I also enjoy reading your full replies brother Michael,
It seems we see eye to eye. Like you stated that we are not commanded to keep a "Saturday", or certain day, Sabbath in the New Testament. As I stated Galatians 4:9-11 in my first reply to you in this thread. Which you just broke down with details to make it more understandable for those who may have not understood that verse.
Thank you very much for your time and posts as I very much enjoy conversing with other brothers & sisters in Christ. I look forward to seeing your posts here to help others in their walk with Christ.
Thank you for your comments. I enjoyed reading your thoughts.
Indeed, I certainly agree with you that the Old Testament books are still important for Christians. Indeed, the Apostle Paul said that all scripture is beneficial. ( 2 Timothy 3:16) He also stated at Romans 15:4 that those things were written to teach us. Also, at 1 Corinthians 10:6 and 1 Corinthians 10:11, he says that those things were examples to us to teach us and warn us.
However, as far as the terms of a Testament or Covenant concerning the laws that we must obey, Christians should obey only the New Testament laws which are binding on a Christian. You cannot have 2 rental leases in force at the same time. The new rental lease makes the old one obsolete. The New Testament makes the Old Testament obsolete.
Hebrews 8:13 "In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."
Hebrews 7:12 "For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the (Mosaic) law."
Luke 16:16 "The (Mosaic) law and the prophets were until John..."
Christians are not commanded in the New Testament to keep the Saturday sabbath and neither to keep a dominical sabbath (Sunday). There is no set day to keep. The only thing that is commanded to be kept is meeting together - that can be anytime during the week.
Hebrews 10:24, 25 "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
The Apostle Paul counsels against keeping any "day":
Galatians 4:10 "Ye observe (sabbath) days, and (lunar) months, and (festivals) times, and (sabbatical) years."
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
You quoted Exodus 20:10 to say that we must observe the sabbath. However, you quoted from the Old Testament given to the ancient nation of Israel. Could you provide me a verse from the New Testament which commands the Church to keep the Sabbath? If not, why not? Why would the Apostles never instruct or remind the Christian Church to keep the sabbath if it was that important?
You also quoted Malachi 2:6 that God never changes. But, then why did God change the law of circumcision? The Old Testament said you must be circumcised - a commandment of God at Leviticus 12:3. But, in the New Testament, we are told that circumcision is not necessary. See Galatians 5:2. Also, why does Hebrews 7:12 say the the priesthood was changed? I thought you said that God never changes. In the Old Testament, the priesthood was Levitical but in the New Testament, the priesthood is according to the order of Mechizedek - another change of God. See Hebrews 7:11.
The Apostle Paul, at Galatians 4:10, scolds the Galatians for keeping the Old Testament rituals. The brackets are mine.
Galatians 4:10
"Ye observe (sabbath) days, and (lunar) months, and (festivals) times, and (sabbatical) years."
No wonder the Apostle Paul asks the question at:
Galatians 4:21 "Tell me, ye that desire to be under the (Mosaic Old Testament) law, do ye not hear the law?"
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
I agree with you on not having to keep the "7th day Sabbath". Another verse I came across tonight to back that is Galatians 4:9-11. I don't know if I understand correctly your statement of "we are commanded the opposite". As I stated, my feeling, that to follow Christ is to be Holy as He is Holy as in 1 Peter 1:14-17, Hebrews 12:14. To strive to keep every day Holy retaining the Lord in us. That following love from a pure heart is what makes God our Father and Christ happy 1 Peter 1:22-23.
To the Ten Commandments. Like I stated I believe they are good and are throughout the NT, as to follow them, though all spread out. Here is one actually discerning it as a commandment of the OT Ephesians 6:1-2. Here are the rest in different places. Romans 1:28-32, Galatians 5:19-21, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Colossians 3:1-10. As you are able to go through all those epistles of the NT and see it notes the same things the Ten Commandments tells to us to stay away from. Even more as some are in the Mitzvot laws. As stated there are a lot that are void though just letting the Spirit guide you, you can see the ones that are moral and righteous.
Love from a pure heart is above all and shall never fail Colossians 3:12-17. Walking in the Spirit producing good fruit for the Lord. To keep us from the temptations and lusts of the flesh which leads to sin. Which no one is perfect and may slip and fall. To be vigilant and confess our sins in prayer they shall be forgiven. Though we are to strive to stay away(repent) from sin in our walk with the Lord to be Holy in this temple He has Blessed us with.
Just to make clear if anyone may perceive I'm stating that "good works" is what saves us. That is not true and not what I'm stating. Though we are called by God through Christ to good works Ephesians 2:10. Showing our faith and newness of life in the Lord. All glory to our Father and Jesus Christ. Amen.
Hi Johnny How about I paste a reply from Michael on a similar topic. I think you will find your answer here.
Jesus himself was born under the Mosaic Law and, therefore, was required to keep the Mosaic Law. That is why he was circumcised on the eight day as per the Mosaic Law. Notice that in the following verse. Jesus was made (or born) under the law - the Mosaic Law.
Galatians 4:4 "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,"
As long as that Mosaic Law was in force, the Mosaic Law (the so-called Old Testament) was in force. Jesus therefore kept his Father's commandments of that Mosaic Law. But, the Holy Scriptures has said that God would set up a New Covenant that would not be like the Old Covenant. Notice...
Jeremiah 31:31 "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:" "Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:"
It was not the Apostle Paul who changed God's Law to his people - it was God himself as per Jeremiah 31:31. However, the Apostle Paul, writing under inspiration of God, gave the first-century Church the new directives or laws governing that New Covenant. He never instructed the Christian Churches of the first-century to keep the Mosaic Law such as circumcision or the sabbaths. In fact, he instructed them the complete opposite. Notice again...
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
You cannot judge a Christian for not keeping the sabbath days - as per the New Covenant that has been set up between God and his present-day people - the Church of God.
Jesus himself was born under the Mosaic Law and, therefore, was required to keep the Mosaic Law. That is why he was circumcised on the eight day as per the Mosaic Law. Notice that in the following verse. Jesus was made (or born) under the law - the Mosaic Law.
Galatians 4:4 "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,"
As long as that Mosaic Law was in force, the Mosaic Law (the so-called Old Testament) was in force. Jesus therefore kept his Father's commandments of that Mosaic Law. But, the Holy Scriptures has said that God would set up a New Covenant that would not be like the Old Covenant. Notice...
Jeremiah 31:31 "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:" "Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:"
It was not the Apostle Paul who changed God's Law to his people - it was God himself as per Jeremiah 31:31. However, the Apostle Paul, writing under inspiration of God, gave the first-century Church the new directives or laws governing that New Covenant. He never instructed the Christian Churches of the first-century to keep the Mosaic Law such as circumcision or the sabbaths. In fact, he instructed them the complete opposite. Notice again...
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
You cannot judge a Christian for not keeping the sabbath days - as per the New Covenant that has been set up between God and his present-day people - the Church of God.
Hi Nehemiah, the Bible as we have it, doesn't speak of those silent years between the Testaments. We would have to look at history to see what took place at that time, & specifically about the Medo-Persian & Roman Empires and their influence in the world, especially in Palestine. It would be best, if you're interested in that history, to read about it rather than my sharing it here in precis form. You can check it out at this very good Site, which gives a full, informative & easy to read account: templemount dot org. Go to the Reference Links at the bottom of the page & click on 'The 400 Years between the Hebrew & Christian Scriptures by Ray Stedman'.
However, during those silent years, from between 200 BC & 400 AD, several writings appeared what we now refer to as the Apocryphal Books. They received a mixed reception, some believing that they were vital information to be included with the rest of Scripture, to others believing that under various tests, those writings proved to be uninspired & contained inaccuracies. So they were not included in the Canon of Scripture we have now in the KJV.
When you read of the plight of the Jews during those silent years & what they suffered under the hands of those Empires, they too must have wondered, 'why was God keeping quiet & not dealing with the enemy, to bring His promised Saviour to us to defeat them'. But God's Word says, "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." Galatians 4:4,5. At the appointed time, God did move - not for a physical salvation from the human enemy, but a spiritual salvation from the unseen wicked enemy of our souls. God was no more silent. But now after 2000 years, the same question is asked by some, "where is God in our sufferings?" "When will He come to remove us?" When the fulness of (God's) time is come, Jesus WILL come again.
S Spencer on Jesus our kinsman redeemer page 1 - In Reply on Psalms 91 - 3 years ago
HI Sacha,
Page 1
That is a great question and important topic that you are inquiring about, "He chose to have His Son born of a human woman who by her fleshly nature is sinfull ,do you think there might have been a reason for this choice ?" And you also mentioned the seed of the woman which ties to this,
If I'm understanding the question as presented I think the study we are looking for is a study in
( KINSMAN REDEEMER).
Jesus was born of a woman to become our kinsman redeemer.
Galatians 4:4-5. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
Hebrews 2:9-11.
But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.
For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,
Roman 8:3.
For what the law 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:
Revelation 5:2-5.
And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?
And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.
And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.
Carleton Part 1 God the Son scriptures on Genesis 14 - 3 years ago
"His name shall be called...The mighty God" Isaiah 9:6
"My Lord and my God" John 20:2
"He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest" Luke 1:32
"that Holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" Luke 1:35
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son" John 3:16
"And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God" John 1:34
"This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" Matthew 3:17
"God sent his only begotten Son into the world" 1 John 4:9
"Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" Matthew 16:16
"The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world" 1 John 4:14
"And thou shall call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" Matthew 1:21
"Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world" 1 Peter 1:20
"But when the fulness of the time was to come, God sent his Son" Galatians 4:4
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel" Isaiah 7:14
"Behold, thou shall conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shall call his name JESUS" Luke 1:31
"Then said Mary to the Angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" Luke 1:34
"And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" Luke 1:35
" Thou son of David, fear not to take Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost" Matthew 1:20
"And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us" John 1:14
"I am the bread of life....This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from Heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread that I give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world" John 6:48-51
98% of born again Christians never become spiritual adults
Growing up Spiritually does not happen automatically. Spiritual growth only comes from studying the Scriptures until Christ be formed in you. Galatians 4:19 "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,"
2 Timothy 2:15 "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Lets take a look at second timothy chapter three, verses sixteen and seventeen. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." "THAT THE MAN OF GOD MAY BE PERFECT" ANOTHER WORD FOR "PERFECT" IS "MATURE" As you study, you grow in to an Adult Christian, Peter said "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:" A new born Christian baby can do just about anything that an unsaved person can do; so we all need to grow up.
This would be an extremely difficult case to build as Paul is simply not specific to what was given him to keep him from becoming conceited after those mighty revelations.
I have always tended to believe that his eyes caused him a lot of bother. Whether he had first acquired some disease that eventually affected other parts of his body in the long term & especially his eyes, one can't be certain. Anyway, I'll give you some other Scriptures for you to consider (not in any order):
a. Romans 16:22 (Paul was the author, but Tertius his scribe possibly because of Paul's vision).
b. 1 Corinthians 16:21 & 2 Thessalonians 3:17 (Paul managed to sign off with his name while others helped with the writing of the epistle).
c. Galatians 6:11 (Paul wrote in large letters, rather than writing a 'long letter', as he didn't have a scribe to help him).
d. Galatians 4:13 (Paul preached to the Galatians first, possibly because of the region's higher altitude may have helped with a disease, e.g. malaria which left untreated, might have caused eye problems) & then in Galatians 4:15 (that the Galatians would have given him "their eyes" for his need).
e. Acts 23:3-5 (Paul insulted the High Priest not recognizing him, or as some suppose, that Paul was saying "I didn't expect a High Priest (of his calibre) to order me beaten").
Sorry, I'm directing this response towards Paul's eyes, as I feel that this was where his infirmity was. But of course, no one can say with full certainty.
I think you may be seeking clarification of Romans 14:5,6 to a similar passage in Galatians 4:9,10.
As both of Paul's letters are to believers, I read the Galatians portion as applying to some who wanted to observe those aspects of the Jewish religious requirements as necessary, as opposed to the freedom believers now have in Christ, in Romans 14.
In Galatians, Paul speaks of the Jewish customs & observances (of special days & times) that were required for the performance of their religion. This went part & parcel with a strict & correct observance, & any departure from it, brought displeasure & punishment.
But when one is "in Christ", we have no such constraints placed upon us, as we look into the "perfect law of liberty" because Christ, in His Sacrifice, not only brought us a glorious salvation from sin's penalty, but also released us from the bondage to anything else (whether a Law, custom, or tradition), so that we may enjoy the liberty that comes with faith in Christ & being led of His Spirit in our lives. So in Romans 4:5,6, Paul is reminding the believers there that they are free to observe any day they wished or eat anything they desired, for they were no longer under legal constraint, but under the dictates of the conscience, as those now belonging to Jesus. And of course, the reason for Paul bringing up this matter, was the concern about a judgemental attitude, which would be prevalent especially by those coming out of Judaism & who believed that the 'old' observances were still necessary to live as a Christian. And we know that the Apostle Peter too failed momentarily in this matter of behaviour in front of Jews ( Galatians 2:11-16).
We are never to judge another, except to proclaim the Word accurately to one who is failing or departing from the teachings from the Word. Therefore, whether in our mind or action against them, we are to desist, but by loving instruction guide or warn them, leaving the matter of the soul's condition only to the Lord.
My understanding: the Sabbath was created as a day of rest for Israel ( Exodus 31:12-17), just as the Lord rested from His creative Work. This fourth commandment was blessed by God & sanctified (made holy) long before He gave it as a direct commandment to the children of Israel. It was a day of complete rest (cessation from the activity that occupied the other six days) & a day devoted to God. The other important sign given to Israel to set them apart from all other nations, was the act of circumcision. Both were for Israel only.
From the time of Israel's exodus out of Egypt, they learned which day was the actual Sabbath: Exodus 16:25-27, when they found no manna on the ground on that day. Ever since then, the count was on: 6 days work - 1 day rest, right up to the time of Jesus when He observed the same Sabbath, indeed He did 'work' in it, saying that the Sabbath was created for man & not the other way around.
So the Sabbath was a specific day of rest for the Jews. And it could fall on that day as well, or any other day, for non-Jews. The important point was that man took the day off to cease from his labours for both physical & spiritual recuperation. Where this observance becomes a problem for Christians, is the compulsion by some that we too are bound to a Jewish Saturday Sabbath, & by extension, full obedience to the Law, which none could keep. This Law was not a sign to Christians but to the Jew who was under the Law. Hear what Paul says pertaining to the Law & the Christian: Romans 3:19-22; Galatians 3:21-25; Galatians 4:21-26; Galatians 5:16-18.
If the Christian then sets aside Sunday, the Lord's Day ( Revelation 1:10) as a day of rest & worship, he fulfils the need for both. If he chooses any other day as a rest day, does it matter to the Lord? Colossians 2:16,17. If one believes that the keeping of the Sabbath does matter to the Lord, then he shows a misunderstanding of the Law engraven in stones & the Law of the Life-giving Spirit ( Romans 8:2).
Once again, thank you for your great testimony Gary & all that you've shared here. Indeed, the incomprehensible wonder of it all: that God should choose us to be IN HIM even before the foundation of the World, to be holy creatures & without blame before Him; & also being predestined unto the adoption of children through Jesus Christ unto Himself, Ephesians 1:4,5. Thus, as His children, so greatly blessed to have His Spirit indwell us, we can only but cry out "Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant (as serving under the Law that brought judgement & death), but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ." Galatians 4:6,7. What a privilege we have to be called the children of God & what the full import of that will be when we all stand together in that coming day, in great joy before His Glory having full understanding & in perfect love. We can hardly restrain ourselves awaiting that time ( 1 Corinthians 2:9,10).
And yet, in the flesh, we often fail to restrain ourselves from sin. Even knowing to do good, but not following through with it, it becomes sin to us ( James 4:17). We could cry out with the apostle, "O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of death?" What a beautiful & correct answer: it's only possible "through Jesus Christ our Lord" ( Romans 7:24,25). It's by Jesus' Blood He cleanses us, by His Spirit He delivers us, & by His Promise He receives us as His children, made worthy to share in His Glory.
Unworthy as we might feel to receive any crown or prize, as the work of Grace in us has been all from Him & of Him, yet as the apostle ran his earthly race, he only saw the prize that lay before him that kept him alert, motivated & on proper course: the prize of his "high calling OF God IN Christ Jesus" ( Philippians 3:14): ultimately to be in the Lord's Presence, finding full rest from his manifold temptations & difficult labours.
Every blessing to you & to Richard - thanks for popping by.
That's an interesting question, Mishael, but I'm unsure whether all the words that Rob requested can be found in a single verse. I'm was also thinking of John 17:5, 6; Philippians 2:6-8; Galatians 4:4; Isaiah 9:6, 7; plus John 1:1-14 quoted earlier. Hopefully, you can add further to this. In any case, from the abundance of Scriptures we have, it's not hard to discern Who Jesus is, the one & the same, both pre-incarnate & as a Man.
Jesus fulfilled the law in his sinless life and obedience unto his sacrificial death on the cross as substitute for sinners, being then raised from the dead for our justification:
Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. ( Romans 5:18-19)
I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. ( Galatians 2:21)
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. ( Romans 6:14)
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. ( Romans 7:4-6)
Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. ( Galatians 4:21-26)
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. ( Galatians 5:1)
Fred, may the Holy Spirit grace us with his understanding, when the (children of the resurrection) physical body dies our spirit (now one with the Spirit of God through the work of Christ) in the twinkle of an eye we (corruptible) shall put on Christ (incorruption), and this mortal (us) shall put on Christ (immortality). I Timothy 6:16 Who (Christ) only hath immortality, dwelling in the light (God)...... Luke 20:35-36 But they (children of the resurrection) which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that (Spirit) world, and the resurrection from the dead....(vs) 36 Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. Psalms 103:20 Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Psalms 104:4 Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire. Hebrews 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? Psalms 149:6-9 Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two edge sword in their hand; (vs) 7 To execute vengeance upon the heathen (nations), and punishments upon the people; (vs) 9 To execute upon them the judgement written, this honour have all his saints.... Revelation 14:6 And I say another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on earth ( Revelation 20:7 And when the thousand years (church age) are expired, (the children of) Satan shall be loosed out of his (Gods) prison (the grave, the wages of sin is death), and to every nation, and kindred and tongue and people. Matthew 13:33 And the kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven (Spirit of God) which a woman ( Galatians 4:26 new, spiritual Jerusalem the mother of us all) took and hid in three measures of meal (us, the meat offering to God), till the whole (lump, all mankind) was leavened (by the Spirit of God).
Jeremy, most, if not all, of Revelation contains symbols that has spiritual truths that can only be discerned by the workings of the Spirit within you. Throughout the Word of God, as you study, the Spirit will reveal the key to the symbols. An example would be: Psalms 89:36 His (Christ) seed (whose seed we are) shall endure for ever, and his (Christ) throne as the sun before me (the Father). (vs) 37 It (Christ throne) shall be established forever as the moon, and as a faithful witness in heaven (us, spiritual heaven, our minds [foreheads]). Selah. These verses give insight to other verses such as; Revelation 12:1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven (us, our mind [forehead]) a woman ( Galatians 4:26 new Jerusalem, the mother of us all, in travail, waiting to give birth) clothed with the sun (Christ), and the moon (Christ) under her (us, the woman) feet..... Revelation 1:5 And from Jesus Christ (sun and moon), who (Christ) is the faithful witness..... Joel 2:31 And the sun (Christ the light of the world) shall be turned in to darkness (death), and the moon (Christ) into blood (a spear was thrust into the side of Christ and out came water and blood) before the great and terrible (wonderful) day of the Lord come (Pentecost, the outpouring of the Spirit on mankind).
Patrick, the major and minor books of prophesy all speak of the day of the Lord. The day of the Lord began at the ministry of John the Baptist and has continued to the present. Matthew 11:13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. (vs) 12 And from the days of John until now the kingdom or heaven suffereth violence ,..... Malachi 3:1 Behold I (Jesus) will send my messenger (John the Baptist), an he (John) shall prepare the way before me (Jesus): and the Lord (Jesus) whom ye seek shall appear in his (Jesus) temple,.... ( I Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God [Jesus] dwelleth in you?) Hebrews 3:6 But Christ as a son over his house; whose house are we,.... Zachariah 14:1 Behold, the day of the Lord cometh,.... (vs 6) And it shall come to pass in that day (day of the Lord: began 2000 years ago), that the light (Jesus; Spirit of God) shall not be clear, or dark: (vs 7) But it (day of the Lord) shall be one day which shall be known to the Lord, not day (light) or night (dark): but it shall come to pass at evening time (end of the day of the Lord) it (day of the Lord) shall be light (Jesus; the Spirit of God in you, Jesus is the light of the world in you ). Matthew 13:33 ..... The kingdom of heaven (Christ in you) is like unto leaven (Spirit of God) which a woman ( Galatians 4:26 new Jerusalem: the mother of us all) took, and hid in three measures of meal (us; the meat offering to God), till the whole (lump; all mankind) was leavened (by the Spirit of God). Romans 11:16 For if the firstfruit be holy, then the lump is holy;....
n order to put the California wildfires into a 'spiritual' context, we invite you to visit the 'Current Events' page of our website. There are several entries that will explain the cause of God's wrath and why people's prayers are all in vain ( Matthew 15:9). The 'Current Events' page is a collection of thoughts and discussions on today's 'Current Events' and how the content on this website helps to explain and examine them and put them into a 'spiritual' context.
History has proven that mankind does not follow the first three commandments but rather follows after an image of a false god and a false Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Gal. 4:8; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Rev. 12:9), as a direct result of religious and made-made doctrines and commandments ( Matthew 15:9; Mark 7:7; Col.2:22). History has also proven that this whole world has been deceived as confirmed by the Word of God inRevelation 12:9. History has also proven that 'Religion' is the means that Satan is using to transform himself into an angel of light and an apostle of Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Galatians 4:8; 2Cor. 11:13-15; Revelation 12:9).
You can learn more about our Ministry in Christ by Googling our 'names' or the article "False Apostles and False Christs' or 'A World Deceived'. There is also a 'Contact' page for further communication. We invite you to review the 'Letter of Introduction' posted on the 'Introduction' page of the website. It highlights some of our work. Please note that our website was visited last year by people from over 160 countries.
It should be noted that in over 36 years of service we have never collected/received, solicited or requested donations. The gift of 'Life' was freely given and freely do we give to all those that believe ( 2 Kings 5:16; Matthew 6:26; 10:8).
Probably you've heard that Jesus is God incarnate, i.e. God come in the flesh. We believe in the one God, the Creator of all things, the Holy One of Israel. Beside Him there is no other god. God in His Eternal Existence reveals Himself to man as the Word of God & the Spirit of God. And this God in His Fullness (i.e. His Deity) we read in 1 John 5:7: "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one." John 1:1 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
In Galatians 4:4, 5: "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." So, God Himself by His Word came to His people. You remember how God had given his words to Israel by the mouth of the prophets?
Those days have now finished for God did something new: ( Hebrews 1:1-3), "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the EXPRESS IMAGE OF HIS PERSON, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high".
God, the Word, was made man & He would be called Immanuel ( Isaiah 7:14) & "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. ( Matthew 1:23). "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." ( Matthew 1:21).
Not only did God appoint His Son (His Word in the Flesh) to bring His Message, but also to give His Life for our sins. As Thomas finally exclaimed, "My Lord and my God" & he wasn't rebuked by Jesus.
The Word of God is God ( John 1:1) and not for any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). If it records in Rev. 12:9 that this whole world has been deceived it did not speak of a particular country, group of people, person or religion, it meant the whole world.
For a better understanding and the 'spiritual truth' how and by whom ( 2 Cor. 11:13-15) this whole world has been deceived and what mankind must do to be reunited with the true and living God, we invite you to seek Him according to the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive ( Matthew 7:7; John 14:17).
Only through Repentance will God be able to reveal Himself, and adopt you as His sons and daughters ( Rom. 8:15,23; 2 Cor.6:18; Gal. 4:5; Eph. 1:5; Hebr. 12:5; 1 John 3:1) and reveal to you how this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9)..
The word 'Repent' means a lot more than what people by nature have been conditioned to believe. It is the key principle of all the teachings of Jesus Christ and the axiom (basis) of the Word of God and a prerequisite and primary requirement for the salvation of mankind. It actually means the changing of spirits - to turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God ( Acts 26:18).
For a better understanding and the 'spiritual truth' of what it means to repent, and learn how and by whom mankind has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9), and what people must do to be reunited with the true and living God, we invite you to seek Him according to the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive ( John 14:17).
It is only by revelation of God that people will come to know the true Christ ( Daniel 12:4,9; Amos 3:7; Matthew 16:17; Luke 2:26; Romans 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:10; Gal. 1:16; Eph. 3:3,5; Rev. 1:1), and only then will you be able to overcome the spirit of this world ( 1 John 5:4; Rev. 3:21). It should be remembered that it is a narrow way that leadeth unto 'Life', and few there be that find it ( Matthew 7:14).
That was at a time when they were "Under the law" as some people put it. The law at that time that woman couldnt do that kind of stuff and there was a LOT of pressure on the church at that time. But likewise this is sexism and God teach loving one another. So no, this does not apply today.
In 2 Corinthians 12:7 Paul speaks of a "thorn in the flesh". In Galatians 4:13-15 Paul speaks of infirmity and mentions eyes. Some have inferred that he had an eye condition that would make it difficult to see. Also in Galatians 6:11 he says, "Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand." Whatever the reason, he seems to have had assistance in writing the epistles. Romans 16:22 says, "I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord."
The footnotes in question are not scripture but added by translators.
Mentioned as scribes are Tychicus, Epaphroditus, Titus, Luke, Stephanas, Fortunatus, Achaicus and Onesimus.
Some of the letters are collaborations of Paul and Timotheus as evidenced in the greeting. Also Sosthenes and Silvanus are included in other introductions. In Colossians 4:18 Paul inserts into the text, "The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds."
We are certainly blessed by all their faithful endeavors.
When Jesus called His Father "God" He was referring to Psalms 22, which He was teaching to the people present there. He was not complaining.
Jesus was NEVER forsaken by God.
What do we do with all Scripture that speaks of BOTH the Father and the Son? Matthew 11:27, 16:27, Mark 8:38, 13:32, Luke 1:32, John 3:35, Galatians 4:6, Hebrews 1:5, 1 John 4:14, etc. etc. etc.)
Scripture does not say "In the name of the Father, the Father, and the Holy Ghost." Matthew 28:19
Comments by Alex on the old covenant and the Sabbath day Read Gal 4 v 11 KJV. I am afraid of you Paul says ye observe days ( the sabbath day ) months and Times and years etc. Jesus said the law and the prophets were until John since that Time the Kingdom of God is preached and all men press into it. Now under this New covenant the Kingdom of GOD IS WITHIN US 24/7 NOT 1 DAY A WEEK ,i feel just like Paul i am afraid of you ppl. What the law cd NOT do in that it was weak thru the flesh,God had to send his son in the form of sinful flesh to condemn sin in the flesh simply b/c the law cd NOT do it there is no more sabbath in Christ Jesus, Abide in me and i in you is a 24/7 Not one day a week, the kingdom of God has to be within us 24/7 as the scripture says the branches have to abide in the vine 24/7 not 1 day a week, the disciples followed Jesus 24/7 not 1 day a week. Our bodies are his temple 24/7 if ya have the H.G. That day of rest is in Christ Jesus a 1000 yr. day when Christ will reign on this earth that Kingdom that has not end. The mystery of the kingdom of God is christ in you 24/7 ok gbu
It seems we see eye to eye. Like you stated that we are not commanded to keep a "Saturday", or certain day, Sabbath in the New Testament. As I stated Galatians 4:9-11 in my first reply to you in this thread. Which you just broke down with details to make it more understandable for those who may have not understood that verse.
Thank you very much for your time and posts as I very much enjoy conversing with other brothers & sisters in Christ. I look forward to seeing your posts here to help others in their walk with Christ.
God Bless and peace be with you brother.
Thank you for your comments. I enjoyed reading your thoughts.
Indeed, I certainly agree with you that the Old Testament books are still important for Christians. Indeed, the Apostle Paul said that all scripture is beneficial. ( 2 Timothy 3:16) He also stated at Romans 15:4 that those things were written to teach us. Also, at 1 Corinthians 10:6 and 1 Corinthians 10:11, he says that those things were examples to us to teach us and warn us.
However, as far as the terms of a Testament or Covenant concerning the laws that we must obey, Christians should obey only the New Testament laws which are binding on a Christian. You cannot have 2 rental leases in force at the same time. The new rental lease makes the old one obsolete. The New Testament makes the Old Testament obsolete.
Hebrews 8:13 "In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."
Hebrews 7:12 "For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the (Mosaic) law."
Luke 16:16 "The (Mosaic) law and the prophets were until John..."
Christians are not commanded in the New Testament to keep the Saturday sabbath and neither to keep a dominical sabbath (Sunday). There is no set day to keep. The only thing that is commanded to be kept is meeting together - that can be anytime during the week.
Hebrews 10:24, 25 "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
The Apostle Paul counsels against keeping any "day":
Galatians 4:10 "Ye observe (sabbath) days, and (lunar) months, and (festivals) times, and (sabbatical) years."
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
I welcome your further comments.
Good day, Richard.
Thank you for your comments.
You quoted Exodus 20:10 to say that we must observe the sabbath. However, you quoted from the Old Testament given to the ancient nation of Israel. Could you provide me a verse from the New Testament which commands the Church to keep the Sabbath? If not, why not? Why would the Apostles never instruct or remind the Christian Church to keep the sabbath if it was that important?
You also quoted Malachi 2:6 that God never changes. But, then why did God change the law of circumcision? The Old Testament said you must be circumcised - a commandment of God at Leviticus 12:3. But, in the New Testament, we are told that circumcision is not necessary. See Galatians 5:2. Also, why does Hebrews 7:12 say the the priesthood was changed? I thought you said that God never changes. In the Old Testament, the priesthood was Levitical but in the New Testament, the priesthood is according to the order of Mechizedek - another change of God. See Hebrews 7:11.
The Apostle Paul, at Galatians 4:10, scolds the Galatians for keeping the Old Testament rituals. The brackets are mine.
Galatians 4:10
"Ye observe (sabbath) days, and (lunar) months, and (festivals) times, and (sabbatical) years."
No wonder the Apostle Paul asks the question at:
Galatians 4:21 "Tell me, ye that desire to be under the (Mosaic Old Testament) law, do ye not hear the law?"
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
I welcome your comments, Bridget.
Good day.
I agree with you on not having to keep the "7th day Sabbath". Another verse I came across tonight to back that is Galatians 4:9-11. I don't know if I understand correctly your statement of "we are commanded the opposite". As I stated, my feeling, that to follow Christ is to be Holy as He is Holy as in 1 Peter 1:14-17, Hebrews 12:14. To strive to keep every day Holy retaining the Lord in us. That following love from a pure heart is what makes God our Father and Christ happy 1 Peter 1:22-23.
To the Ten Commandments. Like I stated I believe they are good and are throughout the NT, as to follow them, though all spread out. Here is one actually discerning it as a commandment of the OT Ephesians 6:1-2. Here are the rest in different places. Romans 1:28-32, Galatians 5:19-21, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Colossians 3:1-10. As you are able to go through all those epistles of the NT and see it notes the same things the Ten Commandments tells to us to stay away from. Even more as some are in the Mitzvot laws. As stated there are a lot that are void though just letting the Spirit guide you, you can see the ones that are moral and righteous.
Love from a pure heart is above all and shall never fail Colossians 3:12-17. Walking in the Spirit producing good fruit for the Lord. To keep us from the temptations and lusts of the flesh which leads to sin. Which no one is perfect and may slip and fall. To be vigilant and confess our sins in prayer they shall be forgiven. Though we are to strive to stay away(repent) from sin in our walk with the Lord to be Holy in this temple He has Blessed us with.
Just to make clear if anyone may perceive I'm stating that "good works" is what saves us. That is not true and not what I'm stating. Though we are called by God through Christ to good works Ephesians 2:10. Showing our faith and newness of life in the Lord. All glory to our Father and Jesus Christ. Amen.
God Bless you Michael.
Jesus himself was born under the Mosaic Law and, therefore, was required to keep the Mosaic Law. That is why he was circumcised on the eight day as per the Mosaic Law. Notice that in the following verse. Jesus was made (or born) under the law - the Mosaic Law.
Galatians 4:4 "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,"
As long as that Mosaic Law was in force, the Mosaic Law (the so-called Old Testament) was in force. Jesus therefore kept his Father's commandments of that Mosaic Law. But, the Holy Scriptures has said that God would set up a New Covenant that would not be like the Old Covenant. Notice...
Jeremiah 31:31 "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:" "Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:"
It was not the Apostle Paul who changed God's Law to his people - it was God himself as per Jeremiah 31:31. However, the Apostle Paul, writing under inspiration of God, gave the first-century Church the new directives or laws governing that New Covenant. He never instructed the Christian Churches of the first-century to keep the Mosaic Law such as circumcision or the sabbaths. In fact, he instructed them the complete opposite. Notice again...
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
You cannot judge a Christian for not keeping the sabbath days - as per the New Covenant that has been set up between God and his present-day people - the Church of God.
I welcome your further thoughts, Dan. Good day.
Jesus himself was born under the Mosaic Law and, therefore, was required to keep the Mosaic Law. That is why he was circumcised on the eight day as per the Mosaic Law. Notice that in the following verse. Jesus was made (or born) under the law - the Mosaic Law.
Galatians 4:4 "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,"
As long as that Mosaic Law was in force, the Mosaic Law (the so-called Old Testament) was in force. Jesus therefore kept his Father's commandments of that Mosaic Law. But, the Holy Scriptures has said that God would set up a New Covenant that would not be like the Old Covenant. Notice...
Jeremiah 31:31 "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:" "Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:"
It was not the Apostle Paul who changed God's Law to his people - it was God himself as per Jeremiah 31:31. However, the Apostle Paul, writing under inspiration of God, gave the first-century Church the new directives or laws governing that New Covenant. He never instructed the Christian Churches of the first-century to keep the Mosaic Law such as circumcision or the sabbaths. In fact, he instructed them the complete opposite. Notice again...
Colossians 2:16 "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:"
You cannot judge a Christian for not keeping the sabbath days - as per the New Covenant that has been set up between God and his present-day people - the Church of God.
I welcome your further thoughts, Dan. Good day.
However, during those silent years, from between 200 BC & 400 AD, several writings appeared what we now refer to as the Apocryphal Books. They received a mixed reception, some believing that they were vital information to be included with the rest of Scripture, to others believing that under various tests, those writings proved to be uninspired & contained inaccuracies. So they were not included in the Canon of Scripture we have now in the KJV.
When you read of the plight of the Jews during those silent years & what they suffered under the hands of those Empires, they too must have wondered, 'why was God keeping quiet & not dealing with the enemy, to bring His promised Saviour to us to defeat them'. But God's Word says, "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." Galatians 4:4,5. At the appointed time, God did move - not for a physical salvation from the human enemy, but a spiritual salvation from the unseen wicked enemy of our souls. God was no more silent. But now after 2000 years, the same question is asked by some, "where is God in our sufferings?" "When will He come to remove us?" When the fulness of (God's) time is come, Jesus WILL come again.
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That is a great question and important topic that you are inquiring about, "He chose to have His Son born of a human woman who by her fleshly nature is sinfull ,do you think there might have been a reason for this choice ?" And you also mentioned the seed of the woman which ties to this,
If I'm understanding the question as presented I think the study we are looking for is a study in
( KINSMAN REDEEMER).
Jesus was born of a woman to become our kinsman redeemer.
Galatians 4:4-5. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
Hebrews 2:9-11.
But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.
For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,
Roman 8:3.
For what the law 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:
Revelation 5:2-5.
And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?
And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.
And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.
"My Lord and my God" John 20:2
"He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest" Luke 1:32
"that Holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" Luke 1:35
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son" John 3:16
"And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God" John 1:34
"This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" Matthew 3:17
"God sent his only begotten Son into the world" 1 John 4:9
"Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" Matthew 16:16
"The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world" 1 John 4:14
"And thou shall call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" Matthew 1:21
"Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world" 1 Peter 1:20
"But when the fulness of the time was to come, God sent his Son" Galatians 4:4
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel" Isaiah 7:14
"Behold, thou shall conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shall call his name JESUS" Luke 1:31
"Then said Mary to the Angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" Luke 1:34
"And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" Luke 1:35
" Thou son of David, fear not to take Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost" Matthew 1:20
"And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us" John 1:14
"I am the bread of life....This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from Heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever: and the bread that I give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world" John 6:48-51
98% of born again Christians never become spiritual adults
Growing up Spiritually does not happen automatically. Spiritual growth only comes from studying the Scriptures until Christ be formed in you. Galatians 4:19 "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,"
2 Timothy 2:15 "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Lets take a look at second timothy chapter three, verses sixteen and seventeen. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." "THAT THE MAN OF GOD MAY BE PERFECT" ANOTHER WORD FOR "PERFECT" IS "MATURE" As you study, you grow in to an Adult Christian, Peter said "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:" A new born Christian baby can do just about anything that an unsaved person can do; so we all need to grow up.
I have always tended to believe that his eyes caused him a lot of bother. Whether he had first acquired some disease that eventually affected other parts of his body in the long term & especially his eyes, one can't be certain. Anyway, I'll give you some other Scriptures for you to consider (not in any order):
a. Romans 16:22 (Paul was the author, but Tertius his scribe possibly because of Paul's vision).
b. 1 Corinthians 16:21 & 2 Thessalonians 3:17 (Paul managed to sign off with his name while others helped with the writing of the epistle).
c. Galatians 6:11 (Paul wrote in large letters, rather than writing a 'long letter', as he didn't have a scribe to help him).
d. Galatians 4:13 (Paul preached to the Galatians first, possibly because of the region's higher altitude may have helped with a disease, e.g. malaria which left untreated, might have caused eye problems) & then in Galatians 4:15 (that the Galatians would have given him "their eyes" for his need).
e. Acts 23:3-5 (Paul insulted the High Priest not recognizing him, or as some suppose, that Paul was saying "I didn't expect a High Priest (of his calibre) to order me beaten").
Sorry, I'm directing this response towards Paul's eyes, as I feel that this was where his infirmity was. But of course, no one can say with full certainty.
As both of Paul's letters are to believers, I read the Galatians portion as applying to some who wanted to observe those aspects of the Jewish religious requirements as necessary, as opposed to the freedom believers now have in Christ, in Romans 14.
In Galatians, Paul speaks of the Jewish customs & observances (of special days & times) that were required for the performance of their religion. This went part & parcel with a strict & correct observance, & any departure from it, brought displeasure & punishment.
But when one is "in Christ", we have no such constraints placed upon us, as we look into the "perfect law of liberty" because Christ, in His Sacrifice, not only brought us a glorious salvation from sin's penalty, but also released us from the bondage to anything else (whether a Law, custom, or tradition), so that we may enjoy the liberty that comes with faith in Christ & being led of His Spirit in our lives. So in Romans 4:5,6, Paul is reminding the believers there that they are free to observe any day they wished or eat anything they desired, for they were no longer under legal constraint, but under the dictates of the conscience, as those now belonging to Jesus. And of course, the reason for Paul bringing up this matter, was the concern about a judgemental attitude, which would be prevalent especially by those coming out of Judaism & who believed that the 'old' observances were still necessary to live as a Christian. And we know that the Apostle Peter too failed momentarily in this matter of behaviour in front of Jews ( Galatians 2:11-16).
We are never to judge another, except to proclaim the Word accurately to one who is failing or departing from the teachings from the Word. Therefore, whether in our mind or action against them, we are to desist, but by loving instruction guide or warn them, leaving the matter of the soul's condition only to the Lord.
From the time of Israel's exodus out of Egypt, they learned which day was the actual Sabbath: Exodus 16:25-27, when they found no manna on the ground on that day. Ever since then, the count was on: 6 days work - 1 day rest, right up to the time of Jesus when He observed the same Sabbath, indeed He did 'work' in it, saying that the Sabbath was created for man & not the other way around.
So the Sabbath was a specific day of rest for the Jews. And it could fall on that day as well, or any other day, for non-Jews. The important point was that man took the day off to cease from his labours for both physical & spiritual recuperation. Where this observance becomes a problem for Christians, is the compulsion by some that we too are bound to a Jewish Saturday Sabbath, & by extension, full obedience to the Law, which none could keep. This Law was not a sign to Christians but to the Jew who was under the Law. Hear what Paul says pertaining to the Law & the Christian: Romans 3:19-22; Galatians 3:21-25; Galatians 4:21-26; Galatians 5:16-18.
If the Christian then sets aside Sunday, the Lord's Day ( Revelation 1:10) as a day of rest & worship, he fulfils the need for both. If he chooses any other day as a rest day, does it matter to the Lord? Colossians 2:16,17. If one believes that the keeping of the Sabbath does matter to the Lord, then he shows a misunderstanding of the Law engraven in stones & the Law of the Life-giving Spirit ( Romans 8:2).
And yet, in the flesh, we often fail to restrain ourselves from sin. Even knowing to do good, but not following through with it, it becomes sin to us ( James 4:17). We could cry out with the apostle, "O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of death?" What a beautiful & correct answer: it's only possible "through Jesus Christ our Lord" ( Romans 7:24,25). It's by Jesus' Blood He cleanses us, by His Spirit He delivers us, & by His Promise He receives us as His children, made worthy to share in His Glory.
Unworthy as we might feel to receive any crown or prize, as the work of Grace in us has been all from Him & of Him, yet as the apostle ran his earthly race, he only saw the prize that lay before him that kept him alert, motivated & on proper course: the prize of his "high calling OF God IN Christ Jesus" ( Philippians 3:14): ultimately to be in the Lord's Presence, finding full rest from his manifold temptations & difficult labours.
Every blessing to you & to Richard - thanks for popping by.
Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. ( Romans 5:18-19)
I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. ( Galatians 2:21)
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. ( Romans 6:14)
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. ( Romans 7:4-6)
Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. ( Galatians 4:21-26)
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. ( Galatians 5:1)
Also, please read Romans 8.
n order to put the California wildfires into a 'spiritual' context, we invite you to visit the 'Current Events' page of our website. There are several entries that will explain the cause of God's wrath and why people's prayers are all in vain ( Matthew 15:9). The 'Current Events' page is a collection of thoughts and discussions on today's 'Current Events' and how the content on this website helps to explain and examine them and put them into a 'spiritual' context.
History has proven that mankind does not follow the first three commandments but rather follows after an image of a false god and a false Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Gal. 4:8; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Rev. 12:9), as a direct result of religious and made-made doctrines and commandments ( Matthew 15:9; Mark 7:7; Col.2:22). History has also proven that this whole world has been deceived as confirmed by the Word of God inRevelation 12:9. History has also proven that 'Religion' is the means that Satan is using to transform himself into an angel of light and an apostle of Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Galatians 4:8; 2Cor. 11:13-15; Revelation 12:9).
You can learn more about our Ministry in Christ by Googling our 'names' or the article "False Apostles and False Christs' or 'A World Deceived'. There is also a 'Contact' page for further communication. We invite you to review the 'Letter of Introduction' posted on the 'Introduction' page of the website. It highlights some of our work. Please note that our website was visited last year by people from over 160 countries.
It should be noted that in over 36 years of service we have never collected/received, solicited or requested donations. The gift of 'Life' was freely given and freely do we give to all those that believe ( 2 Kings 5:16; Matthew 6:26; 10:8).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
In His Service.
Andy & Dianne van den Berg - Nova Scotia, Canada
In Galatians 4:4, 5: "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." So, God Himself by His Word came to His people. You remember how God had given his words to Israel by the mouth of the prophets?
Those days have now finished for God did something new: ( Hebrews 1:1-3), "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the EXPRESS IMAGE OF HIS PERSON, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high".
God, the Word, was made man & He would be called Immanuel ( Isaiah 7:14) & "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. ( Matthew 1:23). "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." ( Matthew 1:21).
Not only did God appoint His Son (His Word in the Flesh) to bring His Message, but also to give His Life for our sins. As Thomas finally exclaimed, "My Lord and my God" & he wasn't rebuked by Jesus.
galatians 4:10,11. ye observe days and months, and times, and years. i am afraid of you, lest i have bestowed on you labour in vain.
matthew 7:7. seek, and ye shall find.
The Word of God is God ( John 1:1) and not for any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20). If it records in Rev. 12:9 that this whole world has been deceived it did not speak of a particular country, group of people, person or religion, it meant the whole world.
For a better understanding and the 'spiritual truth' how and by whom ( 2 Cor. 11:13-15) this whole world has been deceived and what mankind must do to be reunited with the true and living God, we invite you to seek Him according to the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive ( Matthew 7:7; John 14:17).
Only through Repentance will God be able to reveal Himself, and adopt you as His sons and daughters ( Rom. 8:15,23; 2 Cor.6:18; Gal. 4:5; Eph. 1:5; Hebr. 12:5; 1 John 3:1) and reveal to you how this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9)..
The word 'Repent' means a lot more than what people by nature have been conditioned to believe. It is the key principle of all the teachings of Jesus Christ and the axiom (basis) of the Word of God and a prerequisite and primary requirement for the salvation of mankind. It actually means the changing of spirits - to turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God ( Acts 26:18).
For a better understanding and the 'spiritual truth' of what it means to repent, and learn how and by whom mankind has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9), and what people must do to be reunited with the true and living God, we invite you to seek Him according to the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive ( John 14:17).
It is only by revelation of God that people will come to know the true Christ ( Daniel 12:4,9; Amos 3:7; Matthew 16:17; Luke 2:26; Romans 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:10; Gal. 1:16; Eph. 3:3,5; Rev. 1:1), and only then will you be able to overcome the spirit of this world ( 1 John 5:4; Rev. 3:21). It should be remembered that it is a narrow way that leadeth unto 'Life', and few there be that find it ( Matthew 7:14).
The footnotes in question are not scripture but added by translators.
Mentioned as scribes are Tychicus, Epaphroditus, Titus, Luke, Stephanas, Fortunatus, Achaicus and Onesimus.
Some of the letters are collaborations of Paul and Timotheus as evidenced in the greeting. Also Sosthenes and Silvanus are included in other introductions. In Colossians 4:18 Paul inserts into the text, "The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds."
We are certainly blessed by all their faithful endeavors.
"And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:"
Matthew 5:17
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
Matthew 5:18
"For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled."
How is Jesus God?
God is God.
Jesus is the SON of God.
When Jesus called His Father "God" He was referring to Psalms 22, which He was teaching to the people present there. He was not complaining.
Jesus was NEVER forsaken by God.
What do we do with all Scripture that speaks of BOTH the Father and the Son? Matthew 11:27, 16:27, Mark 8:38, 13:32, Luke 1:32, John 3:35, Galatians 4:6, Hebrews 1:5, 1 John 4:14, etc. etc. etc.)
Scripture does not say "In the name of the Father, the Father, and the Holy Ghost." Matthew 28:19