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."
Matthew 7:19 "Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire."
Romans 2:13 "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
John 5:29 "And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation."
One of my arguments against divorce and remarriage while a first spouse is alive is not only seen in the latter half of Matthew 5:32 (whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery); but is also represented in the vow made "for better or worse until death do us part" or something to that affect. Now some have a Pre-Nup that puts financial off ramps; shall we say if things go sour; but no one that I am aware of says "if my spouse commits adultery I can divorce them and marry another" as an exception clause in their vow that I am aware of.
As this is a subject of great debate and a hot topic I am merely going to use it as a building block to prove the cohesion of scripture in regard to conditional terms in relation to God's covenants. In general God is eternal in terms of covenants and binding things remain with the exception of the old covenant of laws with National Israel which the new covenant in Christ has replaced. I would recommend a study of Hebrews 9 on the subject in depth. I would also say that the great haitus as it were between Daniel 9:26-27 separating the 69 weeks from the final "week" of seven years of the Tribulation judgment and Antichrist rule. God still as I see it has plans to fulfill His plan for Israel; in short putting them through the fire in the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7); and establishing His rule fulfilling the complete expansion of their borders to originally promised areas (See Psalm 72:8; His dominion from "sea to sea".
Now in terms of this subject in particular we see lets say with a business covenant; for example man's conditions in a written contract that has terms of business transactions and provisions for any violations. There are varying "mission plans" that can be discussed but each party signs off that they understand and agree to these arrangements.
In the next post I plan to look at the church and similar concepts of responsibility of its members.
Good question, and thank you for the respectful tone. From a Mid-Acts dispensational view, the tension dissolves once we keep Israel's kingdom program distinct from the Body of Christ. In the Lord's earthly ministry and early Acts, the Twelve were sent to Israel with a priestly commission: preach the kingdom, call the nation to repent, and baptize the believing remnant ( Matt 28:19; Mark 16:15-18; Acts 2:38; 3:19-21). Water baptism there was covenantal identification and preparation for a promised priestly nation ( Exod 19:5-6), accompanied by signs ( Mark 16:17-18) seen functioning in Acts ( Acts 5:12-16).
But when Israel continued in unbelief, Christ revealed to Paul "the dispensation of the grace of God" and the previously hidden "mystery" ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). In this present dispensation, we are now saved by the gospel of Christ's cross and resurrection alone ( 1 Cor 15:1-4; Rom 3:24-28; 4:5; Eph 2:8-9). Entrance is by one Spirit baptizing us into one Body ( 1 Cor 12:13), hence Paul can say there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) and also, strikingly "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17).
What of the Lord's commands in Matthew and John? They stand true for the audience addressed. Matthew 5:18 affirms the Law's authority until all is fulfilled; Christ is its end for righteousness to everyone that believes ( Rom 10:4) and the Body is not under the Law ( Rom 6:14). John 14-15 speaks to kingdom disciples under the New Covenant promises to Israel ( Jer 31:31-34), about abiding in the Vine and keeping His commandments in that program.
Luke 18:17 highlights the posture of faith, not a ritual that secures salvation. Therefore, today water baptism is a good testimony, but it does not add to the finished cross-work nor effect salvation. The saving baptism in this age is the Spirit's, placing us in Christ the moment we believe.
"This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;"
Ezekiel 36:26
"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
Ezekiel 36:27
"And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them."
1 John 2:4
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."
Matthew 5:19
"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
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."
Matthew 7:19 "Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire."
Romans 2:13 "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
John 5:29 "And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation."
In Matthew 5:17 Jesus declared, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill." From a dispensational view this statement is vital. Christ, in His earthly ministry, ministered to Israel under the Law ( Gal. 4:4). His purpose was not to abolish the covenant given through Moses, but to complete it by perfectly keeping its righteous demands and fulfilling its types, shadows, and prophecies. The Law pointed forward to Him as the true sacrifice, the promised Messiah, and the One who alone could bring righteousness.
Yet, while Christ fulfilled the Law, this does not mean the believer in this present dispensation is under the Law. Paul makes clear: "For ye are not under the law, but under grace" ( Rom. 6:14). The cross was the great turning point. By His death, the handwriting of ordinances was taken out of the way ( Col. 2:14). Christ's fulfillment brought the Law to its intended end, so that righteousness is no longer sought through works of the Law, but by faith in His finished work.
For Israel, the Law remains tied to their covenantal relationship and will play a role in their future kingdom restoration ( Jer. 31:31). But for the Body of Christ today, the Law is fulfilled in Christ and we are placed into Him, accepted in the Beloved apart from Mosaic ordinances. Romans 10:4 sums it up: "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth." Thus Jesus fulfilled the Law in His earthly mission, and Paul reveals the dispensational truth that we now stand complete in Him, under grace, not Law.
But Paul goes on immediately in the next verse: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." ( Ephesians 2:10).
Works are not the root of salvation, but they are the fruit of salvation.
The Spirit of God produces love, service, and obedience in the believer's life ( Galatians 5:22-23; Titus 3:8).
Works are a demonstration of faith, not the basis of it.
The Right Perspective
Works should follow after salvation. But they do not secure salvation, nor do they keep it. They simply manifest the new life we already have in Christ ( 2 Corinthians 5:17).
We are not saved by good works, but we are saved unto good works.
"saved unto good works" is a short phrase with a lot of depth.
1. The Source of Salvation
When Paul says in Ephesians 2:8-9 that salvation is by grace through faith and not of works, he's setting the foundation:
We contribute nothing to earn salvation.
It's God's gift, given freely because of Christ's finished work on the cross.
2. The Purpose of Salvation
Right after that, Paul explains in Ephesians 2:10:
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
This means that once God saves us, He also equips us for a new kind of life - a life that reflects His grace, truth, and righteousness.
"Unto good works" means we are saved for the purpose of living out the good things God intended.
3. The Role of Good Works
Not the cause, but the result: Works don't save us, but they are the evidence that we are saved ( Romans 6:4; Titus 3:8).
Spirit-enabled, not self-made: The works are produced as the Spirit lives through us ( Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:13).
Witness to others: Good works demonstrate Christ's life in us to a watching world ( Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15).
The last question, are we saved by grace alone or Grace plus works?
Repentance: Part 3: Remaining salt and light until He comes
Matthew 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
Revelation 2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
In the latter reference; verse 4 talks about leaving our first love. Whether it is an individual implication (as in Matthew) or the church as a whole the concept is basically the same. The warnings could perhaps be a similar result; society at large overtakes any moral standard and we personally are unable to resist the forces of the world; flesh and the devil.
I will restate something I have mentioned previously; and that is there is a separation coming. There are ultimately those saved and lost or wheat and chaff; but time will make this clearly evident that which for the time being may be hidden. Among those who are saved currently many are asleep and compomised. I have seen the debate on whether a Christian can be possessed or merely oppressed. There is no need to get into all that but suffice to say that many are spiritually bound because of sin. We in the Body of Christ who sadly seem blind to much of what is happening seem to hardly ever speak of this issue today; no wonder we have a church like the Corinthians where many are sick and fallen asleep prematurely. This relates to my last post as to what others miss out on when the enemy has us distracted and back on the broad path once again. I don't really get it and wasn't even planning to get into this subject today; but shouldn't we ask ourselves why is it that prayer is almost always focused on physical illnesses and hardly ever on spiritual healing from demonic attacks to lift others up and for them to be set free?
"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 24:35
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
"But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?"
Matthew 5:19
"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
1 John 2:27
"But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him."
Day 27 January 27,2025 Matthew 5:14-16 KJV Being a Light West Angeles Church Consecration Calendar
I pray for boldness to reflect God's love and truth to others.
Matthew 5:14 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Jesus Christ is life on earth how to live John 8:12 KJV
God's word la has to be done to all the world.
Matthew 5:15 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY :
" To believe in Jesus Christ laws, rule amd rules to get what you want. To believe when you die you will go to heaven and not he'll. 1 Corinthians 15:34 KJV Romans 10:10 KJV
Jesus Christ is power and effectual. Example House of Prayer Luke 19:46 KJV. Candles lighted by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I believe and God has done for me Ephesians 6:15 KJV giving me peace.
Offered your heart to God. God wants you to be married.
Words you say and believe to actions to be and get reality.
Ways you can be and get what you want-reality. are listen to God's voice amd word to obey, follow, "do it" in speaking , actions, attention of communications.
Example liked by God and preferred by Christian Church named titled disciple.
Disciple definition-Showing the holy bible as life.
Matthew 5:16 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Light shine can also be the revelation of Jesus Christ given to youAlways performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, hope, love.". 1 John 1:2 KJV
I have working history of evangelism street outreach , open Leading Pulpit Prayer hour at Christian Church, Open Teaching Sunday School and Mid-Week bible study service showing Jesus Christ Is God written material inviting men Romans 10:9-10 KJV to all religions-Principle holy. Minister - John 1:14 and with accounting.
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
To properly understand we must always consider the source and the primary audience (Jews) at the Sermon on the Mount.
Summarized from a Creative Commons source, Baruch Korman:
We are familiar with salt to enhance taste and to preserve food. The meaning here is taken from it being forbidden to eat blood ( Genesis 9:4; Leviticus 3:17). After slaughter and hanging the meat to drain, it was salted to draw out the remaining blood. Once it was used it no longer would work and was thrown out. Likewise, being the "the salt of the earth" we have been given a purpose and if we do not serve the LORD of what use are we?
"Why should ye be stricken any more? Ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint."
This and much of the rest of this chapter discusses the state of Israel and the inevitable judgments to come; not only for them but all the nations of the world. This "domino" effect certainly is soon to come as first in the present time the church is being judged first ( 1 Peter 4:17); then the Jews as Romans 2:9 indicates Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;. This theme; of course is repeated in Revelation and other O.T. prophecies regarding the Apocalypse.
James 4:4 and many other passages indicate our enmity with God or the word enemies which is basically the same concept. This of course is the reason the world is hostile and dangerous; and by and large God's children are eventually directly targeted.
This answers the ultimate issue or causation of today's worldwide geopolitical situation which seems a hair's breath from Armageddon.
Now of course the enemy of our souls is the ultimate chess strategist and has set up kings along with corresponding powers and principalities ( Ephesians 6) to be in position for his endgame plan which God will allow so it is going to happen. God ultimately; of course will draw all nations to the valley of Meddigo to ostensively fight one another but then turn to fight Christ. This is the truth and we have to accept it. It is also the case that every day souls are perishing; some to heaven others not.
This isn't a path we can navigate apart from the Spirit of God. I realize these are general concepts here and perhaps not necessary for many. I would make another general statement here that it is clear from scripture that some are saved and others not but losing one's salvation isn't possible. The caveat here is that we know ( Romans 8:16) if we are saved.
There is a lot I would like to say or could say but I want to share some general scriptural principles in order to; hopefully keep us all balanced and on the straight and narrow. With a plethora of issues comes the inevitable siding from one camp to another; whether it is Israel vs. Palestine (or what is called that); Democrats vs. Republicans; Ukraine vs. Russia or other issues there is always danger in making hasty judgments and decisions based on impartial or biased information and or reporting.
Many times God works in given situations; whether the results of actions of men or nations; whether wrong or right. What is relevant today is crucial to take action and pray presently; anticipating the future or holding onto the past isn't going to be able to deal with reality n the ground at present. Everyone wants to justify their own actions or that of others; but clearly on this site and the life of any truly saved individual it is only His righteousness that is truly important. We certainly need to be cautious not to be influenced by those who are feeding us information and if we have any important status we can't let money or influence skew our decision making. James 4:2 states: Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Now our thoughts and imaginations can wish harm on our enemies or we can literally act out and attempt to justify our actions. Loving our enemies is against all sides in the worldly sense as it is a concept that no philosophy can master. We can look to humanism and blindly hold to men being naturally or by default good hearted; but without the Spirit that so called love will quickly go from tolerance to intolerance and outright anarchy and rebellion.
Matthew 5:9 says blessed are the peacemakers. For them to be called sons of God they must be victorious over the world and not stoop down to the tactics of the enemy.
Hi Debby. In Greek, the word, 'ptochos', means 'one in poverty, destitute'. But in the sense that Jesus speaks in Matthew 5:3, He qualifies this poverty as being experienced, not of a lack in money or goods, but in one's spirit. So, as a beggar has nothing of worth in his possession, the one who is poor in spirit, is one whose spirit has been completely broken & impoverished; he has nothing to live for. Such a one, Jesus says, 'though he is broken and worthless through no fault of his own, he can look forward with joy to being blessed in God's future Kingdom.'
And this poverty also aligns with the account Jesus gave in Luke 16:19-31, where the (physically) poor man Lazarus who probably died a miserable, lonely death, enjoyed the comforts of Paradise, whereas the rich man who gave no thought for others, suffered in excruciating pain. How do these two accounts compare to what Jesus also speaks about: to the New Birth ( John 3:3), of the repenting broken publican and the self-righteous Pharisee ( Luke 18:10-14), or even the publican Zaccheus who under conviction, changed his sinful behavior ( Luke 19:1-10)? All these accounts, including Matthew 5:3, were given by Jesus to those of Israel still under the Old Covenant of the Law. And the Law required that people dealt righteously with one another, looking out for his brother in need ( Deuteronomy 15:7,8) and not to steal from another ( Leviticus 19:11). Jesus not only reminded them of the Law but that (in the case of Nicodemus, John 3:3), that man would need to be born again by the Holy Spirit. This could only happen after Jesus' Death and Resurrection and the giving of His Spirit to all who would believe on Him. Nicodemus should have known about this ( John 3:9,10, cf Ezekiel 11:19,20, Ezekiel 36:26,27).
So the 'poor in spirit' (as the other Beatitudes) are a reflection of this new nature, bringing out the qualities in a believer, that come from a new revived spirit in him, given by God's Spirit under the New Covenant.
Why "poor in spirit"? What does it mean to be poor in spirit? I cannot deeply understand the meaning in Greek. On some sites it is said to mean "wind," as in being inflated, while other sites say it means "extreme poverty, total dependence." ( Matthew 5:3-9)
Thank you so very much for your kind, encouraging words and the citations of the precious Scripture. I am happy to report our daughter has been sleeping better ever since I posted the prayer request here. As a result, she is functioning better during the day as well. To others, this may not seem much but to us it is a big deal. Challenges abound in caring for a daughter like ours; nonetheless, I am truly grateful to God who has given us the strength to soldier on. May His Peace and Grace abide in each of my brothers and sisters who shows mercy and offers sincere and earnest prayers to Him on behalf of those such as ourselves that always wait upon His help and guidance. Matthew 5:7. I want you to know that your care and timely prayer remind me of the miracles throughout the Bible. I shall continue to try my best to remember I have the best example in our Lord and savior to look up to for inspirations and comfort. The change we saw in our daughter these past two days can also be considered unusual and miraculous since I can't recall we have done anything different from our usual efforts every day and night. Thanks to His favor in answering our prayers, may our daughter learn well how to live for Him and honor Him.
Peace be with you. How are you feeling? Are you getting better?
I've been keeping you in constant prayer - truly.
And believe me when I say: it has also been something that's deeply blessed me, even though I'm praying for someone I haven't met in person yet.
The Bible encourages us to pray for everyone - not only for friends, family, or people we know.
It speaks about praying for all men ( 1 Timothy 2:1), for those who suffer ( Hebrews 13:3), for those who persecute us ( Matthew 5:44), and also for the whole church - even if we've never seen each person ( Ephesians 6:18).
So, even without knowing you personally, I keep praying.
There is a purpose in this.
When something changes, don't forget to share.
Knowing that helps me feel that this time of intercession is not in vain - not at all.
"The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."
Matthew 5:4
"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."
Isaiah 41:10
"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
Matthew 7:19 "Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire."
Romans 2:13 "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
John 5:29 "And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation."
Blessings
One of my arguments against divorce and remarriage while a first spouse is alive is not only seen in the latter half of Matthew 5:32 (whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery); but is also represented in the vow made "for better or worse until death do us part" or something to that affect. Now some have a Pre-Nup that puts financial off ramps; shall we say if things go sour; but no one that I am aware of says "if my spouse commits adultery I can divorce them and marry another" as an exception clause in their vow that I am aware of.
As this is a subject of great debate and a hot topic I am merely going to use it as a building block to prove the cohesion of scripture in regard to conditional terms in relation to God's covenants. In general God is eternal in terms of covenants and binding things remain with the exception of the old covenant of laws with National Israel which the new covenant in Christ has replaced. I would recommend a study of Hebrews 9 on the subject in depth. I would also say that the great haitus as it were between Daniel 9:26-27 separating the 69 weeks from the final "week" of seven years of the Tribulation judgment and Antichrist rule. God still as I see it has plans to fulfill His plan for Israel; in short putting them through the fire in the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7); and establishing His rule fulfilling the complete expansion of their borders to originally promised areas (See Psalm 72:8; His dominion from "sea to sea".
Now in terms of this subject in particular we see lets say with a business covenant; for example man's conditions in a written contract that has terms of business transactions and provisions for any violations. There are varying "mission plans" that can be discussed but each party signs off that they understand and agree to these arrangements.
In the next post I plan to look at the church and similar concepts of responsibility of its members.
Titus 3:14 "And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful."
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."
James 2:24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Blessings
But when Israel continued in unbelief, Christ revealed to Paul "the dispensation of the grace of God" and the previously hidden "mystery" ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). In this present dispensation, we are now saved by the gospel of Christ's cross and resurrection alone ( 1 Cor 15:1-4; Rom 3:24-28; 4:5; Eph 2:8-9). Entrance is by one Spirit baptizing us into one Body ( 1 Cor 12:13), hence Paul can say there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) and also, strikingly "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17).
What of the Lord's commands in Matthew and John? They stand true for the audience addressed. Matthew 5:18 affirms the Law's authority until all is fulfilled; Christ is its end for righteousness to everyone that believes ( Rom 10:4) and the Body is not under the Law ( Rom 6:14). John 14-15 speaks to kingdom disciples under the New Covenant promises to Israel ( Jer 31:31-34), about abiding in the Vine and keeping His commandments in that program.
Luke 18:17 highlights the posture of faith, not a ritual that secures salvation. Therefore, today water baptism is a good testimony, but it does not add to the finished cross-work nor effect salvation. The saving baptism in this age is the Spirit's, placing us in Christ the moment we believe.
Grace and Peace.
Titus 3:14 "And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful."
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."
James 2:24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Blessings
Romans 2:13
"(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
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."
Blessings
"This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;"
Ezekiel 36:26
"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
Ezekiel 36:27
"And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them."
1 John 2:4
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."
Matthew 5:19
"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
Blessings
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."
Matthew 7:19 "Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire."
Romans 2:13 "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
John 5:29 "And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation."
Blessings
Yet, while Christ fulfilled the Law, this does not mean the believer in this present dispensation is under the Law. Paul makes clear: "For ye are not under the law, but under grace" ( Rom. 6:14). The cross was the great turning point. By His death, the handwriting of ordinances was taken out of the way ( Col. 2:14). Christ's fulfillment brought the Law to its intended end, so that righteousness is no longer sought through works of the Law, but by faith in His finished work.
For Israel, the Law remains tied to their covenantal relationship and will play a role in their future kingdom restoration ( Jer. 31:31). But for the Body of Christ today, the Law is fulfilled in Christ and we are placed into Him, accepted in the Beloved apart from Mosaic ordinances. Romans 10:4 sums it up: "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth." Thus Jesus fulfilled the Law in His earthly mission, and Paul reveals the dispensational truth that we now stand complete in Him, under grace, not Law.
Grace and Peace
Works Come After Salvation
But Paul goes on immediately in the next verse: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." ( Ephesians 2:10).
Works are not the root of salvation, but they are the fruit of salvation.
The Spirit of God produces love, service, and obedience in the believer's life ( Galatians 5:22-23; Titus 3:8).
Works are a demonstration of faith, not the basis of it.
The Right Perspective
Works should follow after salvation. But they do not secure salvation, nor do they keep it. They simply manifest the new life we already have in Christ ( 2 Corinthians 5:17).
We are not saved by good works, but we are saved unto good works.
"saved unto good works" is a short phrase with a lot of depth.
1. The Source of Salvation
When Paul says in Ephesians 2:8-9 that salvation is by grace through faith and not of works, he's setting the foundation:
We contribute nothing to earn salvation.
It's God's gift, given freely because of Christ's finished work on the cross.
2. The Purpose of Salvation
Right after that, Paul explains in Ephesians 2:10:
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
This means that once God saves us, He also equips us for a new kind of life - a life that reflects His grace, truth, and righteousness.
"Unto good works" means we are saved for the purpose of living out the good things God intended.
3. The Role of Good Works
Not the cause, but the result: Works don't save us, but they are the evidence that we are saved ( Romans 6:4; Titus 3:8).
Spirit-enabled, not self-made: The works are produced as the Spirit lives through us ( Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:13).
Witness to others: Good works demonstrate Christ's life in us to a watching world ( Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15).
The last question, are we saved by grace alone or Grace plus works?
G&P
Titus 3:14 "And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful."
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."
James 2:24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Blessings
Matthew 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
Revelation 2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
In the latter reference; verse 4 talks about leaving our first love. Whether it is an individual implication (as in Matthew) or the church as a whole the concept is basically the same. The warnings could perhaps be a similar result; society at large overtakes any moral standard and we personally are unable to resist the forces of the world; flesh and the devil.
I will restate something I have mentioned previously; and that is there is a separation coming. There are ultimately those saved and lost or wheat and chaff; but time will make this clearly evident that which for the time being may be hidden. Among those who are saved currently many are asleep and compomised. I have seen the debate on whether a Christian can be possessed or merely oppressed. There is no need to get into all that but suffice to say that many are spiritually bound because of sin. We in the Body of Christ who sadly seem blind to much of what is happening seem to hardly ever speak of this issue today; no wonder we have a church like the Corinthians where many are sick and fallen asleep prematurely. This relates to my last post as to what others miss out on when the enemy has us distracted and back on the broad path once again. I don't really get it and wasn't even planning to get into this subject today; but shouldn't we ask ourselves why is it that prayer is almost always focused on physical illnesses and hardly ever on spiritual healing from demonic attacks to lift others up and for them to be set free?
Matthew 5:6
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled."
Blessings
Romans 2:13
"(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
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."
Blessings
Revelation 21:1
"And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea."
Matthew 5:3
"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 5:5
"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth."
Blessing's
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled."
Blessings
"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 24:35
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
Blessings
Matthew 15:3
"But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?"
Matthew 5:19
"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
1 John 2:27
"But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him."
Blessings
I pray for boldness to reflect God's love and truth to others.
Matthew 5:14 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Jesus Christ is life on earth how to live John 8:12 KJV
God's word la has to be done to all the world.
Matthew 5:15 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY :
" To believe in Jesus Christ laws, rule amd rules to get what you want. To believe when you die you will go to heaven and not he'll. 1 Corinthians 15:34 KJV Romans 10:10 KJV
Jesus Christ is power and effectual. Example House of Prayer Luke 19:46 KJV. Candles lighted by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I believe and God has done for me Ephesians 6:15 KJV giving me peace.
Offered your heart to God. God wants you to be married.
Words you say and believe to actions to be and get reality.
Ways you can be and get what you want-reality. are listen to God's voice amd word to obey, follow, "do it" in speaking , actions, attention of communications.
Example liked by God and preferred by Christian Church named titled disciple.
Disciple definition-Showing the holy bible as life.
Matthew 5:16 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Light shine can also be the revelation of Jesus Christ given to youAlways performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, hope, love.". 1 John 1:2 KJV
I have working history of evangelism street outreach , open Leading Pulpit Prayer hour at Christian Church, Open Teaching Sunday School and Mid-Week bible study service showing Jesus Christ Is God written material inviting men Romans 10:9-10 KJV to all religions-Principle holy. Minister - John 1:14 and with accounting.
Word Spoken and Written by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
Blessins
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
To properly understand we must always consider the source and the primary audience (Jews) at the Sermon on the Mount.
Summarized from a Creative Commons source, Baruch Korman:
We are familiar with salt to enhance taste and to preserve food. The meaning here is taken from it being forbidden to eat blood ( Genesis 9:4; Leviticus 3:17). After slaughter and hanging the meat to drain, it was salted to draw out the remaining blood. Once it was used it no longer would work and was thrown out. Likewise, being the "the salt of the earth" we have been given a purpose and if we do not serve the LORD of what use are we?
Isaiah 1:5 says
"Why should ye be stricken any more? Ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint."
This and much of the rest of this chapter discusses the state of Israel and the inevitable judgments to come; not only for them but all the nations of the world. This "domino" effect certainly is soon to come as first in the present time the church is being judged first ( 1 Peter 4:17); then the Jews as Romans 2:9 indicates Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;. This theme; of course is repeated in Revelation and other O.T. prophecies regarding the Apocalypse.
James 4:4 and many other passages indicate our enmity with God or the word enemies which is basically the same concept. This of course is the reason the world is hostile and dangerous; and by and large God's children are eventually directly targeted.
This answers the ultimate issue or causation of today's worldwide geopolitical situation which seems a hair's breath from Armageddon.
Now of course the enemy of our souls is the ultimate chess strategist and has set up kings along with corresponding powers and principalities ( Ephesians 6) to be in position for his endgame plan which God will allow so it is going to happen. God ultimately; of course will draw all nations to the valley of Meddigo to ostensively fight one another but then turn to fight Christ. This is the truth and we have to accept it. It is also the case that every day souls are perishing; some to heaven others not.
This isn't a path we can navigate apart from the Spirit of God. I realize these are general concepts here and perhaps not necessary for many. I would make another general statement here that it is clear from scripture that some are saved and others not but losing one's salvation isn't possible. The caveat here is that we know ( Romans 8:16) if we are saved.
There is a lot I would like to say or could say but I want to share some general scriptural principles in order to; hopefully keep us all balanced and on the straight and narrow. With a plethora of issues comes the inevitable siding from one camp to another; whether it is Israel vs. Palestine (or what is called that); Democrats vs. Republicans; Ukraine vs. Russia or other issues there is always danger in making hasty judgments and decisions based on impartial or biased information and or reporting.
Many times God works in given situations; whether the results of actions of men or nations; whether wrong or right. What is relevant today is crucial to take action and pray presently; anticipating the future or holding onto the past isn't going to be able to deal with reality n the ground at present. Everyone wants to justify their own actions or that of others; but clearly on this site and the life of any truly saved individual it is only His righteousness that is truly important. We certainly need to be cautious not to be influenced by those who are feeding us information and if we have any important status we can't let money or influence skew our decision making. James 4:2 states: Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Now our thoughts and imaginations can wish harm on our enemies or we can literally act out and attempt to justify our actions. Loving our enemies is against all sides in the worldly sense as it is a concept that no philosophy can master. We can look to humanism and blindly hold to men being naturally or by default good hearted; but without the Spirit that so called love will quickly go from tolerance to intolerance and outright anarchy and rebellion.
Matthew 5:9 says blessed are the peacemakers. For them to be called sons of God they must be victorious over the world and not stoop down to the tactics of the enemy.
And this poverty also aligns with the account Jesus gave in Luke 16:19-31, where the (physically) poor man Lazarus who probably died a miserable, lonely death, enjoyed the comforts of Paradise, whereas the rich man who gave no thought for others, suffered in excruciating pain. How do these two accounts compare to what Jesus also speaks about: to the New Birth ( John 3:3), of the repenting broken publican and the self-righteous Pharisee ( Luke 18:10-14), or even the publican Zaccheus who under conviction, changed his sinful behavior ( Luke 19:1-10)? All these accounts, including Matthew 5:3, were given by Jesus to those of Israel still under the Old Covenant of the Law. And the Law required that people dealt righteously with one another, looking out for his brother in need ( Deuteronomy 15:7,8) and not to steal from another ( Leviticus 19:11). Jesus not only reminded them of the Law but that (in the case of Nicodemus, John 3:3), that man would need to be born again by the Holy Spirit. This could only happen after Jesus' Death and Resurrection and the giving of His Spirit to all who would believe on Him. Nicodemus should have known about this ( John 3:9,10, cf Ezekiel 11:19,20, Ezekiel 36:26,27).
So the 'poor in spirit' (as the other Beatitudes) are a reflection of this new nature, bringing out the qualities in a believer, that come from a new revived spirit in him, given by God's Spirit under the New Covenant.
Romans 2:13
"(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
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."
Blessings
Peace be with you. How are you feeling? Are you getting better?
I've been keeping you in constant prayer - truly.
And believe me when I say: it has also been something that's deeply blessed me, even though I'm praying for someone I haven't met in person yet.
The Bible encourages us to pray for everyone - not only for friends, family, or people we know.
It speaks about praying for all men ( 1 Timothy 2:1), for those who suffer ( Hebrews 13:3), for those who persecute us ( Matthew 5:44), and also for the whole church - even if we've never seen each person ( Ephesians 6:18).
So, even without knowing you personally, I keep praying.
There is a purpose in this.
When something changes, don't forget to share.
Knowing that helps me feel that this time of intercession is not in vain - not at all.
"Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."
Titus 2:12
"Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
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."
Blessings
"The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."
Matthew 5:4
"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."
Isaiah 41:10
"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
Blessings