Iam believing for a miracle for my knees. I hear about the great miracles God is performing,but I never hear about knees being restored or complete,made whole new knees.I've sought out info. in the word and found Hebrews 12:11-28 talks about correction and discipline ,and Hebrews 12:13 the lame and halting knees. I would like to know your thoughts on this subject. Thank you. Donna
Lets have our eyes fix on Jesus because by so doing, we will be able to endure and despise the shame of the suffering of this present time as Jesus did and He was glofied by His father who was in heaven.
My comment on this chapter; is of the whole chapter: Looking at what Paul was saying from begining to end; and i reflect on myslef. and how i need to let go of the care of my life, and have peace, when i am going through trail and tribulation, and that i wait on God, and take him more seriously, and keep myslef from sining willingly. Paul reminds us to remember Jesus and what he went through; that it reminds us that: hard times are a part of the process, to greatest. Look Israel coming out of eygt, was our example of what happens, if we do not endure. So we must watch ourselves, pray, endure, and incourage everyone esle to do so, cause it is the will of God; (meaning our requirement)
we our born with the old nature romans 5:12.if we become a Christian we have a new nature. saved are lost we all have the old nature and only the Lord knows who are truly saved. Satan means accuser of the brethren and devil means slander. when we live in the sprit we have the fruits of the spirit. Galatians 5:22-26. If we walk in the flesh Galatians 5:17-21 is the outcome. A Christian can sin but will be convicted and possible chastening of the Lord. Hebrews 12:3-8. Those who are without Christ in there heart have no real power to please Jesus, and only he knows who is Saved. Jesus said enter in at the narrow gate, because wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction and many people go there in . But few find the narrow gate. Ephesians 2:8,9.
( Hebrews 12:14) God expecte us to love our neighbours, contribute to one another's success, peace and joy. Show our neighbours the love of God and not that of men. The love of God is unconditional.
There are two types of people those who are physically alive and have the Holy Spirit and those who are physically alive but do not have the Spirit, they are spiritually dead. Remember Jesus said to a disciple who wanted to first bury his father and Jesus said let the dead bury the dead Matt 8:22.The spiritually dead do not have the Holy Spirit,without the Spirit one cannot enter the Kingdom of God it is the key to the Kingdom John 3:3-5.Our day of death is better than our day of birth that is because those who die a physcial death and have the Spirit do not die spiritually as their Holy Spirit (the essence of who they are) returns to God the Father when they die Eccl 12:7. Hebrews 12:23 is refering to those people (Saints).
Jesus is a perfect example of d way a perfect christian is suppose to live his or her life. lets focus and trust d Lord for everything we need in our life.
Verse 2, It�s important for us to acknowledge that hardships, trials, tribulations and troubles are a necessary part of life. John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." In the world we will have tribulations and troubles -- sicknesses, family tragedies, out of work, financial difficulties, family problems, earthquakes, floods etc., business failure etc. It is a given, but Jesus says, "be of good cheer". He is saying that we must learn how to find joy in the midst of life's hardships, because He has overcome the world. James tells us to count all of this joy. James 1:2-4, My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. How many of us really take this verse seriously? The truth is, if we really desire the liberating power of God's Spirit and kingdom in our lives, we must find joy in life's hardships. Two reasons why we need to learn how to enjoy life's hardships. 1. The Storms of Life Help To Keep Us On Track With God. Psalms 119:67, Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word. There's a story of a woman who became the victim of amnesia. For three months she wandered, but during a severe thunderstorm she suddenly remembered who she was and where she was from. How often the storms of life bring us back to our senses! God sends them not to destroy us but to help us. Many people can look back and thank God for the storms that brought them back to Him! 2. Struggles And Hardships Sift Out The Impurities In Our Lives. Hebrews 12:27-28, Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. A Christian man lost his home and mill when a flood washed them away. He was brokenhearted and discouraged as he stood surveying his loss. Just then he saw a glittering object that had been uncovered by the waters. It was gold! The disaster he thought had made him a beggar had actually made him wealthy. So, the Lord often works through our troubles to strip away certain cherished possessions to show us the better treasures of His love and power. How thankful we should be that in every storm of affliction we have the assurance that the Lord has a good purpose in view! The more joy we are able to find in the midst of life's hardships the stronger and more secure we will be as individuals, who are now able to walk in victory and succeeding in the issues of life. Nehemiah 8:10 �...for this day is holy to our LORD. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.� It all boils down to the fact that hardships are a part of life and there is no way we can escape them in our lives. They serve a meaningful purpose.
@Frenz,
On how to get saved:
1. You make a statement that a person must accept Jesus Christ in baptism to be saved in order to go to heaven;
2. If this is a reference that water baptism is part of a person�s being born again then I must state that the scriptures do not support this belief;
3. In the church age (age of grace), water baptism is never connected to salvation;
4. The apostle Paul (apostle to gentiles) says in 1 Corinthians 1:17 that Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect;
5. So you can determine that water baptism is not part of the gospel message which is the death, burial, and resurrection ( 1 Corinthians 15:1-4), Jesus baptized no one ( John 4:2);
6. When a person accepts Jesus Christ as his/her saviour, at that moment they are baptized (filled) in with the holy spirit (ghost);
7. The word baptism means to be immerse (not sprinkled or water poured over the head) and is called believer�s baptism, because it represents the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ ( Romans 6:1-6), which is what happens to a person spiritually at the time we receive Jesus Christ as our savior;
8. Born again believers get baptized because they are saved, not to get saved;
9. Christians are baptized in water as act of public display of their faith they received from him ( Hebrews 12:2),and they are making an open commitment to serve and obey Jesus according to the scriptures.
@Stan Unger,
I googled your first post "God the Son� in the Bible and there was a lot to read there.
Also the same as for Trinity and Rapture being used in the Bible. As for your second post I found this to be helpful: Psalm 87:2-3 says, �The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, O city of God.� Occurring over 150 times in the Bible, the word �Zion� essentially means �fortification.� In the Bible, Zion is both the city of David and the city of God.
As the Bible progresses, the word �Zion� transitions from referring primarily to a physical city to having a more spiritual meaning.
The first mention of the word �Zion� in the Bible is 2 Samuel 5:7: �Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion, the City of David.� �Zion,� therefore, was originally the name of the ancient Jebusite fortress in the city of Jerusalem. �Zion� came to stand not only for the fortress but also for city in which the fortress stood. After David captured �the stronghold of Zion,� Zion was then called �the City of David� ( 1 Kings 8:1; 1 Chronicles 11:5; 2 Chronicles 5:2). When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, �Zion� expanded in meaning to include the temple and the area surrounding it ( Psalms 2:6; 48:2, 11-12; 132:13). �Zion� was eventually used as a name for the city of Jerusalem, the land of Judah, and the people of Israel as a whole ( Isaiah 40:9; Jeremiah 31:12; Zechariah 9:13). The most important use of the word �Zion� is in a theological sense. �Zion� is used figuratively of Israel as the people of God ( Isaiah 60:14). The spiritual meaning of �Zion� is continued in the New Testament, where it is given the Christian meaning of God's spiritual kingdom, the heavenly Jerusalem ( Hebrews 12:22; Revelation 14:1). Peter refers to Christ as the Cornerstone of Zion: �See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in Him will never be put to shame� ( 1 Peter 2:6).
Recommended Resources: Logos Bible Software and Bible Answers for Almost all Your Questions by Elmer Towns. This page is also available in: Espa�ol, Portugu�s, Arabic, Italiano, Bulgarian, Polski, Magyar, Srpski, Russian.
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Angels are spirit beings created by God. So Psalms 91:11 is simply saying God has given his angels charge over us to see to our well being. So wherever we are and in all situations we need to be conscious that we are not alone, his angels are always there but we can't see them. Because Hebrews 1:7 tells us that they are spirit. Hebrews 12:22 and Revelation 5:11 also tell us that the angels of God are numerable, which means that God has more than enough angels assigned to everybody. No doubt, God gives more than one angel charge over us. Psalms 103:20 and 2 Kings 19:35 tell us that angels are strong, we have no reason to be afraid of anything, I mean anything!
It's Love so divine that is mentioned, whose measure, mortals can liken to the act of humility done by our Saviour Jesus Christ at Calvary, on Gethsemane. Love, whose breadth and depth man is not in a post to fully decipher and fathom of how one who is owed offers to clear the debt owed him, and just merely writing off the death, Philippians 2:2-8. It is that love that constraineth Christians to go forth with the Gospel despite the prevalent challenges. A Love that impels them to shade shadows on points of doubt, Deuteronomy 29:29. Whilst fixing their eyes on Jesus' heraldship, Hebrews 12:2. It's Agape love! Compels us to go forth and counter Satan's stumbling blocks, even death.
@Fiona,
1. Your comment is a classic example of a person who is bitter most likely at a Christian who has wronged her or some so called Christian in the news that has done something unbiblical;
2. Even bitter toward God himself because God failed to perform something for her and it did not come about ( Hebrews 12:15);
3. We have seen such bitterness before in earlier comments and this is a promising act on your side, because of you still being in the scriptures means you are putting yourself in a more encouraging position to have an encounter with Jesus ( Acts 4:13);
4. Like the rest of us born again believers you will need to come to the end of yourself, and then you will meet the one who died for you and the one who will purge you of your bitterness;
5. Let�s all put you on our prayer list for your salvation.
@Bell,
On Luke 7, I would divide this chapter into 3 divisions:
1. Verses 1-10 the city of Capernaum means city of consolation and of course the miracle is to prove that Jesus is the Messiah (for Jews) sent by God (Jehovah) that is spoken of in the Old Testament;
2. Key verse is 9 where Jesus demonstrates that a gentile has more true and honest faith than do the so called spiritual leaders (Pharisees) that should know the scriptures, and see the contrast of worthiness from verse 4 (Jesus) and verse 7 (Gentile). True and honest faith that we get from God ( Hebrews 12:2) will reveal our true nature compared to the nature of Jesus and we are rewarded when we examine ourselves and confess this to God ( 1 John 1:9).
@ St Daniels,
This individual is correct in that we must be born again to receive the truth of understanding and wisdom of God's holy word ( John 3:3-5; 4:24).
1. The bible is written for believers after they have been regenerated;
2. But one does not stay saved by their works of goodness (righteousness);
3. We are saved by the faith of Jesus Christ ( Hebrews 12:2), all we do is ask for it ( Romans 10:10-13). It is his (Jesus) faith that saves us and keeps us saved ( Hebrews 12:2);
4. Anyone that believes you can lose your salvation after being born again, does not comprehend the meaning of being born again ( Colossians 2:9-13);
5. Jesus is eternal and when you receive him as lord and savior, your become eternal (new nature II Corinthians 5:17). Your flesh is still able to sin, but the new seed you have received does not sin ( I John 3:9). Flesh and blood will not inherit the kingdom of God ( John 6:63; I Corinthians 15:50). A new baby is born with a live body, live soul, and a dead spirit. When a person is born again they now have a living soul, a living spirit, and a dead body. There is a trade off at the moment of salvation ( Ephesians 2:1-10).
As we run the race, let us not lose focus and allow ourselves to be distracted by the so called beauties of the eye and as a result, forgetting that we are running the race to win, winners never lose focus but they restrain themselves until the end; to win the price Jesus set to won. And being a perfect example of the race, He ran and won, and now is seated at the right hand of God.
First of all when GOD talks about heaven, it means the outer space above the earth. This space is inhabited by unclean spirits. Job 25:5; Ephesians2:2. GOD has set a time in which He will cleanse the whole heaven by shaking it ( Isaiah 34:4; Revelation 6:12-13). The shaking of the heaven (pictured as a fig tree being violently shaken) is the coming war in heaven which will be fought by Archangel Michael and his angels against the devil and his angels, Revelation 12:7. The devil and his angels will lose this war and their heavenly places will be taken over by the angels. All these unclean spirits together with the devil will be cast down to the earth (and the stars of heaven fall to the earth), Revelation 12:9-13. This is the beginning of the great tribulation the earth and it will last 1260 days. Immediately after the tribulation the LORD Jesus shall return to the earth to finish off the devil and all his demons and remove all things that offend from the earth, Matthew 24:29-30 ; 13:40-43; Revelation 19:11-21. The Writer of Hebrews 12:26-27 described the shaking of the heavens and the earth as the way for GOD to remove the sinful and the unclean from both the heavens and the earth. That which cannot be shaken are the righteous and the holy, and these shall abide forever.
The life style of Jesus should be what we long to attain if we must be steadfast to the end....even in the midst of Distractions and sin that tend to swerve us from living that life that will be worthy of God�s reward, we should always remember Jesus Triumphed....So We can make it..
I enjoyed the book of Hebrews. We are studying Hebrews in our Sunday School this month. I've learned some Good things as a Christian. Like how God didn't allow the people or animals to come to the mountain. Also because it took you back to the old testament to Moses. Just think if GOD comes in today the way he did back then, would we be alive, living and doing what we do as GOD�s people today.
12;2 As we run the race our focus-so called focal point is very crucial. This is so because in the process many things will happen to distract us. In athletics the finishing line is very important. The one who crosses it is declare a winner. I have observed that in most cases the starting is not the issue but the focus and finishing part.
Well Linda why don't we findout and see what Gods word has to say. And I saw, and, look! the Lamb standing upon the Mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty-four thousand having his name and the name of his Father written on their foreheads.� ( Revelation 14:1) As we have seen, this Lamb is the same as the Michael who cleansed the heavens by casting out the Devil and his demons. He is the Michael whom Daniel describes as �standing in behalf of the sons of [God�s] people� as he prepares to �stand up� in executing Jehovah�s righteous judgments. ( Daniel 12:1; Revelation 12:7,�9) Since 1914 this self-sacrificing Lamb of God has been standing on Mount Zion as the Messianic King.
3 It is just as Jehovah foretold: �I, even I, have installed my king upon Zion, my holy mountain.� ( Psalm 2:6; 110:2) This no longer refers to the earthly Mount Zion, the geographical location of earthly Jerusalem, in which city human kings in the line of David used to reign. (1�Chronicles 11:4-7; 2�Chronicles 5:2) No, for Jesus, after his death and resurrection in 33�C.E., was installed as a foundation cornerstone on the heavenly Mount Zion, the celestial location where Jehovah determined to place the �city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem.� Hence, �the Mount Zion� here represents the exalted position of Jesus and his joint heirs, who make up heavenly Jerusalem, which is the Kingdom. ( Hebrews 12:22, 28; Ephesians 3:6) It is the glorious royal situation to which Jehovah elevates them during the Lord�s day. Over the centuries, anointed Christians, as �living stones,� have earnestly looked forward to standing on that heavenly Mount Zion, united with the glorified Lord Jesus Christ in his majestic Kingdom.�1�Peter 2:4-6; Luke 22:28-30; John 14:2,�3.
4�John sees not only Jesus but the complete body of the 144,000 fellow heirs of the heavenly Kingdom standing upon the Mount Zion. At the time represented by the vision, many, but not all, of the 144,000 are already in heaven. Later in the same vision, John learns that some of the holy ones still have to endure and die faithful. ( Revelation 14:12,�13) Evidently, then, some of the 144,000 are still on earth. So how is it that John sees all of them standing with Jesus on Mount Zion? In that, as members of the congregation of anointed Christians, these have now �approached a Mount Zion and a city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem.� ( Hebrews 12:22) Like Paul when he was still on earth, they have already�in a spiritual sense�been raised up to be in union with Christ Jesus in heavenly places. ( Ephesians 2:5,�6) Additionally, in 1919 they responded to the invitation, �Come on up here,� and in a figurative way �went up into heaven in the cloud.� ( Revelation 11:12) In view of these scriptures, we can see that all the 144,000�spiritually speaking�are located on Mount Zion with Jesus Christ.
The 144,000 have no part with the worshippers of the wild beast, who are marked with the symbolic number 666. ( Revelation 13:15-18) In contrast, these loyal ones have the name of God and of the Lamb written on their foreheads. No doubt John, a Jew, saw God�s name in Hebrew lettering, יהוה. In having the name of Jesus� Father symbolically written on their foreheads, these sealed ones make known to all that they are Jehovah�s witnesses, His slaves. ( Revelation 3:12) Their having Jesus� name also displayed on their foreheads indicates that they acknowledge being owned by him. He is their betrothed �husband,� and they are his prospective �bride,� �a new creation� serving God with heavenly life in view. ( Ephesians 5:22-24; Revelation 21:2,�9; 2�Corinthians 5:17) Their intimate relationship with Jehovah and Jesus Christ affects all their thoughts and actions.Thats the best I could do, and the rest up to you, weather you except this conclusion or not.
Holiness is the purpose of this chapter of Hebrews. We are to be a peace with all men, and seek to be holy in all our actions. The chapter concludes our God is a consuming fire. Therefore it behooves us to obey him, and submit to his training as his beloved children since only holy people will live forever with a holy God.
"And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves." ( Luke 23:12)
What precedes wars and fightings? As Karl von Clausewitz analyzed war, his observations can be carried over into that which is beyond military combat.
His definition of war is "war therefore is an act of violence to compel our opponent to fulfill our will." He says, "War is always a serious means for a serious object."
James says, "From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war,yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts." ( James 4:1-3)
James speaks of lust, Clausewitz said, "Everything which appears an advantage may be the object of a combat..."
The heart manifests lust, envy, hostility, and hatred unto war.
Have quickly hostility can manifest in the heart. A close examination of one's heart could show hostility. Hostility towards a comment made, or an action committed or omitted. It may not manifest itself into an open battle, but the hostility can remain in the heart. A polarity [Clausewitz] now exists (whether hidden in the heart, or openly manifested). Enemies are made.
Now enemies (polar opposites) with hostile hearts, war is declared (whether verbal or silent). You don't like that person, that person does not like you. The hostility can burn and enflame into hatred and the desire to kill. (whether with words, actions, or the desire for supremacy).
There may be many battles; many words and actions that convey hostility.
Sometimes action in the war can be suspended, without the war ending: circumstances may dictate an inaction. [Cluasewitz] Maybe you don't want someone to see or hear your hostility so you take it underground for awhile. Maybe you decide the place or time is not advantageous for you to get the advantage so you wait for a more advantageous moment. But, the hostility is still there; it's just being put on hold.
You may feel hostility, but recognize the person has superior power that could do you harm; so you hold off attacking; but, not because the hostility is gone; but, because you access the situation is not to your advantage.
Hostility remains in the heart.
Clausewitz speaks of "reciprocal action." Also, reciprocal action of reciprocal action. One hostility begats another hostility...."Thus a continuance of action will ensue which will advance towards a climax."
If war is "a continuation of policy by other means", to have war there must be two or more opposing policies. If there are ten people sitting at a table and all ten have ten different policies (things they believe) anyone who speaks differently could be viewed hostilely. Everyone can be seeking to hold their policy, and hold their position as superior with hostility towards anyone who does not submit to their view.
Now as toward truth, we know we are to obey God (His policy). We are to speak the truth in love; but, even then, Jesus has said, "If they hated me, they will hate you." There will be those who do not want Jesus to be over them. They will not want to obey His Words (policy). They will be hostile toward Him, toward His Word, and toward His servants. They are hostile toward God, and at war with Him.
But, we who are the Lord's, if not careful, can harbor hostility in our hearts. We are admonished to "Keep thy heart with all diligence..." ( Proverbs 4:23)
We are to "follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled..." ( Hebrews 12:14-15)
Cain, Esau, Pharisees, scorners, etc. manifested hostile hearts.
John says, "...whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother." ( I John 3:10)
Our hearts will either condemn us or commend us. If the heart manifests hostility, that hostility must be in opposition to something. If hostility remains, murder can be its climax.
Cain rose up against Abel in the field and slew him; why? because Cains works were evil and Abel's were righteous. Cain was hostile toward God and toward his brother. His hostility continued unto hatred and murder.
it is a prophecy from the old testament which has been fulfilled in the new testament through Christ Jesus. it is the kingdom of God in your heart today. amen!
The book of Hebrews is a very interesting book. We have been studying from this book and I have a better insight of what the Lord want us to see from the teaching of the Hebrews. Understanding the book of Hebrew helps to live a more easier christian life. I encourage every one who want to live a more easier christian life to read Hebrew. Understanding the word besetting, cloud of witness and running the race. We must identify the sin and things that gets into our way to live live as Christ wants us to do. It is much easier to identify the sin and the weights of life that keep us from finding joy in the Lord. Laying aside those things that keep us down, stressful, uncertain. Reading and understanding the What apostle Paul is writing in Hebrew make it better to live a christain life. The more I read Hebrew the better I understand how it relate to my life as a christian. I hope we as christian identify the sin and the things in our life that keep us from growing. Once we identify those things, we can grow and mature and live a better christian life. We then can give more of ourselves and understand and help others. We cannot give up. Laying aside these obstacles, we an run a more vigorous race to the finish. We can then enjoy life.
On how to get saved:
1. You make a statement that a person must accept Jesus Christ in baptism to be saved in order to go to heaven;
2. If this is a reference that water baptism is part of a person�s being born again then I must state that the scriptures do not support this belief;
3. In the church age (age of grace), water baptism is never connected to salvation;
4. The apostle Paul (apostle to gentiles) says in 1 Corinthians 1:17 that Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect;
5. So you can determine that water baptism is not part of the gospel message which is the death, burial, and resurrection ( 1 Corinthians 15:1-4), Jesus baptized no one ( John 4:2);
6. When a person accepts Jesus Christ as his/her saviour, at that moment they are baptized (filled) in with the holy spirit (ghost);
7. The word baptism means to be immerse (not sprinkled or water poured over the head) and is called believer�s baptism, because it represents the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ ( Romans 6:1-6), which is what happens to a person spiritually at the time we receive Jesus Christ as our savior;
8. Born again believers get baptized because they are saved, not to get saved;
9. Christians are baptized in water as act of public display of their faith they received from him ( Hebrews 12:2),and they are making an open commitment to serve and obey Jesus according to the scriptures.
I googled your first post "God the Son� in the Bible and there was a lot to read there.
Also the same as for Trinity and Rapture being used in the Bible. As for your second post I found this to be helpful: Psalm 87:2-3 says, �The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, O city of God.� Occurring over 150 times in the Bible, the word �Zion� essentially means �fortification.� In the Bible, Zion is both the city of David and the city of God.
As the Bible progresses, the word �Zion� transitions from referring primarily to a physical city to having a more spiritual meaning.
The first mention of the word �Zion� in the Bible is 2 Samuel 5:7: �Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion, the City of David.� �Zion,� therefore, was originally the name of the ancient Jebusite fortress in the city of Jerusalem. �Zion� came to stand not only for the fortress but also for city in which the fortress stood. After David captured �the stronghold of Zion,� Zion was then called �the City of David� ( 1 Kings 8:1; 1 Chronicles 11:5; 2 Chronicles 5:2). When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, �Zion� expanded in meaning to include the temple and the area surrounding it ( Psalms 2:6; 48:2, 11-12; 132:13). �Zion� was eventually used as a name for the city of Jerusalem, the land of Judah, and the people of Israel as a whole ( Isaiah 40:9; Jeremiah 31:12; Zechariah 9:13). The most important use of the word �Zion� is in a theological sense. �Zion� is used figuratively of Israel as the people of God ( Isaiah 60:14). The spiritual meaning of �Zion� is continued in the New Testament, where it is given the Christian meaning of God's spiritual kingdom, the heavenly Jerusalem ( Hebrews 12:22; Revelation 14:1). Peter refers to Christ as the Cornerstone of Zion: �See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in Him will never be put to shame� ( 1 Peter 2:6).
Recommended Resources: Logos Bible Software and Bible Answers for Almost all Your Questions by Elmer Towns. This page is also available in: Espa�ol, Portugu�s, Arabic, Italiano, Bulgarian, Polski, Magyar, Srpski, Russian.
1. Your comment is a classic example of a person who is bitter most likely at a Christian who has wronged her or some so called Christian in the news that has done something unbiblical;
2. Even bitter toward God himself because God failed to perform something for her and it did not come about ( Hebrews 12:15);
3. We have seen such bitterness before in earlier comments and this is a promising act on your side, because of you still being in the scriptures means you are putting yourself in a more encouraging position to have an encounter with Jesus ( Acts 4:13);
4. Like the rest of us born again believers you will need to come to the end of yourself, and then you will meet the one who died for you and the one who will purge you of your bitterness;
5. Let�s all put you on our prayer list for your salvation.
On Luke 7, I would divide this chapter into 3 divisions:
1. Verses 1-10 the city of Capernaum means city of consolation and of course the miracle is to prove that Jesus is the Messiah (for Jews) sent by God (Jehovah) that is spoken of in the Old Testament;
2. Key verse is 9 where Jesus demonstrates that a gentile has more true and honest faith than do the so called spiritual leaders (Pharisees) that should know the scriptures, and see the contrast of worthiness from verse 4 (Jesus) and verse 7 (Gentile). True and honest faith that we get from God ( Hebrews 12:2) will reveal our true nature compared to the nature of Jesus and we are rewarded when we examine ourselves and confess this to God ( 1 John 1:9).
This individual is correct in that we must be born again to receive the truth of understanding and wisdom of God's holy word ( John 3:3-5; 4:24).
1. The bible is written for believers after they have been regenerated;
2. But one does not stay saved by their works of goodness (righteousness);
3. We are saved by the faith of Jesus Christ ( Hebrews 12:2), all we do is ask for it ( Romans 10:10-13). It is his (Jesus) faith that saves us and keeps us saved ( Hebrews 12:2);
4. Anyone that believes you can lose your salvation after being born again, does not comprehend the meaning of being born again ( Colossians 2:9-13);
5. Jesus is eternal and when you receive him as lord and savior, your become eternal (new nature II Corinthians 5:17). Your flesh is still able to sin, but the new seed you have received does not sin ( I John 3:9). Flesh and blood will not inherit the kingdom of God ( John 6:63; I Corinthians 15:50). A new baby is born with a live body, live soul, and a dead spirit. When a person is born again they now have a living soul, a living spirit, and a dead body. There is a trade off at the moment of salvation ( Ephesians 2:1-10).
3 It is just as Jehovah foretold: �I, even I, have installed my king upon Zion, my holy mountain.� ( Psalm 2:6; 110:2) This no longer refers to the earthly Mount Zion, the geographical location of earthly Jerusalem, in which city human kings in the line of David used to reign. (1�Chronicles 11:4-7; 2�Chronicles 5:2) No, for Jesus, after his death and resurrection in 33�C.E., was installed as a foundation cornerstone on the heavenly Mount Zion, the celestial location where Jehovah determined to place the �city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem.� Hence, �the Mount Zion� here represents the exalted position of Jesus and his joint heirs, who make up heavenly Jerusalem, which is the Kingdom. ( Hebrews 12:22, 28; Ephesians 3:6) It is the glorious royal situation to which Jehovah elevates them during the Lord�s day. Over the centuries, anointed Christians, as �living stones,� have earnestly looked forward to standing on that heavenly Mount Zion, united with the glorified Lord Jesus Christ in his majestic Kingdom.�1�Peter 2:4-6; Luke 22:28-30; John 14:2,�3.
4�John sees not only Jesus but the complete body of the 144,000 fellow heirs of the heavenly Kingdom standing upon the Mount Zion. At the time represented by the vision, many, but not all, of the 144,000 are already in heaven. Later in the same vision, John learns that some of the holy ones still have to endure and die faithful. ( Revelation 14:12,�13) Evidently, then, some of the 144,000 are still on earth. So how is it that John sees all of them standing with Jesus on Mount Zion? In that, as members of the congregation of anointed Christians, these have now �approached a Mount Zion and a city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem.� ( Hebrews 12:22) Like Paul when he was still on earth, they have already�in a spiritual sense�been raised up to be in union with Christ Jesus in heavenly places. ( Ephesians 2:5,�6) Additionally, in 1919 they responded to the invitation, �Come on up here,� and in a figurative way �went up into heaven in the cloud.� ( Revelation 11:12) In view of these scriptures, we can see that all the 144,000�spiritually speaking�are located on Mount Zion with Jesus Christ.
The 144,000 have no part with the worshippers of the wild beast, who are marked with the symbolic number 666. ( Revelation 13:15-18) In contrast, these loyal ones have the name of God and of the Lamb written on their foreheads. No doubt John, a Jew, saw God�s name in Hebrew lettering, יהוה. In having the name of Jesus� Father symbolically written on their foreheads, these sealed ones make known to all that they are Jehovah�s witnesses, His slaves. ( Revelation 3:12) Their having Jesus� name also displayed on their foreheads indicates that they acknowledge being owned by him. He is their betrothed �husband,� and they are his prospective �bride,� �a new creation� serving God with heavenly life in view. ( Ephesians 5:22-24; Revelation 21:2,�9; 2�Corinthians 5:17) Their intimate relationship with Jehovah and Jesus Christ affects all their thoughts and actions.Thats the best I could do, and the rest up to you, weather you except this conclusion or not.
What precedes wars and fightings? As Karl von Clausewitz analyzed war, his observations can be carried over into that which is beyond military combat.
His definition of war is "war therefore is an act of violence to compel our opponent to fulfill our will." He says, "War is always a serious means for a serious object."
James says, "From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war,yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts." ( James 4:1-3)
James speaks of lust, Clausewitz said, "Everything which appears an advantage may be the object of a combat..."
The heart manifests lust, envy, hostility, and hatred unto war.
Have quickly hostility can manifest in the heart. A close examination of one's heart could show hostility. Hostility towards a comment made, or an action committed or omitted. It may not manifest itself into an open battle, but the hostility can remain in the heart. A polarity [Clausewitz] now exists (whether hidden in the heart, or openly manifested). Enemies are made.
Now enemies (polar opposites) with hostile hearts, war is declared (whether verbal or silent). You don't like that person, that person does not like you. The hostility can burn and enflame into hatred and the desire to kill. (whether with words, actions, or the desire for supremacy).
There may be many battles; many words and actions that convey hostility.
Sometimes action in the war can be suspended, without the war ending: circumstances may dictate an inaction. [Cluasewitz] Maybe you don't want someone to see or hear your hostility so you take it underground for awhile. Maybe you decide the place or time is not advantageous for you to get the advantage so you wait for a more advantageous moment. But, the hostility is still there; it's just being put on hold.
You may feel hostility, but recognize the person has superior power that could do you harm; so you hold off attacking; but, not because the hostility is gone; but, because you access the situation is not to your advantage.
Hostility remains in the heart.
Clausewitz speaks of "reciprocal action." Also, reciprocal action of reciprocal action. One hostility begats another hostility...."Thus a continuance of action will ensue which will advance towards a climax."
If war is "a continuation of policy by other means", to have war there must be two or more opposing policies. If there are ten people sitting at a table and all ten have ten different policies (things they believe) anyone who speaks differently could be viewed hostilely. Everyone can be seeking to hold their policy, and hold their position as superior with hostility towards anyone who does not submit to their view.
Now as toward truth, we know we are to obey God (His policy). We are to speak the truth in love; but, even then, Jesus has said, "If they hated me, they will hate you." There will be those who do not want Jesus to be over them. They will not want to obey His Words (policy). They will be hostile toward Him, toward His Word, and toward His servants. They are hostile toward God, and at war with Him.
But, we who are the Lord's, if not careful, can harbor hostility in our hearts. We are admonished to "Keep thy heart with all diligence..." ( Proverbs 4:23)
We are to "follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled..." ( Hebrews 12:14-15)
Cain, Esau, Pharisees, scorners, etc. manifested hostile hearts.
John says, "...whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother." ( I John 3:10)
Our hearts will either condemn us or commend us. If the heart manifests hostility, that hostility must be in opposition to something. If hostility remains, murder can be its climax.
Cain rose up against Abel in the field and slew him; why? because Cains works were evil and Abel's were righteous. Cain was hostile toward God and toward his brother. His hostility continued unto hatred and murder.
The heart of the matter is the heart.