Part Seven: Making the scripture applicable to us.
I do not practice what you call a prophetic gift. Nonetheless, when warning others of the admonitions of the Bible warning of implications and results of sins I usually feel that I have good enough foresight to be reasonably assured that results the Lord warns of will start to manifest in time. Following the principle of 2 Timothy 3:16 we find that exhortation along with teaching and the other things promised in that verse demonstrate multiple aplications of the same scripture (in this case the same verse).
In the example of Jesus warning Peter of a fall; He specifically knew (as God) the exact verbage that Peter would use and that he would deny Christ not once but three times. We certainly know that we can trust God as to the result eventually of any sin is death ( Ezekiel 18:20); and that certain sins lead to a given result (pride comes before a fall such as mentioned in Proverbs 16:18 which is said to be exactly half way through the Proverbs in terms of how the verses are organized in scripture).
Lust after women leads to adultery in one's heart ( Matt. 5:28). Such behaviors of course likely lead to actual adultery and the result for the unrepentant leads to hell ( Prov. 7:27).
It should be common sense that we need to heed OURSELVES to a love of the law of the Lord such as Psalm 119 covers in detail because we are saved from such an awful fate ourselves. We should always fear God (something uncommon today in "churchianity"). (see 2 Corinthains 5:11). Others don't need a pious litany of our virtues; but we need to be examples of God's people in a wicked and perverse generation (see Matthew 16:4-12 as well as the Epistles on the subject).
Another important point is that we must be doers of the Word not just proclaimers (see book of James). Studying the Word and not obeying was brought up already. We need a proper balance of evangelism and quiet times as well as time to rest.
I pray for healing from aggressive cancer for my beloved Daughter, Kristen who is a Wife, Mother of 2 young Sons, a Sister, Sister in Law and friend to so many. An advocate for all children and my best friend I could ever hope for. The cancer has spread to her brain area and she will be having treatments this week. We pray for more time with her for her Sons and all of our sakes. In Jesus name.
PArt six: Different types of scriptures to study for devotionals.
The book of Psalms is a common start for daily devotionals. It constitutes all the major types of writings from the poetic acrostic hidden letters found in Psalm 119 emphasizing the law; to prophecies ( Psalm 2; etc) to impreccatory Psalms (asking for judgment); to praise. There may be a couple types I forgot here.
Another theme which is interwoven throughout the Bible is blessings and cursings. There is much written about conditional promises inherent in God's covenant. We see this with Adam and Eve's choice to take of the forbidden fruit; to Cain's downfall; and the whole history of the patriarchs written for our benefit (see 1 Cor. 10:11). IT'S FOR YOU DUMMY! That is what basically is being stated in that passage. I felt it necessary within the parameter of the rules here to mention a sarcastic general statement because looking at the Bible it becomes clear fairly quickly that despite repeated warnings from God people just didn't get it. Again that proves the truth of the Word; as no man would want his account marred by the fallability of men (especially the author of a book). In the N.T. Paul states that he was the "chief of sinners". ( 1 Tim. 1:15). God used him as a former murderer of the saints to preach the most widespread missionary assignment of anyone in scripture encompassing the most scripture as well after the book of Acts. David caused a murder to get Bathsheeba as well. Abraham twice tried to pass off his wife as his sister and his son didn't learn as Isaac tried that later on as well. And of course even His own family didn't believe for a time about Christ not to mention the nation at large. ( John 7:5).
Another way we can study the Bible is to sing Psalms or spiritual songs; which encompasses the original way this literature was delivered. We have to search diligently to find those who do this today; they are out there. A lot of music should be avoided
Bible study and scripture devotions: Different themes of scripture
There is a time and place for starting in Genesis and working our way to Revelation (even if not always strictly chronological books in the 66 books of the Bible). We can look at the varous "dispensations" (ignoring the controversy on the subject) when we see the time of innocence at Creation; the time of the law (from written in men's hearts and early sacrifices to the full delivery of the formal written commandments in Deuteronomy) to the age of grace (or church age which we are currently in) to the Millennium (again ignoring the Post Mil adherants and others to that persuasion) and finally of course eternity itself. Another way of looking at this process is through the lens of Covenant theology which I would argue isn't necessarily mutually exclusive to dispensations.
The next thing we can do is study the history involved with scripture. This is enhanced by studying other literature and archaeological accounts as well as other texts referred to in the Bible that aren't in the KJV Bible today. Some include the book of Enoch which have quotations in the book of Jude but we don't have a correct version of today that doesn't clash with the rest of the Bible in some way. We also have other books mentioned which clearly contained further wisdom literature such as Proverbs; and even a secular writing Paul referred to during his sermon on Mars Hill in the book of Acts. World archaeology and geologic evidence is particularly convincing with the story of Sodom and Gomorrah (with pure sufer balls found in the area by Ron Wyatt and others more recently in that area of the world); as well as the flood of Noah (which are mentioned in books such as the Epic of Gilgamesh and throughout legends of tribes in all continents of the world.) We also have the many giant structures that cannot be explained with high technology (Pyramids) and all over the world as well. That proves the story of Genesis 6.
Loving the Lord of course must always be paramount in our walk with Christ. Obeying Christ out of love could also theoretically be reversed; we can LEARN to love God if we trust that obedience will bring about that intimate fellowship. Knowing our Creator not just knowing about Him allows us to reach out to others in our own church community as well as evangelizing the lost.
The Word once meditated upon should at some point go beyond rote memorization to being able to pull verses to fit a number of situations. That of course is bolstered by initiating the memory of key texts useful for fulfilling the Great Commission. It also has a benefit when a couple verses that have personal importance can be shared as a way of motivating others to study the promises of God applicable to them as well.
As to what we study; I leave it up to the savant to initiate a study in the genealogies of the first 8 chapters of 1 Chronicles. That is; BTW an excellent example of how to use other scriptures to make meaning out of what at first glance appears to be an exhaustive list of myriad individuals who; much like prayer requests often coming up at church involve people we don't know or understand other than what we are told (in that case someone's name). Such is the case with those who are listed and deemed important who we don't know much about except their place in the lineage of God's people (or in the case of the beginning of the Gospel accounts the lineage leading up to Christ). In this example; some names such as David and Abraham are familiar and upon further study we find out how Gentiles like Ruth fit in and how Rahab the harlot also appears. If anything it validates scripture; other religions aren't going to include all the faults and foibles of their heroes if it is a man made text or demonically inspired to appeal to man's good works for salvation.
My next posting will overview different types of scripture to study.
This question leads us into another discussion. One that was recently addressed on this forum. I do not wish to revisit this topic of how one is born again, yet still able to sin, thus is a sinner, though covered by the righteousness of Christ.
Momsage, I am glad you are staying with me, friend.
I can understand how you may have felt overwhelmed.
Just a note: the quote from the epistle of Barnabas is not a false Scripture. It is like the epistle of Clement, who was bishop in Rome soon after Paul died there. A epistle is a simply a letter. We ascribe God-inspiration to the letters of Paul but not to Clement or Barnabas. This is because Paul's letters were widely distributed and accepted as being inspired by God. The letters of Clement and Barnabas (and other bishops and church leaders) were to churches or other Christians and also distributed but not as widely as those of Paul, John., Peter, James, and Jude. So that is why they are not included in the canon of Scripture.
This does not mean that they are not honest letters that describe the Christian experience of that time, though. These writers, like Clement of Rome, Barnabas, Polycarp, Ignatius (both of Antioch) were devout Christians, some of whom were martyred for not renouncing their faith in Jesus.
So please do not be fearful of reading what they say. There writings are preserved for us for a reason. But there are those who wrote letters that were frauds and heretics. So, caution is always warranted and we should always check one's writings against the teachings of Scriptures and also read up on the authors to see if their writings were considered heretical or not.
That is all for now. I hope you have a very blessed day today and gain much peace and wisdom from your study of the Word of God.
Thank you. I guess I'm a bit of a ditz, but besides being upset with the use of false scripture no, I also was getting a little overwhelmed with trying to answer every post which, of course, I didn't have to do but my MILD OTC compelled me to so I needed to make a change and only concentrate on discussions from Christianlady7 and also GiGi which is what I will be doing. I believe the people on this site are my brothers and sisters in the Lord and that love for each other can really be felt here. I apologize if I have offended anyone and, again, thank you for welcoming me back. God Bless :)
FATHER, help us to draw close to YOU that the devil flee from us. May we seek YOUR kingdom first, and pray faithfully with enlightened eyes and mind to glorify YOU. Bless Jerusalem with the peace of GOD through CHRIST JESUS' gospel.
In everything that we say or do, may we exalt and extol YOU. 1 Corinthians 10: 31-33.
The LORD to shine HIS face on all the brethren and gloriously bless you.
Only fair of me to tell you just this. The only thing that upset me was basing your beliefs with support from a false scripture from the book of Barnabas. My quotes were people reporting what people said not using scripture, not from the KJB. I was starting to get a little overwhelmed by all the different people I was doing discussions with anyway, so I need to stick to just Christianlady7 and GiGi. We are brother and sister in the Lord and I love and respect you even though I don't agree with you on the Sabbath. God Bless :)
There are egregious errors which false prophets and others can do with incorrect or deliberately nefarious manipulations of the Word of God to suit their own purposes. That is not the focus here.
After the first two postings; it is certainty important to assess before we study anything why we are doing it. As new believers; of course it is often the leadership of a Pastor that initiates our study of scriptures when we are largely ignorant of it's contents (unless atheists that have already studied the Bible as literature respecting it's dominance in history and importance through the centuries). This parenthesis I feel shouldn't be overlooked. As a dumbed down society we are often discouraged from appreciating anything enough to determine even if it may be interesting. It is much like how we don't learn Chinese but the Chinese are mandated to learn English for economic gain; and also to beat the enemy at their own game. In the same logic it helps to study the basic tenents and literature of another religion before attempting to witness to them; not to search for something meaningful for us but to show the person we witness to that we are willing to take the time so that arguments brought up may be refuted by the Bible as well as the logic of the sacred writings they themselves hold up to where often contradictory statments exist. For some; of course the doctrines of demons may have a great pull to drive us away from truth to false gods. Therefore; we must be ready for the "meat" of scripture and be growing in the faith "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" ( Matt. 10:16). The application there shows how Jesus confronted the Pharisees. He not only knew the scriptures well; but their traditions and how they would twist the truth.
In all of this we must be convinced ourselves that the Bible is inerrant and be driven by the Holy Spirit to enter into a commitment and plan for daily reading.
Further insights on studying Scripture tied in with daily devotionals
The strict adherance to reading one passage at a time in a given book of the Bible is that we ignore cross references. My Dake's Bible has over 100,000 references which is quite exhaustive. Of course some connections don't make sense to me. The fact is though that all of scripture is interconnected. It behooves us for witnessing at least to have multiple references particularly with the Gospel accounts to bring home the validity of the text. If we don't have a New Testament connection almost always there is one with the Old Testament; frequently direct quotes from Psalms in particular found in the four Gospels but also elsewhere in scripture.
Proper understanding means context; context context. Isolating a passage is of course myopic for interpretation almost always.
We can put together chapters even multiple ones (again often passages are fairly continuous from one to another and some Psalms basically are a continuation of the same from one chapter to another). Of course having an undestanding of the culture and history is helpful; which we can find out on our own with concordances and such resources as Foxe's "Book of the Martyrs". This is readily available from public resources online with many recent updates. As Protestants; of course we have "Calvin's Institutes" and other writings from the Reformation. Putting things into context with confessional statements are also helpful; and are emphasized frequently in these congregations.
Making scripture relateable to our lives in the 21st Century of course in some degree is necessary; but we must take care not to do undo violence to the clear meanings of scripture; nor ignore the events of the culture at the time of Christ that can be studied to expound upon such meanings (case in point the camel through the eye of the needle). This apparently was a passage with that name rather than a literal camel go through a needle.
The usual approach to this subject is to cite a resource that is available; such as the very well known "Daily Bread" devotions; to convicting ones (Oswald Chambers being my favorite). When undergoing a determination as to use of a particular daily reading we must be diligent to ascertain that the scriptures themselves are being studied in the proper context and the focus isn't on side subjects such as frilly sentiments that deliberately cherry pick for things to put us in a good mood and ignore the weightier scriptures. We should also make a realistic commitment to set apart a certain amount of time daily which of course may vary according to spiritual maturity; and the other things the Lord has in our life that is required of us.
Ultimately; we should learn to be workmen that are approved ( 2 Tim. 2:15) and meditate on the Word day and night ( Joshua 1:8). If it goes into our brain and leaves as soon as we enter into a different task then we haven't allowed it to transform us.
Even if we use devotionals that are generally sound scripturally; there is always an exception that pops up at times; where it appears a statement is being made that is not scripturally in line with what we were taught. We need to be aware and Bereans.
Part of what we must do is allow ourselves not to be held fast to certain things that are neither right or wrong but what we have become accustomed to. This includes verse headings (arbitrarily chosen much of the time to make translations clear in our language); the order of scripture (Job probably being the oldest book or at least as old as Genesis); and not being obsessive on a particular translation (such as KJV only adherents). That being said we must avoid obvious spurious translations and be aware that there are issues with any translation. KJV I would say is better in general as to holding to proper context with Christ's Divinity than some other renditions with a few isolated words in passages.
Dear Lori , you have certainly been through some tough times and I know that you know , who it is that has sustained you and supported you and brought you and your son , safely to this very day . May God be praised for the love and mercy He has shown you and the strength that He has given you . As you look back on your life , through all your hardships , you can I'm sure , see His hand in yours , bringing you through all your trials and tribulations . Be assured , He is with you now and He will not leave you , you and your son are precious in His sight . Hasn't He shown you that many times ? May He continue to bless you both , the harder you lean on Him , the more support He gives you . Stay strong and know for sure that He will put you where He knows it is best for you to be . Wait for Him , He will not fail you . Proverbs Ch 3 V 5+6 .
I am also glad that you are still here with us. And I respect your decision to speak to whoever you wish. But I would also like to tell me which of my writtings annoyed you or whether I have used a hostile or impolite language. Anyway I am sorry if without me realizing it I have made you feel bad. I am glad that you are staying. GBU
15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. (Combined with Matthew 5:5 and Revelation 5:10)
16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,
17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
John 3:
31 ...He that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.
32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.
33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that GOD is true.
34 For he whom GOD hath sent speaketh the words of GOD: for GOD giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him.
Hello. I recently misplaced, or they were taken, my 1979 Protestant I believe, Holy Bible, and my King James update version book... and also my dream dictionary... without them, I am using your site, which I love and I know there are many others. What I pray for today is for God to bestow upon my son and I where we will live, to help us make the decisions we need to make... where will we end up? Together? Or apart? We want to stick together... some will disagree with that... but look that them, their adult children are living with them. I just need help getting through some surgeries perhaps... and also to know where to go when this house, my father's house is finally put on the market, or seized by the government.... could be either... or I could take the two executrixes of my father's will, to see my father lawyer... and get in order, when this house will be sold, and then I must move, though, my deepest wish is to be able to stay in this house, alone, with my son and our cat. But I know, times are extremely tough and expensive. :( I'm disabled with bipolar, probably other psychiatric illnesses too by now.. and now my back is awful, and my heart, I've survived 5 heart attacks, and now have a leaky valve.... Please pray for me, that I can live for one, and that I may provide, that God, the Lord, the Almighty Father, the Holy Ghost... will also provide, for myself and my son in the months to come. Please pray also, that I remain close to the Lord throughout my troubles, the Lord is forever in my mind, but I want him to be first and foremost, then I can trust my intuition better. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Heavenly Father, we pray that Tiffany's brother be found. It must be an absolute stress, worry, pain in not knowing where he is. Christine, please let us know how it's going. God bless the family. Amen
What matters and prevails is the Word of GOD. The Word is GOD.
Philippians 3
1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.
2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.
3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
17Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES of the cross of Christ:
19Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind EARTHLY things.)
20For our conversation is in heaven( Ephesians 1:3); from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Ephesians 6:11-18
11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God,that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,and having done all,to stand.
14Stand therefore,having your loins girt about with truth,and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16Above all, taking the shield of faith,wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17And take the helmet of salvation,and the sword of the Spirit,which is the word of God:
18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
What matters and prevails is the Word of GOD, the Word is from everlasting to everslating, the Word is GOD, self-executing, self-executable. Great mystery.
Revelation 22
11 He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.
12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
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. ( Romans 2:12 - As many as have sinned without Law(the Gentiles) shall also PERISH without Law: and as many as have sinned in the Law(the Jews) shall be Judged by the Law;)
15 Without are dogs(dogs? Isaiah 56:10-11.Take a look), and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
But the fearful(the COWARDS), and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and ALL LIARS, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
The Word is GOD, self-executing, self-executable, understand?
5 And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our GOD, all ye his servants, and ye that fear Him, both small and great.
6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord GOD Omnipotent reigneth. (combined with Revelation 11:15-18.Take a look).
7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready.
8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the FINE LINEN is the righteousness of saints.
9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of GOD.
10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the TESTIMONY of JESUS: worship GOD: for the TESTIMONY of JESUS is the spirit of prophecy.
Wake up and get up quickly
Unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath-Mat.25:29. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
The Word of GOD is from everlasting to everlasting, the Word is GOD, self-executing, self-executable. Remember: around 2000 years ago the Word was made flesh, see what He said: John 5:17.
Spell check messed up part of my reply that is coming up. It should say Christ and the disciples picking and eating corn on the Sabbath out of need. :)
Hi GiGi. Yes there are some things that may be necessary to do on the Sabbath. Get gas or whatever you need to do before Saturday. If you forget and must get it on the Sabbath then this is an exception because it is a need. Like Christ and His deciples eating
Picking corn on Sabbath out if necessity. Common sense is all that is needed to accomplish this obedience so there is no long list of do's abd don't's. Anyone who works on Saturday if they pray and believe God He will make a way out of it. There are plenty of people who have no regard for the things of God who can do what ever needs done. It is not a sin for true believers to worship and fellowship on Sunday. God has only command us to make one day, the seventh, as a complete day of rest and we can also worship since we don't have worldly distractions. Meals could be take out or prepared on Friday like in a slow cooker so everyone can help themselves etc. My whole point is Christians could do it no problem if they wanted to obey this commandment just like the others. God Bless :)
15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be(combined with Daniel 12:1-3 and Revelation 12:7-12).
22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved( Romans 9:28): but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ ( John 5:43-47), or there; BELIEVE IT NOT.
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets( Isaiah 9:15-16 combined with Revelation 12:3-4), and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. - 25 Behold, I have told you before.
Actually, we GOD's people, we are going together to meet JESUS, and He is coming to meet us, in time and space. So, each day that passes, He gets a little closer of the meeting point, and we who are walking in the way also get a little closer to Him, and the gap between us and JESUS decreases, and the moment will come when JESUS and we will arrive at the indicated time, in the place and space( Ephesians 1:3), as He combined with us, i.e. to be at the exact time and place of the glorious meeting. Hallelujah!
See, it is certain that the day of JESUS 'return is very very close.In my understanding it is the mysterious day 1.335- Daniel 12:12-, i.e.45 days after the end of the Abomination of Desolation of 1,290 days as was prophesied by Daniel. Dan.12:v.11 combined with Dan.9:v.27, both verses direct us to the majestic and indescribable event of JESUS's return.
Time is ticking,ticking,ticking; see,don't sleep,but if you're already asleep, wake up and get up fast, and take in mind that each passing day we are personally closer to JESUS.See how near He is. For meditation: Matthew 25:1-13
I do not practice what you call a prophetic gift. Nonetheless, when warning others of the admonitions of the Bible warning of implications and results of sins I usually feel that I have good enough foresight to be reasonably assured that results the Lord warns of will start to manifest in time. Following the principle of 2 Timothy 3:16 we find that exhortation along with teaching and the other things promised in that verse demonstrate multiple aplications of the same scripture (in this case the same verse).
In the example of Jesus warning Peter of a fall; He specifically knew (as God) the exact verbage that Peter would use and that he would deny Christ not once but three times. We certainly know that we can trust God as to the result eventually of any sin is death ( Ezekiel 18:20); and that certain sins lead to a given result (pride comes before a fall such as mentioned in Proverbs 16:18 which is said to be exactly half way through the Proverbs in terms of how the verses are organized in scripture).
Lust after women leads to adultery in one's heart ( Matt. 5:28). Such behaviors of course likely lead to actual adultery and the result for the unrepentant leads to hell ( Prov. 7:27).
It should be common sense that we need to heed OURSELVES to a love of the law of the Lord such as Psalm 119 covers in detail because we are saved from such an awful fate ourselves. We should always fear God (something uncommon today in "churchianity"). (see 2 Corinthains 5:11). Others don't need a pious litany of our virtues; but we need to be examples of God's people in a wicked and perverse generation (see Matthew 16:4-12 as well as the Epistles on the subject).
Another important point is that we must be doers of the Word not just proclaimers (see book of James). Studying the Word and not obeying was brought up already. We need a proper balance of evangelism and quiet times as well as time to rest.
Agape. RP
The book of Psalms is a common start for daily devotionals. It constitutes all the major types of writings from the poetic acrostic hidden letters found in Psalm 119 emphasizing the law; to prophecies ( Psalm 2; etc) to impreccatory Psalms (asking for judgment); to praise. There may be a couple types I forgot here.
Another theme which is interwoven throughout the Bible is blessings and cursings. There is much written about conditional promises inherent in God's covenant. We see this with Adam and Eve's choice to take of the forbidden fruit; to Cain's downfall; and the whole history of the patriarchs written for our benefit (see 1 Cor. 10:11). IT'S FOR YOU DUMMY! That is what basically is being stated in that passage. I felt it necessary within the parameter of the rules here to mention a sarcastic general statement because looking at the Bible it becomes clear fairly quickly that despite repeated warnings from God people just didn't get it. Again that proves the truth of the Word; as no man would want his account marred by the fallability of men (especially the author of a book). In the N.T. Paul states that he was the "chief of sinners". ( 1 Tim. 1:15). God used him as a former murderer of the saints to preach the most widespread missionary assignment of anyone in scripture encompassing the most scripture as well after the book of Acts. David caused a murder to get Bathsheeba as well. Abraham twice tried to pass off his wife as his sister and his son didn't learn as Isaac tried that later on as well. And of course even His own family didn't believe for a time about Christ not to mention the nation at large. ( John 7:5).
Another way we can study the Bible is to sing Psalms or spiritual songs; which encompasses the original way this literature was delivered. We have to search diligently to find those who do this today; they are out there. A lot of music should be avoided
There is a time and place for starting in Genesis and working our way to Revelation (even if not always strictly chronological books in the 66 books of the Bible). We can look at the varous "dispensations" (ignoring the controversy on the subject) when we see the time of innocence at Creation; the time of the law (from written in men's hearts and early sacrifices to the full delivery of the formal written commandments in Deuteronomy) to the age of grace (or church age which we are currently in) to the Millennium (again ignoring the Post Mil adherants and others to that persuasion) and finally of course eternity itself. Another way of looking at this process is through the lens of Covenant theology which I would argue isn't necessarily mutually exclusive to dispensations.
The next thing we can do is study the history involved with scripture. This is enhanced by studying other literature and archaeological accounts as well as other texts referred to in the Bible that aren't in the KJV Bible today. Some include the book of Enoch which have quotations in the book of Jude but we don't have a correct version of today that doesn't clash with the rest of the Bible in some way. We also have other books mentioned which clearly contained further wisdom literature such as Proverbs; and even a secular writing Paul referred to during his sermon on Mars Hill in the book of Acts. World archaeology and geologic evidence is particularly convincing with the story of Sodom and Gomorrah (with pure sufer balls found in the area by Ron Wyatt and others more recently in that area of the world); as well as the flood of Noah (which are mentioned in books such as the Epic of Gilgamesh and throughout legends of tribes in all continents of the world.) We also have the many giant structures that cannot be explained with high technology (Pyramids) and all over the world as well. That proves the story of Genesis 6.
Loving the Lord of course must always be paramount in our walk with Christ. Obeying Christ out of love could also theoretically be reversed; we can LEARN to love God if we trust that obedience will bring about that intimate fellowship. Knowing our Creator not just knowing about Him allows us to reach out to others in our own church community as well as evangelizing the lost.
The Word once meditated upon should at some point go beyond rote memorization to being able to pull verses to fit a number of situations. That of course is bolstered by initiating the memory of key texts useful for fulfilling the Great Commission. It also has a benefit when a couple verses that have personal importance can be shared as a way of motivating others to study the promises of God applicable to them as well.
As to what we study; I leave it up to the savant to initiate a study in the genealogies of the first 8 chapters of 1 Chronicles. That is; BTW an excellent example of how to use other scriptures to make meaning out of what at first glance appears to be an exhaustive list of myriad individuals who; much like prayer requests often coming up at church involve people we don't know or understand other than what we are told (in that case someone's name). Such is the case with those who are listed and deemed important who we don't know much about except their place in the lineage of God's people (or in the case of the beginning of the Gospel accounts the lineage leading up to Christ). In this example; some names such as David and Abraham are familiar and upon further study we find out how Gentiles like Ruth fit in and how Rahab the harlot also appears. If anything it validates scripture; other religions aren't going to include all the faults and foibles of their heroes if it is a man made text or demonically inspired to appeal to man's good works for salvation.
My next posting will overview different types of scripture to study.
This question leads us into another discussion. One that was recently addressed on this forum. I do not wish to revisit this topic of how one is born again, yet still able to sin, thus is a sinner, though covered by the righteousness of Christ.
Thanks for catching that error on my part. I hope your day goes wonderfully today.
I can understand how you may have felt overwhelmed.
Just a note: the quote from the epistle of Barnabas is not a false Scripture. It is like the epistle of Clement, who was bishop in Rome soon after Paul died there. A epistle is a simply a letter. We ascribe God-inspiration to the letters of Paul but not to Clement or Barnabas. This is because Paul's letters were widely distributed and accepted as being inspired by God. The letters of Clement and Barnabas (and other bishops and church leaders) were to churches or other Christians and also distributed but not as widely as those of Paul, John., Peter, James, and Jude. So that is why they are not included in the canon of Scripture.
This does not mean that they are not honest letters that describe the Christian experience of that time, though. These writers, like Clement of Rome, Barnabas, Polycarp, Ignatius (both of Antioch) were devout Christians, some of whom were martyred for not renouncing their faith in Jesus.
So please do not be fearful of reading what they say. There writings are preserved for us for a reason. But there are those who wrote letters that were frauds and heretics. So, caution is always warranted and we should always check one's writings against the teachings of Scriptures and also read up on the authors to see if their writings were considered heretical or not.
That is all for now. I hope you have a very blessed day today and gain much peace and wisdom from your study of the Word of God.
In everything that we say or do, may we exalt and extol YOU. 1 Corinthians 10: 31-33.
The LORD to shine HIS face on all the brethren and gloriously bless you.
January 7, 2024
There are egregious errors which false prophets and others can do with incorrect or deliberately nefarious manipulations of the Word of God to suit their own purposes. That is not the focus here.
After the first two postings; it is certainty important to assess before we study anything why we are doing it. As new believers; of course it is often the leadership of a Pastor that initiates our study of scriptures when we are largely ignorant of it's contents (unless atheists that have already studied the Bible as literature respecting it's dominance in history and importance through the centuries). This parenthesis I feel shouldn't be overlooked. As a dumbed down society we are often discouraged from appreciating anything enough to determine even if it may be interesting. It is much like how we don't learn Chinese but the Chinese are mandated to learn English for economic gain; and also to beat the enemy at their own game. In the same logic it helps to study the basic tenents and literature of another religion before attempting to witness to them; not to search for something meaningful for us but to show the person we witness to that we are willing to take the time so that arguments brought up may be refuted by the Bible as well as the logic of the sacred writings they themselves hold up to where often contradictory statments exist. For some; of course the doctrines of demons may have a great pull to drive us away from truth to false gods. Therefore; we must be ready for the "meat" of scripture and be growing in the faith "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" ( Matt. 10:16). The application there shows how Jesus confronted the Pharisees. He not only knew the scriptures well; but their traditions and how they would twist the truth.
In all of this we must be convinced ourselves that the Bible is inerrant and be driven by the Holy Spirit to enter into a commitment and plan for daily reading.
The strict adherance to reading one passage at a time in a given book of the Bible is that we ignore cross references. My Dake's Bible has over 100,000 references which is quite exhaustive. Of course some connections don't make sense to me. The fact is though that all of scripture is interconnected. It behooves us for witnessing at least to have multiple references particularly with the Gospel accounts to bring home the validity of the text. If we don't have a New Testament connection almost always there is one with the Old Testament; frequently direct quotes from Psalms in particular found in the four Gospels but also elsewhere in scripture.
Proper understanding means context; context context. Isolating a passage is of course myopic for interpretation almost always.
We can put together chapters even multiple ones (again often passages are fairly continuous from one to another and some Psalms basically are a continuation of the same from one chapter to another). Of course having an undestanding of the culture and history is helpful; which we can find out on our own with concordances and such resources as Foxe's "Book of the Martyrs". This is readily available from public resources online with many recent updates. As Protestants; of course we have "Calvin's Institutes" and other writings from the Reformation. Putting things into context with confessional statements are also helpful; and are emphasized frequently in these congregations.
Making scripture relateable to our lives in the 21st Century of course in some degree is necessary; but we must take care not to do undo violence to the clear meanings of scripture; nor ignore the events of the culture at the time of Christ that can be studied to expound upon such meanings (case in point the camel through the eye of the needle). This apparently was a passage with that name rather than a literal camel go through a needle.
The usual approach to this subject is to cite a resource that is available; such as the very well known "Daily Bread" devotions; to convicting ones (Oswald Chambers being my favorite). When undergoing a determination as to use of a particular daily reading we must be diligent to ascertain that the scriptures themselves are being studied in the proper context and the focus isn't on side subjects such as frilly sentiments that deliberately cherry pick for things to put us in a good mood and ignore the weightier scriptures. We should also make a realistic commitment to set apart a certain amount of time daily which of course may vary according to spiritual maturity; and the other things the Lord has in our life that is required of us.
Ultimately; we should learn to be workmen that are approved ( 2 Tim. 2:15) and meditate on the Word day and night ( Joshua 1:8). If it goes into our brain and leaves as soon as we enter into a different task then we haven't allowed it to transform us.
Even if we use devotionals that are generally sound scripturally; there is always an exception that pops up at times; where it appears a statement is being made that is not scripturally in line with what we were taught. We need to be aware and Bereans.
Part of what we must do is allow ourselves not to be held fast to certain things that are neither right or wrong but what we have become accustomed to. This includes verse headings (arbitrarily chosen much of the time to make translations clear in our language); the order of scripture (Job probably being the oldest book or at least as old as Genesis); and not being obsessive on a particular translation (such as KJV only adherents). That being said we must avoid obvious spurious translations and be aware that there are issues with any translation. KJV I would say is better in general as to holding to proper context with Christ's Divinity than some other renditions with a few isolated words in passages.
I am also glad that you are still here with us. And I respect your decision to speak to whoever you wish. But I would also like to tell me which of my writtings annoyed you or whether I have used a hostile or impolite language. Anyway I am sorry if without me realizing it I have made you feel bad. I am glad that you are staying. GBU
15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms OF THIS WORLD are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. (Combined with Matthew 5:5 and Revelation 5:10)
16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,
17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
John 3:
31 ...He that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.
32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.
33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that GOD is true.
34 For he whom GOD hath sent speaketh the words of GOD: for GOD giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him.
Love to you all who run this site,
Lori
Philippians 3
1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.
2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.
3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
17Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES of the cross of Christ:
19Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind EARTHLY things.)
20For our conversation is in heaven( Ephesians 1:3); from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Ephesians 6:11-18
11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God,that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,and having done all,to stand.
14Stand therefore,having your loins girt about with truth,and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16Above all, taking the shield of faith,wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17And take the helmet of salvation,and the sword of the Spirit,which is the word of God:
18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
Revelation 22
11 He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.
12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
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. ( Romans 2:12 - As many as have sinned without Law(the Gentiles) shall also PERISH without Law: and as many as have sinned in the Law(the Jews) shall be Judged by the Law;)
15 Without are dogs(dogs? Isaiah 56:10-11.Take a look), and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
But the fearful(the COWARDS), and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and ALL LIARS, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
The Word is GOD, self-executing, self-executable, understand?
5 And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our GOD, all ye his servants, and ye that fear Him, both small and great.
6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord GOD Omnipotent reigneth. (combined with Revelation 11:15-18.Take a look).
7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready.
8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the FINE LINEN is the righteousness of saints.
9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of GOD.
10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the TESTIMONY of JESUS: worship GOD: for the TESTIMONY of JESUS is the spirit of prophecy.
Wake up and get up quickly
Unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath-Mat.25:29. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
The Word of GOD is from everlasting to everlasting, the Word is GOD, self-executing, self-executable. Remember: around 2000 years ago the Word was made flesh, see what He said: John 5:17.
Picking corn on Sabbath out if necessity. Common sense is all that is needed to accomplish this obedience so there is no long list of do's abd don't's. Anyone who works on Saturday if they pray and believe God He will make a way out of it. There are plenty of people who have no regard for the things of God who can do what ever needs done. It is not a sin for true believers to worship and fellowship on Sunday. God has only command us to make one day, the seventh, as a complete day of rest and we can also worship since we don't have worldly distractions. Meals could be take out or prepared on Friday like in a slow cooker so everyone can help themselves etc. My whole point is Christians could do it no problem if they wanted to obey this commandment just like the others. God Bless :)
15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)
21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be(combined with Daniel 12:1-3 and Revelation 12:7-12).
22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved( Romans 9:28): but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ ( John 5:43-47), or there; BELIEVE IT NOT.
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets( Isaiah 9:15-16 combined with Revelation 12:3-4), and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. - 25 Behold, I have told you before.
There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Actually, we GOD's people, we are going together to meet JESUS, and He is coming to meet us, in time and space. So, each day that passes, He gets a little closer of the meeting point, and we who are walking in the way also get a little closer to Him, and the gap between us and JESUS decreases, and the moment will come when JESUS and we will arrive at the indicated time, in the place and space( Ephesians 1:3), as He combined with us, i.e. to be at the exact time and place of the glorious meeting. Hallelujah!
See, it is certain that the day of JESUS 'return is very very close.In my understanding it is the mysterious day 1.335- Daniel 12:12-, i.e.45 days after the end of the Abomination of Desolation of 1,290 days as was prophesied by Daniel. Dan.12:v.11 combined with Dan.9:v.27, both verses direct us to the majestic and indescribable event of JESUS's return.
Time is ticking,ticking,ticking; see,don't sleep,but if you're already asleep, wake up and get up fast, and take in mind that each passing day we are personally closer to JESUS.See how near He is. For meditation: Matthew 25:1-13
GOD BLESS