Lina, may God's favour continue to shine upon you.
Hebrews 5:8 Though he were a son, yet he learned obedience by the things which he SUFFERED.
We bear the same cross and walk the same path to Calvary.
1 Corinthians 15:31 ...We DIE daily..
Romans 6:6 ...our old man was crucified with him .....
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nonetheless I LIVE, yet not I, but Christ LIVETH IN ME: and the life I now live IN THE FLESH I live by the FAITH OF THE SON OF GOD, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Colossians 1:27 ... this mystery ...CHRIST IN US .....
Yes Glenn - very sad but very real. And you probably remember that the first sign of divisions took place in Corinth (see 1 Corinthians 1:10-13).
Here the Corinthian Church began to factionalize, probably emphasizing certain teachings, or even the preaching abilities that were seen in those mentioned (Paul, Apollos, Cephas, Christ). Briefly, these factions looked at Paul (as the Liberty Party: Galatians 5:1); Apollos (as the Intellectual & Eloquent Party: Acts 18:24-28); Cephas (as the Judaizing Party, clinging to many Jewish ceremonial duties, unlike Paul: Galatians 2:11-16); and Christ (as the Exclusive Party, having contempt for all human teachers bar Christ - allusion to this in 2 Corinthians 10:7).
Even though some may not agree with the above very general description, the fact remains that divisions based on personality & teaching began to develop even in the early Church. Should it be any wonder that two thousand years later, things would not get any better? As you study each denomination, you will see this common thread running through them, which has brought about separation, declaring 'we are the only ones with the Truth'. If it were not for the Holy Spirit indwelling only the truly saved, we could well think like them & believe that we are the only holders of Truth. But God has His own people in every place & in every denomination & for some there, they are still being exercised in mind & spirit to learn the Truth by reading God's Word for themselves & to leave when falsehood is preached or the Bible disregarded. We ought to pray for one another that we will not fall prey to the deceptions of the evil one & in forgetting to search the Scriptures.
Brother Ronald. Thank you once again for your comments. I agree, whether Ignatius, Polycarp or any other succeeding them, even the Apostle Peter himself, can all be found in error in some doctrine or teaching ( Galatians 2:11-14). Though, my point was in their belief in the Deity of Christ.
To your references on the Trinity 'fallacy': Revelation 21:22. God is Spirit - the Spirit of God is within the Godhead - the Lamb (post resurrection) is in His glorified State, as the Incarnate Word of God made flesh & now in Glory. Jesus is no longer the Word of God within God's Being, but His Word made flesh, risen & reigning at the Father's right Hand.
1 John 2:22-24. You seem to be well studied brother. Then you would know that 1st John was written explicitly to confront the errors of Gnosticism (& other false teaching) that were running rampant in the Church. The discussion begins from verse 18, concerning the many 'anti-christs' in the Church, deceiving the believers by their lies & corruption of accepted apostolic teaching. The prevailing Docetic (an off-shoot of Gnosticsm) heresy was that "the incarnation was incredible because Deity cannot unite itself with anything material, as a body of flesh".
Then in the reference you gave, the question from John is, "who is a liar?" The liar is that one who has come to you denying the incarnation, saying 'it's impossible for a Holy God, Who is Spirit, to unite with sinful flesh by having a Son: "but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son". This would have reference not only to the Jews that deny Jesus as their Messiah, but certainly to those who went by the name of 'Christian'; they who denied either His proper Deity, or real Humanity, as Ebion and Cerinthus, who were denying Him to be the God-man, the Mediator, & the Messiah. (cont'd).
(continued pt 2) Still, God/Jesus forgave Peter and he continued to preach the Gospel.
Also, define what "love" is. Is love feelings or actions? 'cause I can hate someone but still do what's right. If I see someone that is hungry, even though I have no love for that person I can still give them a sandwich or some money or something.
Peter was chastised by Paul: (for saying that the Gentiles should be circumcised)
Galatians 2: (Paul speaking)
11 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
12 For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.
13 And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.
14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
Peter messed up but God still used him. Peter was to preach the Gospel to the Jews and Paul was to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. In other words, "the example of our walk" means nothing. If one rejects salvation because I'm not Christ-like enough, that's just an excuse. Everyone must seek God/Jesus while they may be found. People are wicked but God is all light and there is no darkness in him or Jesus. God/Jesus are the way, the truth and the life.
And as for the Word of God, (the Bible) it's been available for years. You can buy them at DollarTree for a buck. No one is forbidding anyone to read the Bible. (Not yet anyway.) If they want to kick God/Jesus to the curb, that's on their head- not mine.
But, thank you for responding. I will consider your explanations.
What Makes Us Really Beautiful - In Reply on Matthew 6 - 3 years ago
I think Proverbs 31 is a model of a godly woman, wife and mother.
Ruth and Esther are women of God with books in the Bible for us to study.
Song of Solomon's, Shulamite woman: is a study into the bride of Christ or, the Church of Christ. I once thought it quite scandalous, but it's explained in Psalm 45:11 and Galatians 2:20
I think our understanding the strength of love, is imperfect. I will tell you a dream I had. After I was born again, people said to my face: that anyone who had been as evil as me__could not possibly be saved!! Then they laughed.
It cut me to my fragile heart and spirit.
I decided I would make Jesus despise me. When Jesus love knocked on my door I would slam the door shut and the pain of self-hate grew huge.
In the Dream, I saw Jesus laying stretched out on the Cross. He looked in my eyes with all the love within Him. I got angry! How dare He love The Unlovable?! I saw rocks. I picked one up and hit the nail in his hand. I felt sure I could make him sorry he had ever met me.
But he looked in my eyes and said, I LOVE YOU. I hit him again and again, and each time He said he loved me. Something inside of me broke open. I dropped the rock and lay on his chest and wept. His arms held me close. Then I woke up.
When I read Song of Solomon later: 2:19, 6:3, 7:10, 8:7; I knew I was loved. I forgave all those who cursed me. I learned how to give love to those who were like me. It's not carnal.
Only God can heal a human heart; and cause it to beat for others who have not heard Jesus say, I Love You.
The ability to love without judging, speaking curses or rationing is valuable. Love like Jesus.
9) Prophecy concerns blessings, both material and spiritual, on earth ( Isaiah 2:3-4; Isaiah 11:1-9; etc.)
RDf
9) The Mystery Concerns "all spiritual blessings in The Heavenlies" ( Ephesians 1:3; Colossians 3:1-3)
10) Prophecy concerns Christ's Coming to the earth ( Isaiah 59:20; Zechariah 14:4)
RDf
10) The Mystery Explains Christ's absence from the earth ( Ephesians 1:20-24; Colossians 3:1-3)
11) In prophecy, salvation by Grace through faith alone is not contemplated ( Matthew 28:19-20; Matthew 23:1-3; Luke 7:29-30; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; James 2:17)
RDf
11) Salvation "By GRACE Through faith" Alone lies at The Very Heart Of The Mystery! ( Romans 3:21-26; Romans 4:5; Ephesians 2:8-9)
12) The proclamation of the prophetic program committed particularly to the twelve ( Matthew 10:5-7; Acts 1:6-8; Acts 3:19-26)
RDf
12) The proclamation of The Mystery program committed particularly to Paul ( Ephesians 3:1-3; Ephesians 3:8-9; Colossians 1:24-27)
13) The prophetic program revealed through many of God's servants Luke 1:70; 2 Peter 1:21)
RDf
13) The Mystery revealed through one man: Paul! ( Galatians 1:1; Galatians 1:11-12; Galatians 2:2; Galatians 2:7; Galatians 2:9; Ephesians 3:2-3)
14) Old Testament writers frequently did not understand the prophecies made through them ( Daniel 12:8-10; 1 Peter 1:10-12)
RDf
14) Paul Both understood And longed that others might understand The Mystery revealed through him ( Ephesians 1:15-23; Ephesians 3:14-21; Colossians 1:9-10; Colossians 2:1-3)
Here's a copy of a reply from the same question by brother Jesse,
Thought it would be OK to share it.
Quote.
Jesus said if any man will come after me, and that is the word behind. And here is the decision-making process. When somebody surrenders to Jesus Christ, they are surrendering to come behind Him. Every single person has a calling to come behind Jesus. That's it!
If any man will come behind me, and there are three things, or principles I would like to share with you.
Principle number 1: Let him deny himself.
Now the word deny, ARNEOMAI, means to reject. This is what it means in the Greek. But first I'll tell you what it doesn't mean.
It doesn't mean that you are to deny yourself an ice cream cone after church or after bible study. It means to reject yourself, period!
The next phrase says, "and take up his cross." And some think that means whatever hardships I go through today. But that's not what it means.
You see, according to Romans Chapter 6, when Jesus died on the cross, He died my death. Therefore I have died, and every day my flesh is nailed to the cross and I'm to carry that cross.
And thirdly He says "follow me." Do you see what He's saying here?
He is saying "Follow me," meaning that the position is behind Him.
A good text would beGalatians 2:20, where Paul says I have been crucified in Christ, and the life that I now live, he says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
You see, he has died. I don't live any more. I don't do what I want to do because I don't live, I died. Paul says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. And the life that I now live, I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.
He just said it all in one verse. Reject yourself!
I have had a conviction for a long time that our struggle every day in life is more against God than it is against Satan. Why? Because our flesh is continually trying to get down off that cross, and trying to get away from the struggles of life.
It's Scripturally correct to say that there's only one gospel for this dispensation of grace. However, when Jesus walked the earth 2000 years ago, He was under the Law of Moses, and He preached and taught a kingdom gospel to the Jews, and so did His apostles. He did not teach the Samaritans or Gentiles, and neither did His apostles.
Paul writes in Galatians 1:6-7, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ."
Later in Galatians 2:7-9, Paul adds, "But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision."
Clearly there was one gospel for the circumcision and another for the uncircumcision. What happened in the Galatian church is the members had mixed the two gospels because Messianic Jews from the church at Jerusalem had taught them the kingdom gospel and insisted that be circumcised and obey the Law of Moses to be saved. It was agreed upon by those in authority, i.e., Peter, James, and John, that Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles, and that Peter was the apostle to the Jews.
Scripture clearly teaches that there were two gospels. Scripture must be studied, not just read, and it must be rightly divided to understand the truth of God's written word. Paul says the Scripture is given for reproof and correction. What I find most troublesome these days is that far too many self-identified Christians refuse to accept correction once they have been corrected.
It's Scripturally correct to say that there's only one gospel for this dispensation of grace. However, when Jesus walked the earth 2000 years ago, He was under the Law of Moses, and He preached and taught a kingdom gospel to the Jews, and so did His apostles. He did not teach the Samaritans or Gentiles, and neither did His apostles.
Paul writes in Galatians 1:6-7, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ."
Later in Galatians 2:7-9, Paul adds, "But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision."
Clearly there was one gospel for the circumcision and another for the uncircumcision. What happened in the Galatian church is the members had mixed the two gospels because Messianic Jews from the church at Jerusalem had taught them the kingdom gospel and insisted that be circumcised and obey the Law of Moses to be saved. It was agreed upon by those in authority, i.e., Peter, James, and John, that Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles, and that Peter was the apostle to the Jews.
Scripture clearly teaches that there were two gospels. Scripture must be studied, not just read, and it must be rightly divided to understand the truth of God's written word. Paul says the Scripture is given for reproof and correction. What I find most troublesome these days is that far too many self-identified Christians refuse to accept correction once they have been corrected.
GRACE_ambassador {ChrisE} on Galatians 2:7 - In Reply - 3 years ago
Precious friend, IMKane: "Paul seems to be saying there were TWO gospels." Yes, Biblically Correct! Note the following 'Dispensational' Differences Between God's TWO Gospels:
Part I Gospel of the kingdom =
Gospel of the circumcision ( Galatians 2:7; Acts 3:25-26; Genesis 17:9-14)
Preached by John, Jesus, and the 12 ( Matthew 3:2; Matthew 4:17; Matthew 4:23; Matthew 9:35; Matthew 10:5-8)
The Prophecy Program for the Jews ( Luke 1:32-33; Luke 3:19-26; Daniel 2:44; James 1:1)
Preaching of The Cross as historical ( Acts 2:23,36; Acts 3:14-15; Acts 5:30)
Gospel to be believed = Christ's Name ( Matthew 16:16; John 20:31; 1 John 5:13)
Salvation by faith and water baptism ( Mark 1-4; Mark 16:16; Luke 7:29-30; Acts 2:38)
Justification without works is dead ( James 2:17; James 2:20; James 2:24; James 2:26)
Repentance emphasized along with faith ( Mark 1:15; Luke 3:8-14; Acts 3:19)
Reconciliation not mentioned.
Covers Matthew - Acts 8, then Tribulation ( Acts 3:19-21; Acts 8:12; Matthew 24:14)
Under The Law ( Matthew 5:17; Matthew 8:4; Matthew 23:2-3)
Good works will follow salvation ( Matthew 7:15-20; 1 John 2:3-5; 1 John 2:29; 1 John 3:7,10)
Rightly Divided From ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From "Things That DIFFER!":
In Galatians 2:7, Paul writes, "But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;"
Paul seems to be saying there were two gospels. What's the difference between the gospel of the circumcision and the gospel of the uncircumcision? Why were the two gospels separated, and why was Paul commissioned to preach the gospel of the uncircumcision and Peter commissioned to preach the gospel of the circumcision?
I believe the church started at Pentecost because the Holy Spirit filled all the disciples in that house. Then others came the number around 3000 heard Peter and the other disciples speaking in their languages. Peter stood up and said this is what you are seeing ( Joel 2:28-32). Then Peter told them "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost".
So, that is why I believe the Church started then. But these were all Jewish, and only Jewish people were told the gospel until Peter had his dream and went to Cornelius, he was among the Gentiles. At this time Peter stayed in Jerusalem and the Church was all Jewish. A little later Jesus visited Saul/Paul and sent him to unto Gentiles.
I believe the different thoughts of when the Church started comes from Paul being sent to the Gentiles with the word he was given from Jesus did not require them to be circumcised or be under the law of Moses. It was to make the Jews jealous. We see later the conflicts between the Jewish believers in Jesus and Paul's teaching. We see this in Acts 15 the debate on this, to be circumcised and be under the law. We see Paul addressed it in ( Galatians 2:4-9).
We see in Acts 21 when Paul went into Jerusalem and went unto James, and thousands of believing Jews were there and they were all zealous of the law. They accused Paul of telling the Jews that were among the Gentiles that they should not circumcise their children and not be under the law. They wanted to kill Paul and almost did.
The difference in the Jewish believers along with some of the apostles, teaching to be circumcised and be under the law and what Paul's teachings, given to him by Jesus Himself is where the question comes when the Church started.
I'm sure some will disagree, but this is my understanding.
Hello Ruth. There are varied opinions on this as clear dates have not been given to us in the Bible. But in reckoning the time period of Paul's ministry, we would have to guess the year of his salvation & assume the year of his martyrdom. So, guessing AD 35 as the year of his conversion & that he was martyred under Emperor Nero's orders in AD 67 (Nero died in AD 68), then Paul's ministry spanned approximately 32 years. Others here may have a better understanding.
Sorry it took so long to respond to you, I am working on my honey do list.
The works Jesus is talking about in John 14:12. Is his miracles and being that he will gift his disciples with the Holyspirit shortly after his death, to work and perform these same miracles, as Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:10. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
And he also said in Galatians 2:8. (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) The apostles was given the Holyspirit and a measure of grace to take to the whole world to lay down the foundation that we are to build on. Paul said this grace was mighty in him. By the Holyspirit they was able to raise the dead!
But with all that being said that's not what he wanted the outside world to gaze upon when determining whether they was a follower of him or not. Here is what he wanted the world to see, which was given by the same spirit.
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. This was also working mightily in them.
Here is another example of what the spirit had to do in their lives. listen to the Lord after Peter forbid him to was his feet but then allowed it to be so.
John 13:12-15. So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?
("Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.")
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
Jesus said if any man will come after me, and that is the word behind. And here is the decision-making process. When somebody surrenders to Jesus Christ, they are surrendering to come behind Him. Every single person has a calling to come behind Jesus. That's it!
If any man will come behind me, and there are three things, or principles I would like to share with you.
Principle number 1: Let him deny himself.
Now the word deny, ARNEOMAI, means to reject. This is what it means in the Greek. But first I'll tell you what it doesn't mean.
It doesn't mean that you are to deny yourself an ice cream cone after church or after bible study. It means to reject yourself, period!
The next phrase says, "and take up his cross." And some think that means whatever hardships I go through today. But that's not what it means.
You see, according to Romans Chapter 6, when Jesus died on the cross, He died my death. Therefore I have died, and every day my flesh is nailed to the cross and I'm to carry that cross.
And thirdly He says "follow me." Do you see what He's saying here?
He is saying "Follow me," meaning that the position is behind Him.
A good text would be Galatians 2:20, where Paul says I have been crucified in Christ, and the life that I now live, he says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
You see, he has died. I don't live any more. I don't do what I want to do because I don't live, I died. Paul says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. And the life that I now live, I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.
He just said it all in one verse. Reject yourself!
I have had a conviction for a long time that our struggle every day in life is more against God than it is against Satan. Why? Because our flesh is continually trying to get down off that cross, and trying to get away from the struggles of life.
He our God who have done wonderful things. Have already done it! What is it He said?
Go in peace.
Galatians 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
And,
John 11:25
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
Remember, on earth we are a little time, if we see the Erterity
Hi Carolyn. Romans 14:16 shouldn't be forced to mean what you've suggested, about a married man being seen in public with other women. We can't pull out a Scripture & try to make it read something that it wasn't intended to do.
This chapter is speaking of some of those delicate & difficult questions that arose at that time, in respect to the behaviour between Jew & Gentile believers. And these questions centred around food and observance of particular days, rites, etc. The Jewish converts expected that the Gentiles would also bind themselves to Jewish customs & adherence to Mosaic Laws. The matter of circumcision came up in Acts 15:1,2 and Galatians 2:3,4. Here in Romans chapter 14, matters pertaining to food offered to idols, Jewish fasting days, clean & unclean animals, and subsequently, judging another because of their belief & therefore resulting in not walking in love & understanding with each other.
So verse 16: "Let not then your good be evil spoken of", tells us that as Christians, we should be aware that even though we might enjoy our liberty in Christ to do many things that might appear wrong in the sight of others (e.g. Jews, or those weak in faith or unlearned in the Scriptures), we should abstain from doing so, if it means that strife & controversy arise leading to unkind words exchanged & separation from each other.
However, I do agree with you that a married man should be careful in how close he gets to other women: the time he spends with her or the places they meet for discussion, since that meeting, though maybe perfectly harmless & genuine, may easily be misconstrued by another. In that instance, I would use 1 Thessalonians 5:22: "Abstain from all appearance of evil." And if you need to share this with a man (a husband?), the Scripture can be used as part of a 'loving' discussion to the pitfalls in such an association, as well as a misunderstanding or gossip by others.
Just seeing this now. I myself am not confused, it is just some of your statements are confusing. You posted this " instead of Jesus Christ, the One True GOD,". Stating Jesus Christ is the One True God?
I know Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the image of the invisible God as in Scripture. Also that He is ONE with God as in Scripture. I haven't separated Jesus Christ from the Father who indwelt Him? When did I say the Father and the Son were the same? I never said that and don't believe that. Though they are ONE as with the Holy Spirit. 1 John 5:7.
I believe it's pretty safe to say that everyone who comes here knows there is ONE GOD.
You also have the freedom to believe whatever you want. I don't know what "fake Christian teachings" since 325 AD you are talking about. The Holy Bible along with the Holy Spirit is my teacher.
If you think you have all of God's mind & ways understood, I'll just say be ready to find out it's much more than anyone can comprehend. If you think you are smarter than everyone else good job. The most important thing to me is to follow the footsteps of Christ and live for the Will of our Father.
It seems there is no reason for us to go any further. As you didn't answer the question about Revelation 5&6 where it is the Lamb(Christ) who takes the book and opens the seals. Though you say the Father does this. Also about what Spirit indwells in us after being saved or your thoughts on the "rapture" with Scripture.
Jesus Christ our Lord died for our sins. I strive to live for our Fathers will and am His for eternity. Galatians 2:20, 1 John 5:10-11, Revelation 21:22-23.
No need to reply if you don't feel comfortable. Thank you for all your time.
Hello Douglas. I agree, this is an intriguing verse, which seems to show very little difference since justification by God can only be by faith ( Galatians 2:16).
I think that here, the apostle is showing that what is normally considered a distinction between the Jew & Gentile (the circumcision & the uncircumcision), when the matter of faith in God through Jesus Christ is brought in, both stand before God on equal terms ( Romans 3:22); one has no superiority over the other.
However, the Jew was given the Law which not only showed him God's holy requirements but also exposed to him his sinfulness because he couldn't keep the Law & please God. That missing attribute - Faith - which justifies ALL men (v28 and Hebrews chapter 11), is needed by the Jew which shows him that it's only BY FAITH & not by the "deeds of the Law" can he be saved. Likewise, to the Gentile who had not the Law, that it is only THROUGH FAITH in the Cross can he be saved. I realize this is a very small distinction between those words and even though I may be wrong, I'm afraid that's the only way I can understand why the apostle expressed it this way.
I'm glad I won't be forgiven on the basis that I have forgiven others. That is Law not Grace. We are now forgiven because of the shed blood of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary. He forgave us all our sins, past, present and future. That is Grace. Now we forgive because we were forgiven not to gain forgiveness. The Law was given by Moses. God raised up Paul to preach Grace to Gentiles who were - "with out Christ, being ALIENS from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world" Ephesians 2:11-12.
When you read the Bible take note of who it is addressing. We were not told to sacrifice animals, build an ark, keep Jewish holidays, etc. that was under the Law of Moses. We are saved by faith alone. Romans 4:4; Colossians 2:14; Galatians 2:20.
Hi Mishael. It can't be argued in what you have just shared, as obedience to the Lord, a deep love for Him & to all people must be our focus & to where our energies are directed.
But in these threads you refer to lies a problem with correct biblical hermeneutics. Ordinarily, we can agree to differ on our understanding of the Scriptures without too much of a catastrophe (e.g. Christ's second coming, did Jesus actually spend three days in the grave, etc, etc.). But what we have here is about the applicability of the Decalogue to the believer in Christ, & in particular the 4th Commandment (which somehow takes a degree of precedence over the other nine), should be of concern to each of us. The apostles had to wrestle over this as it was important to keep the believers' new life in Christ distinct from the old life (if they were Jews) under the Law which revealed their sin, their incapability to keep the Law & which only brought death ( Romans 7:5,6). So it was never a case of whether we should obey God's commandments - we all must obey. It's a case of whether our appeal to obey is to what was the "ministration of death, written & engraven in stones" rather than to the "ministration of the Spirit" which is of greater glory ( 2 Corinthians 3:6-8) & for which Jesus died & ushered in the New Covenant with God. If righteousness (a believer's right standing before God) could be achieved by the Law, then indeed Christ has died in vain ( Galatians 2:21).
In other words, & with all concern, can a believer stand before God & claim obedience to the Ten Commandments & especially the 4th Commandment, & not expect rebuke? He might believe that he can stand with head held high, being sealed with the 4th, & then sees the Lamb that was slain Who put aside forever any cause for condemnation which came by the Law ( Romans 8:1-4). It's not about the beauty of God's Laws - it's about it's applicability & the Spirit's Work to reveal all of God's Laws to us & give us power to perform them.
Yes, it seems they did. The first time Paul went to Jerusalem was three years after his Conversion, Where He saw only Simon Peter and James the Lords brother and abode there fifteen days. Galatians 1:18-19.
Then after another fourteen years he went up to Jerusalem again. Stating James, Cephas, and John were there. Galatians 2:9. Though it seems he probably saw all of them at that visit.
I believe you are correct in saying that we cannot believe in Christ without believing who he is or what he said. We are saved and made righteous according to Romans 4 by believing God that His obedience and death was Gods provision for us and that His resurrection is proof of that.
Faith in Christ Jesus means we believe God. It the faith of Christ that saves us. His faith, His death, His resurrection.
See Galatians 2:20
When we fully trust that alone as our justification before God, we are given His spirit to live out that life until we are
given our glorified bodies, just as Christ now has a Glorified body.
William, may the Spirit grace you with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.
You say that it's up to you to choose, by the free will he has given you; is it really your choice or His choice.
Scripture says that ALL is HIS WORKS. Do you believe this.
John 15:16 You have not chosen me; but I have chosen you.
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ from another? And what hast thou that thou DID NOT RECEIVE? Now if thou didst receive it, why doest thou glory, as if thou hast not received it.
1 Peter 1:21 Who (you) by him (Holy Spirit, Christ in you) do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory, that YOUR FAITH (the FAITH OF CHRIST) and hope might be in God.
Galatians 2:16 KNOWING that a man is not justified by the works of the law (the works of man's hands), but by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have believed (BY HIM) in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, and not by the works of the law (the works of man's hands): for by the works of the law (the works of man's hands) shall no flesh be justified.
Philippians 1:9 For unto you it is GIVEN in the behalf of Christ, not only to BELIEVE on him; but also to suffer for his sake.
Philippians 2:13 For it is GOD THAT WORKETH IN YOU both to WILL and do of his good pleasure.
Ephesians 1:11 In whom (in Christ) also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to THE PURPOSE OF HIM who WORKETH ALL THINGS after the council of HIS WILL:
(vs 12) That we should be to the praise of his glory, who (by HIM) first trusted in Christ.
He is not calling everyone right now; only those that have been chosen to rule and judge the nations with him.
Psalms 2:10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings, ye judges of the earth.
Isaiah 1:26 I will restore thy judges as at the first......
Obadiah 21 And saviours shall come upon mount Zion to JUDGE the mount of Esau (sold their birthright for things of the flesh); and the kingdom shall be the LORD'S.
Lezbeth, may the Spirit grace you with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.
Revelation 22:16 I JESUS have sent my angel to testify unto you (you are the church) these things (that are revealed; by Revelation) in the CHURCHES....
Revelation 1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave to him (Christ), to show unto his servants (Christ's inheritance; Psalms 2:8) things which much SHORTLY (during your lifetime) come to pass......
1 Peter 1:21 WHO (YOU) by HIM (CHRIST) do BELIEVE....
Galatians 2:16 KNOWING that a man is not justified by the works of the law, BUT BY THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have BELIEVED (by HIM) in Jesus Christ, that we might be JUSTIFIED by THE FAITH OF Jesus Christ......
Christ has given you HIS FAITH
Revelation 2:26 And he (you; the church) that overcomes and keeps MY WORKS (remember he gives us HIS faith, His truth, His wisdom, His understanding, His council, everything that is HIS he gives to us as our inheritance; we are his children) unto the END (when you leave this body of flesh at it's death; now he is going to give you HIS BODY; HIS incorruptible and immortal self ( 1 Timothy 6:16)......
Revelation 20:5-6 .... This is the FIRST resurrection.
(vs 6) Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the FIRST resurrection....
Remember he gives us what is HIS; he gives us HIS RESURRECTION. ( John 11:25)
Isaiah 26:19 Thy dead men shall LIVE, together with MY DEAD BODY SHALL THEY ARISE...
This is the rapture of the church (you) individually not collectively.
Isaiah 27:12 ...ye shall be gathered ONE BY ONE....
Mathew 24:40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken and the other left.
1 Corinthians 12:27 Now we are THE BODY OF CHRIST.....
1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours (THROUGH THE WORKS OF CHRIST)
Lizbeth, May the Spirit grace you with His wisdom and His understanding.
Revelations 22:16 I JESUS SENT mine angel to testify unto you (you are the CHURCH) these things in the CHURCHES......
There might be a reason there is no mention of the rapture.
Do you think the un-called study God's word.
1 Peter 1:21 WHO (YOU) by HIM (CHRIST) do BELIEVE.........
Galatians 2:16 KNOWING that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have BELIEVED (by HIM) in Jesus Christ, that we might be JUSTIFIED (not by the law) but by THE FAITH OF CHRIST (by him), and not the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Jesus GIVES you HIS FAITH
Revelation 2:26 And he (the church) that overcometh, and keepeth MY WORKS (remember it's his faith, his wisdom, his truth, his understanding, EVERYTHING HE IS becomes yours through inheritance, you are his child) unto the end (when you depart this body of flesh and are given HIS BODY; (HIS) incorruptible and immortality self becomes yours....
This is the rapture of the church (you) each one individually not collectively.
Isaiah 27:12 And it shall come to pass in that day...... ye shall be gathered ONE BY ONE...
Matthew 24:40 There shall be two in the field; the one shall be taken and the other left.
Revelation 20:5-6 .... this is the first resurrection.
(vs 5) Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection.....
Remember he gives you what is his; therefore he gives us his resurrection.
Isaiah 26:19 Thy dead men shall LIVE together with MY DEAD BODY SHALL THEY ARISE....
Kathy, may the Spirit grace you with His wisdom and His understanding.
2 Corinthians 1:22 Who (Christ) has SEALED us, and given us the earnest (down payment) of the Spirit in our heart.
Ephesians 1:13-14 In whom ye also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel (CHRIST IN YOU) of your salvation: in whom also after that you BELIEVED, you were SEALED with the holy Spirit of promise.
(vs 14) Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
At the redemption (the death of the body of flesh) you will be given the Spirit without measure and a glorified body.
1 Peter 1:21 Who (you) by him (Christ) do BELIEVE in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; that your FAITH (CHRIST) and hope might be in God.
CHRIST IN YOU
Galatians 2:16 .....but by the FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have BELIEVED (by his faith) in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the FAITH of Jesus Christ.....
Romans 8:29 For whom (you) he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he (CHRIST IN YOU) might be the first born of MANY BROTHERS.
Hebrews 5:8 Though he were a son, yet he learned obedience by the things which he SUFFERED.
We bear the same cross and walk the same path to Calvary.
1 Corinthians 15:31 ...We DIE daily..
Romans 6:6 ...our old man was crucified with him .....
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nonetheless I LIVE, yet not I, but Christ LIVETH IN ME: and the life I now live IN THE FLESH I live by the FAITH OF THE SON OF GOD, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Colossians 1:27 ... this mystery ...CHRIST IN US .....
GBU
Here the Corinthian Church began to factionalize, probably emphasizing certain teachings, or even the preaching abilities that were seen in those mentioned (Paul, Apollos, Cephas, Christ). Briefly, these factions looked at Paul (as the Liberty Party: Galatians 5:1); Apollos (as the Intellectual & Eloquent Party: Acts 18:24-28); Cephas (as the Judaizing Party, clinging to many Jewish ceremonial duties, unlike Paul: Galatians 2:11-16); and Christ (as the Exclusive Party, having contempt for all human teachers bar Christ - allusion to this in 2 Corinthians 10:7).
Even though some may not agree with the above very general description, the fact remains that divisions based on personality & teaching began to develop even in the early Church. Should it be any wonder that two thousand years later, things would not get any better? As you study each denomination, you will see this common thread running through them, which has brought about separation, declaring 'we are the only ones with the Truth'. If it were not for the Holy Spirit indwelling only the truly saved, we could well think like them & believe that we are the only holders of Truth. But God has His own people in every place & in every denomination & for some there, they are still being exercised in mind & spirit to learn the Truth by reading God's Word for themselves & to leave when falsehood is preached or the Bible disregarded. We ought to pray for one another that we will not fall prey to the deceptions of the evil one & in forgetting to search the Scriptures.
Brother Ronald. Thank you once again for your comments. I agree, whether Ignatius, Polycarp or any other succeeding them, even the Apostle Peter himself, can all be found in error in some doctrine or teaching ( Galatians 2:11-14). Though, my point was in their belief in the Deity of Christ.
To your references on the Trinity 'fallacy': Revelation 21:22. God is Spirit - the Spirit of God is within the Godhead - the Lamb (post resurrection) is in His glorified State, as the Incarnate Word of God made flesh & now in Glory. Jesus is no longer the Word of God within God's Being, but His Word made flesh, risen & reigning at the Father's right Hand.
1 John 2:22-24. You seem to be well studied brother. Then you would know that 1st John was written explicitly to confront the errors of Gnosticism (& other false teaching) that were running rampant in the Church. The discussion begins from verse 18, concerning the many 'anti-christs' in the Church, deceiving the believers by their lies & corruption of accepted apostolic teaching. The prevailing Docetic (an off-shoot of Gnosticsm) heresy was that "the incarnation was incredible because Deity cannot unite itself with anything material, as a body of flesh".
Then in the reference you gave, the question from John is, "who is a liar?" The liar is that one who has come to you denying the incarnation, saying 'it's impossible for a Holy God, Who is Spirit, to unite with sinful flesh by having a Son: "but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son". This would have reference not only to the Jews that deny Jesus as their Messiah, but certainly to those who went by the name of 'Christian'; they who denied either His proper Deity, or real Humanity, as Ebion and Cerinthus, who were denying Him to be the God-man, the Mediator, & the Messiah. (cont'd).
Also, define what "love" is. Is love feelings or actions? 'cause I can hate someone but still do what's right. If I see someone that is hungry, even though I have no love for that person I can still give them a sandwich or some money or something.
Peter was chastised by Paul: (for saying that the Gentiles should be circumcised)
Galatians 2: (Paul speaking)
11 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
12 For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.
13 And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.
14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
Peter messed up but God still used him. Peter was to preach the Gospel to the Jews and Paul was to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. In other words, "the example of our walk" means nothing. If one rejects salvation because I'm not Christ-like enough, that's just an excuse. Everyone must seek God/Jesus while they may be found. People are wicked but God is all light and there is no darkness in him or Jesus. God/Jesus are the way, the truth and the life.
And as for the Word of God, (the Bible) it's been available for years. You can buy them at DollarTree for a buck. No one is forbidding anyone to read the Bible. (Not yet anyway.) If they want to kick God/Jesus to the curb, that's on their head- not mine.
But, thank you for responding. I will consider your explanations.
Ruth and Esther are women of God with books in the Bible for us to study.
Song of Solomon's, Shulamite woman: is a study into the bride of Christ or, the Church of Christ. I once thought it quite scandalous, but it's explained in Psalm 45:11 and Galatians 2:20
I think our understanding the strength of love, is imperfect. I will tell you a dream I had. After I was born again, people said to my face: that anyone who had been as evil as me__could not possibly be saved!! Then they laughed.
It cut me to my fragile heart and spirit.
I decided I would make Jesus despise me. When Jesus love knocked on my door I would slam the door shut and the pain of self-hate grew huge.
In the Dream, I saw Jesus laying stretched out on the Cross. He looked in my eyes with all the love within Him. I got angry! How dare He love The Unlovable?! I saw rocks. I picked one up and hit the nail in his hand. I felt sure I could make him sorry he had ever met me.
But he looked in my eyes and said, I LOVE YOU. I hit him again and again, and each time He said he loved me. Something inside of me broke open. I dropped the rock and lay on his chest and wept. His arms held me close. Then I woke up.
When I read Song of Solomon later: 2:19, 6:3, 7:10, 8:7; I knew I was loved. I forgave all those who cursed me. I learned how to give love to those who were like me. It's not carnal.
Only God can heal a human heart; and cause it to beat for others who have not heard Jesus say, I Love You.
The ability to love without judging, speaking curses or rationing is valuable. Love like Jesus.
8) Prophecy mainly concerns nations as such ( Isaiah 2:4; Ezekiel 37:21-22)
Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From "Things That DIFFER!":
8) The Mystery Concerns individuals ( Romans 10:12-13; 2 Corinthians 5:14-17)
9) Prophecy concerns blessings, both material and spiritual, on earth ( Isaiah 2:3-4; Isaiah 11:1-9; etc.)
RDf
9) The Mystery Concerns "all spiritual blessings in The Heavenlies" ( Ephesians 1:3; Colossians 3:1-3)
10) Prophecy concerns Christ's Coming to the earth ( Isaiah 59:20; Zechariah 14:4)
RDf
10) The Mystery Explains Christ's absence from the earth ( Ephesians 1:20-24; Colossians 3:1-3)
11) In prophecy, salvation by Grace through faith alone is not contemplated ( Matthew 28:19-20; Matthew 23:1-3; Luke 7:29-30; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; James 2:17)
RDf
11) Salvation "By GRACE Through faith" Alone lies at The Very Heart Of The Mystery! ( Romans 3:21-26; Romans 4:5; Ephesians 2:8-9)
12) The proclamation of the prophetic program committed particularly to the twelve ( Matthew 10:5-7; Acts 1:6-8; Acts 3:19-26)
RDf
12) The proclamation of The Mystery program committed particularly to Paul ( Ephesians 3:1-3; Ephesians 3:8-9; Colossians 1:24-27)
13) The prophetic program revealed through many of God's servants Luke 1:70; 2 Peter 1:21)
RDf
13) The Mystery revealed through one man: Paul! ( Galatians 1:1; Galatians 1:11-12; Galatians 2:2; Galatians 2:7; Galatians 2:9; Ephesians 3:2-3)
14) Old Testament writers frequently did not understand the prophecies made through them ( Daniel 12:8-10; 1 Peter 1:10-12)
RDf
14) Paul Both understood And longed that others might understand The Mystery revealed through him ( Ephesians 1:15-23; Ephesians 3:14-21; Colossians 1:9-10; Colossians 2:1-3)
{borrowed from "Things That Differ" by C.R. Stam}
Here's a copy of a reply from the same question by brother Jesse,
Thought it would be OK to share it.
Quote.
Jesus said if any man will come after me, and that is the word behind. And here is the decision-making process. When somebody surrenders to Jesus Christ, they are surrendering to come behind Him. Every single person has a calling to come behind Jesus. That's it!
If any man will come behind me, and there are three things, or principles I would like to share with you.
Principle number 1: Let him deny himself.
Now the word deny, ARNEOMAI, means to reject. This is what it means in the Greek. But first I'll tell you what it doesn't mean.
It doesn't mean that you are to deny yourself an ice cream cone after church or after bible study. It means to reject yourself, period!
The next phrase says, "and take up his cross." And some think that means whatever hardships I go through today. But that's not what it means.
You see, according to Romans Chapter 6, when Jesus died on the cross, He died my death. Therefore I have died, and every day my flesh is nailed to the cross and I'm to carry that cross.
And thirdly He says "follow me." Do you see what He's saying here?
He is saying "Follow me," meaning that the position is behind Him.
A good text would beGalatians 2:20, where Paul says I have been crucified in Christ, and the life that I now live, he says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
You see, he has died. I don't live any more. I don't do what I want to do because I don't live, I died. Paul says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. And the life that I now live, I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.
He just said it all in one verse. Reject yourself!
I have had a conviction for a long time that our struggle every day in life is more against God than it is against Satan. Why? Because our flesh is continually trying to get down off that cross, and trying to get away from the struggles of life.
GBU
Paul writes in Galatians 1:6-7, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ."
Later in Galatians 2:7-9, Paul adds, "But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision."
Clearly there was one gospel for the circumcision and another for the uncircumcision. What happened in the Galatian church is the members had mixed the two gospels because Messianic Jews from the church at Jerusalem had taught them the kingdom gospel and insisted that be circumcised and obey the Law of Moses to be saved. It was agreed upon by those in authority, i.e., Peter, James, and John, that Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles, and that Peter was the apostle to the Jews.
Scripture clearly teaches that there were two gospels. Scripture must be studied, not just read, and it must be rightly divided to understand the truth of God's written word. Paul says the Scripture is given for reproof and correction. What I find most troublesome these days is that far too many self-identified Christians refuse to accept correction once they have been corrected.
Paul writes in Galatians 1:6-7, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ."
Later in Galatians 2:7-9, Paul adds, "But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision."
Clearly there was one gospel for the circumcision and another for the uncircumcision. What happened in the Galatian church is the members had mixed the two gospels because Messianic Jews from the church at Jerusalem had taught them the kingdom gospel and insisted that be circumcised and obey the Law of Moses to be saved. It was agreed upon by those in authority, i.e., Peter, James, and John, that Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles, and that Peter was the apostle to the Jews.
Scripture clearly teaches that there were two gospels. Scripture must be studied, not just read, and it must be rightly divided to understand the truth of God's written word. Paul says the Scripture is given for reproof and correction. What I find most troublesome these days is that far too many self-identified Christians refuse to accept correction once they have been corrected.
Rightly Divided From ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From "Things That DIFFER!":
Gospel Of The GRACE Of God =
Gospel of the Uncircumcision ( Galatians 2:7; Galatians 6:15; Romans 4:9-11)
Preached first by Paul, then his companions ( Acts 13:38-39; Acts 20:24; Acts 16:31; Romans 3:24)
The Mystery Program for The Gentiles ( Ephesians 3:1-3; Colossians 1:25-27; Romans 16:25)
The preaching of The Cross as Good News ( 1 Corinthians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4)
Gospel to be believed = Christ's Work ( Romans 5:6 Romans 5:8 Romans 5:10; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
Salvation By GRACE Through faith plus nothing ( Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 4:5; Titus 3:5)
Justification by faith without works emphasized ( Romans 3:28; Romans 4:5,16; Galatians 2:16)
Repentance as a synonym for faith ( Acts 17:30; Acts 20:21; Acts 26:20; Romans 2:4)
Involves reconciliation to God and man ( Romans 5:10-11; Romans 11:15; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20; Ephesians 2:16; Colossians 1:21)
Covers Paul's letters Romans - Philemon (Also Acts 9-28)
Not under the law ( Romans 5:20-21; Romans 6:14; Galatians 5:6)
----------
IMKane, hope this was helpful answering your Great questions.
Please Be Richly Encouraged, Enlightened, Exhorted, And Edified!
Part I Gospel of the kingdom =
Gospel of the circumcision ( Galatians 2:7; Acts 3:25-26; Genesis 17:9-14)
Preached by John, Jesus, and the 12 ( Matthew 3:2; Matthew 4:17; Matthew 4:23; Matthew 9:35; Matthew 10:5-8)
The Prophecy Program for the Jews ( Luke 1:32-33; Luke 3:19-26; Daniel 2:44; James 1:1)
Preaching of The Cross as historical ( Acts 2:23,36; Acts 3:14-15; Acts 5:30)
Gospel to be believed = Christ's Name ( Matthew 16:16; John 20:31; 1 John 5:13)
Salvation by faith and water baptism ( Mark 1-4; Mark 16:16; Luke 7:29-30; Acts 2:38)
Justification without works is dead ( James 2:17; James 2:20; James 2:24; James 2:26)
Repentance emphasized along with faith ( Mark 1:15; Luke 3:8-14; Acts 3:19)
Reconciliation not mentioned.
Covers Matthew - Acts 8, then Tribulation ( Acts 3:19-21; Acts 8:12; Matthew 24:14)
Under The Law ( Matthew 5:17; Matthew 8:4; Matthew 23:2-3)
Good works will follow salvation ( Matthew 7:15-20; 1 John 2:3-5; 1 John 2:29; 1 John 3:7,10)
Rightly Divided From ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From "Things That DIFFER!":
Gospel Of GRACE
to be continued...
Paul seems to be saying there were two gospels. What's the difference between the gospel of the circumcision and the gospel of the uncircumcision? Why were the two gospels separated, and why was Paul commissioned to preach the gospel of the uncircumcision and Peter commissioned to preach the gospel of the circumcision?
I believe the church started at Pentecost because the Holy Spirit filled all the disciples in that house. Then others came the number around 3000 heard Peter and the other disciples speaking in their languages. Peter stood up and said this is what you are seeing ( Joel 2:28-32). Then Peter told them "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost".
So, that is why I believe the Church started then. But these were all Jewish, and only Jewish people were told the gospel until Peter had his dream and went to Cornelius, he was among the Gentiles. At this time Peter stayed in Jerusalem and the Church was all Jewish. A little later Jesus visited Saul/Paul and sent him to unto Gentiles.
I believe the different thoughts of when the Church started comes from Paul being sent to the Gentiles with the word he was given from Jesus did not require them to be circumcised or be under the law of Moses. It was to make the Jews jealous. We see later the conflicts between the Jewish believers in Jesus and Paul's teaching. We see this in Acts 15 the debate on this, to be circumcised and be under the law. We see Paul addressed it in ( Galatians 2:4-9).
We see in Acts 21 when Paul went into Jerusalem and went unto James, and thousands of believing Jews were there and they were all zealous of the law. They accused Paul of telling the Jews that were among the Gentiles that they should not circumcise their children and not be under the law. They wanted to kill Paul and almost did.
The difference in the Jewish believers along with some of the apostles, teaching to be circumcised and be under the law and what Paul's teachings, given to him by Jesus Himself is where the question comes when the Church started.
I'm sure some will disagree, but this is my understanding.
RLW
Sorry it took so long to respond to you, I am working on my honey do list.
The works Jesus is talking about in John 14:12. Is his miracles and being that he will gift his disciples with the Holyspirit shortly after his death, to work and perform these same miracles, as Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:10. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
And he also said in Galatians 2:8. (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) The apostles was given the Holyspirit and a measure of grace to take to the whole world to lay down the foundation that we are to build on. Paul said this grace was mighty in him. By the Holyspirit they was able to raise the dead!
But with all that being said that's not what he wanted the outside world to gaze upon when determining whether they was a follower of him or not. Here is what he wanted the world to see, which was given by the same spirit.
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. This was also working mightily in them.
Here is another example of what the spirit had to do in their lives. listen to the Lord after Peter forbid him to was his feet but then allowed it to be so.
John 13:12-15. So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?
("Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.")
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
There is a lesson in humility.
God bless.
Jesus said if any man will come after me, and that is the word behind. And here is the decision-making process. When somebody surrenders to Jesus Christ, they are surrendering to come behind Him. Every single person has a calling to come behind Jesus. That's it!
If any man will come behind me, and there are three things, or principles I would like to share with you.
Principle number 1: Let him deny himself.
Now the word deny, ARNEOMAI, means to reject. This is what it means in the Greek. But first I'll tell you what it doesn't mean.
It doesn't mean that you are to deny yourself an ice cream cone after church or after bible study. It means to reject yourself, period!
The next phrase says, "and take up his cross." And some think that means whatever hardships I go through today. But that's not what it means.
You see, according to Romans Chapter 6, when Jesus died on the cross, He died my death. Therefore I have died, and every day my flesh is nailed to the cross and I'm to carry that cross.
And thirdly He says "follow me." Do you see what He's saying here?
He is saying "Follow me," meaning that the position is behind Him.
A good text would be Galatians 2:20, where Paul says I have been crucified in Christ, and the life that I now live, he says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
You see, he has died. I don't live any more. I don't do what I want to do because I don't live, I died. Paul says I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. And the life that I now live, I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.
He just said it all in one verse. Reject yourself!
I have had a conviction for a long time that our struggle every day in life is more against God than it is against Satan. Why? Because our flesh is continually trying to get down off that cross, and trying to get away from the struggles of life.
Go in peace.
Galatians 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
And,
John 11:25
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
Remember, on earth we are a little time, if we see the Erterity
God Bless you il pray
This chapter is speaking of some of those delicate & difficult questions that arose at that time, in respect to the behaviour between Jew & Gentile believers. And these questions centred around food and observance of particular days, rites, etc. The Jewish converts expected that the Gentiles would also bind themselves to Jewish customs & adherence to Mosaic Laws. The matter of circumcision came up in Acts 15:1,2 and Galatians 2:3,4. Here in Romans chapter 14, matters pertaining to food offered to idols, Jewish fasting days, clean & unclean animals, and subsequently, judging another because of their belief & therefore resulting in not walking in love & understanding with each other.
So verse 16: "Let not then your good be evil spoken of", tells us that as Christians, we should be aware that even though we might enjoy our liberty in Christ to do many things that might appear wrong in the sight of others (e.g. Jews, or those weak in faith or unlearned in the Scriptures), we should abstain from doing so, if it means that strife & controversy arise leading to unkind words exchanged & separation from each other.
However, I do agree with you that a married man should be careful in how close he gets to other women: the time he spends with her or the places they meet for discussion, since that meeting, though maybe perfectly harmless & genuine, may easily be misconstrued by another. In that instance, I would use 1 Thessalonians 5:22: "Abstain from all appearance of evil." And if you need to share this with a man (a husband?), the Scripture can be used as part of a 'loving' discussion to the pitfalls in such an association, as well as a misunderstanding or gossip by others.
Of ourselves we have NO FAITH or works; when Christ CALLS he gives us HIS FAITH to answer.
Philippians 3:9 .....but that which is through THE FAITH OF CHRIST, the righteousness which is of GOD be FAITH (of CHRIST).
Galatians 2:16 .....but by FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST .....
Ephesians 3:12 In whom (IN CHRIST) we have boldness and access in CONFIDENCE by the FAITH OF HIM.
James 2:17 Even so FAITH (Christ in you), if it (Faith) (Christ in you) hath not works, is dead, being alone.
The Christ calls, give faith to believe, causes you to respond, purifies you, makes you whole, causes you to walk in his statutes. ( Ezekiel 36:25-27)
Faith without works is dead; BUT, it's HIS faith and HIS works. You bear THE GIFT, the FULLNESS OF CHRIST.
Colossians 1:27....of this MYSTERY, CHRIST IN YOU....
John 6:29 ....This is the WORK OF GOD, that you BELIEVE on him who he hath sent.
Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is GIVEN on behalf of Christ, not only TO BELIEVE ....
God bless
I know Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the image of the invisible God as in Scripture. Also that He is ONE with God as in Scripture. I haven't separated Jesus Christ from the Father who indwelt Him? When did I say the Father and the Son were the same? I never said that and don't believe that. Though they are ONE as with the Holy Spirit. 1 John 5:7.
I believe it's pretty safe to say that everyone who comes here knows there is ONE GOD.
You also have the freedom to believe whatever you want. I don't know what "fake Christian teachings" since 325 AD you are talking about. The Holy Bible along with the Holy Spirit is my teacher.
If you think you have all of God's mind & ways understood, I'll just say be ready to find out it's much more than anyone can comprehend. If you think you are smarter than everyone else good job. The most important thing to me is to follow the footsteps of Christ and live for the Will of our Father.
It seems there is no reason for us to go any further. As you didn't answer the question about Revelation 5&6 where it is the Lamb(Christ) who takes the book and opens the seals. Though you say the Father does this. Also about what Spirit indwells in us after being saved or your thoughts on the "rapture" with Scripture.
Jesus Christ our Lord died for our sins. I strive to live for our Fathers will and am His for eternity. Galatians 2:20, 1 John 5:10-11, Revelation 21:22-23.
No need to reply if you don't feel comfortable. Thank you for all your time.
God Bless you John.
I think that here, the apostle is showing that what is normally considered a distinction between the Jew & Gentile (the circumcision & the uncircumcision), when the matter of faith in God through Jesus Christ is brought in, both stand before God on equal terms ( Romans 3:22); one has no superiority over the other.
However, the Jew was given the Law which not only showed him God's holy requirements but also exposed to him his sinfulness because he couldn't keep the Law & please God. That missing attribute - Faith - which justifies ALL men (v28 and Hebrews chapter 11), is needed by the Jew which shows him that it's only BY FAITH & not by the "deeds of the Law" can he be saved. Likewise, to the Gentile who had not the Law, that it is only THROUGH FAITH in the Cross can he be saved. I realize this is a very small distinction between those words and even though I may be wrong, I'm afraid that's the only way I can understand why the apostle expressed it this way.
When you read the Bible take note of who it is addressing. We were not told to sacrifice animals, build an ark, keep Jewish holidays, etc. that was under the Law of Moses. We are saved by faith alone. Romans 4:4; Colossians 2:14; Galatians 2:20.
But in these threads you refer to lies a problem with correct biblical hermeneutics. Ordinarily, we can agree to differ on our understanding of the Scriptures without too much of a catastrophe (e.g. Christ's second coming, did Jesus actually spend three days in the grave, etc, etc.). But what we have here is about the applicability of the Decalogue to the believer in Christ, & in particular the 4th Commandment (which somehow takes a degree of precedence over the other nine), should be of concern to each of us. The apostles had to wrestle over this as it was important to keep the believers' new life in Christ distinct from the old life (if they were Jews) under the Law which revealed their sin, their incapability to keep the Law & which only brought death ( Romans 7:5,6). So it was never a case of whether we should obey God's commandments - we all must obey. It's a case of whether our appeal to obey is to what was the "ministration of death, written & engraven in stones" rather than to the "ministration of the Spirit" which is of greater glory ( 2 Corinthians 3:6-8) & for which Jesus died & ushered in the New Covenant with God. If righteousness (a believer's right standing before God) could be achieved by the Law, then indeed Christ has died in vain ( Galatians 2:21).
In other words, & with all concern, can a believer stand before God & claim obedience to the Ten Commandments & especially the 4th Commandment, & not expect rebuke? He might believe that he can stand with head held high, being sealed with the 4th, & then sees the Lamb that was slain Who put aside forever any cause for condemnation which came by the Law ( Romans 8:1-4). It's not about the beauty of God's Laws - it's about it's applicability & the Spirit's Work to reveal all of God's Laws to us & give us power to perform them.
Yes, it seems they did. The first time Paul went to Jerusalem was three years after his Conversion, Where He saw only Simon Peter and James the Lords brother and abode there fifteen days. Galatians 1:18-19.
Then after another fourteen years he went up to Jerusalem again. Stating James, Cephas, and John were there. Galatians 2:9. Though it seems he probably saw all of them at that visit.
Hope that helps. God Bless.
Faith in Christ Jesus means we believe God. It the faith of Christ that saves us. His faith, His death, His resurrection.
See Galatians 2:20
When we fully trust that alone as our justification before God, we are given His spirit to live out that life until we are
given our glorified bodies, just as Christ now has a Glorified body.
You say that it's up to you to choose, by the free will he has given you; is it really your choice or His choice.
Scripture says that ALL is HIS WORKS. Do you believe this.
John 15:16 You have not chosen me; but I have chosen you.
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who maketh thee to differ from another? And what hast thou that thou DID NOT RECEIVE? Now if thou didst receive it, why doest thou glory, as if thou hast not received it.
1 Peter 1:21 Who (you) by him (Holy Spirit, Christ in you) do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory, that YOUR FAITH (the FAITH OF CHRIST) and hope might be in God.
Galatians 2:16 KNOWING that a man is not justified by the works of the law (the works of man's hands), but by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have believed (BY HIM) in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, and not by the works of the law (the works of man's hands): for by the works of the law (the works of man's hands) shall no flesh be justified.
Philippians 1:9 For unto you it is GIVEN in the behalf of Christ, not only to BELIEVE on him; but also to suffer for his sake.
Philippians 2:13 For it is GOD THAT WORKETH IN YOU both to WILL and do of his good pleasure.
Ephesians 1:11 In whom (in Christ) also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to THE PURPOSE OF HIM who WORKETH ALL THINGS after the council of HIS WILL:
(vs 12) That we should be to the praise of his glory, who (by HIM) first trusted in Christ.
He is not calling everyone right now; only those that have been chosen to rule and judge the nations with him.
Psalms 2:10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings, ye judges of the earth.
Isaiah 1:26 I will restore thy judges as at the first......
Obadiah 21 And saviours shall come upon mount Zion to JUDGE the mount of Esau (sold their birthright for things of the flesh); and the kingdom shall be the LORD'S.
Revelation 22:16 I JESUS have sent my angel to testify unto you (you are the church) these things (that are revealed; by Revelation) in the CHURCHES....
Revelation 1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave to him (Christ), to show unto his servants (Christ's inheritance; Psalms 2:8) things which much SHORTLY (during your lifetime) come to pass......
1 Peter 1:21 WHO (YOU) by HIM (CHRIST) do BELIEVE....
Galatians 2:16 KNOWING that a man is not justified by the works of the law, BUT BY THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have BELIEVED (by HIM) in Jesus Christ, that we might be JUSTIFIED by THE FAITH OF Jesus Christ......
Christ has given you HIS FAITH
Revelation 2:26 And he (you; the church) that overcomes and keeps MY WORKS (remember he gives us HIS faith, His truth, His wisdom, His understanding, His council, everything that is HIS he gives to us as our inheritance; we are his children) unto the END (when you leave this body of flesh at it's death; now he is going to give you HIS BODY; HIS incorruptible and immortal self ( 1 Timothy 6:16)......
Revelation 20:5-6 .... This is the FIRST resurrection.
(vs 6) Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the FIRST resurrection....
Remember he gives us what is HIS; he gives us HIS RESURRECTION. ( John 11:25)
Isaiah 26:19 Thy dead men shall LIVE, together with MY DEAD BODY SHALL THEY ARISE...
This is the rapture of the church (you) individually not collectively.
Isaiah 27:12 ...ye shall be gathered ONE BY ONE....
Mathew 24:40 Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken and the other left.
1 Corinthians 12:27 Now we are THE BODY OF CHRIST.....
1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours (THROUGH THE WORKS OF CHRIST)
Revelations 22:16 I JESUS SENT mine angel to testify unto you (you are the CHURCH) these things in the CHURCHES......
There might be a reason there is no mention of the rapture.
Do you think the un-called study God's word.
1 Peter 1:21 WHO (YOU) by HIM (CHRIST) do BELIEVE.........
Galatians 2:16 KNOWING that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have BELIEVED (by HIM) in Jesus Christ, that we might be JUSTIFIED (not by the law) but by THE FAITH OF CHRIST (by him), and not the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Jesus GIVES you HIS FAITH
Revelation 2:26 And he (the church) that overcometh, and keepeth MY WORKS (remember it's his faith, his wisdom, his truth, his understanding, EVERYTHING HE IS becomes yours through inheritance, you are his child) unto the end (when you depart this body of flesh and are given HIS BODY; (HIS) incorruptible and immortality self becomes yours....
This is the rapture of the church (you) each one individually not collectively.
Isaiah 27:12 And it shall come to pass in that day...... ye shall be gathered ONE BY ONE...
Matthew 24:40 There shall be two in the field; the one shall be taken and the other left.
Revelation 20:5-6 .... this is the first resurrection.
(vs 5) Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection.....
Remember he gives you what is his; therefore he gives us his resurrection.
Isaiah 26:19 Thy dead men shall LIVE together with MY DEAD BODY SHALL THEY ARISE....
2 Corinthians 1:22 Who (Christ) has SEALED us, and given us the earnest (down payment) of the Spirit in our heart.
Ephesians 1:13-14 In whom ye also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel (CHRIST IN YOU) of your salvation: in whom also after that you BELIEVED, you were SEALED with the holy Spirit of promise.
(vs 14) Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
At the redemption (the death of the body of flesh) you will be given the Spirit without measure and a glorified body.
1 Peter 1:21 Who (you) by him (Christ) do BELIEVE in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; that your FAITH (CHRIST) and hope might be in God.
CHRIST IN YOU
Galatians 2:16 .....but by the FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even we have BELIEVED (by his faith) in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the FAITH of Jesus Christ.....
Romans 8:29 For whom (you) he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he (CHRIST IN YOU) might be the first born of MANY BROTHERS.