I come to You with honesty, because You already see my heart.
You know this season of the year is scary for me, a time when memories of my husband's past health issues stir up fear, worry, and old emotions.
But today I choose to bring all of this to You.
I lay it at the Cross. Your Word says in 2 Timothy 1:7 that You have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
So right now, I reject fear, and I receive the power, love, and sound mind You freely offer me.
Let Your peace settle deeper in me than any anxious thought.
Your Word also says in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast all my anxiety on You because You care for me.
So Lord, I cast it: every fear, every old memory, every "what if," every tightness in my chest, every intrusive thought.
I place them in Your hands, not mine.
You care for me more than I can understand, and I release the weight of worry to You. I lift up the "fiery darts" that come : the sudden fears, the feelings, the emotional pulls, and instead I take up the shield of faith, just as You command in Ephesians 6:16.
Extinguish every dart of fear, every whisper of danger that is not from You, Lord, off of me and my entire family and our loved ones.
Fill me and my family with Your truth so fully, that fear has nowhere to land.
Lord, Your Word says in James 1:19 to be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry,
so help me in my relationships, especially with my husband, to walk with grace, patience, and peace.
Teach my heart to communicate with love, and soften any place in me that feels overly burdened, overwhelmed, or unheard.
And Father, You tell me in 1 Peter 3:7 and Ephesians 4:15 to walk in understanding and speak the truth in love.
So I ask You to strengthen our unity: spiritually, emotionally, and in communication.
Let my words be filled with gentleness, and let my heart feel safe,held, and understood.
Like Hannah in 1 Samuel 1, who poured out her soul before You, I pour out my emotions to You w/out shame
"Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men."
Matthew 6:14
"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:"
Ephesians 4:32
"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
Romans 3:23
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Exactly right. John's baptism was not a man-made ritual borrowed from Jewish tradition but a direct command from God for a specific purpose in His prophetic plan. John 1:33 makes that clear: "He that sent me to baptize with water"-God Himself commissioned John to prepare Israel for their coming Messiah. It was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3), identifying a believing remnant within the nation who would be ready to receive their King.
But that baptism belonged to Israel's prophetic program, not to what is revealed later through Paul. John's ministry called Israel to repentance and national cleansing before the promised kingdom could be established on earth. It was a shadow of the future when the nation will be washed and restored ( Ezekiel 36:25-27). Yet once Christ's death and resurrection were accomplished, God began a new work-offering salvation to all, Jew and Gentile alike, not through water or outward sign, but by faith alone in the finished work of the cross.
Paul declares that there is now "one baptism" ( Ephesians 4:5), not of water, but by the Spirit into the body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:13). This spiritual baptism identifies believers with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection ( Romans 6:3-4). John's commission looked forward to an earthly kingdom; Paul's gospel looks upward to a heavenly calling. Both were from God, but each served its divine purpose in its proper time. I would love to hear your thoughts on the truths laid out before you.
I appreciate what you've written here. It is very insightful, and I agree that the Apostle Paul never endorsed living a lifestyle of sin. Even though he preached grace, living a lifestyle of sin is not an option.
Paul's teachings consistently hold that grace is not a license for sin but the foundation for a transformed life in Christ. He declares that believers are justified by faith apart from works of the law ( Romans 3:28), yet he also emphasizes that those saved by grace are called to "walk worthy of the vocation" ( Ephesians 4:1). In Romans 6, he confronts the idea that grace allows sin, saying, "Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid." Instead, he teaches that believers, having been identified with Christ's death and resurrection, should reckon themselves "dead to sin" and "alive unto God." Paul urges a life led by the Spirit rather than the flesh ( Galatians 5:16-25), contrasting works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. To the Corinthians, he stresses that the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, not to be defiled by immorality. In Colossians and Ephesians, he calls for putting off the old man and putting on the new, shaped by love, holiness, and forgiveness. Paul never sets aside grace; instead, he frames it as the power that both saves and enables holy living. His letters reveal a consistent pattern: salvation is God's gift, but it should manifest in sanctification, where believers display Christ's character in daily conduct. Thus, Paul harmonizes justification by faith with the call to a Spirit-led, disciplined, and godly lifestyle.
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are SANCTIFIED, but ye are JUSTIFIED in the name of the Lord Jesus, and BY THE SPIRIT OF OUR GOD.
1 Corinthians 6:10-11.
For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that ( HE IS ABLE TO KEEP THAT WHICH I HAVE COMMITTED UNTO HIM AGAINST THAT DAY. 2 Timothy 1:12
CHRIST HATH REDEEMED US FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: Galatians 3:13.
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby YE ARE SEALED UNTO THE DAY OF REDEMPTION. Ephesians 4:30.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
The concept of Predestination places the initial work of salvation as a time when repentance is granted ( 2 Tim. 2:25 and several other passages); which is followed by sanctification. Some have said (in rather bad language form) that our "wanter" is changed.
The idea is that our desires IF saved become His desires; thus the struggle begins between the Spirit and the flesh.
Galatians 5:17-25
17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
We also read in Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
Again; I know this is a repeated theme on my part but we can't be grieving something we don't have; so that if there isn't a continuing process and desire to repent and change then sanctification is at question and we need to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5).
That's a very commendable desire, but the question one should ask is, 'has God called me to be a preacher'? It seems you have a real passion for sharing God's Word with His people and others, and as you know His Spirit gives special gifts to enable this to happen ( 1 Corinthians 12:27,28; Ephesians 4:8-13). Do you believe that your desire is based on His Gift and Calling to you?
If so, talk to your Elder/Pastor and get his feedback & prayer support. He might allow you to share the Word in a Gospel service, or take a study (or series) in a home Bible study group, etc. These opportunities will cause you to rely heavily on God's Spirit to read, learn and teach His Word to others and you will sense within yourself that joy & urgency to bring out God's Word. God will help you in your preparations and delivery of that message. May the LORD guide you in this as you wait on Him for the next steps He takes you on. Remember, His path is always clear and precise and the burden on your heart will increase and cannot be taken away. Then press on in prayer and confidence in the LORD. Every blessing.
Thanks Gerald for sharing those thoughts & observations. Indeed, 1 John 2:27 along with Ephesians 4:11 are to be taken together. The Spirit has appointed teachers of the Word as He also ministers to each heart that belongs to the Lord. Together, they serve to build each one up and also to strengthen and edify the Church body. I see it as one complementing the other.
In John's epistle, the thought there is that the Holy Spirit will show us when erroneous teaching or doctrine is presented; that if we abide in Christ & follow the doctrines delivered to us, we will remain on track. And to help us along, the Church is blessed to have teachers to guide us in the Word & appropriate that Word in our lives. Maybe we should see them as God's instruments who, with the Holy Spirit, confirm to us the Word and help us increase in knowledge and faith, thereby baring more fruit to glorify our LORD.
Many struggle with this, asking: Is this how Christians today are supposed to live? But by asking who Jesus was speaking to (Israel, under the law) and the purpose of His message (to reveal the heart of the law and the need for a Savior), we can appreciate this passage without misapplying it to the Church.
Water Baptism vs. Spiritual Baptism
Denominations often argue over the mode and necessity of water baptism. But Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:17, "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel." He also teaches in 1 Corinthians 12:13 that believers are baptized spiritually by the Holy Spirit into one body.
By taking Scripture slowly and comparing passages, we see a distinction: Israel's program included ceremonial water baptism, while the Body of Christ is identified by a spiritual baptism that unites believers with Christ.
Spiritual Growth Through Personal Bible Study
Removing denominational blinders doesn't mean rejecting all church teaching-it means testing all things by Scripture ( Acts 17:11). It means valuing God's Word above tradition. When believers study independently, prayerfully, and slowly, they grow in spiritual maturity, discernment, and unity in the faith ( Ephesians 4:13-14).
Rather than being tossed around by conflicting doctrines, they become rooted and grounded in truth.
Conclusion: Letting Scripture Interpret Scripture
The Word of God is not contradictory-it is consistent, powerful, and alive. Apparent contradictions often arise when Scripture is taken out of context or forced to fit a denominational mold.
When we remove these blinders and let the Bible say what it says-word by word, verse by verse-we discover clarity that religion often clouds. The confusion created by mixing Israel's law-based program with the Church's grace-based calling is resolved by rightly dividing the word of truth and taking time to let the Scriptures speak for themselves.
Some say that a Christian can one day decide they no longer want to be a Christian and just walk away, fall away, or defect from Christ. But if this is true, what happens to the Spirit of Christ that indwells the believer?
At the point of salvation, God's Spirit comes into a person's spirit, and they become a new creation in Christ. Jesus says He will never leave us, nor forsake us, so if a person chooses to walk away, where does His Spirit go? It doesn't make much sense to believe that Jesus will leave us when He says the opposite.
When a person receives Christ, they are given the gift of the Holy Spirit, and they are sealed with the Spirit forever. Those who believe in eternal security (which I am one) see this sealing as a guarantee of our salvation and inheritance. The only one who can break this seal is the One who did the sealing. A seal marks ownership. It is Christ who owns us. He purchased us. He redeemed us. We cannot break the seal, only Christ (God) can break it. So, if one chooses to "walk away," guess what? That person is still sealed with the Spirit. Christ isn't going anywhere.
Please consider Ephesians 1:13-14. Once we place our trust in Christ, once we believe, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. We have the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession. Again, we are purchased. Christ purchased us. He sealed us and only He can break the seal. Ephesians 4:30 tells us that we are sealed with the Spirit of God "until" Christ comes.
We see two places where angels are chained in darkness: 2 Peter 2:4-5 and Jude 1:6. To me, this is a prison, a confinement area, as we see in Revelation 9, 11, 17, and 20. These angels did not keep their original estate or position and left their own dwelling place. These angels were disobedient to God, as seen in Genesis 6:1-2. There are fallen angels, demons, and devils on this earth, but what these angels did was so terrible that God locked them in the bottomless pit until the great day of judgment.
In Ephesians 4:8-10, there is another reference; verses 9-10 are debated depending on the manuscript. They say that before Jesus ascended to heaven, He first descended to the lower parts of the earth. Paul quotes Psalm 68:18, which describes the ark ascending to Mount Zion, leading captivity captive, symbolizing deliverance. Also, in Judges 5:12, part of Deborah's song, it states, "led thy captivity captive," meaning victory over oppression.
The same theme appears in Ephesians 4:8, victory over sin, death, and the grave through the life, sacrifice, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as referenced in Galatians 1:4 and 1 Corinthians 15:52-55. We also see the gifts given in Ephesians 4:11, Romans 12:4-8, and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
When Jesus was resurrected, God placed Him above all, as shown in Philippians 2:9-11, Ephesians 1:19-21, and 1 Peter 3:22. Satan, just like the leaders of Jerusalem, thought that when the Messiah came, He would immediately deliver them and establish His kingdom at that time, the expectation not yet fulfilled. When Satan influenced Judas to betray Jesus to death, he thought he had won.
I've been thinking - perhaps more than usual - about what it means to belong, not to a family or a name, but to a larger, invisible Body, of which Christ is the head. Colossians 1:18
I don't think it's just a poetic metaphor, but a call to a more demanding reality: that my actions should serve others, not just me. 1 Corinthians 12:22
There are members who are more visible and others who are more hidden. Not all stand out, but all are necessary. 1 Peter 4:13
To be part of the Body of Christ is to be used - not in the sense of wear and tear, but of purpose. It's knowing that even in modesty,
we can't all be eyes, nor all hands - and yet, as for His affliction for us to share in
I've been thinking that, if we really are the Body of Christ, then harmony lies not in equality of function, but in unity of heart.
It is precisely when each one faithfully fulfills their part - large or small, visible or not - that there is health and life among the members. 1 Corinthians 12:18
Being moderate doesn't mean being less useful;
Romans 12:4-5 - how beautiful it is to think that we are not alone - that we are part of something living, pulsating, eternal! Ephesians 4:16
To be part of the Body of Christ is to love without demanding a return, to serve even when the world doesn't see, to sing putting Him, our Jesus Christ, at the center. 1 Corinthians 12:25-26
John 10:30 I and my Father are one. Should we not consider other verses, John 17:11, John 17:20-23, John 14:28. These verses, Numbers 23:19, John 20:17, 2 Corinthians 11:31, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 4:4-6, and 1 Peter 1:3. Then, in Revelation 21:22-23 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.
God wanted to be with His people, He first instructed Moses to build a tabernacle, which was symbolic of Jesus. Jesus was born without sin, not by man but of the seed of a woman whose Father was God. God could dwell in Him. Like the tabernacle, Jesus was holy, not defiled. Jesus became the light of the world, the Shekinah Glory manifested in Him and God again dwelt with man in the flesh of Jesus, to me that is John 1:14.
I do thank you for your reply, and I hope and pray I do not offend anyone who reads what I post; our discussions should only inspire us to study, not to win or demean, if so, we all lose.
I will stop here; I do not want to get ahead of Jesse's work in Revelation. You are always welcome to reply to me GiGi.
Omnipresent God, You are the God who constantly cares for she, that You help my friend who received a heavy text message yesterday morning. This message carries the pain of a deeply moment -just to name a few. the feeling of being surrounded by uncertainty, and the real weight of questions that have no immediate answers. The mind becomes restless in the face of the unknown - health, finances, the future of one's children, job stability. And when everything seems to slip through our hands, even the simplest path becomes obscure. The heart silently asks, what if? - Perhaps You know that place of waiting. A place where we pray for one, one life, one breath, one good piece of news that might bring relief, even if only for a moment. Maybe our prayers are for one fragile family bond, for one diagnosis that could change everything or for one positive number in a bank statement that guarantees one more month of peace. And even when we pray for many, it is usually for one that our heart aches most deeply. It's curious how the love for one person can stir our entire inner world.It is at this point that many things are revealed - not about the future, but about ourselves And in this space of self-awareness, we are reminded:
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other" ( Ephesians 4:32), "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" ( 1 Peter 4:9). And even though we don't have all the answers, the silent presence in the midst of waiting can remind us that even when everything seems lost, there is one moment - just one.
now that i "know" christ's love Ephesians 2:19 Corinthians 3:4-7 and the whole book of Colossians
Shall we analyse?
Remember the song
Christ is the portrait of God - Colossians 1:15
Before he was born
He did justice and in himself he died
Supremacy and thrones are
They are yours - Colossians 1: 16-17
And that thread that broke
From my soul to God - Colossians 1:21
The holy blood sewed
Christ and his lines of love - Colossians 1: 20
And now a man made I
Can in man see God
Have peace, live, walk and be
Made me a friend in his pouring out - John 15:15
When we were targets of God's wrath now we have Peace with God - Romans 5:1
I have a doubt that you probably theologians (formal or deep self-taught), show me if there is something I missed.
to go to church or not to go to church?
1 Thessalonians 5:11, 1 Peter 4:9, Psalms 133:1-3, Galatians 5:13. all these chapters do not speak of the church that is of my generation, Hebrews 10:24-25 this verse speaks of the mutual congregation.
continuing Romans 12:10, Ephesians 4:32, Acts 2:41-47, 1 John 1:6-7, 2 Corinthians 13:11, 1 Peter 1:22, Colossians 3:16, Philippians 2:1-2, John 13:34, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Psalm 55:14. I keep reading and re-reading Romans 12 and I wonder if it's in everyday life or gathered with the church.
Jesus preached to those who were in the prison as lost souls in Sheol. The others were apparently set free ( Ephesians 4:8; Matthew 27:52-53) who were righteous saints of God in the pleasant side of Sheol. The old state of the afterlife consisted of a separate area of peace from one of torment as we see in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man ( Luke 16:19-31). Now when a believer dies he or she goes right to be with the Lord ( 2 Cor. 5:8).
I think we are to judge the teachings (doctrines) of what others profess in their religion against the Bible to see if these doctrines are true or false. We are to reject false doctrines whether they are professed by one who professes to be Christian or of any other religion. We can do this privately, making note not to follow these teachings or the religion or sect that teaches false doctrines contrary to what the Bible teaches us. And, at times we may be called by the Holy Spirit to reject false teachings openly such as in a discussion or forum for debate.
Therefore, it is vital for every Christian to go on to maturity as Paul exhorts in these verses:
Ephesians 4:14-15 - That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Hebrews 5:12-13 - For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
Hebrews 6:1-3 - Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Ephesians 4:13 - Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
By maturity, Paul is certainly speaking of going deeper into the truths taught to the church by the apostles of which we have laid out for us in the NT. It involves thinking seriously and thoroughly on the doctrines one has learned and seek to understand them to a greater degree to strengthen our faith and knowledge of God in Jesus Christ, His work of salvation, how God has worked over the course of history to bring to fullness His eternal plan and purpose, see pt. 2
Luke 19:8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.
Matthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
"Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth." ( Ephesians 4:28).
These verses show that our actions should be part of what we verbally confess in order to bring restoration to those we have offended. THere are cases like with Paul where Barnabus stated in Acts 9:27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus. This reminds us of the verse Proverbs 27:2 where another is to praise us rather than promotion of ourselves. In this case the early believers had to hear it from someone other than Paul himself for no doubt they feared he would entrap them and were doubtful that he was truly converted. This could be compared in some ways with a convicted criminal who sincerely is apologetic with a family of a victim when he has nothing to gain for himself-anyone can repent and part of OUR repentance is showing God's love toward those who offended us.
Repentance also involves a permanent turn from sin and not replacing one sin for another. This is one danger of those who say that they have a demon of "lust" or some other specific manifestation. The enemy will substitute one temptation for another; that is clear from the verses of Christ's temptation to go from satisfying hunger; to being suicidal and worshipping the Devil rather than God. We need to repent from actions and the lifestyle that leads to the broad road or directly to sin
I've been following this discussion Steve421, and though I have nothing substantial to offer, my own understanding as I read my KJB is: when a word is given in Italics, that word is not in the original manuscripts, but added by the translators to give the sentence/verse meaning in English. One can still assume a meaning without the italicized words, but the translators probably wanted to ensure that the reader was understanding the verse as they themselves did, and not applying our own meaning.
Where a verse (or part thereof) is in parenthesis, again, I don't believe that was ever used in the original language. Therefore, I simply understand their use as given by the translators (in whichever KJB edition that was done), to indicate their belief that the verse in question was deemed as being complementary to the subject matter being dealt with. We see this in John 1:14, John 4:2, Romans 3:8, Ephesians 4:9.10, and others. So, the "thought within a thought" understanding could be seen in these examples, where the parenthesized portions are clearly in the original, but brackets later applied by the translators to give us understanding of what they themselves were reading & working through. So whether brackets are applied or not, it should not make one iota of a difference to the accuracy of the texts, as all of it forms the Word of God. Only the italicized words are the 'extras' that could be read with some care, if one chooses to do so for textual examination purposes.
We are seal by the Holy Spirit when we believed the gospel of grace in Apostle Paul's epistle 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
2 Corinthians 1:22
Who hath alsosealedus, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
We are seal by the Holy Spirit when we believed the gospel of grace in Apostle Paul's epistle 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye weresealedwith that holy Spirit of promise,
We that are saved by believing the gospel of grace and will have a new body at the day of redemption.
Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye aresealedunto the day of redemption.
Apostle Paul's epistle is for our doctrine and Salvation for today and we can not loose our Salvation. We have to Rightly divide the Word of Truth for it to make sense.
2 Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,rightlydividingthe word of truth.
I thank God Almighty in the third Heaven for my Salvation that its sealed by the Holy Spirit in power of the Lord Jesus Christ.
When we were lost , being not saved by believing the gospel of grace, we were part of the world system and was the devil's child.
Ephesians 2:12
That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in theworld:
Satan has advantages on the unsaved.
Ephesians 2:2
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of thisworld, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
We that are unsaved , are in bondage to the cares of the world.
Galatians 4:3
Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of theworld:
Even as a saved Christian, it's easy to let Satan in our spirit.
Ephesians 4:27
Neither give place to thedevil.
Today, the worldly spirit of Satan is very strong because of cellphone, television and being very busy doing worldly things instead of godly things
1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines ofdevils;
One day we will leave the evil world and be with Jesus Christ.
Galatians 1:4
Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evilworld, according to the will of God and our Father:
Satan is good at hiding the gospel of grace.
2 Corinthians 4:4
In whom the god of thisworldhath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
God gave us a spirit to worship Him. The spirit of the world is of Satan.
1 Corinthians 2:12
Now we have received, not the spirit of theworld, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Godforbid: yea,letGodbetrue, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightestbejustified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
Are we responsible to know the Bible ourselves ? ?
John 5:39
Searchthescriptures; for inthem ye think ye have eternal life: andthey arethey which testify of me.
The biggest liar in the world is the devil himself as Satan.
John 8:44
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is aliar, and the father of it.
There will be people with great education and decrees and will look very rightous , but deceive many .
Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait todeceive;
Deception is only going to get worse and we are living in it right now.
2 Timothy 3:13
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and beingdeceived.
If we can't trust man , then who do we trust ? ? Most people will say " I trust Jesus Christ ". But how ? ?
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trustin theLordwith all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
We all have to trust God in His word.
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye alsotrusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Now, after you have trusted God, where do you go from here ? ?
2 Timothy 2:15
Studytoshew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth nottobe ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Is the Holy Spirit God ? ? Was Mother Mary married twice, once from the Holy Ghost and the other from Joseph. The Holy Spirit is a person from Heaven.
Matthew 1:18
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of theHolyGhost.
That person that is Righteous living in you is the Holy Ghost, the new creature in Christ. Just think about it, I have Jesus Christ in my heart .
1 Corinthians 6:19
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of theHolyGhostwhich is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Now, is the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit God Himself ? ? Because I believe the three in one, yes God is the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:3
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by theSpiritofGodcalleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by theHolyGhost.
Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not theholySpiritofGod, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
1 Thessalonians 4:8
He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, butGod, who hath also given unto us hisholySpirit.
May we all believe and search the scriptures for Salvation and doctrine for today.
"There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, AND IN YOU ALL.
It reasonable to say this is the Holyspirit by which we are Identified with the Lord by way of Christ death, burial and ressurection.
Also, the Holy Spirit is God's spirit.
The Holyspirit is Identified as "HE" not "IT"
1 John 4:4.
Romans 8:10-11 ect..
He's also called a "Quickening spirit"
1 Corinthians 15:45 "And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.
NOTE; "was made" is in italics, meaning it was added. It should read, "the last Adam a quickening spirit. This refers to Jesus. He wasn't made a quickening spirit.
Was Christ's spirit in existence before he took on flesh? Before we answer this we must take in consideration there is "one Spirit" and the Spirit gives life! He was never born!
The Spirit of Christ is the same Spirit of God.
Romans 8:9 reads "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that THE SPIRIT OF GOD DWELL IN YOU. NOW IF ANY MAN HAVE NOT THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, HE IS NONE OF HIS.
1 Peter 1:10-11 says it was Christ Spirit that was in the OT Prophet's that testified of the suffering of Christ.
"Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
Searching what, or what manner of time THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
I believe here is a clear picture of the Father, Son and Holyspirit as one and the pre existence of the triune God.
How do we get the Holy Spirit ? By believing the gospel only and the Holy Spirit will seal us .
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heardtheword of truth,thegospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye weresealedwiththatholySpiritof promise,
After receiving the Holy Spirit, you can take advantage of the fruits.
Galatians 5:22-23
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Now that you have the Holy Spirit, God owns you and Satan can not take you away.
1 Corinthians 6:19
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghostwhich isin you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own.
By reading and studying the word of truth, we are going to be able to walk with God in the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 5:25
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
The Holy Spirit communicate with our spirit.
Romans 8:16
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
The Holy Spirit will help us in our Bible study and reading.
1 Corinthians 2:10
But God hath revealedthemunto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
The Holy Spirit has feelings.
Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
The more I read Apostle Paul's epistle, the more the doctrine will make me see false preachers and teachers today.
Romans 16:17
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to thedoctrinewhich ye have learned; and avoid them.
At one time I would listen to every preacher out there and think it was good doctrine, but I was not the doctrine of today , it only made things more confusing.
Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind ofdoctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
I thank God Almighty for Grace Believers not being in the Tribulation. It's only going to get worse with doctrines of devils.
1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, anddoctrines of devils;
There is hope for doctrine today and that is Apostle Paul's epistle.
Titus 2:1
But speak thou the things which become sounddoctrine:
Apostle Paul told the Corinthians to follow him, Apostle Paul has the doctrine of grace.
1 Corinthians 11:1
Be yefollowers ofme, even as I also am of Christ.
Apostle Paul did not walk with Jesus like the 12 Disiples in the flesh, Paul is separated from that with his doctrine.
Romans 1:1
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,
Apostle Paul has a doctrine.
2 Timothy 3:10
But thou hast fully known mydoctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
The whole Bible has doctrine, but which doctrine do we follow today for living in the gospel of grace. " Apostle Paul "
2 Timothy 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable fordoctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Hello Timmywynne. There are many Scriptures that point to the Triune Nature of God, and specifically, that Jesus Christ & the Holy Spirit are revealed to us from the very Being of God the Father. When we think of the Trinity, we know we won't find that word in the Bible, as it is purely a descriptive word of what the Bible declares to be the fullness of God's Being. So to the verses you seek, and you will need to read them fully in your Bible.
Of Jesus Christ: Isaiah 9:6,7 (an Old Testament Prophecy); Micah 5:2 & John 1:1-14 (from everlasting); Matthew 1:22,23; Mark 2:5-7; John 8:56-58; John 16: 27,28; John 17:4,5; John 20:27,28; Philippians 2:5-7; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:13; Hebrews 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:8-10; 1 John 5:7; 1 John 5:20.
Of the Holy Spirit: Matthew 12:31; Luke 1:34,35; Luke 11:13; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7-11; Acts 5:3; Acts 8:29; Acts 13:4; Romans 8:14; Romans 8:26,27; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Corinthians 12:11; Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 10:29; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 John 5:6.
The above are a few Scriptures that point to the deity of Jesus Christ & God's Spirit: all showing that they don't work independently from God, but have been sent out from God, from God's Being, to accomplish His Purposes in the world. And we know that Jesus, as the Word of God clothed with humanity, is the very expression of God to the world ( John 14:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 4:2). Hope these will help you in your study of this very important doctrine. Blessings.
Because God is sovereign, He must at the very least, God "permits" all events and happenings. Within God's sovereign will, He chooses to allow many things to occur that do not bring Him pleasure. Referring again to the example of Joseph and his brothers, God decided, through an act of His decretive will, to permit the kidnapping and enslavement of Joseph. God's permissive will allowed the sins of Joseph's brothers to bring about a greater good (see Genesis 50:20). Despite every instance of mistreatment towards Joseph, God had the power to intervene, but He "allowed" the evil to take place, and in that limited sense, He sovereignly "willed" it to happen.
God's revealed or preceptive will is not concealed from us. This aspect of God's will encompasses what God has chosen to disclose to us in the Bible-His precepts are clearly stated. "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God" ( Micah 6:8).
The preceptive will of God is what He desires us to do (or not do). For instance, we understand that it is God's will for us to speak the truth in love ( Ephesians 4:15), to repent, and turn to God ( Acts 3:19). It is God's revealed will that we refrain from committing adultery.
Obeying God's revealed will is crucial. As stated in ( 1 Corinthians 6:18), we should avoid sexual immorality. Similarly, ( Ephesians 5:18) advises against drunkenness. God's revealed will, as mentioned in ( Psalm 19:7), serves to guide and enlighten us.
We are bound to follow God's revealed or preceptive will, although we retain the ability to disobey. Adam and Eve, for instance, were instructed to be fruitful, tend the garden, and avoid a specific tree ( Genesis 1-2). Regrettably, they defied God's instructions ( Genesis 3) and faced the consequences of their actions. We cannot justify our sins by claiming they fulfill God's sovereign will.
I come to You with honesty, because You already see my heart.
You know this season of the year is scary for me, a time when memories of my husband's past health issues stir up fear, worry, and old emotions.
But today I choose to bring all of this to You.
I lay it at the Cross. Your Word says in 2 Timothy 1:7 that You have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
So right now, I reject fear, and I receive the power, love, and sound mind You freely offer me.
Let Your peace settle deeper in me than any anxious thought.
Your Word also says in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast all my anxiety on You because You care for me.
So Lord, I cast it: every fear, every old memory, every "what if," every tightness in my chest, every intrusive thought.
I place them in Your hands, not mine.
You care for me more than I can understand, and I release the weight of worry to You. I lift up the "fiery darts" that come : the sudden fears, the feelings, the emotional pulls, and instead I take up the shield of faith, just as You command in Ephesians 6:16.
Extinguish every dart of fear, every whisper of danger that is not from You, Lord, off of me and my entire family and our loved ones.
Fill me and my family with Your truth so fully, that fear has nowhere to land.
Lord, Your Word says in James 1:19 to be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry,
so help me in my relationships, especially with my husband, to walk with grace, patience, and peace.
Teach my heart to communicate with love, and soften any place in me that feels overly burdened, overwhelmed, or unheard.
And Father, You tell me in 1 Peter 3:7 and Ephesians 4:15 to walk in understanding and speak the truth in love.
So I ask You to strengthen our unity: spiritually, emotionally, and in communication.
Let my words be filled with gentleness, and let my heart feel safe,held, and understood.
Like Hannah in 1 Samuel 1, who poured out her soul before You, I pour out my emotions to You w/out shame
"Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men."
Matthew 6:14
"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:"
Ephesians 4:32
"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."
Romans 3:23
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
Blessings
Exactly right. John's baptism was not a man-made ritual borrowed from Jewish tradition but a direct command from God for a specific purpose in His prophetic plan. John 1:33 makes that clear: "He that sent me to baptize with water"-God Himself commissioned John to prepare Israel for their coming Messiah. It was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3), identifying a believing remnant within the nation who would be ready to receive their King.
But that baptism belonged to Israel's prophetic program, not to what is revealed later through Paul. John's ministry called Israel to repentance and national cleansing before the promised kingdom could be established on earth. It was a shadow of the future when the nation will be washed and restored ( Ezekiel 36:25-27). Yet once Christ's death and resurrection were accomplished, God began a new work-offering salvation to all, Jew and Gentile alike, not through water or outward sign, but by faith alone in the finished work of the cross.
Paul declares that there is now "one baptism" ( Ephesians 4:5), not of water, but by the Spirit into the body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:13). This spiritual baptism identifies believers with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection ( Romans 6:3-4). John's commission looked forward to an earthly kingdom; Paul's gospel looks upward to a heavenly calling. Both were from God, but each served its divine purpose in its proper time. I would love to hear your thoughts on the truths laid out before you.
G&P
I appreciate what you've written here. It is very insightful, and I agree that the Apostle Paul never endorsed living a lifestyle of sin. Even though he preached grace, living a lifestyle of sin is not an option.
Paul's teachings consistently hold that grace is not a license for sin but the foundation for a transformed life in Christ. He declares that believers are justified by faith apart from works of the law ( Romans 3:28), yet he also emphasizes that those saved by grace are called to "walk worthy of the vocation" ( Ephesians 4:1). In Romans 6, he confronts the idea that grace allows sin, saying, "Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid." Instead, he teaches that believers, having been identified with Christ's death and resurrection, should reckon themselves "dead to sin" and "alive unto God." Paul urges a life led by the Spirit rather than the flesh ( Galatians 5:16-25), contrasting works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. To the Corinthians, he stresses that the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, not to be defiled by immorality. In Colossians and Ephesians, he calls for putting off the old man and putting on the new, shaped by love, holiness, and forgiveness. Paul never sets aside grace; instead, he frames it as the power that both saves and enables holy living. His letters reveal a consistent pattern: salvation is God's gift, but it should manifest in sanctification, where believers display Christ's character in daily conduct. Thus, Paul harmonizes justification by faith with the call to a Spirit-led, disciplined, and godly lifestyle.
Grace and Peace.
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are SANCTIFIED, but ye are JUSTIFIED in the name of the Lord Jesus, and BY THE SPIRIT OF OUR GOD.
1 Corinthians 6:10-11.
For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that ( HE IS ABLE TO KEEP THAT WHICH I HAVE COMMITTED UNTO HIM AGAINST THAT DAY. 2 Timothy 1:12
CHRIST HATH REDEEMED US FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: Galatians 3:13.
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby YE ARE SEALED UNTO THE DAY OF REDEMPTION. Ephesians 4:30.
Blessings.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
The concept of Predestination places the initial work of salvation as a time when repentance is granted ( 2 Tim. 2:25 and several other passages); which is followed by sanctification. Some have said (in rather bad language form) that our "wanter" is changed.
The idea is that our desires IF saved become His desires; thus the struggle begins between the Spirit and the flesh.
Galatians 5:17-25
17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
We also read in Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
Again; I know this is a repeated theme on my part but we can't be grieving something we don't have; so that if there isn't a continuing process and desire to repent and change then sanctification is at question and we need to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5).
It's off to work I go.
Agape; RIch p
If so, talk to your Elder/Pastor and get his feedback & prayer support. He might allow you to share the Word in a Gospel service, or take a study (or series) in a home Bible study group, etc. These opportunities will cause you to rely heavily on God's Spirit to read, learn and teach His Word to others and you will sense within yourself that joy & urgency to bring out God's Word. God will help you in your preparations and delivery of that message. May the LORD guide you in this as you wait on Him for the next steps He takes you on. Remember, His path is always clear and precise and the burden on your heart will increase and cannot be taken away. Then press on in prayer and confidence in the LORD. Every blessing.
Ephesians 4:5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
James 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof
Matthew 15:11 Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Proverbs 1:7 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
Matthew 24:35 "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
In John's epistle, the thought there is that the Holy Spirit will show us when erroneous teaching or doctrine is presented; that if we abide in Christ & follow the doctrines delivered to us, we will remain on track. And to help us along, the Church is blessed to have teachers to guide us in the Word & appropriate that Word in our lives. Maybe we should see them as God's instruments who, with the Holy Spirit, confirm to us the Word and help us increase in knowledge and faith, thereby baring more fruit to glorify our LORD.
Many struggle with this, asking: Is this how Christians today are supposed to live? But by asking who Jesus was speaking to (Israel, under the law) and the purpose of His message (to reveal the heart of the law and the need for a Savior), we can appreciate this passage without misapplying it to the Church.
Water Baptism vs. Spiritual Baptism
Denominations often argue over the mode and necessity of water baptism. But Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:17, "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel." He also teaches in 1 Corinthians 12:13 that believers are baptized spiritually by the Holy Spirit into one body.
By taking Scripture slowly and comparing passages, we see a distinction: Israel's program included ceremonial water baptism, while the Body of Christ is identified by a spiritual baptism that unites believers with Christ.
Spiritual Growth Through Personal Bible Study
Removing denominational blinders doesn't mean rejecting all church teaching-it means testing all things by Scripture ( Acts 17:11). It means valuing God's Word above tradition. When believers study independently, prayerfully, and slowly, they grow in spiritual maturity, discernment, and unity in the faith ( Ephesians 4:13-14).
Rather than being tossed around by conflicting doctrines, they become rooted and grounded in truth.
Conclusion: Letting Scripture Interpret Scripture
The Word of God is not contradictory-it is consistent, powerful, and alive. Apparent contradictions often arise when Scripture is taken out of context or forced to fit a denominational mold.
When we remove these blinders and let the Bible say what it says-word by word, verse by verse-we discover clarity that religion often clouds. The confusion created by mixing Israel's law-based program with the Church's grace-based calling is resolved by rightly dividing the word of truth and taking time to let the Scriptures speak for themselves.
(Part 1):
Some say that a Christian can one day decide they no longer want to be a Christian and just walk away, fall away, or defect from Christ. But if this is true, what happens to the Spirit of Christ that indwells the believer?
At the point of salvation, God's Spirit comes into a person's spirit, and they become a new creation in Christ. Jesus says He will never leave us, nor forsake us, so if a person chooses to walk away, where does His Spirit go? It doesn't make much sense to believe that Jesus will leave us when He says the opposite.
When a person receives Christ, they are given the gift of the Holy Spirit, and they are sealed with the Spirit forever. Those who believe in eternal security (which I am one) see this sealing as a guarantee of our salvation and inheritance. The only one who can break this seal is the One who did the sealing. A seal marks ownership. It is Christ who owns us. He purchased us. He redeemed us. We cannot break the seal, only Christ (God) can break it. So, if one chooses to "walk away," guess what? That person is still sealed with the Spirit. Christ isn't going anywhere.
Please consider Ephesians 1:13-14. Once we place our trust in Christ, once we believe, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. We have the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession. Again, we are purchased. Christ purchased us. He sealed us and only He can break the seal. Ephesians 4:30 tells us that we are sealed with the Spirit of God "until" Christ comes.
We see two places where angels are chained in darkness: 2 Peter 2:4-5 and Jude 1:6. To me, this is a prison, a confinement area, as we see in Revelation 9, 11, 17, and 20. These angels did not keep their original estate or position and left their own dwelling place. These angels were disobedient to God, as seen in Genesis 6:1-2. There are fallen angels, demons, and devils on this earth, but what these angels did was so terrible that God locked them in the bottomless pit until the great day of judgment.
In Ephesians 4:8-10, there is another reference; verses 9-10 are debated depending on the manuscript. They say that before Jesus ascended to heaven, He first descended to the lower parts of the earth. Paul quotes Psalm 68:18, which describes the ark ascending to Mount Zion, leading captivity captive, symbolizing deliverance. Also, in Judges 5:12, part of Deborah's song, it states, "led thy captivity captive," meaning victory over oppression.
The same theme appears in Ephesians 4:8, victory over sin, death, and the grave through the life, sacrifice, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as referenced in Galatians 1:4 and 1 Corinthians 15:52-55. We also see the gifts given in Ephesians 4:11, Romans 12:4-8, and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
When Jesus was resurrected, God placed Him above all, as shown in Philippians 2:9-11, Ephesians 1:19-21, and 1 Peter 3:22. Satan, just like the leaders of Jerusalem, thought that when the Messiah came, He would immediately deliver them and establish His kingdom at that time, the expectation not yet fulfilled. When Satan influenced Judas to betray Jesus to death, he thought he had won.
See part 3
I don't think it's just a poetic metaphor, but a call to a more demanding reality: that my actions should serve others, not just me. 1 Corinthians 12:22
There are members who are more visible and others who are more hidden. Not all stand out, but all are necessary. 1 Peter 4:13
To be part of the Body of Christ is to be used - not in the sense of wear and tear, but of purpose. It's knowing that even in modesty,
we can't all be eyes, nor all hands - and yet, as for His affliction for us to share in
I've been thinking that, if we really are the Body of Christ, then harmony lies not in equality of function, but in unity of heart.
It is precisely when each one faithfully fulfills their part - large or small, visible or not - that there is health and life among the members. 1 Corinthians 12:18
Being moderate doesn't mean being less useful;
Romans 12:4-5 - how beautiful it is to think that we are not alone - that we are part of something living, pulsating, eternal! Ephesians 4:16
To be part of the Body of Christ is to love without demanding a return, to serve even when the world doesn't see, to sing putting Him, our Jesus Christ, at the center. 1 Corinthians 12:25-26
John 10:30 I and my Father are one. Should we not consider other verses, John 17:11, John 17:20-23, John 14:28. These verses, Numbers 23:19, John 20:17, 2 Corinthians 11:31, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 4:4-6, and 1 Peter 1:3. Then, in Revelation 21:22-23 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.
God wanted to be with His people, He first instructed Moses to build a tabernacle, which was symbolic of Jesus. Jesus was born without sin, not by man but of the seed of a woman whose Father was God. God could dwell in Him. Like the tabernacle, Jesus was holy, not defiled. Jesus became the light of the world, the Shekinah Glory manifested in Him and God again dwelt with man in the flesh of Jesus, to me that is John 1:14.
I do thank you for your reply, and I hope and pray I do not offend anyone who reads what I post; our discussions should only inspire us to study, not to win or demean, if so, we all lose.
I will stop here; I do not want to get ahead of Jesse's work in Revelation. You are always welcome to reply to me GiGi.
God bless,
RLW
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other" ( Ephesians 4:32), "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" ( 1 Peter 4:9). And even though we don't have all the answers, the silent presence in the midst of waiting can remind us that even when everything seems lost, there is one moment - just one.
Shall we analyse?
Remember the song
Christ is the portrait of God - Colossians 1:15
Before he was born
He did justice and in himself he died
Supremacy and thrones are
They are yours - Colossians 1: 16-17
And that thread that broke
From my soul to God - Colossians 1:21
The holy blood sewed
Christ and his lines of love - Colossians 1: 20
And now a man made I
Can in man see God
Have peace, live, walk and be
Made me a friend in his pouring out - John 15:15
When we were targets of God's wrath now we have Peace with God - Romans 5:1
I have a doubt that you probably theologians (formal or deep self-taught), show me if there is something I missed.
to go to church or not to go to church?
1 Thessalonians 5:11, 1 Peter 4:9, Psalms 133:1-3, Galatians 5:13. all these chapters do not speak of the church that is of my generation, Hebrews 10:24-25 this verse speaks of the mutual congregation.
continuing Romans 12:10, Ephesians 4:32, Acts 2:41-47, 1 John 1:6-7, 2 Corinthians 13:11, 1 Peter 1:22, Colossians 3:16, Philippians 2:1-2, John 13:34, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Psalm 55:14. I keep reading and re-reading Romans 12 and I wonder if it's in everyday life or gathered with the church.
Thank you very much!
This is another one of those complicated scriptures that is highly debated.
I would like to share my understanding on this passage of scripture taking it from verse 13 through verse 21. ( 1 Peter 3:13-21 )
Many associate 1 Peter 3:19-20 with Ephesians 4:8-9.
I don't hold the view that they have anything to do with one another.
Ephesians 4:8-9 there's no preaching involved.
I believed when Christ ascended he led captivity captive. "The old testament Spirits/Saints out of Abraham's bosom.
In 1 Peter the question is "When, Where and How did the preaching take place"?
I believe that answer is in verse 20. (During days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing.)
The Holyspirit presented the Gospel through Noah for 120 years in the building of the Ark.
Peter os identifying them as Spirits as who they are today as "these people who ridiculed Noah while building the Ark.
Hebrews 11:7 says "By faith Noah prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world,
This seems to fit the context of the previous verses. ( 1 Peter 3:13-18. )
Noah suffered for well doing, and so did Christ.
Blessings.
Hope that helps.
Agape; Rich P
I think we are to judge the teachings (doctrines) of what others profess in their religion against the Bible to see if these doctrines are true or false. We are to reject false doctrines whether they are professed by one who professes to be Christian or of any other religion. We can do this privately, making note not to follow these teachings or the religion or sect that teaches false doctrines contrary to what the Bible teaches us. And, at times we may be called by the Holy Spirit to reject false teachings openly such as in a discussion or forum for debate.
Therefore, it is vital for every Christian to go on to maturity as Paul exhorts in these verses:
Ephesians 4:14-15 - That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
Hebrews 5:12-13 - For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
Hebrews 6:1-3 - Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Ephesians 4:13 - Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
By maturity, Paul is certainly speaking of going deeper into the truths taught to the church by the apostles of which we have laid out for us in the NT. It involves thinking seriously and thoroughly on the doctrines one has learned and seek to understand them to a greater degree to strengthen our faith and knowledge of God in Jesus Christ, His work of salvation, how God has worked over the course of history to bring to fullness His eternal plan and purpose, see pt. 2
Luke 19:8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.
Matthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
"Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth." ( Ephesians 4:28).
These verses show that our actions should be part of what we verbally confess in order to bring restoration to those we have offended. THere are cases like with Paul where Barnabus stated in Acts 9:27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus. This reminds us of the verse Proverbs 27:2 where another is to praise us rather than promotion of ourselves. In this case the early believers had to hear it from someone other than Paul himself for no doubt they feared he would entrap them and were doubtful that he was truly converted. This could be compared in some ways with a convicted criminal who sincerely is apologetic with a family of a victim when he has nothing to gain for himself-anyone can repent and part of OUR repentance is showing God's love toward those who offended us.
Repentance also involves a permanent turn from sin and not replacing one sin for another. This is one danger of those who say that they have a demon of "lust" or some other specific manifestation. The enemy will substitute one temptation for another; that is clear from the verses of Christ's temptation to go from satisfying hunger; to being suicidal and worshipping the Devil rather than God. We need to repent from actions and the lifestyle that leads to the broad road or directly to sin
Where a verse (or part thereof) is in parenthesis, again, I don't believe that was ever used in the original language. Therefore, I simply understand their use as given by the translators (in whichever KJB edition that was done), to indicate their belief that the verse in question was deemed as being complementary to the subject matter being dealt with. We see this in John 1:14, John 4:2, Romans 3:8, Ephesians 4:9.10, and others. So, the "thought within a thought" understanding could be seen in these examples, where the parenthesized portions are clearly in the original, but brackets later applied by the translators to give us understanding of what they themselves were reading & working through. So whether brackets are applied or not, it should not make one iota of a difference to the accuracy of the texts, as all of it forms the Word of God. Only the italicized words are the 'extras' that could be read with some care, if one chooses to do so for textual examination purposes.
We are seal by the Holy Spirit when we believed the gospel of grace in Apostle Paul's epistle 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
2 Corinthians 1:22
Who hath alsosealedus, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
We are seal by the Holy Spirit when we believed the gospel of grace in Apostle Paul's epistle 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye weresealedwith that holy Spirit of promise,
We that are saved by believing the gospel of grace and will have a new body at the day of redemption.
Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye aresealedunto the day of redemption.
Apostle Paul's epistle is for our doctrine and Salvation for today and we can not loose our Salvation. We have to Rightly divide the Word of Truth for it to make sense.
2 Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,rightlydividingthe word of truth.
I thank God Almighty in the third Heaven for my Salvation that its sealed by the Holy Spirit in power of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
When we were lost , being not saved by believing the gospel of grace, we were part of the world system and was the devil's child.
Ephesians 2:12
That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in theworld:
Satan has advantages on the unsaved.
Ephesians 2:2
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of thisworld, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
We that are unsaved , are in bondage to the cares of the world.
Galatians 4:3
Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of theworld:
Even as a saved Christian, it's easy to let Satan in our spirit.
Ephesians 4:27
Neither give place to thedevil.
Today, the worldly spirit of Satan is very strong because of cellphone, television and being very busy doing worldly things instead of godly things
1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines ofdevils;
One day we will leave the evil world and be with Jesus Christ.
Galatians 1:4
Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evilworld, according to the will of God and our Father:
Satan is good at hiding the gospel of grace.
2 Corinthians 4:4
In whom the god of thisworldhath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
God gave us a spirit to worship Him. The spirit of the world is of Satan.
1 Corinthians 2:12
Now we have received, not the spirit of theworld, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Ray , in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Who should we trust with the word ? ?
Romans 3:4
Godforbid: yea,letGodbetrue, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightestbejustified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
Are we responsible to know the Bible ourselves ? ?
John 5:39
Searchthescriptures; for inthem ye think ye have eternal life: andthey arethey which testify of me.
The biggest liar in the world is the devil himself as Satan.
John 8:44
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is aliar, and the father of it.
There will be people with great education and decrees and will look very rightous , but deceive many .
Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait todeceive;
Deception is only going to get worse and we are living in it right now.
2 Timothy 3:13
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and beingdeceived.
If we can't trust man , then who do we trust ? ? Most people will say " I trust Jesus Christ ". But how ? ?
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trustin theLordwith all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
We all have to trust God in His word.
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye alsotrusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Now, after you have trusted God, where do you go from here ? ?
2 Timothy 2:15
Studytoshew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth nottobe ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Matthew 1:18
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of theHolyGhost.
That person that is Righteous living in you is the Holy Ghost, the new creature in Christ. Just think about it, I have Jesus Christ in my heart .
1 Corinthians 6:19
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of theHolyGhostwhich is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Now, is the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit God Himself ? ? Because I believe the three in one, yes God is the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:3
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by theSpiritofGodcalleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by theHolyGhost.
Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not theholySpiritofGod, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
1 Thessalonians 4:8
He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, butGod, who hath also given unto us hisholySpirit.
May we all believe and search the scriptures for Salvation and doctrine for today.
Ray , in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
"There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, AND IN YOU ALL.
It reasonable to say this is the Holyspirit by which we are Identified with the Lord by way of Christ death, burial and ressurection.
Also, the Holy Spirit is God's spirit.
The Holyspirit is Identified as "HE" not "IT"
1 John 4:4.
Romans 8:10-11 ect..
He's also called a "Quickening spirit"
1 Corinthians 15:45 "And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.
NOTE; "was made" is in italics, meaning it was added. It should read, "the last Adam a quickening spirit. This refers to Jesus. He wasn't made a quickening spirit.
Was Christ's spirit in existence before he took on flesh? Before we answer this we must take in consideration there is "one Spirit" and the Spirit gives life! He was never born!
The Spirit of Christ is the same Spirit of God.
Romans 8:9 reads "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that THE SPIRIT OF GOD DWELL IN YOU. NOW IF ANY MAN HAVE NOT THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, HE IS NONE OF HIS.
1 Peter 1:10-11 says it was Christ Spirit that was in the OT Prophet's that testified of the suffering of Christ.
"Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
Searching what, or what manner of time THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
I believe here is a clear picture of the Father, Son and Holyspirit as one and the pre existence of the triune God.
How do we get the Holy Spirit ? By believing the gospel only and the Holy Spirit will seal us .
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heardtheword of truth,thegospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye weresealedwiththatholySpiritof promise,
After receiving the Holy Spirit, you can take advantage of the fruits.
Galatians 5:22-23
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Now that you have the Holy Spirit, God owns you and Satan can not take you away.
1 Corinthians 6:19
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghostwhich isin you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own.
By reading and studying the word of truth, we are going to be able to walk with God in the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 5:25
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
The Holy Spirit communicate with our spirit.
Romans 8:16
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
The Holy Spirit will help us in our Bible study and reading.
1 Corinthians 2:10
But God hath revealedthemunto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
The Holy Spirit has feelings.
Ephesians 4:30
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
The more I read Apostle Paul's epistle, the more the doctrine will make me see false preachers and teachers today.
Romans 16:17
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to thedoctrinewhich ye have learned; and avoid them.
At one time I would listen to every preacher out there and think it was good doctrine, but I was not the doctrine of today , it only made things more confusing.
Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind ofdoctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
I thank God Almighty for Grace Believers not being in the Tribulation. It's only going to get worse with doctrines of devils.
1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, anddoctrines of devils;
There is hope for doctrine today and that is Apostle Paul's epistle.
Titus 2:1
But speak thou the things which become sounddoctrine:
Apostle Paul told the Corinthians to follow him, Apostle Paul has the doctrine of grace.
1 Corinthians 11:1
Be yefollowers ofme, even as I also am of Christ.
Apostle Paul did not walk with Jesus like the 12 Disiples in the flesh, Paul is separated from that with his doctrine.
Romans 1:1
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,
Apostle Paul has a doctrine.
2 Timothy 3:10
But thou hast fully known mydoctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
The whole Bible has doctrine, but which doctrine do we follow today for living in the gospel of grace. " Apostle Paul "
2 Timothy 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable fordoctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Of Jesus Christ: Isaiah 9:6,7 (an Old Testament Prophecy); Micah 5:2 & John 1:1-14 (from everlasting); Matthew 1:22,23; Mark 2:5-7; John 8:56-58; John 16: 27,28; John 17:4,5; John 20:27,28; Philippians 2:5-7; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:13; Hebrews 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:8-10; 1 John 5:7; 1 John 5:20.
Of the Holy Spirit: Matthew 12:31; Luke 1:34,35; Luke 11:13; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7-11; Acts 5:3; Acts 8:29; Acts 13:4; Romans 8:14; Romans 8:26,27; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Corinthians 12:11; Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 10:29; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 John 5:6.
The above are a few Scriptures that point to the deity of Jesus Christ & God's Spirit: all showing that they don't work independently from God, but have been sent out from God, from God's Being, to accomplish His Purposes in the world. And we know that Jesus, as the Word of God clothed with humanity, is the very expression of God to the world ( John 14:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 4:2). Hope these will help you in your study of this very important doctrine. Blessings.
Pt. 3
Because God is sovereign, He must at the very least, God "permits" all events and happenings. Within God's sovereign will, He chooses to allow many things to occur that do not bring Him pleasure. Referring again to the example of Joseph and his brothers, God decided, through an act of His decretive will, to permit the kidnapping and enslavement of Joseph. God's permissive will allowed the sins of Joseph's brothers to bring about a greater good (see Genesis 50:20). Despite every instance of mistreatment towards Joseph, God had the power to intervene, but He "allowed" the evil to take place, and in that limited sense, He sovereignly "willed" it to happen.
God's revealed or preceptive will is not concealed from us. This aspect of God's will encompasses what God has chosen to disclose to us in the Bible-His precepts are clearly stated. "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God" ( Micah 6:8).
The preceptive will of God is what He desires us to do (or not do). For instance, we understand that it is God's will for us to speak the truth in love ( Ephesians 4:15), to repent, and turn to God ( Acts 3:19). It is God's revealed will that we refrain from committing adultery.
Obeying God's revealed will is crucial. As stated in ( 1 Corinthians 6:18), we should avoid sexual immorality. Similarly, ( Ephesians 5:18) advises against drunkenness. God's revealed will, as mentioned in ( Psalm 19:7), serves to guide and enlighten us.
We are bound to follow God's revealed or preceptive will, although we retain the ability to disobey. Adam and Eve, for instance, were instructed to be fruitful, tend the garden, and avoid a specific tree ( Genesis 1-2). Regrettably, they defied God's instructions ( Genesis 3) and faced the consequences of their actions. We cannot justify our sins by claiming they fulfill God's sovereign will.
See Pt. 4