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."
You're right, I had to edit the writing by adding the spacing, conjunctions, caps, ect.
I used voice typing and it left me with a little work to do.
Spurgeon quotes Matthew 7:22-23 in his writing as a warning that many will have said to them!
" Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
Verse 23 is the crux of the matter and sums up the purpose of the letter.
Vs 23) And then will I profess unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
These people thought they was a shoo in into heaven!
The Lord said he "NEVER" knew them!
They never recieved Christ!
They were deceived.
This is not speaking of those who strayed or those who are babes in Christ.
This is speaking of those who were deceived by the trust they had in the works of their own hands!
Good morning. I'm not usually the most bright eyed "bushy tailed" specimen on the planet; but the joy of the Lord is my strength ( Nehemiah 8:10).
I thought I would say in general right out of the gate as it were that it isn't focusing on evil or warnings of God constantly that I want to pummel people with. We are generally instructed to rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ( Romans 12:15). It is simply for those already saved; sealed and being sanctified we need to hear the bad news just like we do before we are saved; not as to our eternal state being in jeopardy (if truly saved) but in terms of the opposition we should expect as faithful servants of the King of Kings.
A particular issue I have brought up recently illustrates what is a common practice; people have their opinions and ideas which they often put above scripture as a first response. I'd rather have a disagreement based on a study of God's Word than such presuppositions; I put case in point the remarriage issue; but we could no doubt expand it to anything. Give covetousness. Ephesians 5:5 says this: For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Notice that someone covetous is involved with idolatry; whether it a narcissistic worship of self or self-aggrandizement of those promoting a double standard with the lifestyle of a Pastor; for instance. And that is a major issue: the lifestyle a person displays (you know them by their fruits) ( Matthew 7:16). The policy for discipline of a person in the local church congregation is not indicative of complete foreknowledge of whether someone truly will repent; but if one is saved the Lord will use such discipline to correct; and in any case we are in that sense to act as shepherds over a flock if in leadership and hopefully jealous for His Name's sake that others won't be led astray.
I am writing this partly because of a recent experience visiting a new church where the issue seems muddled as to a firm stance on the subject. We face the extreme of two parameters; either giving no one any assurance that they can hold onto hope of His promises to that effect; or conversely a hypergrace mentality which basically ignores testing our faith and seeing if we are producing fruit; being chastised by God etc.
I am greatly burdened with this presentation. It isn't the first time I have mentioned it here but it is such a fundamental issue that it seems necessary to regularly reexamine. I experienced this issue way back in college when a young lady who seemed to be filled with the joy of the Spirit was terrified when someone mentioned that she couldn't be assured of salvation. It is at best an affront to the Spirit here. We are said to "know them by their fruits". Such a statement could be like telling a child that their parents may not always recognize or adore them. But such statements take discernment from the speaker to the recipient; Jesus had a vastly different message for instance to the woman at the well and other notorious "sinners" and the Pharisees.
The other extreme is assuming we can hold onto a grace that is cheapened by lack of obedience, fear of the Lord and a lifestyle of holiness. God is not mocked; we reap what we sow. Therefore in the end we all must agree that He will save all He chooses to save and all who are in hell will have no viable excuse for why they don't belong there. Or; let God be true and every man a liar.
Matthew 7:24-26
24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And the opposite fate for those building on the sand as foundation.
In Matthew 19:16-30 the story of that rich young man who came to Jesus is described.
The young man goes to Jesus and asks Him a question "... Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Jesus answers back saying something strange, "... if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments..." It is strange because He should had led the young man to Himself, not to the Law. Why did He do that? We see the reason for that from what the young man said, "All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?". The young man feels that although he had done all those since he was a kid he still feels he is lacking. Then Jesus gives him the solution and draws him to Himself. Jesus said unto him, "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: AND COME AND FOLLOW ME."
BUT, there is always a "but". The "but" is that that guy should give all his possesions to the poor first. This is the narrow gate that we must enter when we believe in Christ in order to come to the narrow path which leads to heaven. Matthew 7:13-14, "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
There is always a narrow gate which one should pass through when coming to Christ. For that young man that was his riches. For me it is something else, for you it is something else, for him/her something else. There is always something in our lives that we must leave behind if we want to follow Jesus. It may be riches, maybe a specific way iof living, passions, ambitions, friends, relatives, maybe a career in a field that is inconsistent with our faith, anything really that could be an obstacle on our way to Heaven.
Was Paul preaching a different gospel than the other apostles?
1 Cor 15:1-11
V1-2. 1Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
...
V8-9. 8And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. 9For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
...
V11.Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.
If you read the whole paragraph carefully you will get an answer to your question.
Finally James addresses his epistle to all those of the twelve tribes who have already believed in Christ, giving advices on how to live their christian lives properly. He is not addressing it to non-believers. If he did then there would be no need to include his epislte into the New Testament. Similarly Paul addresses his epistle to Hebrews to Hebrew believers, trying to make a connection between OT and NT. That was the main problem for the Jew born christians at that time who struggled to bridge Moses with Christ.
Works or Grace? Works reveal a true faith. True faith means a "working" faith. That is a working christian life. Which produces works of faith. If those don't exist then that faith is considered as a dead faith. Because it doesn't save. Simply because it means that a person who believed and was saved by Christ is not willing to obey God's commandments and consequently he is unwilling to change (as an example see the parable of the Sower, 3rd case)
Matthew 7:21, "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in 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."
Brother Jesse has provided Scriptures to consider on this matter. I could offer Scriptures that would debate these points, but that would not answer your questions. This doctrine originated in 325 A.D. and was expanded over the next 150 years or so. You need to pray and study for your own conscience.
The majority support this doctrine, and some believe it is essential to be a Christian. Jesus is our Lord, and He gave His life to pay the penalty for sin so that we, through Him, can be reconciled to God. The wages of sin are death, Romans 6:23. Jesus' death on the cross paid this price.
Jesus had His own will, but was obedient and did the will of the Father, John 14:31, Luke 22:42, John 5:30, John 17:16, John 12:49.
The Chalcedonian Creed A.D. 451 states, "Christ, Son, Lord, only begotten, to be acknowledged in two natures, in confusedly, unchangeably, indivisibly, inseparably; the distinction of nature's being by no means taken away by the union, but rather the property of each nature being preserved." Does Scripture support this?
God alone possesses immortality, 1 Timothy 6:16. Our faith rests on the death and resurrection of Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 1 Corinthians 15:12-17. God cannot die. Jesus was tempted in the same ways we are, Hebrews 4:14-16. God cannot be tempted, James 1:13.
The Bible will answer all questions we have if we are ready to receive the answer, Matthew 7:7, James 1:5, with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit-not man.
If God only chose a few how can you be sure you're one of them being that it has nothing to do with faith or the foreknowledge of God?
Never mind those who reject God all together. We know their fate.
The bible has a lot to say about being deceived.
When examining Matthew 7:13-23 we see a call to enter in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Why are you told to follow the straight and narrow gate if you have not the ability to see it.
And how would you know you are not on the gate that leads to destruction?
Is it because your works?
Look at verses 21-23. "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
The scripture says "Ye shall know them by their fruits and God giving faith "The faith of Christ" is a fruit of the spirit and is given to believers by the Holyspirit being in them. This is baptism by the Holyspirit and it comes after one is saved.
John 7:37-39 sums it up. "In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
We are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world by the foreknowledge of God.
Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
James 1:22 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
Matthew 7:21 "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my 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."
Romans 11:22 "Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off."
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Revelation 22:14 "Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
The profound mystery is that all men are born once into this world but not all are born again by the Spirit of God.
Jesus said to the Pharisees what is also found in Isaiah 6:10 and numerous other scriptures namely:
Make the heart of this people dull, and their ears heavy, and blind their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed."
Now what we do interpret with our five senses our minds can accept with sound impartial reasoning. Hebrews 11:1 says Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. In John 10:38 Jesus responds to the Pharisees thusly:
But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.
This rationale apparently wasn't sufficient for those who would accuse Christ of blasphemy since only God could forgive sins; and this was the unforgiveable sin as the power Christ wielded such as healing the blind no man had been able to do even with God's power in the Old Testament. This is tantamount to Satan himself for he is going to seek worship of the whole world through his Antichrist beast and that has always been his ultimate goal. The enemy of our souls probably gets a perverse pleasure in damning other souls (although his oaths and bondage aren't sufficent to trap anyone God doesn't allow or is predestined for salvation). Since he's going to be suffering and only thinking of his own misery in judgment to come his real joy is seeing further rebellion against God and establishing his own kingdom with his powers and principalities working under him.
We might compare a tare; for instance to an AI of someone. Let me point out in the verse you shall know them by their fruits ( Matthew 7:16-20) means we should exhort one another. In general someone uninterested in challenges or suggestions for growth isn't producing fruit; and vice versa.
"Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ."
Matthew 7:15
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
Matthew 7:16
"Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?"
Matthew 24:35
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
Blessings to you. My thoughts on this topic are below:
"If there is one command that we are to follow that would be sufficient and acceptable to God, it would be..."
God's Word has many commands to follow, not just a la carte. Jesus says what the greatest commandment is and it's not that one. If you're saying only one of God's commands are acceptable to God that's like saying God wants you to ignore what HE says. That doesn't make sense. Of course we're to obey all of God's moral commands.
"I am saved no matter what."
That is not what Paul means by having assurance of salvation. God favors the meek, humble, pure in heart. Proverbs 16:18, Matthew 7:21, Proverbs 22:4, James 4:10, Matthew 12:32, 1 Peter 1:5
"The command to follow Him means 24/7, not when we choose to do so or not do so."
Or else, does anything happen or not? Some believe obedience is only a suggestion and optional, like tipping. James 1:21 to the end explains it well.
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Hi Pandakraft. You can check out the following Bible passages: Matthew 7:1-5; Luke 6:37; John 7:24 (when we do have to make a judgement, it needs to be done righteously, i.e. correctly considering the whole matter without being censorious. See also 1 Corinthians 6:1-5 for judgement in the Church); Romans 14:1-13; 1 Corinthians 4:3-5; Colossians 2:16,17; James 4:11,12.
e. (cont'd). This judgement for believers would be some time after our death or at the rapture (the snatching away) of those in Christ.
f. The Bible doesn't speak of the judgement of animals, as animals are outside the scope of sin, the sin nature, and God's Commands. The fact that some animals can be quite ferocious and suffer ills as we do, is simply because of the effects of sin that has permeated all of creation. Humans made in God's Image, though we're now horribly marred, are the ones in desperate need for forgiveness & redemption. But in that coming day, when the new heavens & Earth are created, all of God's creation will be pure & holy - Satan & his devils bound for eternity.
g. As stated earlier, all sins are despicable to God & worthy of punishment. And that punishment is hell, or more specifically, the Lake of Fire ( Revelation 20:10-15). All sinners, whether the most evil & violent among them or even those who have done some wrong in their lives (& that's all of us), or even those who have shown disdain to the salvation of God, all these will suffer in hell. Only two ways for mankind to go: Matthew 7:13,14, the narrow (strait) gate leading to eternal life, or the wide gate to eternal destruction - no middle ground (or gate).
Hope I've answered your questions, though briefly. People read & understand the Bible in different ways. As you read it prayerfully, allow the Holy Spirit to reveal all that you need to understand & act upon. Blessings.
You will know them by their fruits (see Matthew 7:15-16). These verses demonstrate false prophets and true with this distinction.
Let me say that it seems there is sufficient evidence that God does speak on occasion to individual servants. A person may receive a message but must avoid expecting experiences over service to God; fellowship with the saints and other things that giftings are supposed to do to edify the body of Christ. There are those who display much emotion; angst; and other emotions who are longwinded and oftentimes these are women. Indeed it seems probably 4 out of 5 that have messages are women. I tend to listen to those who are married and who have solid scriptural teaching in church; although due to some specific situations I have made exceptions if it is apparent there is no nearby fellowship where good doctrine is preached.
I will also state that sometimes God uses someone who preaches some truths even when later on it turns out they are preaching falsehood on particular doctrines. This has been a particular issue of late where a lengthy statement or proclamation is made that contains truth and no apparent error. There is a boundary as to women preaching at least as the scripture states where they are not to have authority over a man. This is why at least a husband in the faith or others should bring a balanced perspective.
As to within church walls; things like God's chastisement of those He loves; mandatory suffering for all true believers and other admonitions are often given a deaf ear. Someone actually delivering truth could be forced out and shouldn't stay somewhere that people want their ears tickled. Again it is hard for those with true discernment to find a place in ministry today; but we all need more of them in my humble opinion.
The easiest conclusion here is to admonish everyone to read the Word more and be looking up ( Romans 13:11) for His coming is very near.
I just finished praying you. My sister in Christ, you'll be alright, just don't lose the faith in God/Jesus/Holy Spirit.
Feeling very fatigued at times is not only just "life" as many have experienced, but it's also apart of this "narrow way" if we decide to chose to follow Jesus Christ ( Matthew 7:14). There are a number of things that could be the reason(s) of your current grievous situation (i.e. past and/or present sins, lack of faith in God's word, God could be testing/proving you, unforgiveness in your heart toward others, ect.). The more you seek God Almighty and Jesus Christ and fully surrender to God/Jesus, in time you'll be able to identify the root of the problems/issues in your life. After which, you'll find in God's word what specific action (solution) to proceed with.
When it comes to personal personal relationships, some people are meant to be in your life temporarily; Some are meant to remain in your life for a lifetime. Choose wisely on the company that you keep ( 2 Corinthians 6:14). Stop entertaining the negative/wicked people, thoughts in your mind and the feelings you have about not being dependable for people...it's all LIES and DECEIT of our adversary ( John 8:44). Focus ALL of your energy to God ( Matthew 6:33). FYI: After reading your prayer request, I can relate to your circumstances more than you know. What you're going through right now is temporary. I know it's extremely tough, but keep on pressing and don't quit. Endure to the end!
With God with you, you can't go wrong.... "What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31 KJV
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV
Over the years we have had several people come on the site with various techniques and beliefs in spiritualizing all the scripture so Bennymkje way of deception is not anything new.
I've also encountered people off site.
This is not your mere misinterpretation of the word of God or lack of understanding.
This is demonic!
Anyone who does this and attacks the body of Christ is not a sheep.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHRISTIAN TEACHER.
AGAPE, patience, humility, and a passion for helping students learn and grow, both academically and spiritually.
IT'S CALLED FRUIT.
You can't generate this on your own.
You have to be led by the Spirit.
You may come across false teachers that will try to mimic these traits to try to deceive the simple.
Here's why that's coveted by them.
Galatians 5:22-25
Here is what's in them. Galatians 5:19-21.
Sometimes we as Christians feed others egos with encouragement even though we don't mean it, even if we're not being honest.
I don't agree with that. A lie doesn't help anyone
I believe we should encourage one another in keeping the truth.
That often leads to disagreement and contention, hopefully it leads to repentance.
Back to fruit barring.
Matthew 7:15-18 reads.
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
Have you notice this doesn't say you tell a false teacher by what or how he is teaching?
You tell by what's inside them! Works of the flesh not "THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT!
It's not their material! It's what possesses them!
God can use a donkey to deliver his word but you won't follow him if he kicks you.
More on the issues of not taking the Scripture seriously later.
This servant according to verse 30 was cast into "outer darkness". It sounds like hell although some could argue it means into the Tribulation such as the portion with the hypocrites passage in Matthew 24:51. I wouldn't want to chance anything though.
These are among the hardest sayings of the Lord; and we certainly can consider that God may indeed give potential to some with natural abilities and perhaps the potential exists for doing things for the Lord that is wasted. We contrast this with verses about those who are also shut out that say that they did many good works for Him which sounds like investing in the Kingdom in Matthew 7:22-23. This is food for further discussion as I feel ill prepared dealing with these verses.
The narrow road certainly comes into focus with these passages. The last section of Matthew 25: 31-46 show the "sheep and goat" judgment which I would argue is at the end of the Tribulation and relates to the works of those supporting the 144,000 and other suffering believers at that time of persecution. Visiting them and supporting them would likely cost them their lives.
What we can't say is that just doing such works saves somebody; but again we have to look at what works we are doing now and make sure we don't neglect the needs of those in our midst. These are sobering passages.
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
You're right, I had to edit the writing by adding the spacing, conjunctions, caps, ect.
I used voice typing and it left me with a little work to do.
Spurgeon quotes Matthew 7:22-23 in his writing as a warning that many will have said to them!
" Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
Verse 23 is the crux of the matter and sums up the purpose of the letter.
Vs 23) And then will I profess unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
These people thought they was a shoo in into heaven!
The Lord said he "NEVER" knew them!
They never recieved Christ!
They were deceived.
This is not speaking of those who strayed or those who are babes in Christ.
This is speaking of those who were deceived by the trust they had in the works of their own hands!
Blessings.
I thought I would say in general right out of the gate as it were that it isn't focusing on evil or warnings of God constantly that I want to pummel people with. We are generally instructed to rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ( Romans 12:15). It is simply for those already saved; sealed and being sanctified we need to hear the bad news just like we do before we are saved; not as to our eternal state being in jeopardy (if truly saved) but in terms of the opposition we should expect as faithful servants of the King of Kings.
A particular issue I have brought up recently illustrates what is a common practice; people have their opinions and ideas which they often put above scripture as a first response. I'd rather have a disagreement based on a study of God's Word than such presuppositions; I put case in point the remarriage issue; but we could no doubt expand it to anything. Give covetousness. Ephesians 5:5 says this: For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Notice that someone covetous is involved with idolatry; whether it a narcissistic worship of self or self-aggrandizement of those promoting a double standard with the lifestyle of a Pastor; for instance. And that is a major issue: the lifestyle a person displays (you know them by their fruits) ( Matthew 7:16). The policy for discipline of a person in the local church congregation is not indicative of complete foreknowledge of whether someone truly will repent; but if one is saved the Lord will use such discipline to correct; and in any case we are in that sense to act as shepherds over a flock if in leadership and hopefully jealous for His Name's sake that others won't be led astray.
Maranatha.
RP
I am writing this partly because of a recent experience visiting a new church where the issue seems muddled as to a firm stance on the subject. We face the extreme of two parameters; either giving no one any assurance that they can hold onto hope of His promises to that effect; or conversely a hypergrace mentality which basically ignores testing our faith and seeing if we are producing fruit; being chastised by God etc.
I am greatly burdened with this presentation. It isn't the first time I have mentioned it here but it is such a fundamental issue that it seems necessary to regularly reexamine. I experienced this issue way back in college when a young lady who seemed to be filled with the joy of the Spirit was terrified when someone mentioned that she couldn't be assured of salvation. It is at best an affront to the Spirit here. We are said to "know them by their fruits". Such a statement could be like telling a child that their parents may not always recognize or adore them. But such statements take discernment from the speaker to the recipient; Jesus had a vastly different message for instance to the woman at the well and other notorious "sinners" and the Pharisees.
The other extreme is assuming we can hold onto a grace that is cheapened by lack of obedience, fear of the Lord and a lifestyle of holiness. God is not mocked; we reap what we sow. Therefore in the end we all must agree that He will save all He chooses to save and all who are in hell will have no viable excuse for why they don't belong there. Or; let God be true and every man a liar.
Matthew 7:24-26
24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And the opposite fate for those building on the sand as foundation.
In Matthew 19:16-30 the story of that rich young man who came to Jesus is described.
The young man goes to Jesus and asks Him a question "... Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Jesus answers back saying something strange, "... if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments..." It is strange because He should had led the young man to Himself, not to the Law. Why did He do that? We see the reason for that from what the young man said, "All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?". The young man feels that although he had done all those since he was a kid he still feels he is lacking. Then Jesus gives him the solution and draws him to Himself. Jesus said unto him, "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: AND COME AND FOLLOW ME."
BUT, there is always a "but". The "but" is that that guy should give all his possesions to the poor first. This is the narrow gate that we must enter when we believe in Christ in order to come to the narrow path which leads to heaven. Matthew 7:13-14, "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
There is always a narrow gate which one should pass through when coming to Christ. For that young man that was his riches. For me it is something else, for you it is something else, for him/her something else. There is always something in our lives that we must leave behind if we want to follow Jesus. It may be riches, maybe a specific way iof living, passions, ambitions, friends, relatives, maybe a career in a field that is inconsistent with our faith, anything really that could be an obstacle on our way to Heaven.
Are we willing to leave them behind?
Matthew 7:15
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
Blessings
Was Paul preaching a different gospel than the other apostles?
1 Cor 15:1-11
V1-2. 1Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
...
V8-9. 8And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. 9For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
...
V11.Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.
If you read the whole paragraph carefully you will get an answer to your question.
Finally James addresses his epistle to all those of the twelve tribes who have already believed in Christ, giving advices on how to live their christian lives properly. He is not addressing it to non-believers. If he did then there would be no need to include his epislte into the New Testament. Similarly Paul addresses his epistle to Hebrews to Hebrew believers, trying to make a connection between OT and NT. That was the main problem for the Jew born christians at that time who struggled to bridge Moses with Christ.
Works or Grace? Works reveal a true faith. True faith means a "working" faith. That is a working christian life. Which produces works of faith. If those don't exist then that faith is considered as a dead faith. Because it doesn't save. Simply because it means that a person who believed and was saved by Christ is not willing to obey God's commandments and consequently he is unwilling to change (as an example see the parable of the Sower, 3rd case)
Matthew 7:21, "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven"
GBU
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
Romans 2:13 "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
Matthew 7:14 "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
Blessings
Matthew 7:15
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
Matthew 7:13
"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:"
Matthew 7:14
"Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
Blessings
Brother Jesse has provided Scriptures to consider on this matter. I could offer Scriptures that would debate these points, but that would not answer your questions. This doctrine originated in 325 A.D. and was expanded over the next 150 years or so. You need to pray and study for your own conscience.
The majority support this doctrine, and some believe it is essential to be a Christian. Jesus is our Lord, and He gave His life to pay the penalty for sin so that we, through Him, can be reconciled to God. The wages of sin are death, Romans 6:23. Jesus' death on the cross paid this price.
Jesus had His own will, but was obedient and did the will of the Father, John 14:31, Luke 22:42, John 5:30, John 17:16, John 12:49.
The Chalcedonian Creed A.D. 451 states, "Christ, Son, Lord, only begotten, to be acknowledged in two natures, in confusedly, unchangeably, indivisibly, inseparably; the distinction of nature's being by no means taken away by the union, but rather the property of each nature being preserved." Does Scripture support this?
God alone possesses immortality, 1 Timothy 6:16. Our faith rests on the death and resurrection of Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 1 Corinthians 15:12-17. God cannot die. Jesus was tempted in the same ways we are, Hebrews 4:14-16. God cannot be tempted, James 1:13.
The Bible will answer all questions we have if we are ready to receive the answer, Matthew 7:7, James 1:5, with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit-not man.
God bless your study,
RLW
Revised.
If God only chose a few how can you be sure you're one of them being that it has nothing to do with faith or the foreknowledge of God?
Never mind those who reject God all together. We know their fate.
The bible has a lot to say about being deceived.
When examining Matthew 7:13-23 we see a call to enter in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Why are you told to follow the straight and narrow gate if you have not the ability to see it.
And how would you know you are not on the gate that leads to destruction?
Is it because your works?
Look at verses 21-23. "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
The scripture says "Ye shall know them by their fruits and God giving faith "The faith of Christ" is a fruit of the spirit and is given to believers by the Holyspirit being in them. This is baptism by the Holyspirit and it comes after one is saved.
John 7:37-39 sums it up. "In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
We are chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world by the foreknowledge of God.
John 3:16-21.
God bless.
Romans 2:13 "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."
Matthew 7:14 "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
Blessings
Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
James 1:22 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
Matthew 7:21 "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Blessings
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."
Romans 11:22 "Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off."
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Revelation 22:14 "Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."
Blessings
"Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
Matthew 7:15
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
John 15:8
"Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."
Matthew 7:19
"Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire."
Blessings
The profound mystery is that all men are born once into this world but not all are born again by the Spirit of God.
Jesus said to the Pharisees what is also found in Isaiah 6:10 and numerous other scriptures namely:
Make the heart of this people dull, and their ears heavy, and blind their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed."
Now what we do interpret with our five senses our minds can accept with sound impartial reasoning. Hebrews 11:1 says Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. In John 10:38 Jesus responds to the Pharisees thusly:
But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.
This rationale apparently wasn't sufficient for those who would accuse Christ of blasphemy since only God could forgive sins; and this was the unforgiveable sin as the power Christ wielded such as healing the blind no man had been able to do even with God's power in the Old Testament. This is tantamount to Satan himself for he is going to seek worship of the whole world through his Antichrist beast and that has always been his ultimate goal. The enemy of our souls probably gets a perverse pleasure in damning other souls (although his oaths and bondage aren't sufficent to trap anyone God doesn't allow or is predestined for salvation). Since he's going to be suffering and only thinking of his own misery in judgment to come his real joy is seeing further rebellion against God and establishing his own kingdom with his powers and principalities working under him.
We might compare a tare; for instance to an AI of someone. Let me point out in the verse you shall know them by their fruits ( Matthew 7:16-20) means we should exhort one another. In general someone uninterested in challenges or suggestions for growth isn't producing fruit; and vice versa.
"Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ."
Matthew 7:15
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
Matthew 7:16
"Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?"
Matthew 24:35
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
Blessings
"If there is one command that we are to follow that would be sufficient and acceptable to God, it would be..."
God's Word has many commands to follow, not just a la carte. Jesus says what the greatest commandment is and it's not that one. If you're saying only one of God's commands are acceptable to God that's like saying God wants you to ignore what HE says. That doesn't make sense. Of course we're to obey all of God's moral commands.
"I am saved no matter what."
That is not what Paul means by having assurance of salvation. God favors the meek, humble, pure in heart. Proverbs 16:18, Matthew 7:21, Proverbs 22:4, James 4:10, Matthew 12:32, 1 Peter 1:5
"The command to follow Him means 24/7, not when we choose to do so or not do so."
Or else, does anything happen or not? Some believe obedience is only a suggestion and optional, like tipping. James 1:21 to the end explains it well.
Matthew 7:14
"Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
Matthew 7:15
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
John 15:8
"Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."
Matthew 7:19
"Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire."
Blessings
I will pray and believe that the lord will help with whatever you need help with, and I believe he will do what is needed in your situation.
Matthew 7:7 says, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
This verse shows how important it is to seek and ask for what you need.
God bless you and your family and your mom, David.
"And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
James 1:22
"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
Titus 1:16
"They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate."
Matthew 7:21
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Blessings
Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
John 10:30
"I and my Father are one."
Blessings
e. (cont'd). This judgement for believers would be some time after our death or at the rapture (the snatching away) of those in Christ.
f. The Bible doesn't speak of the judgement of animals, as animals are outside the scope of sin, the sin nature, and God's Commands. The fact that some animals can be quite ferocious and suffer ills as we do, is simply because of the effects of sin that has permeated all of creation. Humans made in God's Image, though we're now horribly marred, are the ones in desperate need for forgiveness & redemption. But in that coming day, when the new heavens & Earth are created, all of God's creation will be pure & holy - Satan & his devils bound for eternity.
g. As stated earlier, all sins are despicable to God & worthy of punishment. And that punishment is hell, or more specifically, the Lake of Fire ( Revelation 20:10-15). All sinners, whether the most evil & violent among them or even those who have done some wrong in their lives (& that's all of us), or even those who have shown disdain to the salvation of God, all these will suffer in hell. Only two ways for mankind to go: Matthew 7:13,14, the narrow (strait) gate leading to eternal life, or the wide gate to eternal destruction - no middle ground (or gate).
Hope I've answered your questions, though briefly. People read & understand the Bible in different ways. As you read it prayerfully, allow the Holy Spirit to reveal all that you need to understand & act upon. Blessings.
You will know them by their fruits (see Matthew 7:15-16). These verses demonstrate false prophets and true with this distinction.
Let me say that it seems there is sufficient evidence that God does speak on occasion to individual servants. A person may receive a message but must avoid expecting experiences over service to God; fellowship with the saints and other things that giftings are supposed to do to edify the body of Christ. There are those who display much emotion; angst; and other emotions who are longwinded and oftentimes these are women. Indeed it seems probably 4 out of 5 that have messages are women. I tend to listen to those who are married and who have solid scriptural teaching in church; although due to some specific situations I have made exceptions if it is apparent there is no nearby fellowship where good doctrine is preached.
I will also state that sometimes God uses someone who preaches some truths even when later on it turns out they are preaching falsehood on particular doctrines. This has been a particular issue of late where a lengthy statement or proclamation is made that contains truth and no apparent error. There is a boundary as to women preaching at least as the scripture states where they are not to have authority over a man. This is why at least a husband in the faith or others should bring a balanced perspective.
As to within church walls; things like God's chastisement of those He loves; mandatory suffering for all true believers and other admonitions are often given a deaf ear. Someone actually delivering truth could be forced out and shouldn't stay somewhere that people want their ears tickled. Again it is hard for those with true discernment to find a place in ministry today; but we all need more of them in my humble opinion.
The easiest conclusion here is to admonish everyone to read the Word more and be looking up ( Romans 13:11) for His coming is very near.
I just finished praying you. My sister in Christ, you'll be alright, just don't lose the faith in God/Jesus/Holy Spirit.
Feeling very fatigued at times is not only just "life" as many have experienced, but it's also apart of this "narrow way" if we decide to chose to follow Jesus Christ ( Matthew 7:14). There are a number of things that could be the reason(s) of your current grievous situation (i.e. past and/or present sins, lack of faith in God's word, God could be testing/proving you, unforgiveness in your heart toward others, ect.). The more you seek God Almighty and Jesus Christ and fully surrender to God/Jesus, in time you'll be able to identify the root of the problems/issues in your life. After which, you'll find in God's word what specific action (solution) to proceed with.
When it comes to personal personal relationships, some people are meant to be in your life temporarily; Some are meant to remain in your life for a lifetime. Choose wisely on the company that you keep ( 2 Corinthians 6:14). Stop entertaining the negative/wicked people, thoughts in your mind and the feelings you have about not being dependable for people...it's all LIES and DECEIT of our adversary ( John 8:44). Focus ALL of your energy to God ( Matthew 6:33). FYI: After reading your prayer request, I can relate to your circumstances more than you know. What you're going through right now is temporary. I know it's extremely tough, but keep on pressing and don't quit. Endure to the end!
With God with you, you can't go wrong.... "What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?" Romans 8:31 KJV
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV
I've also encountered people off site.
This is not your mere misinterpretation of the word of God or lack of understanding.
This is demonic!
Anyone who does this and attacks the body of Christ is not a sheep.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHRISTIAN TEACHER.
AGAPE, patience, humility, and a passion for helping students learn and grow, both academically and spiritually.
IT'S CALLED FRUIT.
You can't generate this on your own.
You have to be led by the Spirit.
You may come across false teachers that will try to mimic these traits to try to deceive the simple.
Here's why that's coveted by them.
Galatians 5:22-25
Here is what's in them. Galatians 5:19-21.
Sometimes we as Christians feed others egos with encouragement even though we don't mean it, even if we're not being honest.
I don't agree with that. A lie doesn't help anyone
I believe we should encourage one another in keeping the truth.
That often leads to disagreement and contention, hopefully it leads to repentance.
Back to fruit barring.
Matthew 7:15-18 reads.
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
Have you notice this doesn't say you tell a false teacher by what or how he is teaching?
You tell by what's inside them! Works of the flesh not "THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT!
It's not their material! It's what possesses them!
God can use a donkey to deliver his word but you won't follow him if he kicks you.
More on the issues of not taking the Scripture seriously later.
God bless.
This servant according to verse 30 was cast into "outer darkness". It sounds like hell although some could argue it means into the Tribulation such as the portion with the hypocrites passage in Matthew 24:51. I wouldn't want to chance anything though.
These are among the hardest sayings of the Lord; and we certainly can consider that God may indeed give potential to some with natural abilities and perhaps the potential exists for doing things for the Lord that is wasted. We contrast this with verses about those who are also shut out that say that they did many good works for Him which sounds like investing in the Kingdom in Matthew 7:22-23. This is food for further discussion as I feel ill prepared dealing with these verses.
The narrow road certainly comes into focus with these passages. The last section of Matthew 25: 31-46 show the "sheep and goat" judgment which I would argue is at the end of the Tribulation and relates to the works of those supporting the 144,000 and other suffering believers at that time of persecution. Visiting them and supporting them would likely cost them their lives.
What we can't say is that just doing such works saves somebody; but again we have to look at what works we are doing now and make sure we don't neglect the needs of those in our midst. These are sobering passages.