mentions vows. ( Ecclesiastes 5:4-8). God requires it; and we are "fools" if we don't. A vow can be a one time act such as Paul in Acts 18:18; or one that is done for as long as a lifetime (such as a marriage vow). Thus; we need to be careful what we promise and have every intention to complete it. Judges 11 shows the seriousness of a poorly thought out vow (much controversy there as to the meaning; it would probably mean dedicating as a perpetual virgin to the Lord in the case of a human as opposed to an animal sacrifice). There are whole commentaries on that passage of scripture.
In this Psalm we should focus on the eternal benefits of those who trust God. Verse 7 indicates the king will abide before God "forever"; and this would clearly foreshadow the Messiah who was to be a son of David who would finally be the one to restore the Kingdom and fulfill all the promises left undone. It would seem that David's vows were for a lifetime of some sort of service (verse 8). The continual praise certainly should accompany what we vow; that would be nice to see in marriages. The rock in verse 2 certainly would indicate Deity; and God's protection in verses 3 and 4 show our heavenly home to come and the angelic protection promised for His saints (see Psalm 91:4).
Are tongues a gift or are tongues a sign of the baptism of the Holly Spirit? Lets do a research.
Acts 2. The apostles and the rest who were gathered in the upper floor are baptized in the Spirit. How is that shown? By talking in tongues, There wasn't any other sign. If tongues is a gift then all 120 got the same gift?
Acts 9. Cornelious and his own were baptized in the Spirit (verses Acts 9:44-46), they started speaking in tongues.
Acts 8. Philipp goes to Samaria, people believe and get baptized in water. The apostles go there and lay hands on believers who get the HS. Simon offers money to aquire the same gift as the apostles. Question. How did Simon realize that believers got the HS? What did he see that made him understood that? What was the external sign of that? The Bible doesn't say, but I think it is obvious (the whole city got the same gift?)
Acts 18. Paul meets some disciples in Ephessus. After having a discussion with them, he baptizes them in water. Verse Acts 18:6. They started speaking in tongues and prophesying
Many times in Acts it says that the apostles were filled with the Spirit when talking/preaching to people. How did they know that they were filled with the Spirit? What made them realize that? Was there a sign?
In Cor 12:4:11 the spiritual gifts are described. It is true that one of them is "kinds of tongues". What are these? These are different kinds of tongues, it is not the same as the tongues given in Spirit baptism. Think of that, Verse 7 "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.". So gifts are given to "profit withal", that is for the profit of the church. But in 1 Cor 14 it says that if there is no interpreter then that believer should stop talking in tongues, let him talk to himself and God. Also he edifies himself. So what is the profit for the congregation? No profit at all for the congregation, only for the individual. So it is not a gift, it is the sign of bapt
Unfortunately, as Christians, we take hold of certain beliefs and practises seen in the Bible and then confidently apply it to our lives and profession, whether rightly or wrongly. The Scriptures you shared are indeed the true nature of the one who is truly in Christ and we must allow the Holy Spirit to develop and mature us into the Image of Christ, which can take much time & crucifying of the flesh.
But some believers may also read those same verses in agreement but also read many other instances of God's condemnation of Israel and the nations; one such is in Amos 2:1-3 (the nations: Moab), and in Amos 2:4-8 (of Judah). So, in their thinking, if God can be violently against such for their many sins (via the prophet's voice), why shouldn't we stand tall, be bold and vocal, and condemn others today for engaging in godless pursuits?
I also don't believe any good can come from this sort of behavior, rather Christ's name and His people will be spat upon. Titus 3:2,3, as you quoted, would instruct us well in this matter. Even to follow the Apostle Paul's manner in this: he 'reasoned' with the people (be it the Jews ( Acts 18:19) or Gentiles ( Acts 24:24,25). Screaming at and belittling the unsaved does great damage to Christ's Name and the Gospel; but entering into clear, concise, reasoned discussion may cause the wayward to reconsider his life and ways & not make him resistant to the Gospel that can save him. Blessings.
You may have misunderstood my comments, believing that I was denouncing works as the proper response to a genuine faith. Not at all, works that follow such a God-given faith must exist, or else it is no faith at all (and James deals with this quite well). So, it is not a work that results from faith that I refer to, but a work that must accompany faith to make our salvation real & effective.
The point I tried to make earlier, was that water baptism that accompanies repentance, belief, and faith, is a true baptism and not a work for it is part & parcel of one's testimony of a new life identified and received in Christ. And this is what I read in the Word by the many examples given ( Acts 2:38,41; Acts 8:12,13; Acts 8:36-38; Acts 9:17,18; Acts 10:21,44-48; Acts 16:14,15; Acts 16:30-33; Acts 18:8). All these folk were baptized immediately, or very soon after repenting and believing. Baptism here was not a 'work' added to salvation, but a very real part of one's witness before man & within oneself. In those days (as in some countries now), many would have suffered great loss or ostracization for turning to Christ, so baptism at that early stage was truly a bold declaration of love for the Savior & turning away from religion (& family) as a very real part of conversion.
Anything we do that adds to our salvation (even water baptism, if we deem it necessary to make our salvation real), is a work. And if that work, whether baptism, doing good deeds for others, attending to Jewish Law, etc., ensures our salvation, then our salvation is no longer of faith, but of works. For the salvation of God through His Son to be effective in our lives, it must be devoid of anything that attaches to that God-given faith; for that faith does save when it remains pure, free from all associations.
Even though these Fellowships were established by the apostles & those who traveled with them, after the ransacking of Jerusalem in AD70 by Gen Titus of Rome, many more Christians and Jews dispersed all over the Roman world. So when we get to these two chapters of the Book of the Revelation, we read of these Churches and their trials and spiritual condition in not only a pagan society, but also being affected by the Jews who also established themselves there and set up synagogues. You can read an instance where the Apostle Paul ministered to the Jews in one of their synagogues in Ephesus ( Acts 18:18,19).
So, when Jesus speaks to the Apostle John from Heaven in Revelation 2 & 3, we can understand that at least those two Church groups (Smyrna & Philadelphia) were being harrassed by the Jews living there. We are not told what they actually did to the Church, but it seems the Jews there were particularly antagonistic towards the Gospel & the believers, blaspheming the God Whom they were supposed to be worshiping by rejecting His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus calls them "the synagogue of Satan", for the true God is not, and cannot be, worshiped if He is being blasphemed. As Satan filled the hearts of Ananias and Sapphira to lie to the Holy Spirit ( Acts 5:1-11) and they suffered for it, so too, Satan had filled the hearts of these erring Jews who did Satan's bidding & no doubt they too would not be spared, unless they repent; and some would ( Revelation 3:9). Blessings.
The Apostle Paul labored with many faithful co-workers to spread the gospel of the grace of God ( Acts 20:24) during the dispensation committed to him ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). These individuals helped preach, teach, and establish churches among the Gentiles.
Barnabas was Paul's companion on his first missionary journey ( Acts 13-15) and helped him gain acceptance among believers.
Silas traveled with Paul on his second journey ( Acts 15:40), enduring persecution and planting churches in Macedonia and Greece. Timothy, Paul's "dearly beloved son" in the faith ( 1 Tim 1:2), served closely with him and was entrusted with important ministry tasks ( Phil 2:19-22; 1 Cor 4:17).
Titus, a Greek believer, was sent to Corinth and later to Crete to set church leadership in order ( Titus 1:5).
Luke, the physician, was a faithful companion and authored the Gospel of Luke and Acts ( Col 4:14; 2 Tim 4:11). Apollos, though not directly sent by Paul, was mighty in the Scriptures and preached effectively in line with Paul's message ( Acts 18:24-28; 1 Cor 3:6). Priscilla and Aquila, Paul's fellow tentmakers, taught Apollos and hosted churches in their home ( Rom 16:3-5).
Other trusted workers include Tychicus, a faithful messenger ( Eph 6:21), Epaphroditus ( Phil 2:25), Onesimus, a converted runaway slave ( Philemon 10-13), Aristarchus, Erastus, Sopater, and Gaius. Sadly, Demas abandoned Paul, loving this present world ( 2 Tim 4:10).
These men and women formed the core team Paul used to carry the grace message throughout the Gentile world.
With the exception of Luke I find none of the Disciples of Christ preaching faith without works.
c. Paul's baptism. I mentioned this earlier with Scriptures that Paul continued to baptize, at least accepted its relevancy, during his ministry. I quoted, Acts 18:7,8 (Jews and Gentiles in Corinth); Acts 19:1-5 (disciples at Ephesus); Romans 6:3,4 (the meaning & relevance of water baptism); 1 Corinthians 1:14-17 (Paul's ministry was to preach the Gospel, but he still baptized); Colossians 2:11,12 (baptism as identification with Christ). So baptism in water was still very much practised during Paul's ministry. I can't think of any Scripture showing that Paul "later taught that baptism was not part of the gospel of grace revealed to him."
Thank you again for your time & input. Blessings.
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"
Acts 22:16
"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
Acts 18:8
"And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized."
Acts 18:8
"And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized."
Acts 16:15
"And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us."
Matthew 24:35
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
Blessings
It is true that Peter preached to Israel who were under the Law (and also to the Gentiles: Acts 15:7), but I cannot see that his message was anything of Grace under the Law. Rather Acts 15:7-11 was Peter's direct confrontation to those "Pharisees which believed" (Judaizers?) who promoted circumcision and the keeping of the Law of Moses for the Gentiles, when Peter stated that it would be "a yoke upon the neck of the disciples (new converts), which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear".
So clearly, the Law of Moses (including "obedience to commands and rituals") was removed from those now believing from both Jewish & Gentile stock. So, why didn't Peter preach this "mystery of the Gospel (which included Gentiles)"? Maybe, that wasn't an essential part of his preaching to the Jews, yet the message of salvation remained the same.
And, did Paul not believe in water baptism? He must have: he was baptized himself ( Acts 9:17.18) and spoke of it ( Acts 18:7,8; Acts 19:1-5; Romans 6:3,4; 1 Corinthians 1:14-17; Colossians 2:11,12). So whatever differences we might perceive between the two apostles, would be so minor as to be inconsequential when understanding the vital message of the Gospel, that it was faith alone that saves plus nothing else. GBU.
When we look at the two examples from Agubus' prophecies in Acts; we see in the first case (the Acts 11 one to be chronologically accurate) that wisdom needed to prevail once the warning about famine was given. This would involve material things being prepared for distribution; and more importantly involve the unity of the Body of Christ in meeting needs of their own; first and foremost which no doubt had some further ramifications among those needing help who weren't saved at the time.
The second case in Acts 21:11. This declaration leaves us with more questions than answers; perhaps. There was no clear indication that Paul had to go to Jerusalem; and perhaps another who would receive such a message could legitimately at least postpone such an endeavor. Paul himself didn't resist being taken down in a basket earlier on in the book of Acts shortly after he began his ministry to escape. The overriding theme here is Paul's state of mind and being totally submitted and "sold out" in the Spirit. Perhaps His greatest motivation was love for His fellow countrymen; the Jews which is even more profound considering his temporary "shaking off the dirt" and ministering to the Gentiles after their resistance became a real pain in Acts 18:6.
Perhaps we can look to the gift of wisdom here as to applications related to prophecy; as one example. Just how to store supplies for disaster is something I can only wish the church in this country would consider with the clear indications of supply shortages in the near future because of several factors (war; destruction of the electric grid; insurrections; economic crash; etc).
Worldly wisdom would say to get more guns than butter; for instance. Practical wisdom certainly has taken a back seat today with a society that by and large is dependent on being taken care of; lacking many survival skills and an ethic of hard work in general; not learning how to save money; etc.
"And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment."
Acts 18:4
"And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks."
Galatians 3:28
"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."
Hebrews 4:9
"There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God."
Apostle Paul the preacher was making tents for income.
Acts 18:3
And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they weretentmakers.
Apostle Paul warns the preacher Timothy of the money being collected for the poor Jews in the Kingdom.
1 Timothy 6:10
For the love ofmoneyis the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
I think it's best not to judge a Pastor of how much he takes in for a payroll. If a Pastor doesn't want to get judge, it would be better to have a job besides the tithing payroll , like Apostle Paul.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
May we pray for our Pastors in Christ.
1 Corinthians 1:17
For Christ sent me not tobaptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made ofnoneeffect.
Jesus Christ only baptized his disciples only.
John 4:2
(ThoughJesushimselfbaptizednot, but his disciples,)
The baptism of Moses was not water, the Jews walk the sea on dry land.
1 Corinthians 10:2
And were allbaptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
Apollos only knew the Baptist of John. John baptized in water .
Acts 18:25
Thismanwas instructed in thewayofthe Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the thingsofthe Lord, knowing only the baptismofJohn
My question is, why are we baptizing a baby when they don't understand. I don't believe that Jesus Christ was baptize as a baby ?
Romans 6:3
Know ye not, that so many of us as werebaptizedintoJesusChrist werebaptizedinto his death?
Today, we are baptized by the Holy Spirit, the minute we believe the gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
1 Corinthians 12:13
For by one Spirit are we allbaptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
May we all believe that baptism is in the Holy Spirit by believing the gospel of grace.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
The Holy Spirit baptized me into Christ Jesus by believing the gospel.
Acts 17:19 - And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?
Areopagus is Mars Hill. This is the place where the Areopagites, a whole council of people would listen to what people had to say and they would judge whether it is correct or not. So, they took him to Areopagus (Mars Hill), saying, May we know what this new teaching is, which you are speaking?
Acts 17:23 - For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.
For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.
Notice there is no "THE." It is to an unknown god." The translators are trying to make us think that they thought the unknown god is The God. They are just trying to cover all their bases. They go worship an unknown god in case they missed him, because with all these other statues and idols, they might have forgotten somebody. "You don't want to make one of these little guys angry, you know if you forget him?" Especially if you are superstitious!
Acts 17:28 - For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
For in him we live, and move, and have our being;
That is from a Cretan poet. Epimenides said that "For in him we live, and move, and have our being." As also certain of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. This comes from a Cilician poet by the name of Orothis who said that we are Gods offspring. So, Paul used those two quotes.
Acts 18:12 - And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,
This would be the Bema Seat. It is a big judgment seat that they would bring people to and the proconsul makes decisions.
Acts 16:13, Acts 17:2 Acts 18:4
"Protestants do not realize that by observing Sunday they accept the authority of the Spokesperson, the Pope." ( Our Sunday Visitor February 5, 1950.)
According to
Luke 6:45 you can !
What David has stated directly contradicts God's words, denies the Truth, makes God a liar. it's dishonor God, insults His Person & slanders His integrity. I recall you speaking somewhat of this to Spencer, What about our God
You don't call this hardness of heart? Speaking such things before a holy & pure God, as this is what God means, interpreting God's words, When God has given us Light & has not left us in the dark in such matters, 2Cor 2:10-13
Isaiah 1:27
Gigi, in truth, what I spoken is a token, a extension of God grace, mercy & love Him
Grace reveal God's judgments upon all ungodliness & righteousness that leads us to godliness, convicting of one & teaching the other.
John 16:8
Psalms 89:14 & if he would receive it as such, he would see God's face in repentance, not to be repented of.
In love for his eternal welfare & his calling of God in this life, I've waited on the Lord for instructions & so I spoke, as of now, I'm clear of this man's blood Acts 18:6 & if I'm clear in my conscience before God, no mortal can condemn me for it, & if not
Concerning our conversation continuing as being unfruitful, that will depend on our love for the Truth,
I know where I stand.
in love & truth
Apollos:
Right now, Apollos is the most popular theory. The more they study the texts, the more Apollos stands out. Apollos was one of those who passed through Corinth. And Pricilla and Aquila heard him preach. He was very eloquent in his preaching.
But he wasn't complete in his knowledge and understanding of Christ, so they took him aside and taught him about Christ more accurately. Well, because of the eloquence of the Greek style of Hebrews, and the organization of the letter to the Hebrews, many believe Apollos wrote it.
In Acts 18:24-28, this tells us he was a Jewish Christian from Alexandria. So, he knows about the Jewish rituals and ceremonies, and he's from Alexandria, and many theorize that the letter was written from Alexandria.
Another indication that Apollos might have written it, is that the Old Testament quotes in Hebrews are taken from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament.
So, no quotations and references to the Hebrew text, but actually to the Old Testament text from the Septuagint. Jesus Himself quoted from the Septuagint, so it should at least be taken into consideration.
After Silvanus and Timothy returned, Paul wrote the first letter to the Thessalonians based on Timothy's good report. ( Acts 18:5) Paul then wrote the second letter to the Thessalonians after the courier that took the first letter returned and reported to Paul the new problems in Thessalonica.
IV. THE HISTORY OF THE CITY OF THESSALONICA:
Thessalonica was 50 miles west of Philippi and 100 miles north of Athens. It was the chief city of Macedonia and was a Roman Colony. The population of Thessalonica in Paul's day was 200,000 people. The city was first named Therma because of the hot springs in the area. In 316 B.C. Cassander made Therma his home base. He renamed the city Thessalonike in memory of his wife. Today it is called Salonika.
V. DATE OF THE LETTER:
Galatians was Paul's first letter written around 49-50 A.D. I Thessalonians was Paul's second letter written around 51 A.D. from Corinth. II Thessalonians was Paul's third letter written around 51-52 A.D. from Corinth. The date is certain because of historical writings found in archaeological discoveries that state that Gallio served as deputy of Achaia between 51-52 A.D.
( Acts 18:12-17).
VI. THE DOCTRINAL THEMES OF I & II THESSALONIANS:
I Thessalonians is the Instruction of Paul on the Rapture of the Church
II Thessalonians is the Instruction of Paul on the Second Coming of Christ
VII. SECTION OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF II THESSALONIANS:
Chapter 1: The Introduction: Comfort to the Thessalonians
Chapter 2: The Instruction: Concerning the Day of the Lord. That is the biblical term for the tribulation period, right before the second coming of Christ.
We find in 2 Thessalonians that Paul's going to say that if anybody comes to you, whether it's through a spirit, making reference to somebody giving "personal revelation," by a spirit! Or whether it's through a letter, and 2 Thessalonians was written because a false letter was being circulated by false teachers that had Paul's name on it.
So, he says even if it's through a letter, or through a spirit, and it counters and contradicts what we're saying, it's false! Of course, how would the Christians in Thessalonica know that some of the things went against what Paul taught? And that's why he hurried and turned around and wrote a second letter to the Christians in Thessalonica.
I. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( II Thessalonians 1:1; 3:17). Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also (Acts17:4).
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey along with Silvanus and Timothy ( Acts 17:1-9).
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
IV. THE HISTORY OF THE CITY OF THESSALONICA:
Thessalonica was 50 miles west of Philippi and 100 miles north of Athens. Thessalonica was the chief city of Macedonia and a Roman Colony. The population in Paul's day was 200,000 people. The city was first named Therma because of the hot springs in the area.
In 316 B.C., Cassander, one of the Generals of Alexander the Great, when he did pass away, his kingdom was divided up amongst his commanders. Cassander made Therma his home base. He renamed the city Thessalonike in memory of his wife. Today it is called Salonika.
V. DATE OF THE LETTER:
Galatians was Paul's first letter written around 49-50 A.D. I Thessalonians was Paul's second canonical letter written around 51 A.D. from Corinth. The date is certain because of historical writings found in archaeological discoveries that state that Gallio served as deputy of Achaia between 51-52 A.D. ( Acts 18:12-17).
VI. THE THEMES OF I THESSALONIANS:
There are two themes that are found in Thessalonians. This is what is call an eschatological letter. ESKATOS means last days.
We study the rapture of the church in 1 Thessalonians, and the second coming of Christ in 2 Thessalonians. He's dealing with last days issues.
VII. SECTION OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF I THESSALONIANS:
CHAPTERS 1-3 - The Inspiration of the Church in Thessalonica. Paul uses them as an example to all the other churches on how to follow Christ. Other churches were inspired by the way they were obedient to Christ.
Chapter 1: The Testimony of the Thessalonians.
Chapter 2: The Testimony of Paul.
Chapter 3: The Testimony of Timothy, what he told Paul when he came back about the condition of the church there.
CHAPTERS 4-5 - The Instruction of Paul on the Rapture of the Church.
Chapter 4: The Testimony Concerning the Lord's Return, and that's coming from the Lord Himself.
Chapter 5: The Testimony Concerning Believers, how believers are to live in the last days.
I. ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Paul and his companions Silvanus and Timothy ( I Thessalonians 1:1; 2:18). Again, Paul's inscription is on all thirteen of his letters. He personally wrote 1 Thessalonians, but he has Silvanus (and we see that he's the same as Silas in the scriptures), and then Timothy. They traveled with him during his 2nd missionary trip. And so, they are with Paul in Corinth when he is writing this letter back to the Christians in Thessalonica.
II. TO WHOM IT WAS WRITTEN:
To the believers in Thessalonica who were made up of mostly Gentiles, but some Jews believed also. Acts 17:4 tells us about Paul's ministry there in Thessalonica.
III. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH IN THESSALONICA:
Paul evangelized the area of Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his Second Missionary journey, along with Silvanus and Timothy. That's recorded in Acts 17:1-9.
Paul ministered in Thessalonica for at least three weeks ( Acts 17:2).
Unbelieving Jews stirred up the unbelieving Gentiles against Paul ( Acts 17:5-9).
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy left Thessalonica and went on to Berea ( Acts 17:10).
Hostile Thessalonian Jews followed Paul to Berea and stirred up the people against Paul ( Acts 17:13).
Paul left Silvanus and Timothy in Berea while he went on to Athens ( Acts 17:14).
Paul sent for Silvanus and Timothy to join him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).
From Athens, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on the welfare of the believers there ( I Thessalonians 3:1-2).
Paul also sent Silvanus back to Philippi while he went on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).
Silvanus and Timothy rejoin Paul in Corinth ( Acts 18:5).
After Silvanus and Timothy returned, Paul wrote the first letter to the Thessalonians based on Timothy's good report ( Acts 18:5).
So, John pastored there. And like I said, Paul was there for about three years. Timothy took over after him for a year and a half, and the letters and the missionary efforts coming out from here went all the way through and the seven churches in Revelation had actually started from out of Ephesus, one of the capitals and the main encampment of Christianity.
Right outside of Ephesus is where the tomb of Mary is supposed to be, as history tells us that Mary actually wound up in Ephesus and spent her last days there. Ephesus was the Roman capital of Asia. Ephesus was known for having one of the seven wonders of the world - the temple of Artemis (or Diana).
Ephesus is believed to be evangelized by Priscilla and Aquila. ( Acts 18:18-19). The church in Ephesus was later established by Paul during his third missionary journey. ( Acts 19). Paul ministered there for three years. After Paul left, Timothy pastored the church for about 1 1/2 years.
Paul wrote to Timothy in Ephesus to counter false teaching by two leaders in the church in Ephesus - Hymenaeus and Alexander ( I Timothy 1:3 and I Timothy 1:20).
Thirty years later, Christ gave the message to Ephesus in Revelation 2:1-7. So, thirty years later, the Lord said that you have left your first love. And that was Christ's message to them!
IV. THE THEME OF EPHESIANS:
It presents the believer's position in Christ. The term "in Christ" is the key phrase in the letter to the Ephesians.
II: WHEN IT WAS WRITTEN:
It was written around 56 A.D. So, it's about a year after what we know was the first letter. And it was written from somewhere in Macedonia. We don't know exactly where. Tradition says it might be Philippi, but it's somewhere in Macedonia where Paul is traveling.
Now you should know that we have what is known as 1st and 2nd Corinthians because we only have two letters. We know that there were at least three. According to 1 Corinthians 5:9, Paul makes reference to another letter that he had sent to them, which apparently is lost.
Some even believe that right before Paul wrote what we call 2 Corinthians that there was a third letter written, taken by Titus, and that Paul was waiting for him, and when Titus came back and gave Paul word that the people were scoffing at some of Paul's teachings, then he wrote what we call 2 Corinthians.
But we only have two of the letters. Whether there were three or four, or more, we only have two.
III: WHY IT WAS WRITTEN:
First of all, about Corinth itself, Paul evangelized Corinth during his second missionary journey in Acts 18:1-18. He was there for about a year and a half. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians after being visited by some of the house of Chloe. Paul was in Ephesus.
1 Corinthians was a letter of correction. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address the corruption in the church.
The city of Corinth was so corrupt that any immoral person within the Roman Empire was called a Corinthianized person. 2 Corinthians was written about a year later than 1 Corinthians. It was written to counter false teachers that had come into Corinth.
So not only was Paul battling with the believers of their disobedience to the truth, and their rebellion against his authority, but now false teachers had come into Corinth, and they too were attacking Paul's teaching. Paul calls them "super apostles" in Chapter 11.
III: WHY IT WAS WRITTEN:
Paul evangelized Corinth during his second missionary journey beginning at Acts 18:1. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians after being visited by some from the house of Chloe.
1 Corinthians is a letter of correction. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address the corruption that was in the church.
Now the city of Corinth was so corrupt that any immoral person found anywhere in the Roman Empire was called a Corinthianized person. So, no matter where you were, you could have been in Rome, and somebody would say "There's a Corinthianized person!" Everybody knows what Corinth means, corruption and sin!
And these Gentiles, the church in Corinth, mostly and mainly Gentiles, had to come out from that atmosphere. They had church in Corinth. It was pagan worship and prostitution was part of the worship service. And people brought their families. And this was a constant seven day a week influence on that city!
And so now these people have received Christ, and they're gathering together as followers of Jesus after He has saved them, but they still have to live in this environment. They are in a community where this is all the people do, is participate in perversion and corruption as part of their worship, and it's part of their lifestyle. So, they had a great struggle in the church there because a lot of the problems that they struggled with was in the church in Corinth.
II: WHEN IT WAS WRITTEN:
It was written around 55 A.D. during Paul's third missionary journey. It was written from Ephesus according to Acts 18:10. And Paul wrote both 1 and 2 Corinthians to these people about three to five years after evangelizing them.
So, when he stopped off at Corinth during his first visit, many people were saved, and of course the riots started so he left. On his third missionary journey, he came straight to Ephesus. And he was there for quite some time and that's where he met up with Sosthenes because Sosthenes left after the riot. And Paul met him there. And so, the two of them were there.
And also, we're going to hear from the household of Chloe. The household of Chloe is going to make a trip. They know that Paul is in Ephesus. It's about three to five years after Paul made his visit on his third missionary journey. And so, a delegation leaves Corinth to go talk to Paul about the problems in the church. And that's what we are studying. We are studying about the problems in the church.
We also; of course see individuals such as Nebuchadnezzar who was converted in charge of Babylon; a pagan nation as well as individuals assimilated in such as the mixed multitude in Exodus; Ruth and Rahab; and likely Naaman the Syrian not to mention for a time the population of Nineveh; at least in momentary repentance.
There was a time earlier when Jesus instructed the Disciples to only preach to the lost sheep of Israel ( Matt. 10:5-6). However; in the case of the woman praying for her daughter; the only other individual Jesus stated had great faith and also a Gentile went though a discourse in Matthew 15:26-27 and then her prayers were answered. This appears on the surface to be cruel; but Jesus was drawing her out; and this allowed His glory to be put on display and signifies to us for all time perseverance.
Acts 18:6 shows a similar pattern with Paul after he had more than worn out his welcome in preaching Christ in their midst. Now; Israel will have to wait until the Lord's return for all of the cities of Israel to be reached ( Matt. 10:23). Thus; until the "fullness of the Gentiles come in" ( Romans 11:25) Israel is blind in part.
These things are according to God's pattern; and eventually will fulfill verses such as Isaiah 56:7 when in God's Holy mount; there will be a place for prayer for all nations. Mark 11:17 shows how the Jews themselves failed in understanding their own destiny by making a marketplace in the Temple as a mockery.
Where in the Bible does it say that it's okay for women to be preachers.
MOUNTHOREB REPLY: Woman can prophecy not new info outside of the scriptures 2 Timothy 3:15-17. However, They preach what they have learned to others outside of the church or congregation. When asked a question about the bible. a woman can reply to anyone who is asking the question. even if it's a man, elder 1 Timothy 3 or someone in authority. but within the church or congregation 1 Timothy 3, a woman does not have authority over a man to speak to the whole church or Congregation 1Timothy 2:11,12,14 (unless there's no men available, if this is the case she covers her head within the congregation to PREACH 1 Corinthians 11:5;16 because of the angels in heaven) however, Outside of the building, yes a woman can teach others outside (family, neighbors etc.) Acts 2:16,17.
Jesus allowed women to speak to him and listen. even sit at his feet and ask questions. he allowed woman to speak and listened to them. and to follow him as he preached. Luke 1:36-38; John 4:7-54; John 11:20-29; John 20:11-18; Acts 1:14; Luke 8:1-3; Luke 10:38-42; Romans 16:1-5; Acts 18:2; Acts 18:24-26;
In marriage: Ephesians 5:21-33
These are all the scriptures I can think of. Revelation 22:17 "Its free"
Spencer.
Lets assume your are right about people in Samaria. So how about the apostles? Weren't they born again before Pentecost? But Jesus called them clean during the last supper i.e. in John 13:10.
When Peter preached to the Jews on Pentecost he said at the end, Acts 2:38, "..., Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.". Shall I assume that Peter said to people to just have a knowledge about Christ then get water baptised and then get born again? Hard to believe. I don't think there is any christian church of any denomination that teaches such a sequence of salvation.
Question. What is baptism? In Colossians 2:12 says "Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.".
Also in Romans 6:3-7, "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: ..."
So the baptism among other is symbolic for the burial of our old sinful man and the subsequent erection of the new man. But we bury something that is dead not alive. Baptism has to come after the death of the old man, not before.
Lets go to that incident that Paul met those disciples in Ephessus.( Acts 18:1-7). He asks them if they received the Spirit after they believed? Strange question, isn't it? He also asumes that they were water baptised, because he asks tthem in what name they were baptised. (since they told him that they had never heard of the Holly Spirit, he wonders how come they had never heard of it since we are baprised in the name of the Father, the Son and HTE HOLLY SPIRIT). So Paul assumed in the begining that they were also w/baptised.
Verse 5 in this short Psalm indicates vows that David made; unknown as to exactly what they were. The next verse states assurance of long life which Solomon was promised in 1 Kings 3:14 IF He would remain obedient and not stray as warned in the conditions listed there as well as in 2 Chronicles 1:11 and sequential verses (without the promise of long life there). Solomon's sins probably shortened his life; however despite his lengthy reign.
In David's case vows were given; whereas in Solomon's case I know of no such example. There are warnings; in fact in Ecclesiastes which Solomon wrote after learning some bitter life lessons where he mentions vows. ( Ecclesiastes 5:4-8). God requires it; and we are "fools" if we don't. A vow can be a one time act such as Paul in Acts 18:18; or one that is done for as long as a lifetime (such as a marriage vow). Thus; we need to be careful what we promise and have every intention to complete it. Judges 11 shows the seriousness of a poorly thought out vow (much controversy there as to the meaning; it would probably mean dedicating as a perpetual virgin to the Lord in the case of a human as opposed to an animal sacrifice). There are whole commentaries on that passage of scripture.
In this Psalm we should focus on the eternal benefits of those who trust God. Verse 7 indicates the king will abide before God "forever"; and this would clearly foreshadow the Messiah who was to be a son of David who would finally be the one to restore the Kingdom and fulfill all the promises left undone. It would seem that David's vows were for a lifetime of some sort of service (verse 8). The continual praise certainly should accompany what we vow; that would be nice to see in marriages. The rock in verse 2 certainly would indicate Deity; and God's protection in verses 3 and 4 show our heavenly home to come and the angelic protection promised for His saints (see Psalm 91:4).
Are tongues a gift or are tongues a sign of the baptism of the Holly Spirit? Lets do a research.
Acts 2. The apostles and the rest who were gathered in the upper floor are baptized in the Spirit. How is that shown? By talking in tongues, There wasn't any other sign. If tongues is a gift then all 120 got the same gift?
Acts 9. Cornelious and his own were baptized in the Spirit (verses Acts 9:44-46), they started speaking in tongues.
Acts 8. Philipp goes to Samaria, people believe and get baptized in water. The apostles go there and lay hands on believers who get the HS. Simon offers money to aquire the same gift as the apostles. Question. How did Simon realize that believers got the HS? What did he see that made him understood that? What was the external sign of that? The Bible doesn't say, but I think it is obvious (the whole city got the same gift?)
Acts 18. Paul meets some disciples in Ephessus. After having a discussion with them, he baptizes them in water. Verse Acts 18:6. They started speaking in tongues and prophesying
Many times in Acts it says that the apostles were filled with the Spirit when talking/preaching to people. How did they know that they were filled with the Spirit? What made them realize that? Was there a sign?
In Cor 12:4:11 the spiritual gifts are described. It is true that one of them is "kinds of tongues". What are these? These are different kinds of tongues, it is not the same as the tongues given in Spirit baptism. Think of that, Verse 7 "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.". So gifts are given to "profit withal", that is for the profit of the church. But in 1 Cor 14 it says that if there is no interpreter then that believer should stop talking in tongues, let him talk to himself and God. Also he edifies himself. So what is the profit for the congregation? No profit at all for the congregation, only for the individual. So it is not a gift, it is the sign of bapt