I was glad you shared your comment with us. This is a nice site. I am also inspired and uplifted by the thoughts these people share here so faithfully. However, It would be kind of you to study to learn a little more about how the "Church"
( The Household of Faith) Is organized and operated.
Hebrews 12:23
"To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,"
First of all, it is not an organization. It is an organism.
*{ A system built on single entities that show signs of life. Needing and using the work of each individual to help it grow, reproduce and remaining stable forever. It responds to the word around it;
to the society we live in. (Tree will always be a tree. Water will always be water. No change in them since the Earth began.
Christianity is only one Religion of the Eleven other groups of people that gives reference to a greater unseen power in this Earth beyond the knowledge and strength of the off springs of Adam & Eve.
We, Christians, proclaim that " The Earth is the Lords" according to Psalms 24:1 KJV__
Heaven is where our God's throne is, according to
Ma. 5:34
34But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: KJV__
I would like to share this one of many scriptures that mentions the church's work and workers,
1 Corinthians 12:28
"And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues."
We are all still growing as we learn and learning as we grow!
Many have argued about whether God has a sense of humor; I would venture to say that it is very helpful in terms of ourselves when we can laugh at our own foolishness. Pride is a major barrier to growth; and learning our own weaknesses is never enjoyable.
Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
I have commented before on the prayer I am afraid to say; namely asking God to do His job to chastise and correct. It is pretty foolproof; you can count on Him answering it and probably means people will be involved in correction; some of which are in church; others in the world and no doubt the enemy will be allowed to target a few choice arrows your way. Having a bullseye on your back ain't fun but we have to get over having special status; our Lord and Master suffered and surely His servants likewise.
Not this concept certainly isn't going to win any converts who are just interested in lip service; unless they have a self destructive bent. The world can't be expected to get it; no doubt they default to wanting to be left alone to do their thing.
Knowing Christ rather than about Him is key. Our transformation in the mind and soul is revolutionary. To truly be saved IS to be dead to sin; yet we still have that capacity as we can't say we are without sin. The regenerate heart is truly born again and a new creature. The scripture is opened up as our soul testifies to the truth ( Romans 8:16); and of course we are "all taught by God" ( John 6:45). This love is transformative; or Agape. One HUGE fallacy today is that we somehow are taught to believe that being loving enough somehow aids to such a transformation. That is a partial truth; IF the Spirit is working on someone that is the case; and we certainly have no business not being loving; but even grumpy people He can use.
It seems the scriptures you gathered argues against your point.
To begin with Matthew 24:13 I don't know about you but I wont believe around during that period of time.
However if you are and you happen to endure it will be because of the blood of the Lamb.
Revelation 12:10-11.
If you believe you can do it any other way you are already recieved!
You would be using the same filthy flesh that have you in bondage to cleanse yourself with.
Also; You brought up Hebrews 12:7.
Hebrews 12:7 argues against your point!
Hebrews 12:5-10 reads
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?
For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, THAT WE MIGHT BE PARTAKERS OF HIS HOLINESS.
We have a father that promises to never leave us and keeps us in line even unto death!
Paul says in Philippians 1:6
"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
James 1:12 reads "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
"When he is tried" in this verse is when he is MADE acceptable.
The verse says Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: "FOR OR BECAUSE" WHEN HE IS TRIED,
Amen, brother, thank you. Obedience is the evidence of our faith; we cannot ignore all of the Scripture on enduring and overcoming. Matthew 10:22, Matthew 24:13, Mark 13:13, 1 Corinthians 13:7, Hebrews 12:7, James 1:12, 1 John 2:13-14, Revelation 2:7,11,17,22, Revelation 21:7. I could list more, but just these cannot be ignored, and if we do, we are deceived.
Permit me to follow the example of Elihu and act in accordance with his statement in Job 32:21-22.
In a previous comment, you emphasized the importance of properly considering a matter before speaking, so as not to appear as "fools." I wonder if perhaps the claim that Christ will reign with the saints on earth was rebutted too quickly, without sufficient consideration.
The 144,000 mentioned in Revelation 14:2-3 are described as the firstfruits of those saved in Israel after the rapture, as verse 14 clarifies. However, this does not imply that Christ will not return to earth with them. They will return together with all who have inherited salvation, as seen in Revelation 21:1-3.
It is also important to note that the New Jerusalem, symbolically represented as the Bride, represents the spiritual Church or body of Christ. This is supported in Hebrews 12:22, 2 Corinthians 11:2, Ephesians 2:19-22, 1 Peter 2:5, and 1 Corinthians 3:9. Only those who have received the Spirit of Christ are considered part of the Church of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:13, Romans 8:9).
This Church will return to earth and reign with Christ for a thousand years, as indicated in Revelation 20:4, Revelation 12:5, and Revelation 19:15.
As Elihu said in Job 34:22: "If you have understanding, hear this; listen to the voice of my words."
Please note that my words are not intended as insults or to cause offense, for that would not reflect the love that the Lord Jesus expects from us. Rather, my intention is to encourage careful consideration of matters from a biblical perspective, rather than relying solely on worldly opinion. As the Lord Jesus said, many teach the traditions of men as doctrine, and as Paul says, we can do nothing against the truth, but only for the truth.
Now I want to reiterate (not a great linguistic way to start a sentence) what I said earlier. The idea of heaven scripturally is an army of God's people or as Hebrews mentions a great "cloud of witnesses" ( Hebrews 12:1). The idea is the whole is greater than the sum of its parts; the focus is being a functional part of the Body of Christ. Many have gotten into detailed descriptions of mansions in heaven; flowers and all sorts of other stuff involving personal visitations of loved ones. I am convinced that now as well as after the Rapture and the Tribulation period that God's people are also in prayer in heaven for those still on earth. This may fly in the face of some theologians out there and I need to make it abundantly clear we do NOT have privy to the prayer and conversations there. We CAN get closer to their walk in the Spirit if we draw closer to God through His intercession and wisdom gained as to how to pursue wisdom and draw nearer as we mature.
We can; no doubt go to the scriptures describing heaven and elaborate on the subject; and can't entirely discount certain things some may claim to have revealed. We need to remember that Lucifer himself; now fallen would draw our attention to certain imagery and patterns that encompass heaven if he can distract us from the Creator himself. This is an important point I don't want to skip over. Again; the emphasis in many so called experiences is on personal things not how the Lord glorifies Himself through His body of believers. The lack of fear of being in His presence is a big issue as well as the purposes that He has in mind for us once we enter into glory as kings and priests.
You could probably only name a few who aren't fixated on their own kingdom and moneymaking ventures selling books about experiences or paid big bucks to speak on such experiences. Luke 16:31 shows that anyone; lost or saved who comes back from the dead isn't enough to save.
If we look to Psalm 119 we see the longest chapter in all scripture constantly referring to God's law and the author's love for it (I believe David). So the question is...(metronome sound and countdown music)
If we are in the Age of Grace what of the law if we no longer live under it; should we still love it?
This bears some thought; as we can glibly say well of course. We are reminded it is as our schoolmaster and seems harsh at the time ( Hebrews 12:11). Also the fact that no one can be saved by the law; on the contrary it is used to convict of sin; and of course if anyone breaks it even once is cursed ( Gal. 3:10 in KJV although other translations seem to try to dilute this concept it seems). How can we love His law then? The answer...(ditto metronome).
Of course it has to do with LOVE; and the verse I already stated that those who love Him keep His commandments. God doesn't accept alternate paths to Himself through our own self justification or righteousness. He doesn't accept clear defiance of commands that are part of the moral law that transcend to all generations. Obviously with grace abounding over sin we don't sin for more grace ( Romans 6:1-2).
Of course tied in with this idea man is basically good is the concept that we shouldn't offend anyone; or the scripture is twisted about not judging one another; despite Paul's clear teaching on the matter of judging within the body of Christ matters that ought not to be in the world's courts. We of course will also judge the world as corulers with Christ ( 1 Cor. 6:2); and angels ( 1 Cor. 6:3). Love therefore involves telling the truth. Telling a lie in a loving manner isn't really love of course; and neither is not warning someone when we can see they are headed for destruction.
God first loved us first ( 1 John 4:19); and of course we all should know John 3:16. His love had to come to us through imputed righteousness from Christ's atonament to be in His presence.
As born again children, we are to behave like children of God.
We can't take our father's name in vain!
God loves us and he chasteneth those he loves.
Hebrews 12:2-8 sums it up.
"Looking unto Jesus THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
FOR WHOM THE LORD LOVETH HE CHASTENING, AND SCOURGETHE EVERY SON WHOM HE RECEIVETH.
IF YE ENDURE CHASTENING, GOD DEALETH WITH YOU AS WITH SON'S; FOR WHAT SON IS HE WHOM THE FATHER CHASTENING NOT?
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
We know our Great Shepherd voice! The Lord keeps his sheep in line whether by chastening or even by death but he will never let us depart from him and he will never forsake us as we see in
1 Corinthians 5:5!
"To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, THAT THE SPIRIT MAY BE SAVED IN THE DAY OF THE LORD JESUS.
Also.
Man righteousness is as filthy rags!
Thank God for blood of the Lamb that made us righteousness before the eyes of our Father!
I couldn't grab hold of salvation with my filthy rags and I certainly cannot restore salvation with my filthy rags.
Praise God for this new heart of flesh that causes us to WALK in his statues and praise God for his rod when I don't!
We've all probably heard about 1 Corinthians 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
Hebrews 12:9 And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more:
Revelation 1:10 "On the Lord's day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet.
When considering the last trump signifying the Rapture we think of the Feast of Trumpets on one hand; as it is traditionally known as the day when no one knows the day or hour as the new moon sighting can be on one of 2 or perhaps more days depending on weather conditions and the time of sighting which signals its onset. When we examine the other references here it certainly could signify a heavenly trumpet instead. That is the most likely scenario; as those who are caught up will come from all parts of the world.
We also are reminded that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of understanding; thus I look at Psalm 40 as a prophetic warning of the Rapture. Psalm 40:1-3 state I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.
2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.
3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.
I'll let the reader examine references to patiently waiting (n regard to spiritual reward); bringing us out of our bodies made of clay; and the new song in heaven. My point here is that many will come to faith after the Rapture out of fear as verse 3 says; likely indicating the multitude saved in the Tribulation.
Or; lets consider Habakkuk 2:3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come...
Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
I am always afraid to pray this prayer; perhaps some bolder people out here can pray for me on that end.
We live today in 2025 in an undisciplined culture; where certain behaviors are crying out for parents to exercise discipline when they often prefer to shove the latest toy or video game their way that more often than not promotes visual stimuli for further rebellion. The other reaction is simply yelling without any desire or care for the soul of one's own offspring; and not showing as a parent the right way to act and stupidly thinking kid's can't see into such hypocrisy.
With such an appalling environment; it makes it all the more wonderful to see those who God has changed from their lifestyles of sin to being truly saved. It is a recurring frequent pattern of kids from Christian homes (whether in name only or truly with saved parents) who go from increasing lives of abandonment to sin to a point the Lord reaches them and they are radically transformed. Malachi 4:6 says And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. Perhaps that is indicative of the times we are living in. No doubt in the Tribulation we will see families coming to destroy one another. Matthew 10:21 states: And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.
We should recognize as parents that children are a heritage from God ( Psalm 127:3) and after doing the best we can to entrust God to work on them. This is a tough issue; but often He will use the enemy to put the fear of God in someone after his minions torment people after promising the world. Some have to be broken to call out to God; thankfully some remain close to home.
So, I see these as two separate events (justice from an earthly judge & from an Heavenly Judge); the first is limited to what is evident before Him, the other, is the sickness of sin in the heart that condemns, for which no time can be served or penalty paid, except through faith in God's Act of Love in sending His Son as our substitute in judgement and payment.
2. (Physical Punishment vs Emotional Punishment). I don't believe that the Bible records such specifics as you have given (i.e. the intangible, emotional wounds that people cause to others). We are simply told that any sin (whether murder, rape, or even down to hurtful comments or 'white lies') are all sin. For the unbeliever who engages in any sin, his own conscience will dictate whether he continues in it or alters his course. For the believer, who is a true believer with the Holy Spirit within and in charge, no sin can ever be committed without that Holy Voice alerting him to impending sin or sin engaged in. What does a believer then do? He repents, finding forgiveness, & turns from that sin, now restored into a healthy relationship with the LORD. If he refuses to heed the Spirit, then discipline in some form follows ( Hebrews 12:5-11 is worth reading). And if he continues to disregard God's warnings, then God might just remove that life, so that the spirit might be saved at Christ's appearing ( 1 Corinthians 5:1-5).
6 The sword of the Lord is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatnesse, and with the blood of lambes and goates, with the fat of the kidneys of rammes: for the Lord hath a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Idumea.
It was God who did not allow Hannah to have children.
Hannah wasn't barren - because there's a difference between barrenness and God not permitting something.
Peninnah, her rival, would provoke and humiliate her. Because Peninnah had many children.
And you know - there are people who, even while producing a lot, still want to disturb you.
People who, even while doing a lot, earning more than you, still look at you and want to provoke you.
Peninnah also longed to be loved, but she didn't have that place in Elkanah's heart.
I just felt led to look at Peninnah's side of the story, because every person who wounds others is usually wounded themselves.
Peninnah kept bothering Hannah because she felt excluded, rejected.
That doesn't justify her actions toward Hannah, but she stepped into that place of bitterness, that place of rejection. ( Hebrews 12:15)
Did you get the emotional storyline?
Because there are emotional layers . We're talking about real people.
Peninnah was a difficult person - and she was chosen second.
Now imagine the atmosphere in that house: The children watching two grown women constantly clashing.
Because Hannah was the true lady of the house. but she was sad - because she couldn't give her husband a child.
And meanwhile, her rival Peninnah was always with Elkanah - It must have been heartbreaking.
Daniel 9, there are 69 weeks from the commandment unto the Messiah. I understand this is when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit, becoming the Messiah. In verse 26, Jesus's ministry was 3.5 years when Jesus was cut off/crucified, this would be 69.5 weeks. It is the people/army of the prince that will come and destroy, not the prince. We see a parable relating to this very thing, Matthew 22:1-7.
In verse 27, Jesus is the one who came to confirm the new covenant to the house of Israel, Jeremiah 31:31-34. His ministry was 3.5 years, which is in the middle of the 70th week when He was cut off. Jesus, through His apostles, confirmed the covenant to the house of Israel for the remaining 3.5 years until the death of Stephen, Acts 7:54-60. The confirming of the covenant to the house of Israel ended, and the gospel was then given to the Gentiles. 1 Corinthians 11:25, Hebrews 12:24, Hebrews 13:20.
It is not a beast that makes it desolate, we see in Matthew 23 Jesus was addressing the leaders of the Jewish nation, He was retorting to their rejection of His saving work on their behalf. They refused His call for repentance, because of their overspreading of abominations, Jesus said, "Behold your house is left unto you desolate".
This refers to the coming judgment on Jerusalem and the temple for their rejection of Jesus and the saving work of God. "even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured out on the desolate". What Jesus said your house is left unto you desolate, the consummation, the complete destruction poured out on the desolate in 70 AD.
Covenants in the future: The church and Israel's ultimate fulfillment
God didn't create a covenant with Israel and abandon it forever as I see scripture; but he added implications for the Gentiles who eventually would along with believing Jews be one with Christ in the church ( Rom. 10:12; Gal. 3:28). I look at is as a sort of parabolic curve; where what happened in the past happens again in the future. We are of course referred to as "true Israel" as Galatians 3:29 alludes to; where true sons of Abraham are those called and chosen and therefore recieve all the blessings of the promise. We see even in the Old Testament examples of Gentiles who demonstrated true faith in the true God; just as we see those who were in Israel being judged due to rebellion and unbelief. Put another way the basic principle stood as to the exclusivity of national Israel under God's design for government being a "Theocracy" at the time but it wasn't the end all. We can also say that the laws invoked in the covenants were not the end but a means to reach the end; that is to be part of God's children and after temporal blessings enter into glory where eternal glories and promises are in effect. Thus we have the "great cloud of witnesses" mentioned in Hebrews 12:1 which are summarized in the former chapter in detail.
We talk about heaven but often fail to consider being part of heavenly armies and such which will return with Christ as we see towards the end of the book of Revelation. We don't consider spiritual rewards and ruling over the earth during the Millennium and whatever eternity will mean on a restored and recreated world. We are associated with the head; Christ just as the world is allied with Satan the god of this world. We need to also remember that for all Christ did for us we should ever be grateful; but also that doing the Father's will was THE most important thing; and if it was for Him it should be also for us; His covenant church.
How is sin different for those who are born again?
Hebrews 12:6 and many other like passages make it clear that God chastises everyone he loves. How does this operate?
When we consider that sanctification is only for this life and our death brings completion; as it were as we see in 1 Corinthians Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. ( 1 Corinthians 3:12-13 and other verses in that passage).
Given this context it is clear that God will use sin to develop our character. Again as I have enumerated very frequently on my posts it is our sin nature which is the origin of outer manifestations. Giving a simple illustration that which we are born in determines how we develop. Those TRULY saved will have a new nature and the old one has received its death blow but clearly we are subject to sin; as 1 John 1:8-10.
The greater question that often comes up is how Christ died for all of our sins "past present and future" then how can sin matter or even exist as it did before we are saved? Of course ALL sin at the time Christ died was future on our behalf. The Lord can see us as we will appear due to the eventual inevitable outcome; or perhaps better put despite ourselves. We see in verses such as the one in Corinthians already referred to that once in God's presence there is an instant judgment as He cannot look onto sin; and we can't stand in His presence without the refinement being made complete. Thus we should seek to work on things now rather than suffer great loss then since none of us know how much time we have left on earth.
Lamentations 3:22 says It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. In this passage we see the events at the fall of Israel despite the years of warning Jeremiah gave. This is an example of corporate sin; but God's faithfulness to His covenants eventually
No one in hell will be happy to find out that the prophecies about it came true. Antichrist and the False Prophet and all the lost men and angels should be aware of their fate by now; yet scripture states that men will be deluded by demons to fight Christ; something no doubt taking the mark of the Beast already will have them conditioned to do. Much of the true prophecies resulted in death; Luke states Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. ( Luke 11:47).
Things didn't go too well for Isaiah or Jeremiah or most of the prophets. Nonetheless; in the end those on the Lord's side win.
While a true Prophet such as Christ as our best example suffers greatly and is largely rejected and cares for the sheep; the false prophets are the classic definition of a narcissist. The warnings of such individuals are designed to instill fear and exercise control over their subjects if not for financial reasons for the sake of power in being the "spokesman" for God. The name of Christ is often invoked in such individuals in order to attempt some sort of scriptural justification while naturally twisting the original meaning to suit their own selves.
Let us not set up any hardness in our heart; Hebrews 12:15 says Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.. The passage goes on to talk about immorality tied in with Esau. Cults often are involved in sexual deviations.
In this whole lesson I have intermingled the concept of cults with false prophets. There seems to be much intersection of these actions and behaviors. We have to also be careful to avoid extrabiblical texts which exalt people to some sort of sainthood which apparently can be eliminated if the heirarchy seems fit to do so. An April 26, 2014 ABC report discussed 93 individuals who were technically reduced from that status.
James 2:1 - My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
First of all, he says my brethren. So, these are believing Jews. Have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
I'll try and break this down:
My brethren, have not. The word have (also translated hold), is what is called the Present Tense. And it literally means stop continually having the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ with respect of persons. It shows that the problem is ongoing. He's literally saying stop continuously having the faith of our Lord with respect of persons. And that is a command!
Now notice it says have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ. The more modern translations again change this to faith (in) Jesus Christ, not faith (of) Jesus Christ. That is a major problem in understanding the bible and the biblical presentation of faith.
If I may summarize it because it's going to be important for this Greek Perspective study as well. The word faith, PISTIS in Greek, means persuasion. PEITHOS is the goddess of persuasion in Greek understanding. It is a word that describes the presence and activity of God's Spirit. It is an unseen movement, a persuasion. And it's called PISTIS, faith.
Hebrews 12:2 tells us that Jesus is the author and finisher, and it says of "our" faith, but the word "our" is the definite article "the." There's no our in the Greek text. He is the author and finisher of the faith. He's the source, and He brings faith to its completion.
Hebrews 12:14 - Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
It says follow peace with all people, and the term follow is literally continually be pursuing.
If I were to have the Lord's permission to insert a little note here, it would be "Now concerning your relationship with your fellow teammates, continually pursue peace with your brethren, the one's you are running the race with."
Follow after peace, and then it says, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Who are you supposed to be seeing? The Lord! If you get off the track, you get out of running the race, your eyes are no longer on Jesus.
Hebrews 12:25 - See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:
The word "see" means be continually watching. Be continually watching that you refuse not him that speaks.
The certainty of the condemnation or judgment:
For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaks from heaven:
The term "turn away" in the Greek text is a Present Tense, meaning those who are turning away. It's not a warning to you that if you're a believer and you turn away; you can lose your salvation. He's talking to people who are in the process of turning away. If you are one of those who are in the process of turning away from Him that speaks from heaven, you will not escape.
Hebrews 12:11 - Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
Now no chastening for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous:
That's why I don't understand why some Christians say "I'm just so full of joy all the time!" It is very grievous to be out practicing and running the race, no matter how you put it. It is painful!
The production of chastisement: nevertheless afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Exercised is a Perfect Participle, those who have been exercised, who have been a part of the disciplinary process. It's where we get our word gymnasium from, exercise. It will produce the peaceable fruit of righteousness in the end.
Hebrews 12:12 - Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;
Now it sounds like he's talking about someone that's old in age. But first of all, this is a Perfect Tense again. It's the hands which have been hanging down, and the feeble knees. The word feeble means paralyzed. I hope you understand what he's talking about? It's when the track coach says you've been dogging it all day. You can take another lap.
It is weary running this race. Life is agony. It is wearisome. And our hands begin to droop. And going back to the track, you're supposed to have your arms bent and moving opposite of your legs and get your body going in cadence.
But you know when you get tired, forget that, right? You can't even hold your arms up anymore. And the leg, they don't move anymore. They're paralyzed. You can't move another step. But he says lift up those hands, those feeble knees!
Hebrews 12:4 - Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.
The word striving is ANTAGONIZOMENOI, ANTE which means against, and agony, where we get our term antagonist from. Our striving against sin, and again, that is an athletic term. In our battle against conditioning, in our battle against discipline, in out battle against all these things that we must do to participate as an athlete on the track and field, we haven't resisted unto blood.
We're whiners. We're here in America, and we think that a bad day is when you don't get to buy the expensive car that you wanted, and you have to settle for something else. It's like "Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, no way!" But as I consider Jesus, He shed His blood at the hands of sinners. None of us have had to do that! I don't know of any of us who have ever been dragged out of your homes, or church, and been beaten and left for dead just because you're a Christian.
I heard several years back of a man in Yemen who was shot and killed. He was an English teacher in one of the schools, and they accused him of spreading Christianity. They just dragged him out of his classroom and killed him because they accused him of teaching Christianity.
We haven't experienced that here in America. So, lest we grow weary by fainting in our minds, look to Jesus. We haven't resisted yet to blood in our striving against sin, our struggle against sin.
Hebrews 12:5 - And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
He says and ye have forgotten the exhortation. The word forgotten is what is called the Perfect Tense, which means at this present moment, over a period of time, they forgot this exhortation and should have known about it.
Hebrews 12:3 - For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
It says, for consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself. The word consider (ANALOGISASTHE) is a Greek word where we get our English word analog or analyze from. It is an educational term for what a student does with their books and materials as they are preparing for a test.
So don't just look at Jesus, let's analyze Him, the one who endured the cross. He endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest you be wearied and faint in your minds. He's introducing us to the fact that while we're running the race, we're going to become weary. If you've ever participated in a sporting event, after a while, you're going to get weary. No matter what athletic event you're doing, you're going to experience some tiredness, weary.
So, analyze Jesus, His suffering that He experienced by sinners against Himself, lest you be wearied. And it is interesting because there's really only one statement here instead of two, lest you be wearied by fainting in your minds. The last phrase is what is called a Modal Participle. It describes what wearied means. Lest you be wearied by becoming faint in your minds. It's the word PSEUCHE, which means Psyche. So, let's analyze Him. Let's look to Jesus!
In Verse 2, when it says looking unto Jesus, he then gives the identity of Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith. Notice the word "our" in your bible is in italics. It's not in the Greek text. It's the word "the." It's another one of those instances where they said Jesus is the author and finisher of the faith.
"Well, we can't have that. It's got to be our faith!" No, He's the author and finisher. He starts faith. He's the author of it. It comes from Him. And He brings it to its completion.
Then the inspiration of Jesus:
Who for the joy that was set before Him, He endured the cross, having despised the shame, that is, He wasn't going to let the shame of the cross stop Him from going to the cross. The influence of Jesus: And is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
So, the Lord is our inspiration. If you didn't notice as we read through, Jesus for the joy that was set before Him. That was over against the cross on the other side. Remember I mentioned before that in Greek, the word joy doesn't mean a happy feeling. It means satisfaction.
Jesus looked at the cross, He saw what His death on the cross would do, and so His joy, His satisfaction was in completing that task, to be on the other side, complete salvation for us on the cross. He endured the cross for the joy that was set before Him. And He was looking off unto joy while He endured the cross. That's why we look unto Jesus while we're running the race. And He is now set down at the right of the throne of God.
He tells me don't get weighted down with the things of this earthly life to where it's all this baggage that you're trying to carry while you're running the race, except you're not running anymore, you're barely crawling because of all this weightiness from this earthly life that we have acquired and taken on ourselves. But the focus should be on Jesus. And if we can understand that principle, we can understand all these things in this life that we have trouble with.
If my focus is Jesus, then whatever else is going on, I probably wouldn't even notice. The bible teaches that we only have the capacity to focus and be occupied on one thing at a time. I can believe on Jesus with my heart, but in this earthly life with my mind, be caught up in all kinds of mental distractions that are occupying the attention of my mind.
I can still be a believer. But you see, the Lord not only wants our heart, He wants our minds. He wants us to be looking at Jesus. And He promises us in Matthew Chapter 6 to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all the other things that you need will be added.
You don't have to strive for them. You don't have to go out in this earthly life and stop the race, stop looking to Jesus, and go out and acquire things. That's baggage. And then when you try to get back on the track again, you fall off because you're so weighted down with the things of this earthly life.
Now while I'm running the race, and I'm letting myself get distracted by circumstances around me, I'm not going to do very well. It's the focus. The focus is on Jesus. It's pretty simple! The Lord made it simple. It's not easy, it's simple. We are simple people. We don't know where front and back is when it comes to spiritual things. We have no idea what we're doing. We're just sheep. And even when the Lord gives us direction, we go the opposite way. We're not very spiritually smart. And that's putting it nicely.
As I said earlier, these are pieces of the track, pieces of the course that are put down in front of us while we're running. And we really can't tell, other than the first or second piece that's put down in front of us where this thing is going to go. We can't predict it. But while we're running, He continually places the racecourse in front of us. And that racecourse is called agony. That's what the word race is, agony.
And then the performance of the course:
This is the third condition. We should run with having witnesses all around us. That's Chapter 11. We should run the course after putting aside all the weightiness, all the things of this earthly life that weigh us down to where we can no longer run.
And thirdly: Looking unto Jesus. And again, the word looking is a Present Participle which means continuously looking unto Jesus. Jesus is the finish line. Everyone that has run track, or has run in a race, or has watched it on television, you know that the people who are participating in the race, they have their faces straight forward.
They're not looking up into the stands waiving to their family. They are not looking down at their shoes while they are running to see if they're running correctly. Their eye is fixed on the finish line. And that's what he's saying, run the race with your mind's eye fixed on Jesus.
You see, when I got saved, that wasn't the end of the race. That was the beginning of the race. I'm not racing to acquire my salvation. I'm racing because I know Christ. And this is the life that He has for me. And He tells me that I've got all these witnesses who have done it before me, so there's no excuse.
But secondly, we can't run or even walk the race that's being set before us, with a lot of baggage. And I think you know what I mean by baggage? We acquire a lot of baggage in our lives. There are things that weigh us down.
There is sin which so easily entangles us, which is an athletic term, and without getting into too much of the technical part of it, it's an athletic term that means you keep running because if you stand still, then all of sudden things are going to close in on you, and you might not have the chance to get away.
And sin is like that. We have to keep moving. We can't wait for sin to find us. We have to stay on the course and not acquire from the world a lot of baggage. And there are a lot of Christians that are just weighed down with so many obligations, and so many things, and so many possessions, and all these things that we have to keep up, and guess who gets the short end of the stick?
It's the Lord, because we don't have time. We don't have time for Him! Well, we've got this cloud of witnesses all around us. And we're told that before we run this race, we are to put off every weight, and the sin which so easily entangles us.
And then what we are to do: We should run with patience. I think it's interesting that Paul was another one who mentioned he runs. He encouraged Christians to walk, walk in the Christian life. But Paul didn't walk, he ran. Here, the writer of Hebrews is encouraging us to run the race. We have trouble walking. Now he wants us to run. Good grief!
We should run with patience. Endurance (HUPOMENO) means to remain under. And if you've walked with the Lord enough, you know, and I know, that there are times that you just don't want to remain under because "it's too hard," or "too difficult," and we want to quit. We should run with endurance the race that is continuously being placed before us.
Hebrews 12:2 - Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Looking unto Jesus, and there's our third condition. The first condition in Verse 1, seeing we are compassed about with witnesses. That's a Present Participle. While having all these witnesses all around us!
Secondly, the second condition: After having laid aside, after doing that, we're supposed to do something. Main verb: we should run with patience the race that is being set before us. And then the third condition is looking unto Jesus. Looking is a Present Participle which shows continuous action, continuously looking unto Jesus.
We go back at the beginning, and we have these witnesses all around us, with God's faithfulness and faith in their lives. And then the second condition says, after having laid aside every weight, and the sin which so easily entangles, or besets us.
If you see yourself out on the track or out in the park getting ready for your cross-country race, you know that when the race starts, you don't want a lot of heavy clothing on. You don't want to be carrying your backpack. In running track, or a marathon, you're wearing clothes that are very tight. And some people run with very little clothing on.
But the whole purpose of it is so that there's no resistance, and they can run the fastest race that they can without the wind or resistance coming against them. And what the writer of Hebrews is doing for us is, first of all, we have this cloud of witnesses all around us, they're all through the stands, all around this huge stadium that we're going to run a marathon in. They've already run it. So, it's not like we're going to have an excuse. We look up, and it's a reminder that they've already done this.
Hebrews 12:1 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
There is a technical point here I would like to share that's important:
The first few words, "Let us lay aside," it sounds like it's a command or an encouragement. But in the Greek text, it's called an Aorist Participle, and it's literally translated "After having laid aside." It's not a main verb. It's not a command. It's not an encouragement. It's one of three conditions. And we'll see the main verb when we get into the end of Verse 1.
And let us run. There's your main verb. It's the only verb in the first two verses. Let us run. That's an encouragement. It's called a Hortatory Subjunctive. We should run with patience. And the word patience is the word for endurance. It is the word HUPOMENO which means to remain under. It's the Greek word used for circumstances.
The word race is the word AGONA. It's where we get our word agony from. With endurance, we should run the agony that is being set before us. The term set is a Present Participle which shows a continual setting down of the racecourse for us.
This is not your typical track where you run in circles. This is picturing for us something that is like a marathon or cross-country race, where the racecourse is put down in front of us, piece by piece, while we're running. And we don't know the direction. We're just running!
I'm sorry to hear you are going through such hard times and I will pray for you.
You stated you dont know how to ask God or Jesus for forgiveness but you have been baptised but you just feel like it doesnt work and you're thinking that Jesus and God isn't real because you have just been going through alot.
Alana, it's the Lords pleasure to forgive us for our sins!
He gave his life for it!
Christ died a brutal death in our place so that we can have life beyond this life and give us grace in this life but we live in a fallen world that is in chaos.
I don't know what you are going through but if you trust in God there is nothing he can not do to bring you through it and if you confessed to him your issue "no matter what it is" and asked for forgiveness he has already forgiven you!
You have to trust him and understand that some things we go through is for strengthening and some things is for chastening.
God chasten those he loves. Hebrews 12:6-11.
As for Baptism, you stated "you have been baptised but you just feel like it doesnt work.
Alana water baptism doesn't save anyone!
We get Baptised by water to exhibit in an outward ritual way what we believe and what Christ did in our behalf!
When we had no hope Christ died in our place and rose again from the grave.
1 Corinthians 15:1-4.
Alana go to God as a child petitioning a loving Father because that's what he is and trust in him and his perfect timing.
Why should we follow Paul ? ? But what about following Jesus ? ?
All Twelve Disiples followed Jesus earthly ministry in the four gospels for the kingdom of heaven on earth.
Matthew 4:19
And he saith unto them,Followme, and I will make you fishers of men.
Mark 1:18
And straightway they forsook their nets, andfollowed him.
Luke 5:11
And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, andfollowed him.
John 1:37
And the two disciples heard him speak, and theyfollowed Jesus.
Why should we follow Apostle Paul ? ?
Jesus Christ in Heaven did say that Apostle Paul was a chosen vessel for the Gentiles.
Acts 9:15
But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is achosenvesselunto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
Jesus Christ is the author of the whole Bible.
Hebrews 12:2
Looking unto Jesus theauthorand finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Jesus Christ wants us to follow Apostle Paul's epistle for doctrine and Salvation.
1 Corinthians 11:1
Be yefollowers ofme, even as I also am of Christ.
Apostle Paul's doctrine is from Jesus Christ in Heaven.
Romans 16:17
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to thedoctrinewhich ye have learned; and avoid them.
Apostle Paul said that we can always learn from the Old Testament and the caring down kingdom of gospel in the four gospels. The death of Jesus Christ started the New Testament
Hebrews 9:16
For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of thetestator.
Romans 15:4
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for ourlearning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
I follow Apostle Paul's epistle in Jesus Christ for Doctrine and Salvation.
( The Household of Faith) Is organized and operated.
Hebrews 12:23
"To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,"
First of all, it is not an organization. It is an organism.
*{ A system built on single entities that show signs of life. Needing and using the work of each individual to help it grow, reproduce and remaining stable forever. It responds to the word around it;
to the society we live in. (Tree will always be a tree. Water will always be water. No change in them since the Earth began.
Christianity is only one Religion of the Eleven other groups of people that gives reference to a greater unseen power in this Earth beyond the knowledge and strength of the off springs of Adam & Eve.
We, Christians, proclaim that " The Earth is the Lords" according to Psalms 24:1 KJV__
Heaven is where our God's throne is, according to
Ma. 5:34
34But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: KJV__
I would like to share this one of many scriptures that mentions the church's work and workers,
1 Corinthians 12:28
"And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues."
We are all still growing as we learn and learning as we grow!
To God be the Glory.
Many have argued about whether God has a sense of humor; I would venture to say that it is very helpful in terms of ourselves when we can laugh at our own foolishness. Pride is a major barrier to growth; and learning our own weaknesses is never enjoyable.
Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
I have commented before on the prayer I am afraid to say; namely asking God to do His job to chastise and correct. It is pretty foolproof; you can count on Him answering it and probably means people will be involved in correction; some of which are in church; others in the world and no doubt the enemy will be allowed to target a few choice arrows your way. Having a bullseye on your back ain't fun but we have to get over having special status; our Lord and Master suffered and surely His servants likewise.
Not this concept certainly isn't going to win any converts who are just interested in lip service; unless they have a self destructive bent. The world can't be expected to get it; no doubt they default to wanting to be left alone to do their thing.
Knowing Christ rather than about Him is key. Our transformation in the mind and soul is revolutionary. To truly be saved IS to be dead to sin; yet we still have that capacity as we can't say we are without sin. The regenerate heart is truly born again and a new creature. The scripture is opened up as our soul testifies to the truth ( Romans 8:16); and of course we are "all taught by God" ( John 6:45). This love is transformative; or Agape. One HUGE fallacy today is that we somehow are taught to believe that being loving enough somehow aids to such a transformation. That is a partial truth; IF the Spirit is working on someone that is the case; and we certainly have no business not being loving; but even grumpy people He can use.
It seems the scriptures you gathered argues against your point.
To begin with Matthew 24:13 I don't know about you but I wont believe around during that period of time.
However if you are and you happen to endure it will be because of the blood of the Lamb.
Revelation 12:10-11.
If you believe you can do it any other way you are already recieved!
You would be using the same filthy flesh that have you in bondage to cleanse yourself with.
Also; You brought up Hebrews 12:7.
Hebrews 12:7 argues against your point!
Hebrews 12:5-10 reads
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?
For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, THAT WE MIGHT BE PARTAKERS OF HIS HOLINESS.
We have a father that promises to never leave us and keeps us in line even unto death!
Paul says in Philippians 1:6
"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
James 1:12 reads "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
"When he is tried" in this verse is when he is MADE acceptable.
The verse says Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: "FOR OR BECAUSE" WHEN HE IS TRIED,
Example.
Zachariah 13:9.
Isaiah 48:9-11.
Blessings
Amen, brother, thank you. Obedience is the evidence of our faith; we cannot ignore all of the Scripture on enduring and overcoming. Matthew 10:22, Matthew 24:13, Mark 13:13, 1 Corinthians 13:7, Hebrews 12:7, James 1:12, 1 John 2:13-14, Revelation 2:7,11,17,22, Revelation 21:7. I could list more, but just these cannot be ignored, and if we do, we are deceived.
God bless,
RLW
In a previous comment, you emphasized the importance of properly considering a matter before speaking, so as not to appear as "fools." I wonder if perhaps the claim that Christ will reign with the saints on earth was rebutted too quickly, without sufficient consideration.
The 144,000 mentioned in Revelation 14:2-3 are described as the firstfruits of those saved in Israel after the rapture, as verse 14 clarifies. However, this does not imply that Christ will not return to earth with them. They will return together with all who have inherited salvation, as seen in Revelation 21:1-3.
It is also important to note that the New Jerusalem, symbolically represented as the Bride, represents the spiritual Church or body of Christ. This is supported in Hebrews 12:22, 2 Corinthians 11:2, Ephesians 2:19-22, 1 Peter 2:5, and 1 Corinthians 3:9. Only those who have received the Spirit of Christ are considered part of the Church of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:13, Romans 8:9).
This Church will return to earth and reign with Christ for a thousand years, as indicated in Revelation 20:4, Revelation 12:5, and Revelation 19:15.
As Elihu said in Job 34:22: "If you have understanding, hear this; listen to the voice of my words."
Please note that my words are not intended as insults or to cause offense, for that would not reflect the love that the Lord Jesus expects from us. Rather, my intention is to encourage careful consideration of matters from a biblical perspective, rather than relying solely on worldly opinion. As the Lord Jesus said, many teach the traditions of men as doctrine, and as Paul says, we can do nothing against the truth, but only for the truth.
Now I want to reiterate (not a great linguistic way to start a sentence) what I said earlier. The idea of heaven scripturally is an army of God's people or as Hebrews mentions a great "cloud of witnesses" ( Hebrews 12:1). The idea is the whole is greater than the sum of its parts; the focus is being a functional part of the Body of Christ. Many have gotten into detailed descriptions of mansions in heaven; flowers and all sorts of other stuff involving personal visitations of loved ones. I am convinced that now as well as after the Rapture and the Tribulation period that God's people are also in prayer in heaven for those still on earth. This may fly in the face of some theologians out there and I need to make it abundantly clear we do NOT have privy to the prayer and conversations there. We CAN get closer to their walk in the Spirit if we draw closer to God through His intercession and wisdom gained as to how to pursue wisdom and draw nearer as we mature.
We can; no doubt go to the scriptures describing heaven and elaborate on the subject; and can't entirely discount certain things some may claim to have revealed. We need to remember that Lucifer himself; now fallen would draw our attention to certain imagery and patterns that encompass heaven if he can distract us from the Creator himself. This is an important point I don't want to skip over. Again; the emphasis in many so called experiences is on personal things not how the Lord glorifies Himself through His body of believers. The lack of fear of being in His presence is a big issue as well as the purposes that He has in mind for us once we enter into glory as kings and priests.
You could probably only name a few who aren't fixated on their own kingdom and moneymaking ventures selling books about experiences or paid big bucks to speak on such experiences. Luke 16:31 shows that anyone; lost or saved who comes back from the dead isn't enough to save.
If we look to Psalm 119 we see the longest chapter in all scripture constantly referring to God's law and the author's love for it (I believe David). So the question is...(metronome sound and countdown music)
If we are in the Age of Grace what of the law if we no longer live under it; should we still love it?
This bears some thought; as we can glibly say well of course. We are reminded it is as our schoolmaster and seems harsh at the time ( Hebrews 12:11). Also the fact that no one can be saved by the law; on the contrary it is used to convict of sin; and of course if anyone breaks it even once is cursed ( Gal. 3:10 in KJV although other translations seem to try to dilute this concept it seems). How can we love His law then? The answer...(ditto metronome).
Of course it has to do with LOVE; and the verse I already stated that those who love Him keep His commandments. God doesn't accept alternate paths to Himself through our own self justification or righteousness. He doesn't accept clear defiance of commands that are part of the moral law that transcend to all generations. Obviously with grace abounding over sin we don't sin for more grace ( Romans 6:1-2).
Of course tied in with this idea man is basically good is the concept that we shouldn't offend anyone; or the scripture is twisted about not judging one another; despite Paul's clear teaching on the matter of judging within the body of Christ matters that ought not to be in the world's courts. We of course will also judge the world as corulers with Christ ( 1 Cor. 6:2); and angels ( 1 Cor. 6:3). Love therefore involves telling the truth. Telling a lie in a loving manner isn't really love of course; and neither is not warning someone when we can see they are headed for destruction.
God first loved us first ( 1 John 4:19); and of course we all should know John 3:16. His love had to come to us through imputed righteousness from Christ's atonament to be in His presence.
As born again children, we are to behave like children of God.
We can't take our father's name in vain!
God loves us and he chasteneth those he loves.
Hebrews 12:2-8 sums it up.
"Looking unto Jesus THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
FOR WHOM THE LORD LOVETH HE CHASTENING, AND SCOURGETHE EVERY SON WHOM HE RECEIVETH.
IF YE ENDURE CHASTENING, GOD DEALETH WITH YOU AS WITH SON'S; FOR WHAT SON IS HE WHOM THE FATHER CHASTENING NOT?
But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
We know our Great Shepherd voice! The Lord keeps his sheep in line whether by chastening or even by death but he will never let us depart from him and he will never forsake us as we see in
1 Corinthians 5:5!
"To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, THAT THE SPIRIT MAY BE SAVED IN THE DAY OF THE LORD JESUS.
Also.
Man righteousness is as filthy rags!
Thank God for blood of the Lamb that made us righteousness before the eyes of our Father!
I couldn't grab hold of salvation with my filthy rags and I certainly cannot restore salvation with my filthy rags.
Praise God for this new heart of flesh that causes us to WALK in his statues and praise God for his rod when I don't!
Blessings!
Hebrews 12:9 And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more:
Revelation 1:10 "On the Lord's day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet.
When considering the last trump signifying the Rapture we think of the Feast of Trumpets on one hand; as it is traditionally known as the day when no one knows the day or hour as the new moon sighting can be on one of 2 or perhaps more days depending on weather conditions and the time of sighting which signals its onset. When we examine the other references here it certainly could signify a heavenly trumpet instead. That is the most likely scenario; as those who are caught up will come from all parts of the world.
We also are reminded that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of understanding; thus I look at Psalm 40 as a prophetic warning of the Rapture. Psalm 40:1-3 state I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.
2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.
3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.
I'll let the reader examine references to patiently waiting (n regard to spiritual reward); bringing us out of our bodies made of clay; and the new song in heaven. My point here is that many will come to faith after the Rapture out of fear as verse 3 says; likely indicating the multitude saved in the Tribulation.
Or; lets consider Habakkuk 2:3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come...
Hebrews 12:6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
I am always afraid to pray this prayer; perhaps some bolder people out here can pray for me on that end.
We live today in 2025 in an undisciplined culture; where certain behaviors are crying out for parents to exercise discipline when they often prefer to shove the latest toy or video game their way that more often than not promotes visual stimuli for further rebellion. The other reaction is simply yelling without any desire or care for the soul of one's own offspring; and not showing as a parent the right way to act and stupidly thinking kid's can't see into such hypocrisy.
With such an appalling environment; it makes it all the more wonderful to see those who God has changed from their lifestyles of sin to being truly saved. It is a recurring frequent pattern of kids from Christian homes (whether in name only or truly with saved parents) who go from increasing lives of abandonment to sin to a point the Lord reaches them and they are radically transformed. Malachi 4:6 says And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. Perhaps that is indicative of the times we are living in. No doubt in the Tribulation we will see families coming to destroy one another. Matthew 10:21 states: And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.
We should recognize as parents that children are a heritage from God ( Psalm 127:3) and after doing the best we can to entrust God to work on them. This is a tough issue; but often He will use the enemy to put the fear of God in someone after his minions torment people after promising the world. Some have to be broken to call out to God; thankfully some remain close to home.
So, I see these as two separate events (justice from an earthly judge & from an Heavenly Judge); the first is limited to what is evident before Him, the other, is the sickness of sin in the heart that condemns, for which no time can be served or penalty paid, except through faith in God's Act of Love in sending His Son as our substitute in judgement and payment.
2. (Physical Punishment vs Emotional Punishment). I don't believe that the Bible records such specifics as you have given (i.e. the intangible, emotional wounds that people cause to others). We are simply told that any sin (whether murder, rape, or even down to hurtful comments or 'white lies') are all sin. For the unbeliever who engages in any sin, his own conscience will dictate whether he continues in it or alters his course. For the believer, who is a true believer with the Holy Spirit within and in charge, no sin can ever be committed without that Holy Voice alerting him to impending sin or sin engaged in. What does a believer then do? He repents, finding forgiveness, & turns from that sin, now restored into a healthy relationship with the LORD. If he refuses to heed the Spirit, then discipline in some form follows ( Hebrews 12:5-11 is worth reading). And if he continues to disregard God's warnings, then God might just remove that life, so that the spirit might be saved at Christ's appearing ( 1 Corinthians 5:1-5).
Onto Page 4 (the last one I hope).
part 3
6 The sword of the Lord is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatnesse, and with the blood of lambes and goates, with the fat of the kidneys of rammes: for the Lord hath a sacrifice in Bozrah, and a great slaughter in the land of Idumea.
It was God who did not allow Hannah to have children.
Hannah wasn't barren - because there's a difference between barrenness and God not permitting something.
Peninnah, her rival, would provoke and humiliate her. Because Peninnah had many children.
And you know - there are people who, even while producing a lot, still want to disturb you.
People who, even while doing a lot, earning more than you, still look at you and want to provoke you.
Peninnah also longed to be loved, but she didn't have that place in Elkanah's heart.
I just felt led to look at Peninnah's side of the story, because every person who wounds others is usually wounded themselves.
Peninnah kept bothering Hannah because she felt excluded, rejected.
That doesn't justify her actions toward Hannah, but she stepped into that place of bitterness, that place of rejection. ( Hebrews 12:15)
Did you get the emotional storyline?
Because there are emotional layers . We're talking about real people.
Peninnah was a difficult person - and she was chosen second.
Now imagine the atmosphere in that house: The children watching two grown women constantly clashing.
Because Hannah was the true lady of the house. but she was sad - because she couldn't give her husband a child.
And meanwhile, her rival Peninnah was always with Elkanah - It must have been heartbreaking.
Part 2
Daniel 9, there are 69 weeks from the commandment unto the Messiah. I understand this is when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit, becoming the Messiah. In verse 26, Jesus's ministry was 3.5 years when Jesus was cut off/crucified, this would be 69.5 weeks. It is the people/army of the prince that will come and destroy, not the prince. We see a parable relating to this very thing, Matthew 22:1-7.
In verse 27, Jesus is the one who came to confirm the new covenant to the house of Israel, Jeremiah 31:31-34. His ministry was 3.5 years, which is in the middle of the 70th week when He was cut off. Jesus, through His apostles, confirmed the covenant to the house of Israel for the remaining 3.5 years until the death of Stephen, Acts 7:54-60. The confirming of the covenant to the house of Israel ended, and the gospel was then given to the Gentiles. 1 Corinthians 11:25, Hebrews 12:24, Hebrews 13:20.
It is not a beast that makes it desolate, we see in Matthew 23 Jesus was addressing the leaders of the Jewish nation, He was retorting to their rejection of His saving work on their behalf. They refused His call for repentance, because of their overspreading of abominations, Jesus said, "Behold your house is left unto you desolate".
This refers to the coming judgment on Jerusalem and the temple for their rejection of Jesus and the saving work of God. "even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured out on the desolate". What Jesus said your house is left unto you desolate, the consummation, the complete destruction poured out on the desolate in 70 AD.
Thank you, brother.
God bless,
RLW
God didn't create a covenant with Israel and abandon it forever as I see scripture; but he added implications for the Gentiles who eventually would along with believing Jews be one with Christ in the church ( Rom. 10:12; Gal. 3:28). I look at is as a sort of parabolic curve; where what happened in the past happens again in the future. We are of course referred to as "true Israel" as Galatians 3:29 alludes to; where true sons of Abraham are those called and chosen and therefore recieve all the blessings of the promise. We see even in the Old Testament examples of Gentiles who demonstrated true faith in the true God; just as we see those who were in Israel being judged due to rebellion and unbelief. Put another way the basic principle stood as to the exclusivity of national Israel under God's design for government being a "Theocracy" at the time but it wasn't the end all. We can also say that the laws invoked in the covenants were not the end but a means to reach the end; that is to be part of God's children and after temporal blessings enter into glory where eternal glories and promises are in effect. Thus we have the "great cloud of witnesses" mentioned in Hebrews 12:1 which are summarized in the former chapter in detail.
We talk about heaven but often fail to consider being part of heavenly armies and such which will return with Christ as we see towards the end of the book of Revelation. We don't consider spiritual rewards and ruling over the earth during the Millennium and whatever eternity will mean on a restored and recreated world. We are associated with the head; Christ just as the world is allied with Satan the god of this world. We need to also remember that for all Christ did for us we should ever be grateful; but also that doing the Father's will was THE most important thing; and if it was for Him it should be also for us; His covenant church.
Agape. Rich P
Hebrews 12:6 and many other like passages make it clear that God chastises everyone he loves. How does this operate?
When we consider that sanctification is only for this life and our death brings completion; as it were as we see in 1 Corinthians Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. ( 1 Corinthians 3:12-13 and other verses in that passage).
Given this context it is clear that God will use sin to develop our character. Again as I have enumerated very frequently on my posts it is our sin nature which is the origin of outer manifestations. Giving a simple illustration that which we are born in determines how we develop. Those TRULY saved will have a new nature and the old one has received its death blow but clearly we are subject to sin; as 1 John 1:8-10.
The greater question that often comes up is how Christ died for all of our sins "past present and future" then how can sin matter or even exist as it did before we are saved? Of course ALL sin at the time Christ died was future on our behalf. The Lord can see us as we will appear due to the eventual inevitable outcome; or perhaps better put despite ourselves. We see in verses such as the one in Corinthians already referred to that once in God's presence there is an instant judgment as He cannot look onto sin; and we can't stand in His presence without the refinement being made complete. Thus we should seek to work on things now rather than suffer great loss then since none of us know how much time we have left on earth.
Lamentations 3:22 says It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. In this passage we see the events at the fall of Israel despite the years of warning Jeremiah gave. This is an example of corporate sin; but God's faithfulness to His covenants eventually
No one in hell will be happy to find out that the prophecies about it came true. Antichrist and the False Prophet and all the lost men and angels should be aware of their fate by now; yet scripture states that men will be deluded by demons to fight Christ; something no doubt taking the mark of the Beast already will have them conditioned to do. Much of the true prophecies resulted in death; Luke states Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. ( Luke 11:47).
Things didn't go too well for Isaiah or Jeremiah or most of the prophets. Nonetheless; in the end those on the Lord's side win.
While a true Prophet such as Christ as our best example suffers greatly and is largely rejected and cares for the sheep; the false prophets are the classic definition of a narcissist. The warnings of such individuals are designed to instill fear and exercise control over their subjects if not for financial reasons for the sake of power in being the "spokesman" for God. The name of Christ is often invoked in such individuals in order to attempt some sort of scriptural justification while naturally twisting the original meaning to suit their own selves.
Let us not set up any hardness in our heart; Hebrews 12:15 says Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.. The passage goes on to talk about immorality tied in with Esau. Cults often are involved in sexual deviations.
In this whole lesson I have intermingled the concept of cults with false prophets. There seems to be much intersection of these actions and behaviors. We have to also be careful to avoid extrabiblical texts which exalt people to some sort of sainthood which apparently can be eliminated if the heirarchy seems fit to do so. An April 26, 2014 ABC report discussed 93 individuals who were technically reduced from that status.
Giving God Thanksgiving not be a tragedy.
God blessing me with the Holy Spirit what I've done stands and is just making a way becoming me. - 1 John 5:8 KJV
Interpetation Spoken and Written by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
James 2:1 - My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
First of all, he says my brethren. So, these are believing Jews. Have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
I'll try and break this down:
My brethren, have not. The word have (also translated hold), is what is called the Present Tense. And it literally means stop continually having the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ with respect of persons. It shows that the problem is ongoing. He's literally saying stop continuously having the faith of our Lord with respect of persons. And that is a command!
Now notice it says have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ. The more modern translations again change this to faith (in) Jesus Christ, not faith (of) Jesus Christ. That is a major problem in understanding the bible and the biblical presentation of faith.
If I may summarize it because it's going to be important for this Greek Perspective study as well. The word faith, PISTIS in Greek, means persuasion. PEITHOS is the goddess of persuasion in Greek understanding. It is a word that describes the presence and activity of God's Spirit. It is an unseen movement, a persuasion. And it's called PISTIS, faith.
Hebrews 12:2 tells us that Jesus is the author and finisher, and it says of "our" faith, but the word "our" is the definite article "the." There's no our in the Greek text. He is the author and finisher of the faith. He's the source, and He brings faith to its completion.
Hebrews 12:14 - Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
It says follow peace with all people, and the term follow is literally continually be pursuing.
If I were to have the Lord's permission to insert a little note here, it would be "Now concerning your relationship with your fellow teammates, continually pursue peace with your brethren, the one's you are running the race with."
Follow after peace, and then it says, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Who are you supposed to be seeing? The Lord! If you get off the track, you get out of running the race, your eyes are no longer on Jesus.
Hebrews 12:25 - See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:
The word "see" means be continually watching. Be continually watching that you refuse not him that speaks.
The certainty of the condemnation or judgment:
For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaks from heaven:
The term "turn away" in the Greek text is a Present Tense, meaning those who are turning away. It's not a warning to you that if you're a believer and you turn away; you can lose your salvation. He's talking to people who are in the process of turning away. If you are one of those who are in the process of turning away from Him that speaks from heaven, you will not escape.
Hebrews 12:11 - Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
Now no chastening for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous:
That's why I don't understand why some Christians say "I'm just so full of joy all the time!" It is very grievous to be out practicing and running the race, no matter how you put it. It is painful!
The production of chastisement: nevertheless afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Exercised is a Perfect Participle, those who have been exercised, who have been a part of the disciplinary process. It's where we get our word gymnasium from, exercise. It will produce the peaceable fruit of righteousness in the end.
Hebrews 12:12 - Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;
Now it sounds like he's talking about someone that's old in age. But first of all, this is a Perfect Tense again. It's the hands which have been hanging down, and the feeble knees. The word feeble means paralyzed. I hope you understand what he's talking about? It's when the track coach says you've been dogging it all day. You can take another lap.
It is weary running this race. Life is agony. It is wearisome. And our hands begin to droop. And going back to the track, you're supposed to have your arms bent and moving opposite of your legs and get your body going in cadence.
But you know when you get tired, forget that, right? You can't even hold your arms up anymore. And the leg, they don't move anymore. They're paralyzed. You can't move another step. But he says lift up those hands, those feeble knees!
Hebrews 12:4 - Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.
The word striving is ANTAGONIZOMENOI, ANTE which means against, and agony, where we get our term antagonist from. Our striving against sin, and again, that is an athletic term. In our battle against conditioning, in our battle against discipline, in out battle against all these things that we must do to participate as an athlete on the track and field, we haven't resisted unto blood.
We're whiners. We're here in America, and we think that a bad day is when you don't get to buy the expensive car that you wanted, and you have to settle for something else. It's like "Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, no way!" But as I consider Jesus, He shed His blood at the hands of sinners. None of us have had to do that! I don't know of any of us who have ever been dragged out of your homes, or church, and been beaten and left for dead just because you're a Christian.
I heard several years back of a man in Yemen who was shot and killed. He was an English teacher in one of the schools, and they accused him of spreading Christianity. They just dragged him out of his classroom and killed him because they accused him of teaching Christianity.
We haven't experienced that here in America. So, lest we grow weary by fainting in our minds, look to Jesus. We haven't resisted yet to blood in our striving against sin, our struggle against sin.
Hebrews 12:5 - And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
He says and ye have forgotten the exhortation. The word forgotten is what is called the Perfect Tense, which means at this present moment, over a period of time, they forgot this exhortation and should have known about it.
Hebrews 12:3 - For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
It says, for consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself. The word consider (ANALOGISASTHE) is a Greek word where we get our English word analog or analyze from. It is an educational term for what a student does with their books and materials as they are preparing for a test.
So don't just look at Jesus, let's analyze Him, the one who endured the cross. He endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest you be wearied and faint in your minds. He's introducing us to the fact that while we're running the race, we're going to become weary. If you've ever participated in a sporting event, after a while, you're going to get weary. No matter what athletic event you're doing, you're going to experience some tiredness, weary.
So, analyze Jesus, His suffering that He experienced by sinners against Himself, lest you be wearied. And it is interesting because there's really only one statement here instead of two, lest you be wearied by fainting in your minds. The last phrase is what is called a Modal Participle. It describes what wearied means. Lest you be wearied by becoming faint in your minds. It's the word PSEUCHE, which means Psyche. So, let's analyze Him. Let's look to Jesus!
Hebrews 12:2 Continued:
In Verse 2, when it says looking unto Jesus, he then gives the identity of Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith. Notice the word "our" in your bible is in italics. It's not in the Greek text. It's the word "the." It's another one of those instances where they said Jesus is the author and finisher of the faith.
"Well, we can't have that. It's got to be our faith!" No, He's the author and finisher. He starts faith. He's the author of it. It comes from Him. And He brings it to its completion.
Then the inspiration of Jesus:
Who for the joy that was set before Him, He endured the cross, having despised the shame, that is, He wasn't going to let the shame of the cross stop Him from going to the cross. The influence of Jesus: And is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
So, the Lord is our inspiration. If you didn't notice as we read through, Jesus for the joy that was set before Him. That was over against the cross on the other side. Remember I mentioned before that in Greek, the word joy doesn't mean a happy feeling. It means satisfaction.
Jesus looked at the cross, He saw what His death on the cross would do, and so His joy, His satisfaction was in completing that task, to be on the other side, complete salvation for us on the cross. He endured the cross for the joy that was set before Him. And He was looking off unto joy while He endured the cross. That's why we look unto Jesus while we're running the race. And He is now set down at the right of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2 Continued:
He tells me don't get weighted down with the things of this earthly life to where it's all this baggage that you're trying to carry while you're running the race, except you're not running anymore, you're barely crawling because of all this weightiness from this earthly life that we have acquired and taken on ourselves. But the focus should be on Jesus. And if we can understand that principle, we can understand all these things in this life that we have trouble with.
If my focus is Jesus, then whatever else is going on, I probably wouldn't even notice. The bible teaches that we only have the capacity to focus and be occupied on one thing at a time. I can believe on Jesus with my heart, but in this earthly life with my mind, be caught up in all kinds of mental distractions that are occupying the attention of my mind.
I can still be a believer. But you see, the Lord not only wants our heart, He wants our minds. He wants us to be looking at Jesus. And He promises us in Matthew Chapter 6 to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all the other things that you need will be added.
You don't have to strive for them. You don't have to go out in this earthly life and stop the race, stop looking to Jesus, and go out and acquire things. That's baggage. And then when you try to get back on the track again, you fall off because you're so weighted down with the things of this earthly life.
Now while I'm running the race, and I'm letting myself get distracted by circumstances around me, I'm not going to do very well. It's the focus. The focus is on Jesus. It's pretty simple! The Lord made it simple. It's not easy, it's simple. We are simple people. We don't know where front and back is when it comes to spiritual things. We have no idea what we're doing. We're just sheep. And even when the Lord gives us direction, we go the opposite way. We're not very spiritually smart. And that's putting it nicely.
Hebrews 12:2 Continued:
As I said earlier, these are pieces of the track, pieces of the course that are put down in front of us while we're running. And we really can't tell, other than the first or second piece that's put down in front of us where this thing is going to go. We can't predict it. But while we're running, He continually places the racecourse in front of us. And that racecourse is called agony. That's what the word race is, agony.
And then the performance of the course:
This is the third condition. We should run with having witnesses all around us. That's Chapter 11. We should run the course after putting aside all the weightiness, all the things of this earthly life that weigh us down to where we can no longer run.
And thirdly: Looking unto Jesus. And again, the word looking is a Present Participle which means continuously looking unto Jesus. Jesus is the finish line. Everyone that has run track, or has run in a race, or has watched it on television, you know that the people who are participating in the race, they have their faces straight forward.
They're not looking up into the stands waiving to their family. They are not looking down at their shoes while they are running to see if they're running correctly. Their eye is fixed on the finish line. And that's what he's saying, run the race with your mind's eye fixed on Jesus.
You see, when I got saved, that wasn't the end of the race. That was the beginning of the race. I'm not racing to acquire my salvation. I'm racing because I know Christ. And this is the life that He has for me. And He tells me that I've got all these witnesses who have done it before me, so there's no excuse.
Hebrews 12:2 Continued:
But secondly, we can't run or even walk the race that's being set before us, with a lot of baggage. And I think you know what I mean by baggage? We acquire a lot of baggage in our lives. There are things that weigh us down.
There is sin which so easily entangles us, which is an athletic term, and without getting into too much of the technical part of it, it's an athletic term that means you keep running because if you stand still, then all of sudden things are going to close in on you, and you might not have the chance to get away.
And sin is like that. We have to keep moving. We can't wait for sin to find us. We have to stay on the course and not acquire from the world a lot of baggage. And there are a lot of Christians that are just weighed down with so many obligations, and so many things, and so many possessions, and all these things that we have to keep up, and guess who gets the short end of the stick?
It's the Lord, because we don't have time. We don't have time for Him! Well, we've got this cloud of witnesses all around us. And we're told that before we run this race, we are to put off every weight, and the sin which so easily entangles us.
And then what we are to do: We should run with patience. I think it's interesting that Paul was another one who mentioned he runs. He encouraged Christians to walk, walk in the Christian life. But Paul didn't walk, he ran. Here, the writer of Hebrews is encouraging us to run the race. We have trouble walking. Now he wants us to run. Good grief!
We should run with patience. Endurance (HUPOMENO) means to remain under. And if you've walked with the Lord enough, you know, and I know, that there are times that you just don't want to remain under because "it's too hard," or "too difficult," and we want to quit. We should run with endurance the race that is continuously being placed before us.
Hebrews 12:2 - Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Looking unto Jesus, and there's our third condition. The first condition in Verse 1, seeing we are compassed about with witnesses. That's a Present Participle. While having all these witnesses all around us!
Secondly, the second condition: After having laid aside, after doing that, we're supposed to do something. Main verb: we should run with patience the race that is being set before us. And then the third condition is looking unto Jesus. Looking is a Present Participle which shows continuous action, continuously looking unto Jesus.
We go back at the beginning, and we have these witnesses all around us, with God's faithfulness and faith in their lives. And then the second condition says, after having laid aside every weight, and the sin which so easily entangles, or besets us.
If you see yourself out on the track or out in the park getting ready for your cross-country race, you know that when the race starts, you don't want a lot of heavy clothing on. You don't want to be carrying your backpack. In running track, or a marathon, you're wearing clothes that are very tight. And some people run with very little clothing on.
But the whole purpose of it is so that there's no resistance, and they can run the fastest race that they can without the wind or resistance coming against them. And what the writer of Hebrews is doing for us is, first of all, we have this cloud of witnesses all around us, they're all through the stands, all around this huge stadium that we're going to run a marathon in. They've already run it. So, it's not like we're going to have an excuse. We look up, and it's a reminder that they've already done this.
Hebrews 12:1 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
There is a technical point here I would like to share that's important:
The first few words, "Let us lay aside," it sounds like it's a command or an encouragement. But in the Greek text, it's called an Aorist Participle, and it's literally translated "After having laid aside." It's not a main verb. It's not a command. It's not an encouragement. It's one of three conditions. And we'll see the main verb when we get into the end of Verse 1.
And let us run. There's your main verb. It's the only verb in the first two verses. Let us run. That's an encouragement. It's called a Hortatory Subjunctive. We should run with patience. And the word patience is the word for endurance. It is the word HUPOMENO which means to remain under. It's the Greek word used for circumstances.
The word race is the word AGONA. It's where we get our word agony from. With endurance, we should run the agony that is being set before us. The term set is a Present Participle which shows a continual setting down of the racecourse for us.
This is not your typical track where you run in circles. This is picturing for us something that is like a marathon or cross-country race, where the racecourse is put down in front of us, piece by piece, while we're running. And we don't know the direction. We're just running!
I'm sorry to hear you are going through such hard times and I will pray for you.
You stated you dont know how to ask God or Jesus for forgiveness but you have been baptised but you just feel like it doesnt work and you're thinking that Jesus and God isn't real because you have just been going through alot.
Alana, it's the Lords pleasure to forgive us for our sins!
He gave his life for it!
Christ died a brutal death in our place so that we can have life beyond this life and give us grace in this life but we live in a fallen world that is in chaos.
I don't know what you are going through but if you trust in God there is nothing he can not do to bring you through it and if you confessed to him your issue "no matter what it is" and asked for forgiveness he has already forgiven you!
You have to trust him and understand that some things we go through is for strengthening and some things is for chastening.
God chasten those he loves. Hebrews 12:6-11.
As for Baptism, you stated "you have been baptised but you just feel like it doesnt work.
Alana water baptism doesn't save anyone!
We get Baptised by water to exhibit in an outward ritual way what we believe and what Christ did in our behalf!
When we had no hope Christ died in our place and rose again from the grave.
1 Corinthians 15:1-4.
Alana go to God as a child petitioning a loving Father because that's what he is and trust in him and his perfect timing.
I hope this helps and encourage you.
Don't be afraid to reach back out to us.
God bless you.
All Twelve Disiples followed Jesus earthly ministry in the four gospels for the kingdom of heaven on earth.
Matthew 4:19
And he saith unto them,Followme, and I will make you fishers of men.
Mark 1:18
And straightway they forsook their nets, andfollowed him.
Luke 5:11
And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, andfollowed him.
John 1:37
And the two disciples heard him speak, and theyfollowed Jesus.
Why should we follow Apostle Paul ? ?
Jesus Christ in Heaven did say that Apostle Paul was a chosen vessel for the Gentiles.
Acts 9:15
But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is achosenvesselunto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
Jesus Christ is the author of the whole Bible.
Hebrews 12:2
Looking unto Jesus theauthorand finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Jesus Christ wants us to follow Apostle Paul's epistle for doctrine and Salvation.
1 Corinthians 11:1
Be yefollowers ofme, even as I also am of Christ.
Apostle Paul's doctrine is from Jesus Christ in Heaven.
Romans 16:17
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to thedoctrinewhich ye have learned; and avoid them.
Apostle Paul said that we can always learn from the Old Testament and the caring down kingdom of gospel in the four gospels. The death of Jesus Christ started the New Testament
Hebrews 9:16
For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of thetestator.
Romans 15:4
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for ourlearning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
I follow Apostle Paul's epistle in Jesus Christ for Doctrine and Salvation.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4