I set this post aside as a side note for the thread debating the PURPOSE for the commandments and what seems to be requirements for salvation.
Not whether they were good to follow.
I also stated Israel was given the articles of God and no one keeps those laws better than them.
My point was they weren't broken off for not keeping them, They were broken off because they stumbled over that rock of offence and chief Cornerstone. Christ!
Oseas disagreed with my assertion of Israel but we agree on James 2:10.
I said amen to James 2:10, That was more to my point.
Most of the time obediance to the commandments comes up by some individuals it's about requirements for salvation not sanctification.
It's hard to believe that "1) Israel keeps the Law far better than any nation ever has!!". Will be? Maybe Sabbath day, for " whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all - James 2:10.
Psalms 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Hebrews 10:16 And this is the covenant I will make with them, after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my LAWS in their hearts, and in their minds I will write them:
Hebrews 10:17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
So what is the SIN that results in death.
James 2:7 Do they not blaspheme thy Holy NAME by which ye are called?
Revelation 13:6 And he open his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme HIS NAME ....
John 16:8 And when HE (the Holy Ghost) is COME, he (the Holy Ghost) will reprove the world of SIN ....
So what is SIN that leads to death? ....blasphemy of the Holy Ghost by whose NAME ye are CALLED.
Acts 2:38 .....REPENT (of your beliefs) and be baptised in the NAME of Jesus ......
John 16:9 Of SIN because the BELIEVE not on me (the promised SEED of God), the ROD that CAUSES man to do the WILL of God.
Man does't BELIEVE that Christ came as SINFUL FLESH (you and I and all creation): and DIED on the cross.
Three days later Christ ONLY arose; and all creation were joint heirs with Christ's resurrection, all creation bears the NAME of Christ, because they were made ONE with Christ, blaspheming that name leads to DEATH.
Lot's wife never demonstrated saving faith from what scripture would indicate; at the very least desiring more to turn back to see the fate of the city doomed for destruction rather than to escape. "Righteous Lot" ( 2 Peter 2:7-8) was vexed every day; and clearly quite compromised in his dealings when he offered his daughters to the men who were trying to break down his door to commit abominations. No mention of his wife is in the scriptures; as was with Sarah; for instance in Hebrews 11.
Today in church it was discussed how Abraham was said to be the only one who was a "friend" of God ( James 2:23). Exodus 33:11 states the same of Moses as well so technically my Pastor erred. My point here I may expound on later; namely the fact that God truly spoke in a different manner to them than many others in the Bible. The friendship; in other words went both ways. The discussion also came up today in Sunday school on how He is both Master and friend. This is a mystery in itself; and forces us beyond stereotypical cultural viewpoints toward such a relationship. As for now; I will just state that Lot had to be "shoved" out of his town literally; and the angels had to put up with his ridiculous bantering about going to the nearby little town; which was promptly abandoned once Lot saw what happened and hid in the mountains. Abraham and Moses both had slow starts and their own issues; but were able to have close fellowship with the Lord as we see from Genesis 18:17 with Abraham and Exodus 32:30 where Moses acted to intercede to prevent God from destroying all of Israel. That scene is another discussion as to its theological implications.
We all should strive to be as the saints in the "hall of fame" in Hebrews 11; not stubborn like Jonah as an ox. Nonetheless these all are true believers. We CANNOT claim God's promises with an imaginary Christ or on other terms than scripture dictates and expect it to be true.
Apart from Salvation, "there is none righteous no not one" ( Romans 3:10). God declares that Job was righteous because God had saved Job. When God saves us, i.e. we become Born Again, God gives us a new Resurrected Soul which "can not sin" ( 1 John 3:9). Once God has saved us, the Righteousness of Christ is IMPUTED to us ( James 2:23) and we will have an earnest ongoing desire to be obedient to the Law of God. But we can and do fall into sin because or new Resurrected Soul still resides in a body that still lusts after sin and we are an integrated personality, body and soul ( Romans 7:18-25).
Therefore Job is called righteous because God had saved him.
The Bible IS THE WORD OF GOD. There are no contradictions nor "lies" in the Bible because God is the author of the Bible.
I've been having serious doubts about my salvation. I'm afraid I just know intellectual facts. I know Jesus Christ is the only way into Heaven, and I know He's coming back soon. I know I'm a sinner that will perish and go to Hell if I don't trust the Lord as my Savior. I don't want to be left behind, please help me.
Faith is trusting Christ to do what He said He would do, and I don't want to have faith in my prayer or in my faith, I want to rest on Jesus alone.
What's the difference between my faith and the demons ( James 2:19) ?
I don't want these doubts anymore, I want full assurance of my salvation. How do I make sure I have received Christ?
Another sad fact is that many are not serious about fulfilling the Great Commission. This lack of perseverance robs many of using spiritual gifts; which are illustrated in examples such as Acts 16:17. This reminds us of Acts 13:8-12 with another person who was seeking to attain Paul's miraculous powers by offering him money. This caused him to become blind much as Paul did for a season.
The first example really hits home because many so called Christians aren't even discerning enough to tell when obvious false Gospel messages are creeping in. This woman was telling the truth; and not just any way was proclaimed but she stated through the spirit in her that it was THE way. The error was the spirit was using her (probably because of her own desire for recognition or money) to draw attention to itself; we must remember that the demons know and shudder ( James 2:19). It seems Paul tolerated this behavior for a time; either he wanted to ignore the distraction or wasn't sure it was from the enemy.
Sadly; from my own experiences and having been granted some spiritual discernment the truth is never very popular. I try not to be jaded myself with so many false prophecies and revelations promulgated today lest there be a few that are genuine. It seems more than cooincidence that there are very few words of knowledge that are critical of actions; and if a rebuke is given it is often more of a show of pride than an honest assessment. Nonetheless; so much can be prevented if such responsibilities would be done quickly by elders as well as responsible laypersons before error is allowed to take root; or sins destroy the life of an individual or family. Jesus didn't mince words with Peter and other would be disciples; try that approach in todays seeker friendly church and see how long it is before you are escorted out the door. Truth be told we cannot love our brethren without exhortation and rebuke balancing encouragement
You said; It was by their works that He never knew them.
But if you examine Matthew 7:16-23 carefully you'll see that it was them trusting in their works and not his work is why he never knew them.
vv 16 states "Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Matthew 7:17-20 goes on to give you the contrast between the fruit and the thistles and what become of them.
There's dead works and there's fruit.
Thistles may be a sign of dead works.
Fruit is a work of God and performed by God that the believer bares by being connected to the vine. Philippians 1:6.
Philippians 2:13.
This is what James is saying in James 2:18 "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I WILL SHEW THEE MY FAITH BY MY WORKS."
A person wilfully continuing in sin is not saved, so you can't lose what you don't have.
James 3:19 reads; "Thou believest THAT THERE IS ONE GOD; thou doest well: THE DEVILS ALSO BELIEVE, AND TREMBLE.
Believing there's a God doesn't save souls.
Also; Titus 1:16 reads; "THEY PROFESS THAT THEY KNOW GOD; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate."
A profession doesn't save souls either.
Look at those professors described in the previous verse.
vv 15. "Unto the pure all things are pure: (BUT UNTO THEM THAT ARE DEFILED AND UNBELIEVING) is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled."
If you can earn your salvation you can lose it.
If you can earn it you have no need of Christ, he came to loose the captives.
He didn't come to give instructions on how to live a saved life.( You can't. )
Salvation is him giving you life that produces fruit.
So shall we continue in sin? NO!
If you were baptized into Christ you are Identified with him and see sin the way he do.
This is what Romans chapters 6, 7, and 8 is all about.
James chapter 2 explains 2:24 - Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Faith without works is dead. Or... Titus 1:16 - They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
James 2:19
"Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
Or the ones that proclaim to be believers, but Jesus says He never knew them because they were workers of iniquity. They believed in Jesus, they just never repented.
So, the question should be what is Salvation before we discuss losing one's salvation. I think we confuse believing in Jesus to be saved. God's Word says even the devils believe...we know they aren't saved.
The once saved always saved doctrine, I think is dangerous, as we see many Churches today giving people license to live like the devil, and have the comfort of eternal salvation over their heads.
So, what is Salvation, what is born again? Can a person believe in Jesus and live in sin and still be saved? If a person must repent, is that not works? Remember, Jesus told those "Christians" He never knew them because they were workers of iniquity. It was by their works that He never knew them.
I agree that being obedient is commanded and important for people intending to follow Jesus. If they aren't following what Jesus says its a valid question to ask if they are following Jesus at all.
Not sure exactly what you meant by gospel teachings not covered.
The teachings in the NT echo those in the OT. The ten commandments are still applicable. "Do not kill", for example. Or bearing false witness (lying).
Romans, James, and other books describe good works is good. Doing good doesn't mean you're trying to earn heaven and bypass grace- that is the number one false assumption some young Christians make- and some just can't seem to assume the opposite that good is bad, and going bad is good. Clever switcharoo by the enemy to convince people of this. As if Jesus in the Bible is teaching us to NOT do what He says, but, nonetheless, this has to be explained quite often. But thankfully, its in the Bible, so people should just read what it says directly. For example: James 2:14
My understanding is like Adam's, just to add to what Adam said. You should study on your own, there are different views.
The belief that our soul is immortal comes from ancient Greek philosophy. The meaning of death, being a separation of the soul from the body also came from ancient Greek philosophy that is different than what we see in the Old Testament.
It is Platonism, Augustine of Hippo held this philosophy. He was a theologian, and philosopher with a strong influence on doctrines in the church, in the fourth and early fifth century.
Gen. 2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. The spirit/breath gives us life.
The Hebrew word nephesh means a soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, and emotion. The Greek word psuche means the soul, life, self, and a person's distinct identity. If you study them, it is also used for all living beings' fish, animals, birds, and man.
Physically we live AND die, eternally we live OR die, our choice of the gift of God that is through Jesus Christ our Lord, eternal life, or die the second death.
The word spirit, the Bible writers used the Hebrew word ruach meaning breath, wind, spirit, or the Greek word pneuma also meaning wind, breath, spirit, this life-giving breath/spirit is what goes back to God.
We are buried dead, mortal, in corruption and we are raised immortally incorruptible 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. That is when we will be absent from this flesh body.
All consciousness ends when we die. Psalm 6:5Job 14:12-14Job 17:13-16Psalm 89:48Psalm 115:17Ecclesiastes 9:5-10
We sleep in death until resurrection day, the day of redemption. 1 Corinthians 15:51-54Ephesians 4:30
Our spirit (breath) given to us by God is what keeps us alive, and we are a living soul. Ecclesiastes 12:7Psalm 104:29Psalm 146:4James 2:26
Ok. No Jesus not jahshua. Or Jah or whatever hebrew or Greek equivalent to Jesus and, God you choose to refer to. In the English language God is God. Jesus is the messiah, and so on and so forth. God knows who you are talking to just be respectful when referring to Him. Don't get caught up on obscure verses trying to make a doctrine of the name of God.
Secondly Jesus never made any new commandment . When Jesus said "if you love me keep my commandments" he was quoting Exodus 20:6
"And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments
This is referring to the ten commandments. All of them
Secondly the first four commandments are how you love God.
Just like the last six deal with how you love your NIEGHBOR.
He did not refer to every commandment he just referred to the ten commandments.
He was never saying just love your NIEGHBOR and not God.
Jesus is the one who wrote the ten commandments. It is a transcript of his character. Which is love. If you do not keep all ten of the commandments you do not love because they are a description of how you love.
1 John 5:3
"For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."
The sabbath is Saturday. It was made holy by Jesus when he created everything. And it is still holy. No where in the entire Bible did he change or do away with the sabbath. Period!!!
Exodus 20:11
"For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."
It's also found in genesis at the beginning before there was a jew.
It would be absurd to assume you may break the first four commandments but have to keep the last six. It's a package deal.
James 2:10
"For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."
So it is the keeping of the entire ten commandments that is love for God and your nieghbor.
It says all should be treated the same with no favoritism. A certain political group virtue signals that some of a certain skin color were enslaved by some rich people in their own political group about 150-250 years ago. But all those people are dead. No one they're referring to are alive to give any such reparations back to, except they assume that by giving it to descendants then somehow something is made right? You can't change the past and it seems wrong to steal from one group to pay others who were never enslaved. It also seems wrong to show favoritism and act like if you have a certain skin shade that you deserve more sympathy or more money or pandering. What we see on TV is a circus. The Japanese and Germans enslaved and killed people only 81 years ago, but people somehow aren't demanding money for that, but for something twice as long ago. Meanwhile, there are child slaves coming across the southern border trafficked from cartels and other criminals but people aren't as upset about that either. There are also people enslaved right now in China, countries in Africa and other places that don't have people as upset about either. They are alive, and are imprisoned. There are even people in the US itself imprisoned as slaves who had no trial and just happened to be at the politically wrong place at the wrong time, and they are still alive too. What I see is amazing hypocrisy about money and privilege and victimhood as a form of self-worship as if somehow one who was never a slave was harmed, rather than actually helping current slaves alive now. God bless.
The MacArthur New Testament Commentary on Matthew 7:15-20.
Part 3
A person's basic character-his inner motives, standards, loyalties, attitudes, and ambitions-will eventually show through in what he does and how he acts. John the Baptist told the hypocritical Pharisees and Sadducees who came to be baptized to first "bring forth fruits in keeping with repentance" ( Luke 3:8). Their manner of living belied their claim that they loved and served God. When the multitude then asked John what good fruit was, he replied, "Let the man who has two tunics share with him who has none; and let him who has food do likewise" (v.11). To the tax-gatherers who asked what they should do, John said, "Collect no more than what you have been ordered to" (v. 13). John was saying that the person who is genuinely repentant and who truly trusts and loves God will also loveand help his fellow man (cf. James 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17; 4:20).
A person who belongs to Jesus Christ and who is called by God and given God's message will give evidence of good fruit both in his attitudes and his actions. A person who does not belong to God, especially a false prophet who claims to be God's messenger, will sooner or later manifest the bad fruit that the bad tree of his sensual life inevitably produces.
False prophets can disguise and hide their bad fruit for a while with ecclesiastical trappings, biblical knowledge, and evangelical vocabulary. They can cover it by belonging to Christian organizations, associating with Christian leaders, and by talking about divine things. But how they talk, act, and react when not in the view of Christians will eventually expose their true loyalty and convictions. What is in the heart will emerge, and corrupt theology will result in a corrupt life. False teaching and perverted living are inseparable, and eventually will become manifest.
God's will in decisions; part 2. Focusing on the mission field
I have said recently and it bears repeating for this subject matter the basic idea that whatever we do we should do it for the glory of the Lord ( 1 Cor. 10:31). My point had been that we needn't always think something mundane isn't just as effective being "spiritual". Extending that idea to something such as the mission field; there is no reason why the Lord can't be proclaimed while one does whatever labor is necessary. Faith without works; of course is dead ( James 2:14-26). Any Pastor in an impoverished nation (who himself isn't a "prosperity gospel" preacher) has to do the menial labor to keep the tent up; or the church roof from leaking. Of course as Paul did in his ministry; one can have a vocation (in his case tent making) while doing ministry work as well or on the side. Going back to what I said before; if we are sponsored by a church and they have a history of being (to put it polite paltry) in their budget towards missions; I would seriously consider if that is a good option since it will involve not just our own welfare but that of those we are shepherding. Of course there is also a problem if too much money is funneled into fancy buildings or activities (such as fancy stages and lights for music or youth ministry). That may be more of a "stateside" issue.
We also need to make sure that wherever we go there is church discipline being administered. The same issues; more or less occur overseas as do here; the one missionary in S.E. Asia that I support states that there is a trend to worldliness over there with one individual that had to be removed from the ministry; and there are false doctrines in many African nations as well.
One very good method for breaking new ground has for a long time been teaching English classes in many countries as it is mandatory for many countries to learn it. Such opportunities may be limited as perecution ramps up in the near future.
Interestingly, after studying scripture I've noticed, GOD gave mankind dominion, on Earth. Genesis 1:26,27,28, GOD didn't take that dominion away, people have misused their powers. They/we will all give account: Revelation 1:5-8, Romans 14:12, Daniel 4:3,34, Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18,
Jesus was here to show us how to bring His Kingdom the Kingdom of GOD on Earth, with Love, John 3:16-21, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1John 4:7,12, 1Peter 3:8, John 15:17, James 2:13-17, Luke 13:34,
one day all dominion will go to Christ: 1Corinthians 15:20-28, Romans 16:20,
Galatians 4:1-8, Colossians 3:21,
Matthew 20:25-28, Ephesians 1, (whole chapters) 1Peter 4, Jude 1,
Jesus gave all that believe in him, authority under heaven: from GOD ALMIGHTY: Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 6, Luke 11, Mark 3:15, Acts 4:30,31, Luke 9:2,
We all have power in the natural if even just to comfort someone else, & as we grow in faith, supernatural power in prayer, through GOD & Christ Jesus our Savior.
When we are born again a new spiritual nature is created in us, this nature desires to obey God, not out of compulsion or fear, but out of love for God and love for what is good. We are changed, yet still have the sinful nature in us. So we battle with this nature with the help of the Holy Spirit every day. We battle it by obedience to God, which, as we practice godliness we become more and more like Jesus who's will was to live in total obedience to His Father. That should be our aim, too.
Paul told us to aim for perfection in 2 Cor.13:11, and He was the apostle who also told us that we are no longer under law and under it's curse for disobedience, but grace and told us that we are saved by faith not works. But He also spoke often, as Jesus did about living godly lives and obeying the commands of Christ and some that He, himself commanded.
Any Christian that thinks that they can live simple faith in absence of obedience to God is fooling himself, as James speaks of in his epistle. In chapter 1 21-25 he speaks of being a doer of the word. And he explains how good works follow faith in chapter 2 mentioning that with Abraham, who was justified by faith in verse 22 says that, "Do you see that faith was working together with his faith and by works was made perfect, concerning his obedience to offer Isaac. In verse 26 he said this, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead."
The point is that true believers will live by faith because they have been made just by the work of Christ, but living by faith means living for the will of God to be manifested in our lives, as Abraham desired. Faith and obedience go hand in hand in a believer's life. One without the other is not a true Christian walk that honors God and respects the work of Christ on our behalf.
My understanding they are part of each other. Obedience is dependent on our faith that we live by with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The first Adam broke the relationship and God's dwelling place in man when he was disobedient in eating from that tree. Faith can be measured through our obedience which is the visible expression of our faith.
The Bible says that Jesus learned obedience from what He suffered and was made perfect, Heb. 8:5. Jesus gave us perfect examples of being obedient He did nothing of His own it was the Father's will not His, Luke 4:18John 5:30John 14:10. When Jesus was in the garden just before He was taken, He asked the Father if there was a different way but not His will but the Father's, Luke 22:42 but Jesus was obedient unto death.
We cannot be saved by works; we cannot earn our salvation. Is being obedient considered works? My understanding is no. Obedience is not an option it is a command, we either obey or disobey like the first Adam. If we are obedient, we are dutiful and compliant to His commands.
Our faith, Heb.1:1 by the grace of God that we fully trust Him regardless of what we may face, not with our logic but with His, and the promises God has given us, our hope is not in this world but the eternal one that our hope is in, that with patience we wait and watch for to come.
In my opinion faith is better than obedience , the reason being is that : none of us is ever perfectly obedient , we all sin . If we have faith , in God and in his love and mercy towards us , then we can be forgiven for our disobedience / sin . If we don't have faith in God and in Jesus then we can't really call ourselves Christians can we ? Hopefully , our faith will lead us into obedience .
In my last update; I mentioned "decisional regeneration". My final statement on that subject is that we all must truly make the "decision" to verbally and in the heart confess Christ; but we must continue believing and test ourselves to see if we are in the faith after such a commitment. ( 2 Cor. 13:5). John 3:16 as I have said before is in a tense that means a CONTINUING faith; not just a one time experience where we can dwell with those of heaven and continue to live as before; therefore still on the wide road leading to destruction. If we have decieved ourselves; of course there is some crossover with the other points I have made in regard to not taking specific sins seriously; or being a tare. In the three cases examined under point one so far the Bible is used at face value; so to speak; and the poison basically comes from within ourself. Satan is by no means excluded from this process but doesn't have to do as much as in the other two cases I am about to discuss.
Case #2 Twisting scriptures
Ah; now we are getting into the enemy's camp. Most of us probably are familiar with Christ's dialogue with Satan when being tempted in the wilderness ( Matthew 4:1-11). Here there was no issue with the LITERAL interpretation of scripture but it's application. Satan wanted worship for Himself so he first used the temptation to satisfy hunger; then that of ending suffering through self destruction and finally worship for himself. In the first two cases he used scripture as his ammo. In the last case his true intentions came out; i.e. for him to be worshipped as God. Christ did the "knockout punch" there with the command to worship only God alone. Satan didn't have to use scripture to prove his point as later verses in the N.T. indicate that he has been given temporary power over the world system and Principalities in high places ( Eph. 6:12). He also knew that Jesus wouldn't be fooled by some other "religious" writings since He was the Son of God. ( James 2:19
Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 7, James 2, 2Peter 1, 2Peter 1:10 "wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things ye shall never fall:"
James 5:9, "brethren" "lest you be condemned" James 5, in context
Points out, these for-sure think they are 'saved' entitled" to enter they even boast of the Religiousness, Matthew 7:21-24, "Many will say in that day Lord, Lord, have we not ._._." & those who actually feel unworthy, were/are welcomed. Matthew 25:37-40. When anyone starts thinking they're all deserving we need beware by being aware! Because pride comes before a fall'' Proverbs 16:18,
Matthew 7:21 "._._. but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" Micah 6:8, James 1:27,
2Timothy 2:15,
With much study there indicates the treatment of "the least of these" is a major weight to GOD ALMIGHTY throughout the scriptures, Old & New Testament. Luke 12:45-47, note (abusive treatment towards people having less authority,) "._._ will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers" context Luke 12, indicating these are "believers"
Please notice
James 2:13-19, "For he shall have judgement without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgement. What doth it profit my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say thou hast faith, and I have works: Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; Thou doest well: The devils also believe and tremble." James 2 in context
2)The fact that God determines that all sins are capital offenses means that no sinner should feel themselves to be more righteous than another. James puts it this way.-to be found guilty of sin at one point is to be guilty of all sins. ( James 2:1-8)
God's Law refuses to distinguish between sins and crimes. As a rule, governments do not concern themselves with moral sins, but rather with social evils that they determine to be crimes. Governments do not concern themselves with what is termed sins (those actions that are against God) but with crimes, (offenses against other human persons).
The capital sins of Leviticus 20 are those sins that the Canaanites would not have considered to be crimes at all. God's people are especially responsible for sins that are not crimes (as those in Leviticus 20 show).
a) the sins which are not crimes are those acts which our culture will encourage us to commit.
b) the sins which are not crimes do not seem to have immediate natural (nor dire) consequences.
When God made certain sins crimes for the Israelites, they were strongly motivated to obey God's Law and to avoid sin because they wanted to live and not be put to death.
Their lifestyle was to be distinct from the people of the surrounding nations. Disobedience and defilement will lead to expulsion from the land promised (Lev.18:24-30; 20;22-26)
God's standards of holiness are much higher than man's sense of morality even at its best. Today's Christians must wake up to the fact that living a godly life requires much more than being a law-abiding citizen. (Some laws are anti-christian and some things that are legal are still sinful). Let us live higher than the law demands for avoiding sin requires this ( Mt. 5:43-48, 1 Peter 2:4). Civil Law can define what is a crime, but God defines what is a sin, not me, not you, not any other being, human, angelic, or demonic.
I set this post aside as a side note for the thread debating the PURPOSE for the commandments and what seems to be requirements for salvation.
Not whether they were good to follow.
I also stated Israel was given the articles of God and no one keeps those laws better than them.
My point was they weren't broken off for not keeping them, They were broken off because they stumbled over that rock of offence and chief Cornerstone. Christ!
Oseas disagreed with my assertion of Israel but we agree on James 2:10.
I said amen to James 2:10, That was more to my point.
Most of the time obediance to the commandments comes up by some individuals it's about requirements for salvation not sanctification.
God bless.
" whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all" James 2:10.
My point exactly.
When it comes to atonement for sin God requires perfection!
No one has ever done that keeping the Law.
That's why provided us a perfect Lamb.
God bless.
It's hard to believe that "1) Israel keeps the Law far better than any nation ever has!!". Will be? Maybe Sabbath day, for " whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all - James 2:10.
What is man SAVED from?
The wages of SIN is DEATH.
What is SIN?
Psalms 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Hebrews 10:16 And this is the covenant I will make with them, after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my LAWS in their hearts, and in their minds I will write them:
Hebrews 10:17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
So what is the SIN that results in death.
James 2:7 Do they not blaspheme thy Holy NAME by which ye are called?
Revelation 13:6 And he open his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme HIS NAME ....
John 16:8 And when HE (the Holy Ghost) is COME, he (the Holy Ghost) will reprove the world of SIN ....
So what is SIN that leads to death? ....blasphemy of the Holy Ghost by whose NAME ye are CALLED.
Acts 2:38 .....REPENT (of your beliefs) and be baptised in the NAME of Jesus ......
John 16:9 Of SIN because the BELIEVE not on me (the promised SEED of God), the ROD that CAUSES man to do the WILL of God.
Man does't BELIEVE that Christ came as SINFUL FLESH (you and I and all creation): and DIED on the cross.
Three days later Christ ONLY arose; and all creation were joint heirs with Christ's resurrection, all creation bears the NAME of Christ, because they were made ONE with Christ, blaspheming that name leads to DEATH.
The whole world is DEAD in sin (UNBELIEF).
God bless you
Lot's wife never demonstrated saving faith from what scripture would indicate; at the very least desiring more to turn back to see the fate of the city doomed for destruction rather than to escape. "Righteous Lot" ( 2 Peter 2:7-8) was vexed every day; and clearly quite compromised in his dealings when he offered his daughters to the men who were trying to break down his door to commit abominations. No mention of his wife is in the scriptures; as was with Sarah; for instance in Hebrews 11.
Today in church it was discussed how Abraham was said to be the only one who was a "friend" of God ( James 2:23). Exodus 33:11 states the same of Moses as well so technically my Pastor erred. My point here I may expound on later; namely the fact that God truly spoke in a different manner to them than many others in the Bible. The friendship; in other words went both ways. The discussion also came up today in Sunday school on how He is both Master and friend. This is a mystery in itself; and forces us beyond stereotypical cultural viewpoints toward such a relationship. As for now; I will just state that Lot had to be "shoved" out of his town literally; and the angels had to put up with his ridiculous bantering about going to the nearby little town; which was promptly abandoned once Lot saw what happened and hid in the mountains. Abraham and Moses both had slow starts and their own issues; but were able to have close fellowship with the Lord as we see from Genesis 18:17 with Abraham and Exodus 32:30 where Moses acted to intercede to prevent God from destroying all of Israel. That scene is another discussion as to its theological implications.
We all should strive to be as the saints in the "hall of fame" in Hebrews 11; not stubborn like Jonah as an ox. Nonetheless these all are true believers. We CANNOT claim God's promises with an imaginary Christ or on other terms than scripture dictates and expect it to be true.
Therefore Job is called righteous because God had saved him.
The Bible IS THE WORD OF GOD. There are no contradictions nor "lies" in the Bible because God is the author of the Bible.
I've been having serious doubts about my salvation. I'm afraid I just know intellectual facts. I know Jesus Christ is the only way into Heaven, and I know He's coming back soon. I know I'm a sinner that will perish and go to Hell if I don't trust the Lord as my Savior. I don't want to be left behind, please help me.
Faith is trusting Christ to do what He said He would do, and I don't want to have faith in my prayer or in my faith, I want to rest on Jesus alone.
What's the difference between my faith and the demons ( James 2:19) ?
I don't want these doubts anymore, I want full assurance of my salvation. How do I make sure I have received Christ?
Thank you
Another sad fact is that many are not serious about fulfilling the Great Commission. This lack of perseverance robs many of using spiritual gifts; which are illustrated in examples such as Acts 16:17. This reminds us of Acts 13:8-12 with another person who was seeking to attain Paul's miraculous powers by offering him money. This caused him to become blind much as Paul did for a season.
The first example really hits home because many so called Christians aren't even discerning enough to tell when obvious false Gospel messages are creeping in. This woman was telling the truth; and not just any way was proclaimed but she stated through the spirit in her that it was THE way. The error was the spirit was using her (probably because of her own desire for recognition or money) to draw attention to itself; we must remember that the demons know and shudder ( James 2:19). It seems Paul tolerated this behavior for a time; either he wanted to ignore the distraction or wasn't sure it was from the enemy.
Sadly; from my own experiences and having been granted some spiritual discernment the truth is never very popular. I try not to be jaded myself with so many false prophecies and revelations promulgated today lest there be a few that are genuine. It seems more than cooincidence that there are very few words of knowledge that are critical of actions; and if a rebuke is given it is often more of a show of pride than an honest assessment. Nonetheless; so much can be prevented if such responsibilities would be done quickly by elders as well as responsible laypersons before error is allowed to take root; or sins destroy the life of an individual or family. Jesus didn't mince words with Peter and other would be disciples; try that approach in todays seeker friendly church and see how long it is before you are escorted out the door. Truth be told we cannot love our brethren without exhortation and rebuke balancing encouragement
You said; It was by their works that He never knew them.
But if you examine Matthew 7:16-23 carefully you'll see that it was them trusting in their works and not his work is why he never knew them.
vv 16 states "Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Matthew 7:17-20 goes on to give you the contrast between the fruit and the thistles and what become of them.
There's dead works and there's fruit.
Thistles may be a sign of dead works.
Fruit is a work of God and performed by God that the believer bares by being connected to the vine. Philippians 1:6.
Philippians 2:13.
This is what James is saying in James 2:18 "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I WILL SHEW THEE MY FAITH BY MY WORKS."
A person wilfully continuing in sin is not saved, so you can't lose what you don't have.
James 3:19 reads; "Thou believest THAT THERE IS ONE GOD; thou doest well: THE DEVILS ALSO BELIEVE, AND TREMBLE.
Believing there's a God doesn't save souls.
Also; Titus 1:16 reads; "THEY PROFESS THAT THEY KNOW GOD; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate."
A profession doesn't save souls either.
Look at those professors described in the previous verse.
vv 15. "Unto the pure all things are pure: (BUT UNTO THEM THAT ARE DEFILED AND UNBELIEVING) is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled."
If you can earn your salvation you can lose it.
If you can earn it you have no need of Christ, he came to loose the captives.
He didn't come to give instructions on how to live a saved life.( You can't. )
Salvation is him giving you life that produces fruit.
So shall we continue in sin? NO!
If you were baptized into Christ you are Identified with him and see sin the way he do.
This is what Romans chapters 6, 7, and 8 is all about.
God bless.
Faith without works is dead. Or... Titus 1:16 - They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.
James 2:19
"Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
Or the ones that proclaim to be believers, but Jesus says He never knew them because they were workers of iniquity. They believed in Jesus, they just never repented.
So, the question should be what is Salvation before we discuss losing one's salvation. I think we confuse believing in Jesus to be saved. God's Word says even the devils believe...we know they aren't saved.
The once saved always saved doctrine, I think is dangerous, as we see many Churches today giving people license to live like the devil, and have the comfort of eternal salvation over their heads.
So, what is Salvation, what is born again? Can a person believe in Jesus and live in sin and still be saved? If a person must repent, is that not works? Remember, Jesus told those "Christians" He never knew them because they were workers of iniquity. It was by their works that He never knew them.
I agree that being obedient is commanded and important for people intending to follow Jesus. If they aren't following what Jesus says its a valid question to ask if they are following Jesus at all.
Not sure exactly what you meant by gospel teachings not covered.
The teachings in the NT echo those in the OT. The ten commandments are still applicable. "Do not kill", for example. Or bearing false witness (lying).
Romans, James, and other books describe good works is good. Doing good doesn't mean you're trying to earn heaven and bypass grace- that is the number one false assumption some young Christians make- and some just can't seem to assume the opposite that good is bad, and going bad is good. Clever switcharoo by the enemy to convince people of this. As if Jesus in the Bible is teaching us to NOT do what He says, but, nonetheless, this has to be explained quite often. But thankfully, its in the Bible, so people should just read what it says directly. For example: James 2:14
My understanding is like Adam's, just to add to what Adam said. You should study on your own, there are different views.
The belief that our soul is immortal comes from ancient Greek philosophy. The meaning of death, being a separation of the soul from the body also came from ancient Greek philosophy that is different than what we see in the Old Testament.
It is Platonism, Augustine of Hippo held this philosophy. He was a theologian, and philosopher with a strong influence on doctrines in the church, in the fourth and early fifth century.
Gen. 2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. The spirit/breath gives us life.
The Hebrew word nephesh means a soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, and emotion. The Greek word psuche means the soul, life, self, and a person's distinct identity. If you study them, it is also used for all living beings' fish, animals, birds, and man.
Physically we live AND die, eternally we live OR die, our choice of the gift of God that is through Jesus Christ our Lord, eternal life, or die the second death.
The word spirit, the Bible writers used the Hebrew word ruach meaning breath, wind, spirit, or the Greek word pneuma also meaning wind, breath, spirit, this life-giving breath/spirit is what goes back to God.
We are buried dead, mortal, in corruption and we are raised immortally incorruptible 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. That is when we will be absent from this flesh body.
All consciousness ends when we die. Psalm 6:5 Job 14:12-14 Job 17:13-16 Psalm 89:48 Psalm 115:17 Ecclesiastes 9:5-10
We sleep in death until resurrection day, the day of redemption. 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 Ephesians 4:30
Our spirit (breath) given to us by God is what keeps us alive, and we are a living soul. Ecclesiastes 12:7 Psalm 104:29 Psalm 146:4 James 2:26
May this help your study.
God bless,
RLW
I will show you five to one saying your lying.
James 2:26
"For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."
James 2:24
"Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only."
Romans 6:1
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?" Romans 6:2
"God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Matthew 7:23
"And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."
That word is lawlessness or too be without the ten commandments.
These Couple of verse should keep you occupied from now on.
But if not there is a whole Bible full I could continue.
Secondly Jesus never made any new commandment . When Jesus said "if you love me keep my commandments" he was quoting Exodus 20:6
"And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments
This is referring to the ten commandments. All of them
Secondly the first four commandments are how you love God.
Just like the last six deal with how you love your NIEGHBOR.
He did not refer to every commandment he just referred to the ten commandments.
He was never saying just love your NIEGHBOR and not God.
Jesus is the one who wrote the ten commandments. It is a transcript of his character. Which is love. If you do not keep all ten of the commandments you do not love because they are a description of how you love.
1 John 5:3
"For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."
The sabbath is Saturday. It was made holy by Jesus when he created everything. And it is still holy. No where in the entire Bible did he change or do away with the sabbath. Period!!!
Exodus 20:11
"For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it."
It's also found in genesis at the beginning before there was a jew.
It would be absurd to assume you may break the first four commandments but have to keep the last six. It's a package deal.
James 2:10
"For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."
So it is the keeping of the entire ten commandments that is love for God and your nieghbor.
James 2:9
Romans 2:11
James 2:1-26
Deuteronomy 10:17
Galatians 3:28
Acts 10:34
It says all should be treated the same with no favoritism. A certain political group virtue signals that some of a certain skin color were enslaved by some rich people in their own political group about 150-250 years ago. But all those people are dead. No one they're referring to are alive to give any such reparations back to, except they assume that by giving it to descendants then somehow something is made right? You can't change the past and it seems wrong to steal from one group to pay others who were never enslaved. It also seems wrong to show favoritism and act like if you have a certain skin shade that you deserve more sympathy or more money or pandering. What we see on TV is a circus. The Japanese and Germans enslaved and killed people only 81 years ago, but people somehow aren't demanding money for that, but for something twice as long ago. Meanwhile, there are child slaves coming across the southern border trafficked from cartels and other criminals but people aren't as upset about that either. There are also people enslaved right now in China, countries in Africa and other places that don't have people as upset about either. They are alive, and are imprisoned. There are even people in the US itself imprisoned as slaves who had no trial and just happened to be at the politically wrong place at the wrong time, and they are still alive too. What I see is amazing hypocrisy about money and privilege and victimhood as a form of self-worship as if somehow one who was never a slave was harmed, rather than actually helping current slaves alive now. God bless.
Part 3
A person's basic character-his inner motives, standards, loyalties, attitudes, and ambitions-will eventually show through in what he does and how he acts. John the Baptist told the hypocritical Pharisees and Sadducees who came to be baptized to first "bring forth fruits in keeping with repentance" ( Luke 3:8). Their manner of living belied their claim that they loved and served God. When the multitude then asked John what good fruit was, he replied, "Let the man who has two tunics share with him who has none; and let him who has food do likewise" (v.11). To the tax-gatherers who asked what they should do, John said, "Collect no more than what you have been ordered to" (v. 13). John was saying that the person who is genuinely repentant and who truly trusts and loves God will also loveand help his fellow man (cf. James 2:15-17; 1 John 3:17; 4:20).
A person who belongs to Jesus Christ and who is called by God and given God's message will give evidence of good fruit both in his attitudes and his actions. A person who does not belong to God, especially a false prophet who claims to be God's messenger, will sooner or later manifest the bad fruit that the bad tree of his sensual life inevitably produces.
False prophets can disguise and hide their bad fruit for a while with ecclesiastical trappings, biblical knowledge, and evangelical vocabulary. They can cover it by belonging to Christian organizations, associating with Christian leaders, and by talking about divine things. But how they talk, act, and react when not in the view of Christians will eventually expose their true loyalty and convictions. What is in the heart will emerge, and corrupt theology will result in a corrupt life. False teaching and perverted living are inseparable, and eventually will become manifest.
See Part 4.
I have said recently and it bears repeating for this subject matter the basic idea that whatever we do we should do it for the glory of the Lord ( 1 Cor. 10:31). My point had been that we needn't always think something mundane isn't just as effective being "spiritual". Extending that idea to something such as the mission field; there is no reason why the Lord can't be proclaimed while one does whatever labor is necessary. Faith without works; of course is dead ( James 2:14-26). Any Pastor in an impoverished nation (who himself isn't a "prosperity gospel" preacher) has to do the menial labor to keep the tent up; or the church roof from leaking. Of course as Paul did in his ministry; one can have a vocation (in his case tent making) while doing ministry work as well or on the side. Going back to what I said before; if we are sponsored by a church and they have a history of being (to put it polite paltry) in their budget towards missions; I would seriously consider if that is a good option since it will involve not just our own welfare but that of those we are shepherding. Of course there is also a problem if too much money is funneled into fancy buildings or activities (such as fancy stages and lights for music or youth ministry). That may be more of a "stateside" issue.
We also need to make sure that wherever we go there is church discipline being administered. The same issues; more or less occur overseas as do here; the one missionary in S.E. Asia that I support states that there is a trend to worldliness over there with one individual that had to be removed from the ministry; and there are false doctrines in many African nations as well.
One very good method for breaking new ground has for a long time been teaching English classes in many countries as it is mandatory for many countries to learn it. Such opportunities may be limited as perecution ramps up in the near future.
Interestingly, after studying scripture I've noticed, GOD gave mankind dominion, on Earth. Genesis 1:26,27,28, GOD didn't take that dominion away, people have misused their powers. They/we will all give account: Revelation 1:5-8, Romans 14:12, Daniel 4:3,34, Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18,
Jesus was here to show us how to bring His Kingdom the Kingdom of GOD on Earth, with Love, John 3:16-21, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1John 4:7,12, 1Peter 3:8, John 15:17, James 2:13-17, Luke 13:34,
one day all dominion will go to Christ: 1Corinthians 15:20-28, Romans 16:20,
Galatians 4:1-8, Colossians 3:21,
Matthew 20:25-28, Ephesians 1, (whole chapters) 1Peter 4, Jude 1,
Jesus gave all that believe in him, authority under heaven: from GOD ALMIGHTY: Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 6, Luke 11, Mark 3:15, Acts 4:30,31, Luke 9:2,
We all have power in the natural if even just to comfort someone else, & as we grow in faith, supernatural power in prayer, through GOD & Christ Jesus our Savior.
Hopefully these are helpful
Very well stated Gigi.
I agree with S. Spencer,
When we are born again a new spiritual nature is created in us, this nature desires to obey God, not out of compulsion or fear, but out of love for God and love for what is good. We are changed, yet still have the sinful nature in us. So we battle with this nature with the help of the Holy Spirit every day. We battle it by obedience to God, which, as we practice godliness we become more and more like Jesus who's will was to live in total obedience to His Father. That should be our aim, too.
Paul told us to aim for perfection in 2 Cor.13:11, and He was the apostle who also told us that we are no longer under law and under it's curse for disobedience, but grace and told us that we are saved by faith not works. But He also spoke often, as Jesus did about living godly lives and obeying the commands of Christ and some that He, himself commanded.
Any Christian that thinks that they can live simple faith in absence of obedience to God is fooling himself, as James speaks of in his epistle. In chapter 1 21-25 he speaks of being a doer of the word. And he explains how good works follow faith in chapter 2 mentioning that with Abraham, who was justified by faith in verse 22 says that, "Do you see that faith was working together with his faith and by works was made perfect, concerning his obedience to offer Isaac. In verse 26 he said this, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead."
The point is that true believers will live by faith because they have been made just by the work of Christ, but living by faith means living for the will of God to be manifested in our lives, as Abraham desired. Faith and obedience go hand in hand in a believer's life. One without the other is not a true Christian walk that honors God and respects the work of Christ on our behalf.
I agree with what others have shared.
I would say the evidence of faith will result in obedience.
That obedience is not always resisting evil or wrong doing.
It's also not just you complying to a command. IT'S CHANGE!
True faith causes change that results in Obedience.
"Your heart" is obeying all of scripture that APPLIES TO YOU.
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:13.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
My understanding they are part of each other. Obedience is dependent on our faith that we live by with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The first Adam broke the relationship and God's dwelling place in man when he was disobedient in eating from that tree. Faith can be measured through our obedience which is the visible expression of our faith.
The Bible says that Jesus learned obedience from what He suffered and was made perfect, Heb. 8:5. Jesus gave us perfect examples of being obedient He did nothing of His own it was the Father's will not His, Luke 4:18 John 5:30 John 14:10. When Jesus was in the garden just before He was taken, He asked the Father if there was a different way but not His will but the Father's, Luke 22:42 but Jesus was obedient unto death.
We cannot be saved by works; we cannot earn our salvation. Is being obedient considered works? My understanding is no. Obedience is not an option it is a command, we either obey or disobey like the first Adam. If we are obedient, we are dutiful and compliant to His commands.
Our faith, Heb.1:1 by the grace of God that we fully trust Him regardless of what we may face, not with our logic but with His, and the promises God has given us, our hope is not in this world but the eternal one that our hope is in, that with patience we wait and watch for to come.
May others word it better to help your study.
God bless,
RLW
Romans 12:5-21,
Not forgetting: James 2:15-20,
Hopefully these are helpful
Case #2 Twisting scriptures
Ah; now we are getting into the enemy's camp. Most of us probably are familiar with Christ's dialogue with Satan when being tempted in the wilderness ( Matthew 4:1-11). Here there was no issue with the LITERAL interpretation of scripture but it's application. Satan wanted worship for Himself so he first used the temptation to satisfy hunger; then that of ending suffering through self destruction and finally worship for himself. In the first two cases he used scripture as his ammo. In the last case his true intentions came out; i.e. for him to be worshipped as God. Christ did the "knockout punch" there with the command to worship only God alone. Satan didn't have to use scripture to prove his point as later verses in the N.T. indicate that he has been given temporary power over the world system and Principalities in high places ( Eph. 6:12). He also knew that Jesus wouldn't be fooled by some other "religious" writings since He was the Son of God. ( James 2:19
James 2:13, Luke 9:58, Matthew 8:20, Luke 2:7, Hebrews 4:15-16
Hopefully this is encouraging
James 5:9, "brethren" "lest you be condemned" James 5, in context
Points out, these for-sure think they are 'saved' entitled" to enter they even boast of the Religiousness, Matthew 7:21-24, "Many will say in that day Lord, Lord, have we not ._._." & those who actually feel unworthy, were/are welcomed. Matthew 25:37-40. When anyone starts thinking they're all deserving we need beware by being aware! Because pride comes before a fall'' Proverbs 16:18,
Matthew 7:21 "._._. but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" Micah 6:8, James 1:27,
2Timothy 2:15,
With much study there indicates the treatment of "the least of these" is a major weight to GOD ALMIGHTY throughout the scriptures, Old & New Testament. Luke 12:45-47, note (abusive treatment towards people having less authority,) "._._ will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers" context Luke 12, indicating these are "believers"
Please notice
James 2:13-19, "For he shall have judgement without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgement. What doth it profit my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say thou hast faith, and I have works: Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; Thou doest well: The devils also believe and tremble." James 2 in context
Hopefully these are helpful
Hopefully these are helpful in your discussion & study
2)The fact that God determines that all sins are capital offenses means that no sinner should feel themselves to be more righteous than another. James puts it this way.-to be found guilty of sin at one point is to be guilty of all sins. ( James 2:1-8)
God's Law refuses to distinguish between sins and crimes. As a rule, governments do not concern themselves with moral sins, but rather with social evils that they determine to be crimes. Governments do not concern themselves with what is termed sins (those actions that are against God) but with crimes, (offenses against other human persons).
The capital sins of Leviticus 20 are those sins that the Canaanites would not have considered to be crimes at all. God's people are especially responsible for sins that are not crimes (as those in Leviticus 20 show).
a) the sins which are not crimes are those acts which our culture will encourage us to commit.
b) the sins which are not crimes do not seem to have immediate natural (nor dire) consequences.
When God made certain sins crimes for the Israelites, they were strongly motivated to obey God's Law and to avoid sin because they wanted to live and not be put to death.
Their lifestyle was to be distinct from the people of the surrounding nations. Disobedience and defilement will lead to expulsion from the land promised (Lev.18:24-30; 20;22-26)
God's standards of holiness are much higher than man's sense of morality even at its best. Today's Christians must wake up to the fact that living a godly life requires much more than being a law-abiding citizen. (Some laws are anti-christian and some things that are legal are still sinful). Let us live higher than the law demands for avoiding sin requires this ( Mt. 5:43-48, 1 Peter 2:4). Civil Law can define what is a crime, but God defines what is a sin, not me, not you, not any other being, human, angelic, or demonic.