Matthew
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In Acts 19:38,39, we read, "Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another. But if ye enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful ASSEMBLY (ekklesia)." So here, we see the other use of the word, which the Bible translators correctly understood as not applying to the 'Church', but to a non-Church (legal) assembly.
But in Matthew chapter 18, Jesus is speaking to His disciples (verse 1), so as GiGi has shared, it can be accurately understood that this discourse given by Him, was a little insight to the future, i.e. in the administration of His Church, or Assembly, as the Holy Spirit had (or, was given) control & believers were added to it. When we look at this chapter, advice on conversion, humility, sin, conflict between the brethren & prayer are the topics the Lord brings up. Even as the Lord spoke to Peter in Matthew 16:18, that "upon this rock (the body of Truth) I will build my ekklesia".
Discernment is listed in regard to knowledge of the spirit world as a spiritual gift ( 1 Cor. 12:10) and apparently is listed in Hebrews in understanding between good and evil. Many of us for several reasons are sorely deficient in that area today.
Red flag #1: "Dumbing down scripture". The lack of TRUST in God's revealed and living Word is the basis for all sorts of evils.
It seems rather evident that many aren't even concerned about studying history and also having a fair and impartial study of scripture itself to see how it fits into a whole picture. We have all sorts of ways that we like to "cherry pick" certain verses that fit whatever doctrine is politically correct at the time. If the foundations be destroyed; what can the righteous do? ( Psalm 11:3). Once the "anchor of the soul" ( Heb. 6:19) is taken out as a basic element of our faith then of course we aren't able or willing to see a lie when it is presented.
Red flag #2: Eschatological error. Often referred to as a "secondary issue" once again when scripture isn't literally taken (unless the context and explanation within the text clearly indicates otherwise; we can be in dangerous waters. If; for instance we deliberately ignore verses such as 2 Timothy 3 on many falling away in the last days then we have some idea that a great revival will occur or must occur before He calls His church upward. This is confusing what is written in Revelation and Joel to name two places where a great number come to faith. Revelation makes it clear starting in the 5th Seal that mass martyrdom will be the result of this faith. Persecution is already abounding but for now the gates of hell will not prevail against the church. ( Matthew 16:18). According to Daniel the saints WILL by and large be overcome in the Tribulation ( Daniel 7:21).
Is this the expectation of those who preach of revival today? By and large; no.
to be continued...
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, THAT ALL MEN THROUGH HIM MIGHT BELIEVE.
He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
That was the true Light, WHICH LIGHTEST EVERY MAN THAT COMETH INTO THE WORLD. John 1:4-9.
2 Corinthians 4:3-4. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
NO MAN CAN COME TO ME, EXCEPT THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT ME DRAW HIM: and I will raise him up at the last day. John 6:44.
(It is the spirit of God that draws man to the Lord.)
John 6:60-65.
Matthew 16:17.
1 Peter 1:10-11.
1 Corinthians 2:9-11.
1 Corinthians 2:12-16.
1 Corinthians 12:3.
God bless.
a. His Names: Hebrews 1:8, John 20:28 (God); Matthew 16:16, Matthew 26:61-65 (the Son of God); Matthew 22:41-46 (Lord); Revelation 19:13 (Word of God); Revelation 19:16 (King of kings and Lord of lords).
b. His Characteristics: Matthew 28:18 (Omnipotence: all powerful); Luke 6:8, John 2:24,25, John 13:11 (Omniscience: all knowing); Matthew 18:20 (Omnipresence: present in any place); John 1:4 (Life); John 14:6 (Truth); Hebrews 13:8 (Immutability: unchanging); 1 Timothy 3:16, John 1:1-14 (God manifest in the flesh in Jesus).
c. His Works: John 1:3, Colossians 1:16 (creates); Colossians 1:17 (sustains); Luke 7:48,49 (forgives sin); John 11:41-44 (raises the dead); John 5:27 (judges); John 15:26 (sends the Holy Spirit).
d. His receiving Worship: Hebrews 1:6 (from angels); Revelation 5:11-13 (from other heavenly beings); Matthew 14:33 (from men); Philippians 2:10 (from all).
e. His equality within the Triune God: John 14:23, John 10:30-33 (with the Father); Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14 (with the Father and the Spirit).
I hope you can see from these few Scriptures that Jesus was not just a special Man or Prophet sent by God, but truly was "God manifested in the flesh". No other man before Jesus' coming, during, or after His leaving this Earth, could ever fully reflect God's Glory, Wisdom & Power. Only God could - and He did this by sending us His Word, made Him a Man, so that He could give His Life as full payment for our sins - but only to those who believe this & place their trust in Him. To some, the 'Trinity' teaching is abominable. But man's salvation depends on the Divine Person of the Lord Jesus Christ - that God could accept no other Sacrifice to redeem & secure people to Himself - only by giving fully of Himself, which is true love for all.
Just a few thoughts on what you've shared GiGi. I'm considering the three passages: Matthew 16:24,25; Matthew 11:28-30; Galatians 2:20.
a. Matthew 16:24,25. "Discipleship". Discipleship is costly, more costly than most of us can imagine or have even experienced. To put everything pertaining to life behind one (family, possessions, ambitions, reliance on the material), equates to denying oneself. And to take up one's cross, would be the cumulative effect of that denial/casting aside which one must be prepared to carry for the journey ahead. And this must also include whatever unknowns may lie ahead (of hunger, shelter, loneliness, rejection & persecution). I would think that very few have submitted so fully to the Lord, though the disciples, to whom these words were directly spoken, joyfully apprehended it when "endued with power from on high".
b. Matthew 11:28-30. "Under Grace". Though this passage can accurately be applied to the Lord's gracious Ministry to all, I believe that He is particularly referring to the religious leaders who exacted much much more from the people than what the Law demanded. In Matthew 23:1-4, Jesus spoke of those leaders who correctly brought out Moses' Law, but then He chided them because they added their own "heavy burdens" upon the people, making obedience to the Law wearisome coupled with fear for the penalty if their rules were broken. Therefore, Jesus calls all those that are so burdened & yoked to pharisaical rules to turn to Him, He Whose "yoke" is undergirded with Grace & Truth.
Matthew 16:13-17, Luke 4:40,41, Matthew 15:29-38, Isaiah 42:1-7, Matthew 12:17-23,
Luke 24:6,7,15,16,27, in context Luke 24, Luke 23,
Hopefully these are helpful
The seven year period apparently is also stated in the Koran someplace about their version of the 12th Imam or world ruler which is the length of time that leader is supposed to rule. Of course; we don't know if the Tribulation begins immediately after the Rapture. It is at that time that the Restrainer; or function of the Holy Spirit in the church is removed ( 2 Thess. 2:6-7). For now; the gates of hell cannot prevail against the church. ( Matthew 16:18). According to Daniel in the time of trial for His people the saints WILL be overcome by the Beast or Antichrist ( Daniel 7:25). We see how the boastful words there are a parallel to what is going on in Revelation 13.
It is a theory of mine that if you make each seal; trumpet and bowl a period of months and add it up you get 7 years. (1+2+3+4+5+6+7) X 3. That is; 28 X 3 months or 84 months is equal to 7 years. Daniel uses 360 day years. Revelation 11:1-2 describes the 2 witnesses likely the first half of the Trib.
Thanks for your perspective but I am not clear on what you are saying.
We all know Christ sacrifice is the way Adam and Eve and all of humanity is to be saved. My position on that has been clear and emphasized often. However there was no emphasis put on that in my post.
We understand they gathered in the wilderness in a religious congregation and that's called a church.
"ekklsia" a calling out that is (concretely) A POPULAR MEETING ESPECIALLY A RELIGIOUS CONGREGATION (JEWISH SYNAGOGUE OR CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY of members on earth or saints in heaven or both): - assembly church.
Concerning the birth of Christ Church, Here in Matthew 16:18 Jesus is specific, he says he's going to build "HIS CHURCH"
"And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I WILL BUILD "MY" CHURCH; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
And he says "HE WILL" build.
Meaning it hasn't been built yet.
When Israel gathered in the wilderness it wasn't the ministry of "RE"-conciliation as mentioned here in 2 Corinthians 5:18.
And they wasn't to go out to all the world teaching the cross.
Look what Paul says about the two ministries in 2 Corinthians 3:3-18. (The Apostles was part of the ministry which excelleth in glory.)
We know Jesus was the rock in the wilderness but different emphasis here in Ephesians 2:20. "He's building a Church to carry the Gospel out to the world."
A chief Cornerstone is the first and most important part of the foundation when a building is being erected.
Look what Peter says about it here in 1 Peter 2:4-10.
It was a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence to the Church in the wilderness but precious to us.
Yes the Apostles was Apostles in Gos eyes before the foundation of the world, But they didn't function as Apostles until they were commanded to wait on the Holyspirit and then sent out to all the world.
God bless.
UPON THIS ROCK I SHALL BUILD MY CHURCH.
He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
And Simon Peter answered and said, THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD. Matthew 16:15-16
Ephesians 2:19-20 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
And are built upon the FOUNDATION OF THE APOSTLES AND PROPHETS, Jesus Christ himself being the chief CORNER STONE;
In Luke 6:13 we see that Jesus chose who he would name Apostles.
"And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;
The question is when did the disciples start operating in the office of Apostles?
When was the foundation laid?
1 Corinthians 3:12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Are we capable of building with gold, silver and precious stone without the dwelling of the Holyspirit?
We do know in Matthew 28:16-17 even after Jesus resurrected the disciples still doubted.
"Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted."
In Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commissioned them to go out to all the world but not to depart from Jerusalem until they were filled with the Holyspirit.
Acts 1:4-5. Luke 24:49.
I believe not until they were filled with the Spirit that rock the church was built on begun. The disciples began to function in the office as Apostles.
Ephesians 4:10-12. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
AND HE GAVE SOME, APOSTLES; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
He didn't do this until he ascended.
God bless.
1Corinthians 6:9-11,
Hopefully these are helpful
In Acts 1:13 it says that they were staying in the upper room. In Acts 2 it says that they were gathered all in one place. It does not say they were in the temple.
Many people do think that the Church began in Acts 2 at Pentecost, But many others believe that the Church began with the life of Jesus (for He is the Head), and the disciples were added as they were called by Jesus. Even before He ascended into heaven, Jesus instructed the disciples concerning the church in Matthew 16:18. He called Simon Peter, or Rock and said that upon this Rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. In this passage, Jesus said that the church was begun then and there, upon Peter's confession of Jesus being the Christ (Messiah), identifying Jesus' humanity; and the Son of the Living God, identifying Jesus's deity. The church was established upon this confession and anyone who professed this belief was part of the church Jesus was building. So, there were many who believed this before Pentecost. Jesus appeared to over 500 brethren before He ascended to heaven, as said by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:16. These were Christian brethren before Pentecost.
I realize we differ in our views on this and I do not wish to belabor this discussion further, but I keep in mind that when we discuss with one another that there are many people who follow the discussion on this forum who may not reply. It is for those that I present my viewpoint more so than to someone who is obviously set in their own viewpoint, as I am also.
Have a blessed day, Henry.
2 Peter 1:19-21
Jeremiah 23:29-31
Jeremiah 14:14-15
1 Corinthians 13:9-10
2 Corinthians 5:7
(For we walk by faith, not by sight:) If you want to see 20/20 vision, it is all written in the Bible.
Titus 1:9-11
Beware:
Matthew 16:6
Matthew 16:11-12
Mark 8:15
Luke 12:1
Colossians 2:8
2 Timothy 3:13
Revelation 20:10
Glory to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Revelation 11:3 And I will give power to My two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days[3 years and a half], clothed in sackcloth."
4 These represent the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks which stand before the Lord of the earth.
How can they stand before the Lord?, it's because they didn't die, they were transfigured, God just took them.
Now, how many have stood on earth, and stands before the Lord? Enoch we know,,, but God wouldn't let anyone bury Moses; the Devil hunts for his bones but could never find them.
Matthew 16:28 Verily I say unto you, There are some of those standing here, which shall by no means taste of death, till they may have seen the Son of man coming in His kingdom."
THE GLORY FORESHOWN, THE TRANSFIGURATION
Matthew 17:1 And after six days Jesus taketh Him aside Peter, and James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart,
2 And was transfigured [changed in form] before them:and His face did shine as the sun, and His raiment became white as the light.
3 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elijah talking together with Him.
Since Moses, and EliJAH were seen transfigured on the mount with Jesus, and we know of only the three that were transfigured, Enoch, Moses, and Elijah, it's more than likely the two witnesses are they.
Never base anything scriptural on popular belief/theory, the two witnesses still have much to do! they play a key role in the end times. Their work is not done, their testimony is yet to come, Revelation 11:7-13
Part 2
Scripture describes death as sleep and the grave/hell is our home until Jesus returns and releases us from the pains of death, Acts 2:24, and the hope we have, Rom. 8:11. We see in Psalm 6:5 Job 14:12-14 Job 17:13-16. When a person dies, he "lies down" in death and does not arise out of that sleep until his regeneration at the resurrection. Psalm 89:48 Psalm 115:17 Ecclesiastes 9:5-10.
Jesus said this referring to eternal life, Matthew 16:26. Sory for being wordy but I hope this sort of explains my understanding. If our soul is immortal, Luke 16 is a real story, I believe scripture is clear, our soul is us and is mortal, there would be nothing to resurrect. Where would be victory over the grave and death? 1 Cor. 15:54-55 1 Cor. 15:14.
Jesus's soul along with his body was as He said of Jonah/Jonas, Matt. 12"40. In Acts 2:22-35 Jesus was not left in Hell and did not see corruption, in vs. 24 God loosed the pains of death because Jesus was sinless, and death had to let go.
1 Peter 3:18-20 is hard, we have spirits in prison who were disobedient in the days of Noah, and the waters of the flood compared to the baptizing waters saving not washing away the filth of the flesh but for the conscience toward God. Our conscience, our hard drive our testimony, 2 Cor.1:12 tells us with the help of the Holy Spirit if we are good to go and it is pure.
There is no clear indication of when Jesus did this so to say it was when He was in the tomb would be just an opinion.
Spirits in prison from Noah's time building the ark? Why that time and not all the time up to His resurrection? I may be wrong, but I do not know of the dead being called spirits and being in prison, but the angels who left their first estate are locked in chains of darkness. Revelation gives another look at what that prison may be. This one will be full of opinions that would need setting at a table discussion, so I will leave this one to your understanding.
See part 3
Interestingly if it were written 1st person as "I" it could have caused much confusion especially when quoted. GOD's wisdom always amazing!
Also to clarify who, to point to His human side fulfilling prophecy, son of man, son of David: Psalms 8:4, Matthew 16:28, = 2Samuel 7:16,17, Jeremiah 33:17,18,
Ezekiel 2:1,3, Ezekiel 37:12,13, = Matthew 27:50-53,
Just like when he cried out: Matthew 27:46 = Psalms 22, was he pointing those who knew scripture, to the very prophecy? I believe He was.
Also, To show He was like us, flesh & tempted, suffered yet without sin: Hebrews 4:14,15,16, 1John 4:2,
Hopefully these are helpful
We sleep in death until we are resurrected.
If I may give my understanding.
Luke 16:19-31 First, we must understand this is a parable, and the parables Jesus told he had to explain for his disciples to understand and he did not explain this one. We cannot take this passage as a literal description.
In the context of Luke 16, Jesus is talking to Pharisees and scribes about stewardship, love of riches, adultery and no servant can serve two masters. The Pharisees were covetous, they flaunted their wealth and the seat of authority they had. Is this parable describing a holding place where the redeemed can live in peace but can look and even talk across a vast chasm with the sufferings of the sinners in torment?
The Babylonian Talmud speaks of "Abraham's Bosom" as the place that righteous Jews went after they died. The Jewish people of the time of Jesus had been influenced by Babylonian and Hellenistic Greek cultures, and that influence is still today.
Jesus was probably using a common image from that culture to create a picture that they could relate to their final destination. This parable also does not fit all of the scripture if we receive our reward as soon as we die, as said, we go to heaven or hell.
Many scriptures tell us when we will receive our reward and it is not when we die. Here are just a few and they all agree it is at the second coming of Jesus Christ. Matthew 16:27 1 Corinthians 1:7-8 1 Corinthians 15:22-23 1 Thessalonians 2:19 Revelation 22:12
John wrote this a while after Jesus ascended, he said Jesus was in heaven, "Son of man which is in heaven", John 3:13. Peter said David is dead and buried and his sepulcher is with us unto this day, and he has not ascended to heaven. Acts 2:29-34
The day of redemption, Eph. 4:30 1 Cor. 15:52 1 Thess.4:16 (not descend) and many more.
God bless,
RLW
Matthew 16:17
And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in HEAVEN.
[not in Rome]
Matthew 23:9
And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in HEAVEN.
Mark 13:32
But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father
WHICH IS IN HEAVEN.
Some Blood of Jesus scripture references:
Hebrews 10:19 and 13:12; Ephesians 2:13
1 John 1:7 and 1 John 5:6
Matthew 16:17
I do not want to offend. The Pope, nor any priest of the Catholic Church should be called Father.
God is a consuming fire.
As long as we keep those facts straight, we are ok. The council of Nicea, adopted the King James Bible for all faiths to use.
The way things are going, in the World, now: is a good time to be following Jesus.
Recently, the Pope went to Israel and counseled them to give the West Bank to the Palestinians.
In the Book of Genesis, God made a Covenant through Abraham concerning the Lands of Israel; which includes Jerusalem. The Final wars of mankind will be over Who Owns Israel.
If you don't have a Bible, there is a full Bible on this Website, plus Commentarie.
Isaiah 53, John 3:15-17,
Matthew 26:46- keep reading through, Matthew 27, full chapter , Mark 14:42-72 through- Mark 15, whole chapter,
Hopefully these are helpful
That's easily seen in scripture.
The Church didn't bring on the man child "Christ". Revelation 12:5. and Revelation 19:15-16.
Christ brought on the Church!!
Here's just two of many.
Matthew 16:18.
1 Corinthians 3:10-11.
As you said Israel is the woman and she brought on the man child who is Christ. " Romans 9:4-5."
Also Revelation 12:1. parallels with Genesis 37:9-10. It gives a description of who the Sun and the Moon and the twelve stars are.
Now hold on to your hat!
God bless.
The beginning of John; much like Romans 1 indicates the Creation of God. However; the true light (God or Christ Himself) is NOT known in man's darkened; sinful state despite the evidences seen externally (v. 4-5). Verses 9 through 11 discuss Christ coming; not being known by His creation OR His chosen people. Verse 13 gives the first of a myriad of indications of God's election of who is saved; as it is not ultimately determined by the will of man. The rest of the chapter shows how Christ was supernaturally revealed to John the Baptist; and how He began to choose the 12 apostles who would someday judge the 12 tribes of Israel ( Matt. 19:28; also Rev. 4:10 showing O.T. descendants of Jacob as other 12 most likely).
John 2: This chapter illustrates how Christ would only be understood by those who are His own; even if it doesn't state anything directly. There were certain things to be revealed in its time; hence the miracle of the water to wine was perhaps a sort of local affair; and we see that there is no salvation message here; or any healings as is seen after He officially started His ministry after being tempted by the Devil for 40 days. ( Luke 4:2; Mark 1:12). This is NOT mentioned in John. A rare event when the disciples actually knew Christ was fulfilling prophecy without rather torturous explanations on His part was in verse 17 when they understood the prophecy of the zeal of His house. Verse 19 is the first of many verses hiding a meaning from the Pharisees as to what the Temple would be that was destroyed and would rise in 3 days (His body). The disciples wouldn't get it until after the Resurrection. This shows that Christ had to reveal Himself as God in the flesh only to those God chose to do so ( Matthew 16:17). We need also to see how ALL of Christ's ministry was an example of following God's plan; and speaking only His words as is seen in John 8:38 and other passages. He expounds on hidden truths to His own.
Adam has given you several great pieces of scripture to support the claim that Jesus is indeed God.
It is true that the bible does not say "Jesus is God" in those exact words, but it also does not say (in your words) that "Jesus was spoken into existence." Jesus was not spoken into existence. To believe that, we would also have to deny His deity.
You ask, "So what's hard to understand that Jesus is the Son of God?"
It's not hard to understand. I believe Jesus is the Son of God. But what does the phrase "Son of God" mean? What did it mean to the Jews? If Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, was He wrong for doing so? Obviously to the Jews, Jesus was claiming to be God Himself. For that claim, they accused Him of blasphemy and the penalty according to Leviticus 24:16 was death.
Did Jesus ever claim to be God? John 10:30-33 would indicate so. Jesus said "I and my Father are one." Notice who He's saying this to? The Jews! In Verse 31, it says they took up stones to kill Him. So what was wrong with Jesus' claim? Why would the Jews want to kill Him for saying that?
The answer is in John 10:33. They wanted to kill Jesus because He claimed to be God. To them He committed blasphemy by making Himself God. They took up stones to kill Jesus for saying "I and my Father are one." Notice that Jesus didn't say "Wait a minute guys, before you stone me, I think you are misunderstanding what I said, so let's talk about this?" Jesus did not correct them because what they said "thou, being a man, makest thyself God," is exactly what Jesus meant.
In Matthew 16:16, Peter gives the correct response to who Jesus is; "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." Peter was a Jew, and he knew exactly what he was saying when he said Jesus was the Son of the living God. To a Jew, the phrase "Son of God," or "Son of the living God" is the same as calling someone God Himself, and that's exactly what Peter said in his response to the question Jesus asked.
Totally agree with you. Evil in this world is more prominent than ever. I was actually close to death twice: one I was drowning with my own water and my organs are shutting down; next my heart totally stops due to COVID. I can attest to you that there is indeed heaven and hell. I can't understand the urgency for me to re-read the Bible until I found this site. I noticed the mixture of frustrations and anger and love comments. I know in my heart these people seek truth. I also know that these people believe in Jesus Christ's Life, death and resurrection according to the scriptures. I do not understand is that we are reading the same Bible KJV and one says something and another person says different. Are we not one in God? The only explanation is that people listen to man. Malachi 2:10 Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us? why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers?
Only listen to God. For example: Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Are we not understanding English? If I tell you, you are Richard and upon this rock I will build my church. Does it make sense to say you built the church? No. The rock is Jesus Christ. It tells you the story of Moses hitting the rock to flow waters for them to drink. It is a prophetic sign for Jesus Christ. That is why you read the whole chapter then a few verses down, there is reason why Jesus called Peter a Satan. We do not listen to man. Period. Now Jesus fulfilled ALL in ALL. We the believers of Jesus Christ's blood are even more powerful because we have the Holy Spirit. For 2,000 years we are led by man. We are at the end of grace whether you are old age close to death, with terminal illness, unavoidable or unfortunate accident to end our lives, or the so-called rapture. WE NEED ONLY LISTEN TO GOD
Imagine; if you can the God of the Universe and beyond time itself humbled to live; breathe and die as a man. He truly suffered as our High Priest; but didn't sin. ( 1 Peter 4:1-2; Hebrews 4:14-16). He was able to know the hearts of all men; hence didn't need to analyze whether they would be responsive or not to the Word and therefore spoke things in light of that based on whoever He was addressing. However; specific rebuke toward individuals was focused on His Disciples; most notably Peter with the famous statement "get behind me Satan." ( Matthew 16:23; Mark 8:33). This was shortly after His statement that Peter's understanding of His being the Son of God was only revealed from God ( Matthew 16:17). There was no misunderstanding in the demon world when they were cast out as to who Christ was. He therefore was operating in the Spirit realm; and based all His conversations and actions on those efforts.
There are unsaid things as well. When the deaf and dumb demon was cast out; Jesus told His disciples in the midst of others that prayer and fasting were necessary to carry out that particular deliverance ( Matthew 17:19-21). This would indicate Christ's preparation for that event along with other times He had reasons to be up well before dawn and late at night with prayer. Knowledge was not necessary but reliance on the Holy Spirit above; and trust in God throughout the process. Since He is our High Priest; he willingly gave up doing anything in His own Divinity so He could be an example of how we are to live trusting entirely on God in our limited state. He still needs to be seen because of having the "Spirit without measure" ( John 3:34). Not acting is as much an example of God's character as actions; when we see that Christ's Divinity would have allowed access to more than 12 legions of angels; which could undoubtably have destroyed everyone at the crucifixion.
The offices of the Godhead somehow operate in this manner; despite each member being God. The best way I can see this is that God the Father is not able ever to be in the presence of sin without judgment coming from Him directly. There had to be some separation therefore or when Christ died at the cross the whole universe would have ceased to exist the moment He was estranged for that instant from the Father. It would seem the Holy Spirit; since it came from Christ directly at Pentecost has always been the way the Omnipresent Godhead can be within His chosen vessels. Truly; there was always that presence in Old Testament times; as it will be in some ways in the future Tribulation and beyond but the ministry changes. The results of that can be seen contrasting the promises of Matthew 16:18 and the statements of the saints being overcome in Daniel 7:15 etal.
I am stating all this so that verse about the Son of Man not knowing the Day and hour of His return can be better understood.
Christ learning obedience in a self depreciating manner ( Heb. 5:8) while He took on the form of man with all the limitations so He could be our substitute in life and death in every way; being tempted as we are but without sin ( Heb. 4:15) is also unfathomable in our minds. Nonetheless; Christ alerted to us that He comes a day we don't expect. We should be aware of signs; not overcome by fear
I enjoyed your comments on this Holy Sabbath Day, and thanks for sharing!
I also observe many people in the world choosing to ignore Jesus Christ and His Gospel of the Kingdom. It is very sad to see the rejection, but it coincides with much of the scripture which tells us so many times that "few people will enter into God's Kingdom".
Matthew 22:14
"For many are called, but few are chosen."
Luke 13:23-24
"Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them," "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
Matthew 7:14
"Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
The emphasis coming directly from the mouth of Jesus saying "few there be that find it". If these bible verses don't move a Christian to "take notice" of themselves, nothing well.
Are we truly picking up our crosses and following Christ? Are we living our lives as part of this world? Jesus tells us that we can't do both!
Matthew 16:25
"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."
People need to take the bible to heart and NOT be lulled into thinking/believing they are (forever saved) while at the same time living their worldly lives.
Matthew 16:26
"For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?"
There are many false teachers, and preachers out there telling others that you can still live a worldly life and still have a "free ticket to heaven".
Any wonder why Jesus tells us over and over that FEW will be saved!
GB You
The BODY is only a vessel that holds THE LIFE OF GOD.
When the body DIES (the wages of sin is death: Romans 6:23) it returns to the dust from whence it came.
Ecclesiastes 3:20 ALL go unto one place; for all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again.
Job 34:15 ALL FLESH shall perish together and man shall turn again into dust.
Ecclesiastes 12:7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit (LIFE) shall return unto God who gave it.
Ephesians 4:4 ONE SPIRIT .....one LIFE
1 Corinthians 15:38 For God giveth it (the new creation, YOU, Christ resurrected) a body as it hath pleased him, and to every SEED his (Christ's) own BODY.
Ephesians 4:4 ONE BODY ....
HELL (Hades) is the grave, where men, the dust of the earth go.
The NEW MAN goes to the presence of God, the Father. as the BODY of Christ resurrected.
Ephesians 4:6 ONE GOD and FATHER OF ALL .......
Revelation 20:6 Blesses and HOLY is he (the new creation) who hath part in the FIRST RESURRECTION.
Matthew 16:24 .....DENY YOURSELF ......
Colossians 1:27 .....this mystery ......CHRIST IN YOU ..... you the body (of Christ).
John 17:21 That they (new creation) may be ONE, as thou Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they (new creation) may be ONE IN US ....
Revelation 12:2 And SHE (the church, Christ's bride) being with child (the new man) cried, travailing in BIRTH, and pained to BE DELIVERED.
Whosoever BELIEVES SHALL (at the death of this body of flesh) BE SAVED ....... DELIVERED.
May God give us eyes to see and ears to hear.
God BLESS.
Peter spoke the truth.
Matthew 16: Jesus said to Peter, "I will give unto thee the keys to the kingdom of heaven & whatever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven:& whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven".
Therefore Peter was NOT in error. I do not see where the Lord was angry w Peter about baptizm.
The epistles from Romans -Jude were written to the people that came from the book of Acts. The epistles are NOT written the the World. Obey the new testament salvation message then go forward into the epistles & continue to learn.
(Paul did water baptize some)
Let's address why wouldn't someone want to be Baptized? Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38, Acts 10:48, Acts 19:2-7, Romans 6:3-13,
Is it fear that keeps one from baptism? 1John 4:18, trust? Psalms 56:11, that person may possibly be about to ask another gentle close friend in the Body of Christ to be the person submersing with people of close relation in there nearby or helping, while the Church leader prays or recites scripture. I've seen many believers like youth outreach baptize with Pastor helping. Depending on the fellowship. Matthew 28:18-20,
If the reason is medical, or because of very difficult situation. Luke 23:38-46,
Matthew 10:33, 2Timothy 2:12, Matthew 16:24, Matthew 3:13-17,
Hopefully these are all helpful
On Luke 9:27.
The previous verse gives the period of time in which this takes place. Luke 9:26. For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, WHEN HE SHALL COME IN HIS OWN GLORY, AND IN HIS FATHER'S, AND OF THE HOLY ANGELS.
In the preceding verses
Luke 9:28-35. we see a GLIMPSE of Christ in his glory that is mentioned. Also Peter makes mention of this event in 2 Peter 1:16-18. For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount.
I believe this takes place at his second coming. Look at Matthew's account.
Matthew 16:27. For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; AND THEN HE SHALL REWARD EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS WORKS.
Revelation 22:12. And, behold, I come quickly; AND MY REWARD IS WITH ME, TO GIVE EVERY MAN ACCORDING AS HIS WORK SHALL BE.
I hope this helps,
God bless.
God is still on the throne, nothing gets by Him, He knows your situation. Psalm 46:1 Our Father may put on us more than we can bear, but not more than He can carry for us. God will never put more on you than you and Him can carry, together. "God is our refuge and strength; a very present help in trouble."
The Apostle Paul suffered from a condition the Bible doesn't reveal.
Romans 12:7-10
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
God bless you, Mike!