I Need Prayer For My Ex-Bishop Henry Ryan He Need Extra Grace From God Concerning Me We Don't see Eyes the Will Of God In us I Pray For His Heart To feel That God Is real and He is Speaking To us directly.
To God be the The Glory
2 Corinthians 3:17 The Lord is the Spirt and Where The Spirit is it is Liberty. Amen
Christ's death and resurrection destroyed the OLD and ushered in the NEW.
ALL flesh DIED on the cross of Christ, a new creation was resurrected, the image of Christ and his Father, the equal of Christ and his Father.
Isaiah 43:8 God does not share his glory with another, flesh and blood, they had to DIE, but he does bestow his glory on Christ; John 17:22 and we have been made ONE FLESH with Christ, by his resurrection, we are IN TRAVAIL of birth pains, waiting to be delivered into that PROMISE.
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be IN YOU, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:6 Who being in the FORM of God, thought it not robbery to be EQUAL with God.
Christ is not THE ONE GOD, but by INHERITANCE, is EQUAL with his Father, the one God.
We share that EQUALITY with Christ, by DYING with Christ on his cross, and being raised with him as ONE FLESH.
If we are going to LIVE by the WORD of God (the sword), we have to DIE by the WORD of God (the sword), understand the NEW and DIE to the OLD.
Psalms 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
We have the faith of Christ, we have the mind of Christ, we have the glory of Christ, we have the works of Christ, by inheritance.
2 Corinthians 3:18 And we ALL .... are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE .....by the Spirit of God.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ..... this mortal MUST put on IMMORTALITY ....
1 Timothy 6:16 .... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light ....
Isaiah 63:9 And in all their affliction, he was afflicted, and the angel of HIS presence saved them ....
Colossians 1:27 ..... this mystery, hidden from the ages ..... Christ IN YOU ....
John 17:5 And now, O Father, glorify THOU ME with thine OWN SELF with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.
Christ is the GLORY OF GOD, his Father, he is not the Father or God; but the Son of his Father and his God.
We, being made ONE FLESH, by the resurrection of Christ, became and heir of God, as Christ is an heir of God.
We are the children of Christ, his sons and daughters, he is our father and our god, until his Father has put all things under Christ, then Christ will turn the kingdom back to HIS FATHER and HIS GOD, and then God will be ALL in ALL, creation as ONE:
John 17:22 And the glory that thou has GIVEN ME I have given THEM; that they may be ONE, even as we are ONE.
If there is a trinity, then we also are a part of that trinity; but a trinity implies three, yet there is going to be billions.
Psalms 136:2 O give thanks to the God of gods .....
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we ALL .... are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE ..... even so by the Spirit of God.
Study Moses and the prophets, Christ FULFILLED them.
The sanctuary in question was a sanctuary where the Jews performed the ministry given to them by the Lord.
Everything about the tabernacle, the ministry and the rituals was given to the Jews only and was to be performed in Jerusalem.
If a Gentile wanted to serve he had to become a proselyte.
In the old testament "that nation" God showed the world there was a true and LIVING GOD who provides. He used them to make his name great amongst the Nations and he's still doing that, whether by chastening them or blessing them.
He performed his promises and covenants and there's more to come.
God also, by that nation the depravity of man apart from a New birth or regenerated HEART.
Everything about that ministry pointed to our fallen nature and the need for Jesus. There offerings and rituals ect.. pointed towards Christ. THAT WAS IT'S GLORY. which glory was to be done away:
However, That ministry was called the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones.
2 Corinthians 3:9 reads, "For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
(Look at verse 10) 3:10FOR EVEN THAT WHICH WAS MADE GLORIOUS HAD NO GLORY IN THIS RESPECT, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
The ministration of death couldn't make you righteous!
read 2 Corinthians 3:13-14. and notice their blindness.
They were blinded when Moses read to them!
Verse 15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, THE VAIL IS UPON THEIR HEART.
Verse 16) Important verse..
"Nevertheless WHEN IT SHALL TURN TO THE LORD, the vail shall be taken away.
When what "shall turn to the Lord? Their heart!!
When their heart shall turn to the Lord the veil shall be taken away.
James 2:9-12: James is writing in these verses about those who would "keep (fully obey) the whole law", yet go astray even by committing one sin in a moment of time, having demonstrated their inability to keep (continually uphold) the Law as required. "So speak ye ( James 1:26), and so do ( James 2:17), as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty (the Law believers are under, 2 Corinthians 2:17, Galatians 5:1, James 1:25)". The Law of Liberty, can also be referred to the Law of the Spirit Who gives Liberty ( 2 Corinthians 3:17, Romans 8:2), assures our hearts that we are accepted of the Lord because we have been forgiven & the Gift of the Holy Spirit continually ministers to our hearts & lives to help us live holy lives or lead us/discipline us when we stray off course.
This Liberty, the Law could never give - Israel always remained fearful of it, eventually leading them into idolatry & debauchery, but to those IN Christ Jesus there is now no condemnation who walk after the Spirit ( Romans 8:1) - we should not be bound to the letter that had as its goal to expose & destroy souls, but to the Spirit Who gives Power & Life to obey God perfectly, "hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" ( Jude 1:23). Only the Laws given us by the Spirit to our hearts cover every area of our lives, ministering to us in His Way (& not in human strength), so we can live above the letter's demands but as new creations in Christ. There was nothing wrong with the 10 Commandments, for they are from God & His Truth - but they were for Israel alone, for their conduct before God & man, to show them their sin, God's requirements, & prepare them to approach God in Love, Truth, & Faith. All who did at that time were accepted by their faith alone ( Hebrews 11:39,40) & not on how well they kept the Law. Romans 8:3,4 (we allow the righteousness of the Law to work & be fulfilled in us by God's Spirit - never appealing to the letter, which is devoid of life). Every blessing.
This section is not pointing fingers towards you are anyone in particular.
Deuteronomy 7:6-8 is a portion of scripture that has made an envious world hate the Jews and sadly some of the body of Christ has been compromised by this evil.
"For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.
The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people:
But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt"
Verse 6 is what they take issue with. "For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, ABOVE ALL PEOPLE THAT ARE UPON THE FACE OF THE EARTH"
Some would like to have this said about them, so they render this to the Church.
However, be at ease the church was not in the world when this verse was given,
And the Church is never called people of the earth or earth dwellers.
However, If I'm wrong and God chooses them over the Church, he has the right to do so, it's his creation.
Deuteronomy 7:7-8 emphasizes God's elect! He didn't choose them for any particular reason. It is not the Church.
The Church was never redeemed out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.
Israel is part of God's plan of salvation explained in Romans 11:11-33.
I find it amazing that the same people who say you can't be saved by the law of Moses "and rightfully so"
They acknowledge scriptures like 2 Corinthians 3:6-7 Galatians 3:19-25 when defending their own imperfections but say Israel failed because they couldn't.
Zechariah ch 11 hinges on the first coming of Christ. It emphasizes the rejection of Christ.
Zechariah 11:14 "Then I cut asunder mine other staff, even Bands, that I might break the brotherhood between Judah and Israel.
This happened when Israel rejected their Messiah, and the veil was rent from top to bottom. Later the Romans came in and destroyed Jerusalem.
Then came the scattering.
Ezekiel is emphasizing the regathering and Spiritual revival.
As of now they are blinded until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
In 2 Corinthians 3:14-16. Paul says "But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.
But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.
Also here in Romans 11.
"For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
The veil on the heart and blindness Paul is speaking of in these two books.
Verse 16 of the Corinthians passage says "Nevertheless WHEN IT SHALL TURN TO THE LORD, the vail shall be taken away.
When what shall turn to the Lord?
Their "Stony" heart!
This will be done away with when God puts his spirit in them spoken of by Ezekiel and Jeremiah.
Now most agree the Church started and the Jews and Gentiles were put into one body by the Ressurection of Christ.
But here in Romans and Corinthians Paul is speaking of a future event.
When you say that one is saying "we don't have to keep the 10 commandments" when they say the law was given to the nation Israel" I believe that is where you err.
I believe most agree with you that the 10 commandments and the law is relevant for us today.
However, they weren't given to make one righteous.
They were called 'The ministration of death", written and engraven in stones, or "Ministration of condemnation". NOT "The ministration of the spirit or Ministration of righteousness" As mentioned, and the two compared in 2 Corinthians 3:6-11
Is there a difference between the law and the 10 commandments?
"They both are a part of the Ministration of condemnation".
The law was written to deal with the 10 commandments by way of pattern or a foreshadowing. Those temporary articles could not make us righteous by that which slew us.
Look how Paul uses them both in Romans 7:7-14 "What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. ( Exodus 20:17)
But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.
For I was alive without "THE LAW" once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.
And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.
For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
So, the question should be "Do the law and commandments "APPLY" to us today. The answer is Yes! We all were under sin.
Moses law was the old law law of sin and death. Strive to enter in at the straight gate, and to sin no more. "But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious." 2 Corinthians 3: 7. The Vatican and her daughters (all major denominations) have never had eyes to see the knowledge you are blessed with. This word of God knowledge is what gives the sons and daughters of God power to walk the walk of faith (no sin) with the righteousness of God unto everlasting life. We are not to walk around the foundation of faith. Hallelujah! The people of denominations are walking on the boardwalk which means they are walking around the foundation of faith. "Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." Timothy 3: 7.
Deutronomey 6:[24] And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.
[25] And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.
Romans 10:4] For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
"But the fearful, 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." Revelations 21: 8.
This is inevitable for those found walking on the boardwalk.
1 Corinthians 13:12 states: For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. This relates to our perception of Christ; but also of course in glory we will see other saints in their eternal bodies as well for the first time. 2 Corinthians 3:18 says: But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
For now we do get glimpses; should we take the time to discern them of the Holy Spirit uniquely working in each true saint of God.
In physical appearance we still may look the same at least to the world to our early life when we were still in the world. Our identity is in Christ if indeed we are saved; and we are being transformed by the renewing of our minds ( Romans 12:2). Glorification will give us bodies it would seem like Christ when He could go through walls or doors ( John 20:19); we will be able to eat and drink ( Rev. 19:9; compare with Luke 24:42-43; and Mark 14:25). We will also rule and reign with Christ after returning with Him at Armageddon ( Rev. 19:14; Rev. 2:26-27).
Having no more suffering as promised in Revelation 21:4 and no more death certainly is an encouraging throught. I would submit that understanding the reasons for all of our earthly struggles may be even more poignant than understanding the suffering itself. We can take heart that Christ has His church as a reward; and we also can rejoice (or should) in one another and the time on earth invested in the Body of Christ as well as helping to fulfill the Great Commission. Again; it is rewards that are the variable that we are to strive for as seen in 1 Cor. 9:24-27. I am convinved many who receieve great rewards are relatively unknown at present praying in their closet; giving secretly to missions and serving under the radar. God sees the heart (see Heb. 4:12).
Sorry for the late reply.Thanks again for your encouraging words, and your thoughtful comments regarding the scripture in 1John.
Thank you for your time, insight, and testimony that you've shared in all your posts here. You have reminded us all about our Journey and the continued growth that God expects from us, if we are to truly become one with Jesus/God through the following of His Holy Sprit, and eventually actually having that vial taken away, so we can really see! 2 Corinthians 3:16
You also hit home a great point in your statement: "We ourselves experience an increase in joy of this fellowship as He takes away our sin, & we don't return to them." I agree wholeheartedly, and one major point in order for our growth is the continued focus on Not continuing to return to sin!
Sanctification under the law and Gods acceptance of man's cleansing himself and a picture of the difference between the ministration of death and the ministration by the Spirit.
Exodus 19:10-12. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes, And be ready against the third day: for the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people upon mount Sinai. And thou shalt set bounds unto the people round about, saying, Take heed to yourselves, that ye go not up into the mount, or touch the border of it: whosoever toucheth the mount shall be surely put to death:
This is a type of cleansing you are describing Ronald when considering man can keep himself sanctified. The problem is, this is absent of Christ atonement.
"Man can never do enough to come from under Christ atonement!
Our part is to obey the Spirit that has been sown in our hearts to carry the Lord's name. We are not to take the Lord's name in vain.
We are to be set apart from the world by our chastened walk through the Spirit, but when it comes to the Holiness of God, our obedience doesn't set us apart from our past, present, and future sin. The atoning blood of Christ does that forever.
The children of Israel although cleaning themselves they could never cleanse themselves enough to come into the presence of God. NEITHER CAN WE!
However, under the new covenant where Christ blood cleanses us we see the contrast of the two in 2 Corinthians 3:3-18.
and Galatians 4:21-31.
The power of His Holy Spirit that gives us new birth at justification is the same power that sanctifies us through the life of the risen Christ.
There are many Bible passages that puts the onus on the Christian to grow spiritually ( Romans 12:1-2; 2 Peter 3:18). However, the Bible clearly indicates that the Christian must cooperate with God but not for eternal security, It's for spiritual growth.
Re: Romans 11. Here too, I understand this passage differently. True, unbelieving Jews under the Law are also "under the curse" ( Galatians 3:10,11). And if they continued to place themselves under the Law, when that Law under that Covenant no longer existed (or, had become invalid), then they were doomed & cut out of the olive tree. There were still Jews that became believers ( Romans 11:5,7: the elect (Jews) had obtained salvation, along with the Gentiles who believed (also now the elect of God) & subsequently engrafted into the tree ( Romans 11:17-21)). So I believe that those who would not believe, received 'the spirit of blindness, deafness & slumber', but only temporary (v11), hopefully to be "provoked to jealousy", seeing the Gentiles have embraced the Messiah Whom they rejected & crucified.
But if the Law only 'matured', now to be embraced under the New Covenant, then the bindings & judgements of that Law must still weigh upon those in Christ. I see that there is more to the Old Law, than just a set of holy Commandments to be obeyed. It has to be cast off so that the one in Christ can truly come under the liberty & power that the Spirit gives. So the apostle could exclaim that he was now free from the law of sin & death, embracing the Law of the life-giving Spirit. If the old Law only 'matured' into the New, the full value of the New Covenant may be understood to be diminished.
And re: "fused together", I wasn't referring to the elect being fused together, but to the Law that was given under the Old Covenant to the Law under the New Covenant. But when the elect of Israel turn to the Lord, not only will the veil be taken away ( 2 Corinthians 3:16), but we, together with them can enjoy liberty in obedience to Christ; and particularly for the Jew, I would think that the transition would truly be liberating, giving the certainty & joy that the Law denied them. And we can see the emotion of Paul in his dealing with this subject in his letters.
Have you ever presented the Gospel to a atheist or perhaps a Muslim?
The first thing they refer you to is the 10 commandments and their argument sounds just like those who present the keeping of the law as a means of salvation.
So, they should have a clear understanding of what the law was for and what it did "by the scriptures" through a study in Romans, Galatians, and Corinthians.
Romans 7:8-14.
Galatians 2:16-21.
Galatians 3:1-29.
2 Corinthians 3:5-11. and then perhaps scriptures like Philippians 3:2-14.
These verses convict the sinner and put all under sin. That's what the law was for!
Our outward ceremonies and obedience at our best couldn't make us perfect! There is no new birth!
God requires perfection that is why he required a perfect replacement, Lamb. Christ Jesus.
SANCTIFICATION FOLLWS THIS.
Consider Israel.
God displayed the fallen nature of man and their inability to perform even while God was in their midst and carried them. This was and still is an example to us.
We are lost hopeless sheep gone astray apart from Jesus's blood shed on the cross.
Understand Matthew 21:42.
Jesus is the chief cornerstone, the pivotal piece of the foundation in which we are to build on.
When we are led by the Spirit we're building with precious stone. When we are led by the flesh, we build with wood hay and stubble. every man's work shall be tested by fire.
WHEN ISRAEL AS A NATION IS DRIVEN TO CALL ON THEIR MESSIAH THOSE WHO ACCEPT HIM AT THAT TIME WILL BE SAVED ALSO. AND GOD WILL BE SANCTIFIED IN THEM.
What shall we say then? is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.
But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.
For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.
2 Corinthians 3:6-11.
Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:
How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?
For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.
Romans 7:10-14.
And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.
For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
You wrote "Yes it is the 4th Commandment. Regarding the Sabbath scripturally, this is directly from God."
There are several scriptures here that do not lend support to your position regarding Christians having to maintain the Sabbath. Not to mention the entire book of Galatians weighing in on the law.
Colossians 2:16 (KJV) Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:
2 Corinthians 3:7-11 (AMP)
7 Now if the dispensation of death engraved in letters on stone [the ministration of the Law], was inaugurated with such glory and splendor that the Israelites were not able to look steadily at the face of Moses because of its brilliance, [a glory] that was to fade and pass away,
8 Why should not the dispensation of the Spirit [this spiritual ministry whose task it is to cause men to obtain and be governed by the Holy Spirit] be attended with much greater and more splendid glory?
9 For if the service that condemns [the ministration of doom] had glory, how infinitely more abounding in splendor and glory must be the service that makes righteous [the ministry that produces and fosters righteous living and right standing with God]!
10Indeed, in view of this fact, what once had splendor [the glory of the Law in the face of Moses] has come to have no splendor at all, because of the overwhelming glory that exceeds and excels it [the glory of the Gospel in the face of Jesus Christ].
11 For if that which was but passing and fading away came with splendor, how much more must that which remains and is permanent abide in glory and splendor!
7Now if the dispensation of death engraved in letters on stone [the ministration of the Law], was inaugurated with such glory and splendor that the Israelites were not able to look steadily at the face of Moses because of its brilliance, [a glory] that was to fade and pass away,
8Why should not the dispensation of the Spirit [this spiritual ministry whose task it is to cause men to obtain and be governed by the Holy Spirit] be attended with much greater and more splendid glory?
9For if the service that condemns [the ministration of doom] had glory, how infinitely more abounding in splendor and glory must be the service that makes righteous [the ministry that produces and fosters righteous living and right standing with God]!
10Indeed, in view of this fact, what once had splendor [the glory of the Law in the face of Moses] has come to have no splendor at all, because of the overwhelming glory that exceeds and excels it [the glory of the Gospel in the face of Jesus Christ].
11For if that which was but passing and fading away came with splendor, how much more must that which remains and is permanent abide in glory and splendor!
Thanks for your comments Oseas. I can see that we read & understand the Bible in differently. You write: "the letter kills, I would say "letters" are the tree of the knowledge of good and evil". In writing about the 'letter kills', Paul (in 2 Corinthians 3:6) is contrasting the Letter of the Law given to Israel, which could never give them life, but only lead to death. There was nothing wrong with the Commandments of God: they showed God's Standards, the nature of sin & condition of the human heart, & their inability to fully meet the Law's demands. "But what the Law (the Letter) could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh" ( Romans 8:3).
And when His Son paid sin's price, the Letter of the Law had no more hold on those who looked to Him & not to the Letter to save them. God's Spirit was given to believers, who would now be subject to the Spirit: "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death" ( Romans 8:2). So, the letter of the Bible is NOT a stumbling block; it is the very Word of God, given by the Spirit & enabling that Word to be applied to the believer. If we dismiss the Word of God as just being 'a letter (a tree if knowledge)', then we must also dismiss that the Word is "God-breathed", yet we must obey it 'to the letter'. If we don't, then we can do whatever we want with it, even as we see the behavior of many so-called believers. Let's not try to be so tuned to the Spirit so as to avoid the very Words that the Spirit has given us for our understanding & obedience. The Holy Spirit will never ask us to do or behave in a way that is inconsistent with the revealed Word of God.
As far as the 'root of sin being the sound of words by a lying tongue', the Devil might be the author of sin, but we can (as the Lord Himself did) choose to listen & obey him or not. Sin lies at our door - the door of our heart.
I agree 100% what you have said that OT Israel knew nothing of a coming Messiah's Sacrifice of His Life for them & substitutionary payment. Hence, the word 'Gospel' mentioned in Hebrews 4 is not the same Gospel they received as is the complete Gospel that the Apostles preached post-Cross. (Perhaps not in the way it is preached in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
I believe the OT saints did what was required of them at that time to make them just with God. Their temporal rituals and sacrifices exemplified the Gospel and perhaps the resurrection was preached by "type" when Issac was offered as a sacrifice by Abraham. Hebrews 11:17-19.
However, could they have perceived it, being that Jeremiah 31:31-34 have not taken place yet?
When we study Hebrews in its entirety, we know that this new covenant was not to come under the Levitical covenant. This is clearly seen in Hebrews Ch 7 and 8.
So, when we look back at this, Israel mind was blinded and there was a veil upon their hearts, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 3:14-16. "But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the Old Testament, which vail is done away in Christ.
But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.
Nevertheless when "it" shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. (The "it" mentioned here is their hearts.)
When Israel turns their hearts to God the veil and the blindness shall be taken away.
This is what Paul is saying in Romans 11.
Israel was incapable of receiving the revelation of the Gospel under the Levitical High Priest and if you study the Gospels carefully, neither could the Apostles until the death of the one that filled the role of the Levitical Priesthood at the Cross.
(I believe this is what John's baptism was all about)
The resurrection began the new covenant under the new Priest hood. ( Hebrews 7:15-16.)
Is it not a fruit of the Spirit given once one IS saved?
SO WHAT IS THIS SAYING?
To get the context you have to pick it up the from John 13 on through John 14:23.
John 13:34-35.
"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
BY THIS SHALL ALL MEN KNOW THAT YE ARE MY DISCIPLES, if ye have love one to another.
Jesus taught that those who follow Him will show love for the brothern ( John 13:12-15, 34).
That is the primary sign of faith to the outside world ( John 13:35). Here, he indicates that obedience to His command is the primary sign of our love for Him.
A person cannot claim to know Christ and hate other Christians
1 John 4:20.
Proceeding from John 14:15 on thru John 14:16-23 Jesus is telling them he was going and sending them the Holyspirit that will guide them.
Throughout this section, a person's love for Christ, their obedience to His teachings, and the indwelling of the Spirit are intertwined
All the law hangs on this.
Matthew 23:37-40.
AND THE MINISTRATION OF THE LAW COULDN'T PRODUCE THIS.
2 Corinthians 3:8-11 concedes that regeneration by the gift of the Holyspirit in those who believe in Christ exceeds the ministration of the law.
"How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?
For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of THE GLORY THAT EXCELLETH.
FOR IF THAT WHICH IS DONE AWAY WAS GLORIOUS, MUCH MORE THAT WHICH REMAINETH IS GLORIOUS.
Romans 7:8-10. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.
For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.
And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.
WE ALL AGREE THE LAW IS HOLY, SO WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE LAW THAT SLEW PAUL?
Romans 7:11-14
For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. BUT SIN, THAT IT MIGHT APPEAR SIN, WORKING DEATH IN ME BY THAT WHICH IS GOOD; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
PAUL IS SAYING THESE HOLY COMMANDMENTS EXPOSED HIM.
THAT HE MIGHT APPEAR SINFUL WORKING DEATH IN HIM BY THAT WHICH IS GOOD. ( The commandments.)
Also see 2 Corinthians 3:7-9
Vs 7:15-28.For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: FOR TO WILL IS PRESENT WITH ME; BUT HOW TO PERFORM THAT WHICH IS GOOD I FIND NOT.
WHAT DID PAUL FIND THAT IS GOOD? (THE COMMANDMENTS)
COULD HE PERFORM THEM? ( NO HE SAYS.)
19-23.) For the good that I would I do not:
but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members
I haven't been able to get away to participate by reading the bulk of the posts and replies on the 10 commandment topic.
I would like to mention a misunderstanding in the communication between the several views on this topic.
There's a difference in the 10 commandments being Holy and being justified by keeping them.
We say Israel failed to be a witness but is that totally accurate?
How did they fail? By not keeping the law?
Before anyone answer that I would like for us to consider a few things.
1) Israel keeps the Law far better than any nation ever has!!
2) The law was given to Israel. Romans 9:4. So they had a ministry to minister to the Whole world as "fleshly" Children of an active, living, Holy God.
This ministry was called ministration of death..
2 Corinthians 3:6-9.
They were examples for us and this is written to us.
They successfully showed the world what Paul stated in Romans 7:5-14.
The world is unable to be Justified by the Law.
3) To say Israel failed for not keeping the law is not exactly correct.
They failed by thinking they were justified by the law.( Not just the 10 commandments ) after all there were articles for certain sins.
They failed because they stumbled at that stumblingstone!
That's where they failed!!
Romans 9:31-33.
They all didn't fail, there was a remnant according to the election of grace and still is.
Romans 11:4-8.
vs 5) Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant (ACCORDING TO THE ELECTION OF GRACE!)
This election is not determined by works.
In other words works wasn't elected as God's way to justify his people.
Romans 9:11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;
Yes the law is Holy and we all fail to be Justified by it, so we were all dead in trespasses and sins.
Joshua288, you are giving two different Scriptures here & they're different.
2 Corinthians 3:6: "Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life." If you have read further in this chapter, Paul writes about, "ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious...". This is what he is referring to: the letter of the Law was never designed to give Israel life (freedom of guilt, of penalty, of death & separation from God). The Law was given by God for many reasons, but ultimately we read what Paul wrote in Galatians 3:10-24, mainly that the Law never justified anyone, it couldn't because none could keep it perfectly. But the Law was given to show men their sinfulness & to draw him back to God, Who would one day save men (not by the keeping of the Law), but by having faith in Jesus His Son. So the letter of the Law will kill us sending us to hell, if we're dependent on it to save us. But the Spirit, the Holy Spirit gives the believer life now & into eternity, by virtue of Jesus' Death & Resurrection, & our believing this great act of Love. The letter of the Law could never do this. The Law was temporary, until Jesus came.
Then you quoted John 5:39, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me." In this chapter, Jesus is speaking to the Jewish leaders who were wanting to kill Him ( John 5:18). Then Jesus speaks to them concerning what He was doing there & then about His Coming as the Son of God (vv18-24). He tells these leaders that 'they don't have God's Word in them because they refuse to believe in Jesus' (v38). And then He tells them, "Search the Scriptures", or 'you are diligently searching through the Scriptures, believing that eternal life is found in it' (this is from the original Greek). 'But these very Scriptures you read, bear witness of Me.' They failed to see Jesus' Coming in them.
Fourthly, the Ten Commandments were given to Israel & were binding upon them. Some of their objectives were:
a. to reveal the Holiness of the Eternal God to His people, Israel: Leviticus 19:2; Leviticus 20:7-8.
b. to set Israel apart as distinct from all the other nations: Exodus 19:5.
c. to reveal man's sinfulness: Galatians 3:19. Although the Law is "holy, just & good ( Romans 7:12), it did not provide salvation for the nation of Israel; and it cannot provide salvation to anyone who wants to or tries to keep the Law. No one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin ( Romans 3:20; Acts 13:38-39).
d. to show to humanity that not one person can fully keep the Law but everyone falls short of God's Standard of Holiness. Realizing that, should cause us to cast ourselves upon a Merciful God for His Forgiveness. When Jesus came, He fulfilled the requirements of the Law completely and by His death fully paid the penalty for their breaking it ( Galatians 3:24; Romans 10:4). Therefore, by His Obedience, He was qualified to be the accepted Sacrifice for all mankind, for all of our sins ( Hebrews 10:10-12). If Jesus failed in fully keeping the Law, He would have been disqualified as a Savior - all mankind would be forever stuck in the quagmire of their sins & hell would be the destiny. But He was raised from the dead to show His Father's acceptance, our justification & deliverance ( Romans 4:23-25).
I hope you can see Ani, that even though there was nothing wrong with the Law, even keeping the Sabbath by Israel, anyone who puts themselves under the Law (i.e. to find forgiveness or acceptance by God by it), is doomed to fail. Our Rest - continual rest (Sabbath) is now found in Jesus & not in Law-keeping & we can only be subject now to the Holy Spirit who enables us to fulfil both the spirit of the Law & finding the true rest in Christ Jesus ( 2 Corinthians 3:6-9; Romans 8:1-4).
More on this important topic concerning our works ans righteousness.
Romans 10:10. Says 'For with the heart man believeth UNTO "righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."
Ephesians 2:10 (KJV) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus UNTO 'good works", which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
The righteousness is not of the law as mentioned and the works is not the working of the law. 2 Corinthians 3:3-4. Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
This is performed by Christ being in you and he will abide in you until the end.
Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST:
1 John 5:10-12. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
AND THIS IS THE RECORD, THAT GOD HATH GIVEN TO US ETERNAL LIFE, AND THIS LIFE IS IN HIS SON.
He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
We either have Jesus or ww don't!
If we have Jesus we have life and that life is sealed and eternal.
I love the way the scripture plainly put it. "GOD HATH GIVEN TO US ETERNAL LIFE, AND THIS LIFE IS IN HIS SON.
The law was given to Israel but let's set that aside.
You are right in that you say, "The Commandments must be kept" Israel couldn't obtain salvation thru the keeping of the law and neither can we.
Christ came to free us from the curse of the law, that doesn't mean he did away with The Law.
In the old covenant "under the law" there was sacrifices made for sin. Those sacrifices pointed ahead to the only sacrifice that could take away sin AND regenerate the believer by the Spirit. Hebrews 10:3-10.
The old covenant had no power over the incurable heart. The new covenant humbled the sinner and pointed him in the right direction. "CHRIST" Ezekiel 36:26-27. Jeremiah 31:31-33.
The old covenant slew us and is called the ministration of death. Romans 7:5-11. 2 Corinthians 3:6-14.
The new covenant gave mercy. Why mercy? Because no one could keep the law, and no one is able to do so today. Putting ourselves in chains and grinding our teeth while restraining from sin isn't keeping the law. Galatians 2:21.
The commandments given didn't say keep the commandments as best you can.
You're breaking the law in your heart You're still a sinner. There's no sanctification. Christ came to give new birth and a new heart accompanied with mercy and grace.
The second you broke any one of them you were forever lost if there was no sacrifice that could take away sin. Hebrews 10:1-5.
It was the sacrifices that pointed to Christ that made atonement for those sins.
Israel having God in their midst with all the providence showed the world that the heart of man is incurably wicked.
The law showed that there was a need of a savior that could regenerate the believer and give a new heart and life.
The commandments are Holy and was given to a nation that was set apart to show man with God in their midst was nothing like God being "IN" them.
That's what's available today.
Read Galatians 3:10-26.
Perhaps more on this later this weekend God bless."
That's all true Adam, we've redefining holiness and worship, and excused disobedience.
This will cause many to be deceived. Matthew 7:22-23. says "MANY".
That should cause us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
I like the way Paul put it in
2 Corinthians 13:5. You notice whereit says "how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"
( He's saying IF Christ is in you you WILL perform a certain way.)
2 Corinthians 3:3-5 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD;
( not in tables of stone,) BUT IN FLESHY TABLES OF THE HEART.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; BUT OUR SUFFICIENCY IS OF GOD;
God Lords over our hearts. Him IN us is manifested in our walk.
I believe that is what the Lord is saying in this rhetorical question in Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
If he is your Lord he put his spirit inside you to perform his will!
We've been sanctified Positionally.
( Given an atonement).
We are being sanctified practically.
(Growing in grace and quickened by the Spirit. ) This is our walk.
Worship is in truth and in spirit. It's not a hobby!
When we're passing out God's word we're not going to be correct all the time but we should hold it dear to our heart and be cautious to not treat it like a conversation at a round table.
Neither will we find our walk perfect but the desire to be perfect should be there.
There has to be conviction in your heart. Not pride or glory seeking. There has to be a denial of self! Not man pleasers.
It's joy being redeemed but it's not a game!
It's not doing our best. Our best isn't good enough.
It's accepting God's best. His son Jesus Christ.
It's his ability to sanctify us is where we stand.
To God be the The Glory
2 Corinthians 3:17 The Lord is the Spirt and Where The Spirit is it is Liberty. Amen
Shalom
Christ's death and resurrection destroyed the OLD and ushered in the NEW.
ALL flesh DIED on the cross of Christ, a new creation was resurrected, the image of Christ and his Father, the equal of Christ and his Father.
Isaiah 43:8 God does not share his glory with another, flesh and blood, they had to DIE, but he does bestow his glory on Christ; John 17:22 and we have been made ONE FLESH with Christ, by his resurrection, we are IN TRAVAIL of birth pains, waiting to be delivered into that PROMISE.
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be IN YOU, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:6 Who being in the FORM of God, thought it not robbery to be EQUAL with God.
Christ is not THE ONE GOD, but by INHERITANCE, is EQUAL with his Father, the one God.
We share that EQUALITY with Christ, by DYING with Christ on his cross, and being raised with him as ONE FLESH.
If we are going to LIVE by the WORD of God (the sword), we have to DIE by the WORD of God (the sword), understand the NEW and DIE to the OLD.
Psalms 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
We have the faith of Christ, we have the mind of Christ, we have the glory of Christ, we have the works of Christ, by inheritance.
2 Corinthians 3:18 And we ALL .... are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE .....by the Spirit of God.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ..... this mortal MUST put on IMMORTALITY ....
1 Timothy 6:16 .... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light ....
Isaiah 63:9 And in all their affliction, he was afflicted, and the angel of HIS presence saved them ....
Colossians 1:27 ..... this mystery, hidden from the ages ..... Christ IN YOU ....
God Bless You
Christ is the GLORY OF GOD, his Father, he is not the Father or God; but the Son of his Father and his God.
We, being made ONE FLESH, by the resurrection of Christ, became and heir of God, as Christ is an heir of God.
We are the children of Christ, his sons and daughters, he is our father and our god, until his Father has put all things under Christ, then Christ will turn the kingdom back to HIS FATHER and HIS GOD, and then God will be ALL in ALL, creation as ONE:
John 17:22 And the glory that thou has GIVEN ME I have given THEM; that they may be ONE, even as we are ONE.
If there is a trinity, then we also are a part of that trinity; but a trinity implies three, yet there is going to be billions.
Psalms 136:2 O give thanks to the God of gods .....
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we ALL .... are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE ..... even so by the Spirit of God.
Study Moses and the prophets, Christ FULFILLED them.
God Bless You
Sorry, I should have proof read this.
Here's a edited version.
The sanctuary in question was a sanctuary where the Jews performed the ministry given to them by the Lord.
Everything about the tabernacle, the ministry and the rituals was given to the Jews only and was to be performed in Jerusalem.
If a Gentile wanted to serve he had to become a proselyte.
In the old testament, "by the nation Israel" God showed the world there was a true and LIVING GOD who provides.
He used them to make his name great amongst the Nations and he's still doing that, whether by chastening them or blessing them.
He performed his promises and covenants and there's more to come.
God also, by that nation showed the depravity of man apart from a New birth or regenerated HEART.
Everything about that ministry pointed to our fallen nature and the need for Jesus.
Their offerings and rituals ect.. pointed towards Christ. THAT WAS ITS GLORY. which glory was to be done away with:
However, That ministry was called the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones.
2 Corinthians 3:9 reads, "For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
(Look at verse 10) 3:10FOR EVEN THAT WHICH WAS MADE GLORIOUS HAD NO GLORY IN THIS RESPECT, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
The ministration of death couldn't make you righteous!
Read 2 Corinthians 3:13-14. and notice their blindness .
(They were blinded when Moses read to them!)
Verse 15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, THE VAIL IS UPON THEIR HEART.
Verse 16) Important verse..
"Nevertheless WHEN IT SHALL TURN TO THE LORD, the vail shall be taken away.
When what "shall turn to the Lord? Their heart!!
When their heart shall turn to the Lord the veil shall be taken away.
Again im sorry for such a mess.
I'm working tonight and multitasking.
Blessings
The sanctuary in question was a sanctuary where the Jews performed the ministry given to them by the Lord.
Everything about the tabernacle, the ministry and the rituals was given to the Jews only and was to be performed in Jerusalem.
If a Gentile wanted to serve he had to become a proselyte.
In the old testament "that nation" God showed the world there was a true and LIVING GOD who provides. He used them to make his name great amongst the Nations and he's still doing that, whether by chastening them or blessing them.
He performed his promises and covenants and there's more to come.
God also, by that nation the depravity of man apart from a New birth or regenerated HEART.
Everything about that ministry pointed to our fallen nature and the need for Jesus. There offerings and rituals ect.. pointed towards Christ. THAT WAS IT'S GLORY. which glory was to be done away:
However, That ministry was called the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones.
2 Corinthians 3:9 reads, "For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
(Look at verse 10) 3:10FOR EVEN THAT WHICH WAS MADE GLORIOUS HAD NO GLORY IN THIS RESPECT, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
The ministration of death couldn't make you righteous!
read 2 Corinthians 3:13-14. and notice their blindness.
They were blinded when Moses read to them!
Verse 15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, THE VAIL IS UPON THEIR HEART.
Verse 16) Important verse..
"Nevertheless WHEN IT SHALL TURN TO THE LORD, the vail shall be taken away.
When what "shall turn to the Lord? Their heart!!
When their heart shall turn to the Lord the veil shall be taken away.
God bless.
King David was flesh and blood, therefore he is in the grave, dust to dust.
Acts 2:29-34
King David, the NEW CREATION, by the resurrection of Christ, is now in the presence of God, being made ONE FLESH, by the resurrection of Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ... this mortal shall PUT ON IMMORTALITY ......
1 Timothy 6:16 ...... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light ......
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all...... are CHANGED into the same IMAGE .... even so by the Spirit of God.
John 11:25 ..... Christ is the RESURRECTION .......
God Bless You
James 2:9-12: James is writing in these verses about those who would "keep (fully obey) the whole law", yet go astray even by committing one sin in a moment of time, having demonstrated their inability to keep (continually uphold) the Law as required. "So speak ye ( James 1:26), and so do ( James 2:17), as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty (the Law believers are under, 2 Corinthians 2:17, Galatians 5:1, James 1:25)". The Law of Liberty, can also be referred to the Law of the Spirit Who gives Liberty ( 2 Corinthians 3:17, Romans 8:2), assures our hearts that we are accepted of the Lord because we have been forgiven & the Gift of the Holy Spirit continually ministers to our hearts & lives to help us live holy lives or lead us/discipline us when we stray off course.
This Liberty, the Law could never give - Israel always remained fearful of it, eventually leading them into idolatry & debauchery, but to those IN Christ Jesus there is now no condemnation who walk after the Spirit ( Romans 8:1) - we should not be bound to the letter that had as its goal to expose & destroy souls, but to the Spirit Who gives Power & Life to obey God perfectly, "hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" ( Jude 1:23). Only the Laws given us by the Spirit to our hearts cover every area of our lives, ministering to us in His Way (& not in human strength), so we can live above the letter's demands but as new creations in Christ. There was nothing wrong with the 10 Commandments, for they are from God & His Truth - but they were for Israel alone, for their conduct before God & man, to show them their sin, God's requirements, & prepare them to approach God in Love, Truth, & Faith. All who did at that time were accepted by their faith alone ( Hebrews 11:39,40) & not on how well they kept the Law. Romans 8:3,4 (we allow the righteousness of the Law to work & be fulfilled in us by God's Spirit - never appealing to the letter, which is devoid of life). Every blessing.
Part 2.
This section is not pointing fingers towards you are anyone in particular.
Deuteronomy 7:6-8 is a portion of scripture that has made an envious world hate the Jews and sadly some of the body of Christ has been compromised by this evil.
"For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.
The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people:
But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt"
Verse 6 is what they take issue with. "For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, ABOVE ALL PEOPLE THAT ARE UPON THE FACE OF THE EARTH"
Some would like to have this said about them, so they render this to the Church.
However, be at ease the church was not in the world when this verse was given,
And the Church is never called people of the earth or earth dwellers.
However, If I'm wrong and God chooses them over the Church, he has the right to do so, it's his creation.
Deuteronomy 7:7-8 emphasizes God's elect! He didn't choose them for any particular reason. It is not the Church.
The Church was never redeemed out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.
Israel is part of God's plan of salvation explained in Romans 11:11-33.
I find it amazing that the same people who say you can't be saved by the law of Moses "and rightfully so"
They acknowledge scriptures like 2 Corinthians 3:6-7 Galatians 3:19-25 when defending their own imperfections but say Israel failed because they couldn't.
God bless.
Part 1
Zechariah ch 11 hinges on the first coming of Christ. It emphasizes the rejection of Christ.
Zechariah 11:14 "Then I cut asunder mine other staff, even Bands, that I might break the brotherhood between Judah and Israel.
This happened when Israel rejected their Messiah, and the veil was rent from top to bottom. Later the Romans came in and destroyed Jerusalem.
Then came the scattering.
Ezekiel is emphasizing the regathering and Spiritual revival.
As of now they are blinded until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
In 2 Corinthians 3:14-16. Paul says "But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.
But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.
Also here in Romans 11.
"For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
The veil on the heart and blindness Paul is speaking of in these two books.
Verse 16 of the Corinthians passage says "Nevertheless WHEN IT SHALL TURN TO THE LORD, the vail shall be taken away.
When what shall turn to the Lord?
Their "Stony" heart!
This will be done away with when God puts his spirit in them spoken of by Ezekiel and Jeremiah.
Now most agree the Church started and the Jews and Gentiles were put into one body by the Ressurection of Christ.
But here in Romans and Corinthians Paul is speaking of a future event.
See part 2
When you say that one is saying "we don't have to keep the 10 commandments" when they say the law was given to the nation Israel" I believe that is where you err.
I believe most agree with you that the 10 commandments and the law is relevant for us today.
However, they weren't given to make one righteous.
They were called 'The ministration of death", written and engraven in stones, or "Ministration of condemnation". NOT "The ministration of the spirit or Ministration of righteousness" As mentioned, and the two compared in 2 Corinthians 3:6-11
Is there a difference between the law and the 10 commandments?
"They both are a part of the Ministration of condemnation".
The law was written to deal with the 10 commandments by way of pattern or a foreshadowing. Those temporary articles could not make us righteous by that which slew us.
Look how Paul uses them both in Romans 7:7-14 "What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. ( Exodus 20:17)
But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.
For I was alive without "THE LAW" once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.
And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.
For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
So, the question should be "Do the law and commandments "APPLY" to us today. The answer is Yes! We all were under sin.
Here is where we factor in Galatians 3:11-26.
God bless.
Deutronomey 6:[24] And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.
[25] And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.
Romans 10:4] For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
"But the fearful, 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." Revelations 21: 8.
This is inevitable for those found walking on the boardwalk.
1 Corinthians 13:12 states: For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. This relates to our perception of Christ; but also of course in glory we will see other saints in their eternal bodies as well for the first time. 2 Corinthians 3:18 says: But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
For now we do get glimpses; should we take the time to discern them of the Holy Spirit uniquely working in each true saint of God.
In physical appearance we still may look the same at least to the world to our early life when we were still in the world. Our identity is in Christ if indeed we are saved; and we are being transformed by the renewing of our minds ( Romans 12:2). Glorification will give us bodies it would seem like Christ when He could go through walls or doors ( John 20:19); we will be able to eat and drink ( Rev. 19:9; compare with Luke 24:42-43; and Mark 14:25). We will also rule and reign with Christ after returning with Him at Armageddon ( Rev. 19:14; Rev. 2:26-27).
Having no more suffering as promised in Revelation 21:4 and no more death certainly is an encouraging throught. I would submit that understanding the reasons for all of our earthly struggles may be even more poignant than understanding the suffering itself. We can take heart that Christ has His church as a reward; and we also can rejoice (or should) in one another and the time on earth invested in the Body of Christ as well as helping to fulfill the Great Commission. Again; it is rewards that are the variable that we are to strive for as seen in 1 Cor. 9:24-27. I am convinved many who receieve great rewards are relatively unknown at present praying in their closet; giving secretly to missions and serving under the radar. God sees the heart (see Heb. 4:12).
Sorry for the late reply.Thanks again for your encouraging words, and your thoughtful comments regarding the scripture in 1John.
Thank you for your time, insight, and testimony that you've shared in all your posts here. You have reminded us all about our Journey and the continued growth that God expects from us, if we are to truly become one with Jesus/God through the following of His Holy Sprit, and eventually actually having that vial taken away, so we can really see! 2 Corinthians 3:16
You also hit home a great point in your statement: "We ourselves experience an increase in joy of this fellowship as He takes away our sin, & we don't return to them." I agree wholeheartedly, and one major point in order for our growth is the continued focus on Not continuing to return to sin!
Continue on my friend.
GBU
Part 5.
Sanctification under the law and Gods acceptance of man's cleansing himself and a picture of the difference between the ministration of death and the ministration by the Spirit.
Exodus 19:10-12. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes, And be ready against the third day: for the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people upon mount Sinai. And thou shalt set bounds unto the people round about, saying, Take heed to yourselves, that ye go not up into the mount, or touch the border of it: whosoever toucheth the mount shall be surely put to death:
This is a type of cleansing you are describing Ronald when considering man can keep himself sanctified. The problem is, this is absent of Christ atonement.
"Man can never do enough to come from under Christ atonement!
Our part is to obey the Spirit that has been sown in our hearts to carry the Lord's name. We are not to take the Lord's name in vain.
We are to be set apart from the world by our chastened walk through the Spirit, but when it comes to the Holiness of God, our obedience doesn't set us apart from our past, present, and future sin. The atoning blood of Christ does that forever.
The children of Israel although cleaning themselves they could never cleanse themselves enough to come into the presence of God. NEITHER CAN WE!
However, under the new covenant where Christ blood cleanses us we see the contrast of the two in 2 Corinthians 3:3-18.
and Galatians 4:21-31.
The power of His Holy Spirit that gives us new birth at justification is the same power that sanctifies us through the life of the risen Christ.
There are many Bible passages that puts the onus on the Christian to grow spiritually ( Romans 12:1-2; 2 Peter 3:18). However, the Bible clearly indicates that the Christian must cooperate with God but not for eternal security, It's for spiritual growth.
Thanks for replying and God bless.
Re: Romans 11. Here too, I understand this passage differently. True, unbelieving Jews under the Law are also "under the curse" ( Galatians 3:10,11). And if they continued to place themselves under the Law, when that Law under that Covenant no longer existed (or, had become invalid), then they were doomed & cut out of the olive tree. There were still Jews that became believers ( Romans 11:5,7: the elect (Jews) had obtained salvation, along with the Gentiles who believed (also now the elect of God) & subsequently engrafted into the tree ( Romans 11:17-21)). So I believe that those who would not believe, received 'the spirit of blindness, deafness & slumber', but only temporary (v11), hopefully to be "provoked to jealousy", seeing the Gentiles have embraced the Messiah Whom they rejected & crucified.
But if the Law only 'matured', now to be embraced under the New Covenant, then the bindings & judgements of that Law must still weigh upon those in Christ. I see that there is more to the Old Law, than just a set of holy Commandments to be obeyed. It has to be cast off so that the one in Christ can truly come under the liberty & power that the Spirit gives. So the apostle could exclaim that he was now free from the law of sin & death, embracing the Law of the life-giving Spirit. If the old Law only 'matured' into the New, the full value of the New Covenant may be understood to be diminished.
And re: "fused together", I wasn't referring to the elect being fused together, but to the Law that was given under the Old Covenant to the Law under the New Covenant. But when the elect of Israel turn to the Lord, not only will the veil be taken away ( 2 Corinthians 3:16), but we, together with them can enjoy liberty in obedience to Christ; and particularly for the Jew, I would think that the transition would truly be liberating, giving the certainty & joy that the Law denied them. And we can see the emotion of Paul in his dealing with this subject in his letters.
The first thing they refer you to is the 10 commandments and their argument sounds just like those who present the keeping of the law as a means of salvation.
So, they should have a clear understanding of what the law was for and what it did "by the scriptures" through a study in Romans, Galatians, and Corinthians.
Romans 7:8-14.
Galatians 2:16-21.
Galatians 3:1-29.
2 Corinthians 3:5-11. and then perhaps scriptures like Philippians 3:2-14.
These verses convict the sinner and put all under sin. That's what the law was for!
Our outward ceremonies and obedience at our best couldn't make us perfect! There is no new birth!
God requires perfection that is why he required a perfect replacement, Lamb. Christ Jesus.
SANCTIFICATION FOLLWS THIS.
Consider Israel.
God displayed the fallen nature of man and their inability to perform even while God was in their midst and carried them. This was and still is an example to us.
We are lost hopeless sheep gone astray apart from Jesus's blood shed on the cross.
Understand Matthew 21:42.
Jesus is the chief cornerstone, the pivotal piece of the foundation in which we are to build on.
When we are led by the Spirit we're building with precious stone. When we are led by the flesh, we build with wood hay and stubble. every man's work shall be tested by fire.
WHEN ISRAEL AS A NATION IS DRIVEN TO CALL ON THEIR MESSIAH THOSE WHO ACCEPT HIM AT THAT TIME WILL BE SAVED ALSO. AND GOD WILL BE SANCTIFIED IN THEM.
God bless
Part 2.
Romans 7:7-9
What shall we say then? is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.
But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.
For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.
2 Corinthians 3:6-11.
Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away:
How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?
For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.
For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.
Romans 7:10-14.
And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.
For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
See Part 3
You wrote "Yes it is the 4th Commandment. Regarding the Sabbath scripturally, this is directly from God."
There are several scriptures here that do not lend support to your position regarding Christians having to maintain the Sabbath. Not to mention the entire book of Galatians weighing in on the law.
Colossians 2:16 (KJV) Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:
2 Corinthians 3:7-11 (AMP)
7 Now if the dispensation of death engraved in letters on stone [the ministration of the Law], was inaugurated with such glory and splendor that the Israelites were not able to look steadily at the face of Moses because of its brilliance, [a glory] that was to fade and pass away,
8 Why should not the dispensation of the Spirit [this spiritual ministry whose task it is to cause men to obtain and be governed by the Holy Spirit] be attended with much greater and more splendid glory?
9 For if the service that condemns [the ministration of doom] had glory, how infinitely more abounding in splendor and glory must be the service that makes righteous [the ministry that produces and fosters righteous living and right standing with God]!
10Indeed, in view of this fact, what once had splendor [the glory of the Law in the face of Moses] has come to have no splendor at all, because of the overwhelming glory that exceeds and excels it [the glory of the Gospel in the face of Jesus Christ].
11 For if that which was but passing and fading away came with splendor, how much more must that which remains and is permanent abide in glory and splendor!
Also, Romans 8:1-4 (KJV)
7Now if the dispensation of death engraved in letters on stone [the ministration of the Law], was inaugurated with such glory and splendor that the Israelites were not able to look steadily at the face of Moses because of its brilliance, [a glory] that was to fade and pass away,
8Why should not the dispensation of the Spirit [this spiritual ministry whose task it is to cause men to obtain and be governed by the Holy Spirit] be attended with much greater and more splendid glory?
9For if the service that condemns [the ministration of doom] had glory, how infinitely more abounding in splendor and glory must be the service that makes righteous [the ministry that produces and fosters righteous living and right standing with God]!
10Indeed, in view of this fact, what once had splendor [the glory of the Law in the face of Moses] has come to have no splendor at all, because of the overwhelming glory that exceeds and excels it [the glory of the Gospel in the face of Jesus Christ].
11For if that which was but passing and fading away came with splendor, how much more must that which remains and is permanent abide in glory and splendor!
And when His Son paid sin's price, the Letter of the Law had no more hold on those who looked to Him & not to the Letter to save them. God's Spirit was given to believers, who would now be subject to the Spirit: "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death" ( Romans 8:2). So, the letter of the Bible is NOT a stumbling block; it is the very Word of God, given by the Spirit & enabling that Word to be applied to the believer. If we dismiss the Word of God as just being 'a letter (a tree if knowledge)', then we must also dismiss that the Word is "God-breathed", yet we must obey it 'to the letter'. If we don't, then we can do whatever we want with it, even as we see the behavior of many so-called believers. Let's not try to be so tuned to the Spirit so as to avoid the very Words that the Spirit has given us for our understanding & obedience. The Holy Spirit will never ask us to do or behave in a way that is inconsistent with the revealed Word of God.
As far as the 'root of sin being the sound of words by a lying tongue', the Devil might be the author of sin, but we can (as the Lord Himself did) choose to listen & obey him or not. Sin lies at our door - the door of our heart.
I agree 100% what you have said that OT Israel knew nothing of a coming Messiah's Sacrifice of His Life for them & substitutionary payment. Hence, the word 'Gospel' mentioned in Hebrews 4 is not the same Gospel they received as is the complete Gospel that the Apostles preached post-Cross. (Perhaps not in the way it is preached in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
I believe the OT saints did what was required of them at that time to make them just with God. Their temporal rituals and sacrifices exemplified the Gospel and perhaps the resurrection was preached by "type" when Issac was offered as a sacrifice by Abraham. Hebrews 11:17-19.
However, could they have perceived it, being that Jeremiah 31:31-34 have not taken place yet?
When we study Hebrews in its entirety, we know that this new covenant was not to come under the Levitical covenant. This is clearly seen in Hebrews Ch 7 and 8.
So, when we look back at this, Israel mind was blinded and there was a veil upon their hearts, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 3:14-16. "But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the Old Testament, which vail is done away in Christ.
But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.
Nevertheless when "it" shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. (The "it" mentioned here is their hearts.)
When Israel turns their hearts to God the veil and the blindness shall be taken away.
This is what Paul is saying in Romans 11.
Israel was incapable of receiving the revelation of the Gospel under the Levitical High Priest and if you study the Gospels carefully, neither could the Apostles until the death of the one that filled the role of the Levitical Priesthood at the Cross.
(I believe this is what John's baptism was all about)
The resurrection began the new covenant under the new Priest hood. ( Hebrews 7:15-16.)
Now Christ faith in them will give them rest.
Thats future for them as a Nation
AN ABSOLUTE TRUTH.
"IF YOU "LOVE" ME KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS".
Let's put some emphasis on Love for a chance.
What manner of Love is this?
Is it not agape?
Can you generate this height of Love on your own?
Is it not a fruit of the Spirit given once one IS saved?
SO WHAT IS THIS SAYING?
To get the context you have to pick it up the from John 13 on through John 14:23.
John 13:34-35.
"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
BY THIS SHALL ALL MEN KNOW THAT YE ARE MY DISCIPLES, if ye have love one to another.
Jesus taught that those who follow Him will show love for the brothern ( John 13:12-15, 34).
That is the primary sign of faith to the outside world ( John 13:35). Here, he indicates that obedience to His command is the primary sign of our love for Him.
A person cannot claim to know Christ and hate other Christians
1 John 4:20.
Proceeding from John 14:15 on thru John 14:16-23 Jesus is telling them he was going and sending them the Holyspirit that will guide them.
Throughout this section, a person's love for Christ, their obedience to His teachings, and the indwelling of the Spirit are intertwined
All the law hangs on this.
Matthew 23:37-40.
AND THE MINISTRATION OF THE LAW COULDN'T PRODUCE THIS.
2 Corinthians 3:8-11 concedes that regeneration by the gift of the Holyspirit in those who believe in Christ exceeds the ministration of the law.
"How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?
For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.
For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of THE GLORY THAT EXCELLETH.
FOR IF THAT WHICH IS DONE AWAY WAS GLORIOUS, MUCH MORE THAT WHICH REMAINETH IS GLORIOUS.
It's the fruit that is on exhibit.
That's what James is also saying in his letter.
Also see
Titus 3:4-8.
God bless.
Part 2.
Romans 7:8-10. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.
For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.
And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.
WE ALL AGREE THE LAW IS HOLY, SO WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE LAW THAT SLEW PAUL?
Romans 7:11-14
For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.
Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. BUT SIN, THAT IT MIGHT APPEAR SIN, WORKING DEATH IN ME BY THAT WHICH IS GOOD; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
PAUL IS SAYING THESE HOLY COMMANDMENTS EXPOSED HIM.
THAT HE MIGHT APPEAR SINFUL WORKING DEATH IN HIM BY THAT WHICH IS GOOD. ( The commandments.)
Also see 2 Corinthians 3:7-9
Vs 7:15-28.For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: FOR TO WILL IS PRESENT WITH ME; BUT HOW TO PERFORM THAT WHICH IS GOOD I FIND NOT.
WHAT DID PAUL FIND THAT IS GOOD? (THE COMMANDMENTS)
COULD HE PERFORM THEM? ( NO HE SAYS.)
19-23.) For the good that I would I do not:
but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members
Conclusion;
Romans 7:24-25.
I haven't been able to get away to participate by reading the bulk of the posts and replies on the 10 commandment topic.
I would like to mention a misunderstanding in the communication between the several views on this topic.
There's a difference in the 10 commandments being Holy and being justified by keeping them.
We say Israel failed to be a witness but is that totally accurate?
How did they fail? By not keeping the law?
Before anyone answer that I would like for us to consider a few things.
1) Israel keeps the Law far better than any nation ever has!!
2) The law was given to Israel. Romans 9:4. So they had a ministry to minister to the Whole world as "fleshly" Children of an active, living, Holy God.
This ministry was called ministration of death..
2 Corinthians 3:6-9.
They were examples for us and this is written to us.
They successfully showed the world what Paul stated in Romans 7:5-14.
The world is unable to be Justified by the Law.
3) To say Israel failed for not keeping the law is not exactly correct.
They failed by thinking they were justified by the law.( Not just the 10 commandments ) after all there were articles for certain sins.
They failed because they stumbled at that stumblingstone!
That's where they failed!!
Romans 9:31-33.
They all didn't fail, there was a remnant according to the election of grace and still is.
Romans 11:4-8.
vs 5) Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant (ACCORDING TO THE ELECTION OF GRACE!)
This election is not determined by works.
In other words works wasn't elected as God's way to justify his people.
Romans 9:11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;
Yes the law is Holy and we all fail to be Justified by it, so we were all dead in trespasses and sins.
This is where the cross comes in.
Ephesians 2:1-5.
God bless.
Zechariah 12:9,10 definitely wasn't fulfilled ar the cross,
In 1 Corinthians 15:8 Paul says he was born out of due time and when he wrote to the Romans he stated they were still blinded.
2 Corinthians 3:13-16 he mentions this and the veil upon their heart.
When their heart shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.
The veil is still on their heart today "Until" the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
God bless.
2 Corinthians 3:6: "Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life." If you have read further in this chapter, Paul writes about, "ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious...". This is what he is referring to: the letter of the Law was never designed to give Israel life (freedom of guilt, of penalty, of death & separation from God). The Law was given by God for many reasons, but ultimately we read what Paul wrote in Galatians 3:10-24, mainly that the Law never justified anyone, it couldn't because none could keep it perfectly. But the Law was given to show men their sinfulness & to draw him back to God, Who would one day save men (not by the keeping of the Law), but by having faith in Jesus His Son. So the letter of the Law will kill us sending us to hell, if we're dependent on it to save us. But the Spirit, the Holy Spirit gives the believer life now & into eternity, by virtue of Jesus' Death & Resurrection, & our believing this great act of Love. The letter of the Law could never do this. The Law was temporary, until Jesus came.
Then you quoted John 5:39, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me." In this chapter, Jesus is speaking to the Jewish leaders who were wanting to kill Him ( John 5:18). Then Jesus speaks to them concerning what He was doing there & then about His Coming as the Son of God (vv18-24). He tells these leaders that 'they don't have God's Word in them because they refuse to believe in Jesus' (v38). And then He tells them, "Search the Scriptures", or 'you are diligently searching through the Scriptures, believing that eternal life is found in it' (this is from the original Greek). 'But these very Scriptures you read, bear witness of Me.' They failed to see Jesus' Coming in them.
Fourthly, the Ten Commandments were given to Israel & were binding upon them. Some of their objectives were:
a. to reveal the Holiness of the Eternal God to His people, Israel: Leviticus 19:2; Leviticus 20:7-8.
b. to set Israel apart as distinct from all the other nations: Exodus 19:5.
c. to reveal man's sinfulness: Galatians 3:19. Although the Law is "holy, just & good ( Romans 7:12), it did not provide salvation for the nation of Israel; and it cannot provide salvation to anyone who wants to or tries to keep the Law. No one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin ( Romans 3:20; Acts 13:38-39).
d. to show to humanity that not one person can fully keep the Law but everyone falls short of God's Standard of Holiness. Realizing that, should cause us to cast ourselves upon a Merciful God for His Forgiveness. When Jesus came, He fulfilled the requirements of the Law completely and by His death fully paid the penalty for their breaking it ( Galatians 3:24; Romans 10:4). Therefore, by His Obedience, He was qualified to be the accepted Sacrifice for all mankind, for all of our sins ( Hebrews 10:10-12). If Jesus failed in fully keeping the Law, He would have been disqualified as a Savior - all mankind would be forever stuck in the quagmire of their sins & hell would be the destiny. But He was raised from the dead to show His Father's acceptance, our justification & deliverance ( Romans 4:23-25).
I hope you can see Ani, that even though there was nothing wrong with the Law, even keeping the Sabbath by Israel, anyone who puts themselves under the Law (i.e. to find forgiveness or acceptance by God by it), is doomed to fail. Our Rest - continual rest (Sabbath) is now found in Jesus & not in Law-keeping & we can only be subject now to the Holy Spirit who enables us to fulfil both the spirit of the Law & finding the true rest in Christ Jesus ( 2 Corinthians 3:6-9; Romans 8:1-4).
Romans 10:10. Says 'For with the heart man believeth UNTO "righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."
Ephesians 2:10 (KJV) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus UNTO 'good works", which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
The righteousness is not of the law as mentioned and the works is not the working of the law. 2 Corinthians 3:3-4. Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
This is performed by Christ being in you and he will abide in you until the end.
Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST:
1 John 5:10-12. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
AND THIS IS THE RECORD, THAT GOD HATH GIVEN TO US ETERNAL LIFE, AND THIS LIFE IS IN HIS SON.
He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
We either have Jesus or ww don't!
If we have Jesus we have life and that life is sealed and eternal.
I love the way the scripture plainly put it. "GOD HATH GIVEN TO US ETERNAL LIFE, AND THIS LIFE IS IN HIS SON.
God bless.
The law was given to Israel but let's set that aside.
You are right in that you say, "The Commandments must be kept" Israel couldn't obtain salvation thru the keeping of the law and neither can we.
Christ came to free us from the curse of the law, that doesn't mean he did away with The Law.
In the old covenant "under the law" there was sacrifices made for sin. Those sacrifices pointed ahead to the only sacrifice that could take away sin AND regenerate the believer by the Spirit. Hebrews 10:3-10.
The old covenant had no power over the incurable heart. The new covenant humbled the sinner and pointed him in the right direction. "CHRIST" Ezekiel 36:26-27. Jeremiah 31:31-33.
The old covenant slew us and is called the ministration of death. Romans 7:5-11. 2 Corinthians 3:6-14.
The new covenant gave mercy. Why mercy? Because no one could keep the law, and no one is able to do so today. Putting ourselves in chains and grinding our teeth while restraining from sin isn't keeping the law. Galatians 2:21.
The commandments given didn't say keep the commandments as best you can.
You're breaking the law in your heart You're still a sinner. There's no sanctification. Christ came to give new birth and a new heart accompanied with mercy and grace.
The second you broke any one of them you were forever lost if there was no sacrifice that could take away sin. Hebrews 10:1-5.
It was the sacrifices that pointed to Christ that made atonement for those sins.
Israel having God in their midst with all the providence showed the world that the heart of man is incurably wicked.
The law showed that there was a need of a savior that could regenerate the believer and give a new heart and life.
The commandments are Holy and was given to a nation that was set apart to show man with God in their midst was nothing like God being "IN" them.
That's what's available today.
Read Galatians 3:10-26.
Perhaps more on this later this weekend God bless."
That's all true Adam, we've redefining holiness and worship, and excused disobedience.
This will cause many to be deceived. Matthew 7:22-23. says "MANY".
That should cause us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.
I like the way Paul put it in
2 Corinthians 13:5. You notice whereit says "how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"
( He's saying IF Christ is in you you WILL perform a certain way.)
2 Corinthians 3:3-5 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD;
( not in tables of stone,) BUT IN FLESHY TABLES OF THE HEART.
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; BUT OUR SUFFICIENCY IS OF GOD;
God Lords over our hearts. Him IN us is manifested in our walk.
I believe that is what the Lord is saying in this rhetorical question in Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
If he is your Lord he put his spirit inside you to perform his will!
We've been sanctified Positionally.
( Given an atonement).
We are being sanctified practically.
(Growing in grace and quickened by the Spirit. ) This is our walk.
Worship is in truth and in spirit. It's not a hobby!
When we're passing out God's word we're not going to be correct all the time but we should hold it dear to our heart and be cautious to not treat it like a conversation at a round table.
Neither will we find our walk perfect but the desire to be perfect should be there.
There has to be conviction in your heart. Not pride or glory seeking. There has to be a denial of self! Not man pleasers.
It's joy being redeemed but it's not a game!
It's not doing our best. Our best isn't good enough.
It's accepting God's best. His son Jesus Christ.
It's his ability to sanctify us is where we stand.
God bless.