"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?")
You see a similar verse here in
1 John 3:17. "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, HOW DWELLETH THE LOVE OF GOD IN HIM?"
The love of God IN YOU CAUSES YOU TO RESPOND WITH WORKS, It's a fruit of the spirit. you're "persuaded" From within.
You're not acting out faith or manifestating faith.
You're persuaded!!
If you don't respond "putting in the work" You are not persuaded!
Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
These scriptures don't contradict. Faith is dead without works and works is dead without Faith. God is not in you until he saves you and if you are not saved no matter what you do you can't please him. It is Christ faith in you that causes you to work!! This is why in James 2:18 he says "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."
God doesn't accept works from a unclean person "the unsaved" in a attempt to make himself righteous.
Men righteousness is as filthy rags. If you are saved by faith you will work, If you won't work, your faith is vain.
I agree that some perceive these as conflicting verses, but just because some assume something is contradictory does not make it so.
Why can't both verses be true?
Ephesians 2:8-9 is true that we are saved by grace alone through faith and James 2:17 is also true that faith without works is dead. Why exactly can't these both be true? The entire chapter of James 2 already explains this. For instance James 2:18 "...shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works." Isn't it possible that faith and belief is like an overall umbrella and the fruit are good deeds and works that can flow through as a result of genuine faith? And if no works, then it would be like the parable of the sower in Luke 8. The scriptures do not contradict each other.
Romans 2 also explains this. Romans 2:13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.
People seem to like to cherry pick and pluck out only Ephesians 2:8-9 and ignore James 2:17. Or, some may pluck out only James 2:17 and ignore Ephesians 2:8-9. But the reality is it is both. Both are God's word and both are true. All of the scriptures must be taken cohesively in context.
I believe this can happen with other topics too. For instance, yes, someone can just read John 3:16, and conclude that only "believing" is all someone needs. While true, it's assumed it's genuine belief is active and would also include Acts 2:38, which introduces more actions such as repenting, and being baptized. These are not contradictions as some may assume. They instead compliment each other and are both true. People can get a simple understanding with light reading of broad statements and a deeper understanding by deeper study. I think this is by design. Some believe the Bible is a living Word of God and that the more we read that God can supernaturally reveal more and more insights that we didn't notice the first time.
James 1:18 Here the apostle reveals our spirit as being saved, by using two words, begat and firstfruits, both of which speak about the human spirit as being resurrected. When reading Psalms 2:7 and Hebrews 1:5 the word begat or begotten refers unto the day when God would resurrect the body of the Lord Jesus, thus creating the doctrine of resurrection in interpretation. Then in Leviticus 23 we are taught of the feast known as the firstfruits, the first feast happened on April 14 as the Passover, then the next feast called unleavened bread happened on April 15, finally on April the 16TH the feast of firstfruits took place. These three feats speak about Christ dying on Friday as our Passover, in the grave on Saturday as our unleavened bread, and rose the third day being Sunday, as our first fruits. It was the third day that God resurrected him, meaning the name reveals the resurrection. 1 Cor.15:23
James 1:21 Here is this verse the apostle now deals with the salvation of the soul as being separate from that of the spirit, for he insists that our soul will be saved by the engrafted word, not by faith without works in Calvary. Now we know that the only thing that was engrafted into every Christian on the day of salvation as an unconditional promise was the Ten Commandments in the heart, also known as the new covenant. For this reason he continues to teach in chapter 2 about this very thought and testified that faith without works is dead, meaning when it comes to saving our souls, rather we must have faith with works, from obeying with meekness the Ten Commandments written in the heart, he calls this the royal law and the law of liberty in James 2:8 and 2:12
James 2:8 and :12 both the royal law and the law of liberty are the same law, this refers unto the Law of God, also known as the Moral Law. For the Christian, this law was written in the heart of every believer on the day of salvation as part of all unconditional promises, which is also known as the new covenant. The significance of this law, is that it alone has the power to save our soul, after our spirit was saved by faith without works. James 1:21 Meaning if we would through meekness obey this engrafted word that was written in our hearts on the day of salvation, then can we now obtain the salvation of our soul.
So we have the same punishment for sin. ref Romans 6:23-for the wages of SIN is death... this means sin is sin and it has the same punishment. Remember even in the garden off Eden as Adam and Eve ate of the tree of good and evil God pre warned that the day they eat from that tree they will surely die.
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James 2:10-11. when we break one part of the law it deemed as breaking the whole law. Death has always been the punishment but we have consequences of our sins. ref: 1 John 5:17 "All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death
your second question:
well i haven't come across the exact word you used LIE-MURDERER but 1 John 3:15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
when you hate your brother you CAN lie about him also.
Hello! I'd like to point out that when one of the Apostles asked Jesus Christ to teach him how to pray, he instructed them all, and us by association, to pray to God Luke 11:1-13. To wit, we are to pray to God, our Father, not to Mary.
We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God, Romans 3:23. Therefore, we have all broken God's ten commandments. When we break one, we are guilty of breaking them all, James 2:10-20.
Jesus is the only way to Heaven. He told Nicodemus that a man must be born again to enter Heaven, John 3:3. No man comes to the Father but by Jesus, John 14:6.
To be born again:
Romans 10:9-13 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
For one the law wasn't given to Gentiles it was given to Israel. I wasn't given to JUSTIFY anyone for salvation.
Galatians 5:4. "Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; YE ARE FALLEN FROM GRACE."
Here's a few scriptures to study:
Please don't just read these Scriptures, Study them!! These are very important Scriptures that is ignored by some. Understanding these scriptures can help keep one from being deceived atleast in this area anyway.
Galatians 3:1-29.
Galatians Ch 4 and 5.
2 Corinthians 3:6-14.
Also study.
Hebrews 8:1-13 and
Hebrews 9:1-28.
It's interesting what you will find in Hebrews when ministering the first covenant. It WASN'T about just being obedient to the 10 commandments, There were services that had to be performed to extreme precision.
There was the high priest that ministered THOSE services under THAT covenant in a WORLDLY sanctuary. The services had to be rendered perfectly but they couldn't make you perfect. They had no effect on the heart of man. Men heart is incurably wicked. The new covenant where Christ is the High priest He came to give you a new Heart and the REST that the old covenant couldn't give. Because no one could keep or be justified by the old covenant.
Why is it that those who desire to add their means of justifying themselves they choose what they think is the easiest to do and not realize in their lusty heart they break the commandments.
James 2:10.
Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Matthew 5:27-28.
What should be asked and a great concern is what should salvation look like in a believer because many shall be deceived.
First of all shall you continue in sin?
Paul answers that here in
Romans 6:1-4.
We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through us. Titus 3:4-6.
We have eternal life now that can bare fruit such as faith ect...
This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18.
What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in him by his works. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.
When you are saved, you are baptized into Christ. It is he that works in you. Philippians 2:13.
Also;
Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, THAT HE WHICH HATH BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL PERFORM IT UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST:
If you can loose your salvation all these scriptures means nothing.
Here's another scripture often used.
John 14:15. "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Well look at the next verse.
Vs 16. "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, THAT HE MAY ABIDE WITH YOU FOR EVER; This Love is a fruit, so who is causing you to Love Christ? CHRIST SPIRIT, The HG.
Most people say you can loose your salvation also believes you can earn salvation which you can't do. And if they hold to that it's sad to say but the scripture says they have fallen from Grace. Galatians 5:4.
I believe this means comes up short.
Now if you come up short you will hear this. "And then will I profess unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matthew 7:23.
I never knew you can never be told to a believer because of this verse. "My sheep hear my voice,.... AND I KNOW THEM,.... and they follow me: John 10:27.
Now if a person have habitual sin in their life, Chances are you're not saved. And you can't loose what you don't have.
This is a common question and that's even one of the FAQs: Link
My question is if it was impossible for Christians to lose salvation, then why did Jesus warn His followers so many times to avoid sin? They were literal Christians in that they literally followed Christ around and remember all the challenges and parables He spoke? Most involved being separate from those thrown into the fire. Jesus never said to relax and don't worry, and enjoy the world, including sin, because there's no consequences anymore. One would think that satan would say that. That doesn't mean people earn heaven by works, as it's only grace, but being allowed into heaven is conditional on being a legit follower of Christ, meaning actually doing what He says! James 1:22. And sadly most people won't make it, and probably many of them think they're 'good' and entitled to get in, and some may even call themselves Christians. Matthew 7:21-23
Also, if all you have to do to get to heaven is just believe, then why does the Bible say this? James 2:19. The fact is that satan is roaming to deceive people, even among Christians. Is he deceiving people into being 'gooder' than they need to be or is it more likely he is deceiving people into assuming rationalizing evil and assuming they're saved when they are actually disrespecting and spitting on Jesus? Hebrews 10:26. This should deeply scare some people and they should feel it in their heart if this applies to them.
Instead Jesus kept warning Christians and everyone over and over and challenging them. Paul also was frustrated with some of the Christians who were going astray and read what he wrote in his letters to them. Paul said to run the race to get the prize. He didn't say the race is already won, so go sin as much as you want. There's lots of scripture echoing this, but these are easy to find and there's lists in that page above too. Also the idea of being able to commit horrible sins as a Christian and still go to heaven contradicts scripture in blasphemy of the holy ghost, because it clearly says no one will be forgiven of that.
Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
2 Corinthians 5:10 - all will be judged, including Christians. Some like to assume they get to skip that as if they have a free pass . It clearly says ALL, not some, and not just non-Christians.
Godly sorrow leads to repentance; worldly sorrow to death. ( 2 Cor. 7:10). Note that it also leads to salvation and no regret.
This is illustrated with Peter who clearly knew Christ; but he in a sense had to be "converted" ( Luke 22:32) from the mindset of his old nature. This would be accomplished after the Resurrection and confirmed by the questioning of Christ as to whether he loved Him and the prophesied death for Christ that he would have to endure in the future ( John 21:18).
Judas Iscariot was only sorry for the consequences of what he did and still only saw Christ as the world did; a good man. Satan had held him for years with his greed and of course he betrayed Christ for a pittance: 30 pieces of silver. This suicidal mindset was probably a result of Satan's hypnotic pull suddenly ending; perhaps when whatever human conscience he had finally recovered. There was never any recognition given of Christ's Holiness nor was Judas ever rebuked by Him as Peter often was and no doubt everyone else. He "rebukes all those He loves" ( Rev. 3:19). Even though the other disciples ran away they still stayed from afar to witness what was happening. Judas couldn't face that. It is tragic that he could get to see the Resurrection 3 days later. He only faced an end to all meaningful existence in his mind; not realizing that he then should have sought repentance and a right standing with God. It is the sin nature which is the root cause; and we need to be Born Again to put our old self to death.
Galatians 5:4 discusses "falling from grace" in terms of attempting to follow the law again and whoever breaks it is accursed; where anyone who breaks the law even in one area according to James 2:10 breaks it all. Falling from grace would mean once trusting in grace then going back to the law; hence never really having a salvation experience where we are enlightened to grace being needed and our own helpless ability to follow the Lord. (see Romans 8:5-8).
Even if I say Giannis has explained it very well, if you not "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." 2 Peter 1:20-1. I can only perceived by reading "Nats if Jesus is God" you are still searching if Jesus Christ is God. I would be happy to show you how to be saved and obtain the Holy Spirit. Only then the verses you have inquired about will make sense to you because the Holy Spirit will guide you to the truth.
In John 10:36 Jesus Christ himself said He is the Son of God. If you read the entire conversation between the unbelieving Jews and Jesus Christ they will not believe no matter how anybody explained it to them. It is already prophesied in Isaiah 6:9-10, Isaiah 42:20; Jeremiah 5:21; Acts 28:27; Roman's 11.8
In John 14:28 the situation was that Jesus was about to fulfill another prophesy and that was to die on the cross for the sins of the world 1 John 2:2. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Colossians 2:2-3. When Jesus was buried and rose again the third day according to the scriptures, Jesus fulfilled what God the Father sent Jesus to do on earth. The mystery is that God the Father is greater than Jesus the Son of God. Remember Jesus came to Virgin Mary from God the Father. Then Jesus has to go unto the Father after Jesus rose the third day so the Comforter (i.e. Holy Spirit) will be fulfilled. John 14:16; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7. There is only one God. Romans 3:30; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6; 1 Timothy 2:5; James 2:19. Hope this helps and that you be saved soon. Good question.
Thank you David. You wrote: "how are we born dead in trespasses and sins before being born again of holy spirit." I tried finding this reference in the Bible & the best I could do, was in Ephesians 2:1, "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins." Maybe you have another verse that you're thinking of, so I'd be interested to look at that.
So, using my Ephesians 2:1 verse, I understand that Paul is saying that after sin was imputed to us (through committing the first act), then we died spiritually. Physically alive, but spiritually dead - but God, through His Son, has quickened (enlivened) us, that our spirits might become alive God-wards & not dead, once upon a time having our spirits inclined only towards evil. So, I can't see where we are "BORN dead in trespasses & sins" - I believe that we can only die spiritually after we sin & its imputation to us & not at birth.
Re: "body, soul, & spirit". As I shared in another thread, this triunity of man is given us in the womb - though obviously undeveloped & without expression. I don't understand if you're stating that before our spiritual re-birth, we had only a body & 'breath life soul', without a spirit? Maybe, you're equating the arrival of our spirit only upon the onset of our spiritual rebirth. I could in a small way understand what you're saying (if that's what you're inferring), except for the volume of Scriptures indicating that a human (whatever his spiritual state) must have a human spirit to be alive.
I think these Scriptures reveal what I believe: Haggai 1:14; Job 32:8; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Proverbs 20:27; Zechariah 12:1; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Hebrews 4:12; James 2:26. I've picked a few verses specifically showing the evidence of a human spirit well before ever being touched by God's Spirit. If our spirits are untouched by God's Spirit (i.e. without rebirth), we remain spiritually dead towards God, but humanly alive & our spirits accountable to Him in that coming day.
I would like to use a verse that almost every believer probably has memorized, and it is John 3:16 which says, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth (in him) should not perish, but have everlasting life.
But is that all it takes to have everlasting life, just to believe in Jesus? I would have to say no. Believing in Jesus is a must, but just believing alone cannot save a person.
Here's something I would like to share about John 3:16, and other verses that use the word in. First of all, in John 3:16, the original text does not say whosoever believeth in Him. It says whosoever believeth into Him. It is the word EIS which means into, not in. This is very important because there is a difference between believing in and believing into Jesus.
You see, a person can believe in Jesus but still not surrender their life to Him. Their belief will not save them. They must experience a Spiritual birth from above. They must receive Christ. They must transfer that belief in Him to a belief into him, meaning they must be born of His Spirit (Spiritual birth), them in Christ and Christ in them.
When I read verses that say believe in Jesus, especially John 3:16, I already know that in the original text it says believe into, not believe in. And again, there is a difference. There are people who will say that all you have to do to be saved and have eternal life is believe in Jesus. But that is not true. Again, belief is important but will not save a person.
The bible tells us in James 2:19 that even the demons believe in Jesus. They know who He is but they will never surrender their life to Him. They will never believe into Him.
Titus 3:4-6. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of REGENERATION, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Which he shed on us abundantly THROUGH Jesus Christ our Saviour;
Let's look at this word regeneration. Greek:
Transliteration: paliggenesia
Pronunciation: pal-ing-ghen-es-ee'-ah
Definition: From G3825 and G1078; (spiritual) rebirth (the state or the act) that is (figuratively) spiritual renovation; specifically Messianic restoration: - regeneration.
We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through you.
So we have the words Quickening.
Greek:
Transliteration: zopoie
Pronunciation: dzo-op-oy-eh'-o
Definition: From the same as G2226 and G4160; to (re-) vitalize (literally or figuratively): - make alive give life quicken.
KJV Usage: quicken(9x), give life(2x), make alive(1x).
It means to make alive or give life.
Here in
1 Corinthians 15:45.
We know Jesus is that Quickening spirit which is also the Holyspirit that gives life in Romans 8:11-14.
( If you notice verse 14 you have to be led by the Spirit.)
A life now that can bare fruit such as faith.
This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
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.
What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in me by his work. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.
This is why the Lord says you shall know them by their fruits. It doesn't say you shall know them by their works! You see your fruits is something only God can produce such as Love/Agape, Faith, ect.. and fruit determines what type of works it is. "OF God/Spirit. or of Self/flesh. Matthew 7:15-20.
Matthew 4:1, Mark 14:38, Luke 8:55, Luke 11:13, Luke 23:46, Luke 24:39, John 3:5,6, John 4:23,24, John 6:63, John 14:17, 1Corinthians 12:3, 1Corinthians 15:45, Galatians 5:16,17, Galatians 5:22-25, Galatians 6:8, Ephesians 1:17, 1Thessalonians 5:23, James 2:26,
Romans 8, Hebrews 4:12,
Warning, 1Timothy 4:1,
1John 4:1-11, 1John 4,
Hopefully these are helpful in your study of your spirit & flesh; (body)
Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
1 Cor 9:24-27 run the race
Matthew 12:31-32
Romans 14:12
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
2 Peter 2:20-21
Romans 11
Hebrews 6:4-6
Important to read all scripture in its full context, not just cherry pick. When reading in context its obvious from countless passages, parables, teachings that God wants us to obey him! Satan deceives believers into assuming doing evil is ok; it's not.
James 2:18 To this the apostle replies, that the two things referred to, faith and works, were not independent things, which could exist separately, without the one materially influencing another--as, for example, charity and chastity, zeal and meekness; but that the one was the germ or source of the other, and that the existence of the one was to be known only by its developing itself in the form of the other. A man could not show that he possessed the one unless it developed itself in the form of the other. In proof of this, he could boldly appeal to any one to show a case where faith existed without works. He was himself willing to submit to this just trial in regard to this point, and to demonstrate the existence of his own faith by his works.
Shew me thy faith without thy works. That is, you who maintain that faith is enough to prove the existence of religion; that a man may be justified and saved by that alone, or where it does not develope itself in holy living; or that all that is necessary in order to be saved is merely to believe. Let the reality of any such faith as that be shown, if it can be; let any real faith be shown to exist without a life of good works, and the point will be settled. I, says the apostle, will undertake to exhibit the evidence of my faith in a different way-- in a way about which there can be no doubt, and which is the appropriate method. It is clear, if the common reading here is correct, that the apostle meant to deny that true faith could be evinced without appropriate works. It should be said, however, that there is a difference of reading here of considerable importance. Many manuscripts and printed editions of the New Testament, instead of without [works--cwriV], read from or by, (ek,) as in the other part of the verse, "show me thy faith by thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works." This reading is found in Walton, Wetstein, Mill, and in the received text generally;
But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: ( Titus 2:1)
We are saved by grace through faith.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: ( Ephesians 2:8)
And Jesus said the to woman who anointed His feet,
And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace. ( Luke 7:30)
But James teaches,
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. ( James 2:26)
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. ( James 2:17)
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. ( James 2:18)
Therefore, James and Paul contradict.
And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. ( Romans 11:6)
Consequently, we are saved by both faith and works, which says both James and Paul are inspired and not one over the other.
And Christ's apostles will judge
when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Thank You Lord for all the brethren and those who are seeking Your truth on this forum. I've enjoyed the discussions and I pray that the truth many are searching for will be received in the mighty name of CHRIST.
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
"I need Thee every hour most gracious LORD, No tender voice like Thine can peace afford.
I need Thee, O I Thee every hour I need Thee. O bless me now, my Savior I come to Thee."
Author(refrain): Robert Lowry(1872); Author:Annie S. Hawks (1872) Tune: NEED (Lowry)
We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by "THE FAITH "OF" CHRIST", even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Who's faith? CHRIST FAITH! We were lacking faith it had to be given to us! Ephesians 2:8-9.
Some have objected to this interpretation, saying that faith (pistis) is feminine, while that (touto) is neuter. That poses no problem, however, as long as it is understood that that does not refer precisely to the noun faith but to the act of believing. Further, this interpretation makes the best sense of the text, since if that refers to by grace you have been saved through faith (that is, to the whole statement), the adding of and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God would be redundant, because grace is defined as an unearned act of God. If salvation is of grace, it has to be an undeserved gift of God. Faith is presented as a gift from God in 2 Peter 1:1, Philippians 1:29, and Acts 3:16.
Boy is that humbling! We can't produce faith, there is nothing to boast on that either!
That is why some say you can lose your salvation, and no one is saved until the Judgement.
THEY'RE NOT SURE. "VOID OF CHRIST FAITH"
Just believing is his name don't cut it either.
John 2;23-24. "Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many "BELIEVED IN HIS NAME", when they saw the miracles which he did. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,
You have to believe in his work, through the Holyspirit. (FAITH OF CHRIST)
Romans 10:9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and SHALT BELIEVE IN THY HEART THAT GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, thou shalt be saved.
Israel was established as a nation in 1948! No pun but your timeline is a bit off! At least 74 years off! There's a few missing links that has to connect that we're embarking upon before the "Second Coming" ie soon rise of the Antichrist taking his platform world center stage bringing his false peacehis mark the RFIDCHIP IN the hand and forehead Rev13:15-18 globally mandated but already here and many have already been deceived into taking it Rev.19:20global martyrdom of true followers of Jesus Yashua that missed the marriage supper of the Lamb! Not all Saints are invited Rev.19:6 the ready remnant raptured 1 Thes.4:13-18 Matt.24:40-42 will be there while the great tribulation is transpiring that the ready Remnant will be spared from! Rev.3:10 Luke 21:36 Not to mention the one world religion ran by the false prophet aka Pope F who already established his headquarters in Dubai to get the ball rolling and already has laws and consequences in place ready for those who violate their "Chrislam" Religion! You see many folk especially tragically the "Saints" don't realize we're a lot further along in Bible prophecy than many folk believe! Luke 12:56 Repent from sin Acts 3:19 after receiving Jesus in your heart and His Holy Spirit (imperative) asking His forgiveness for all your sins loving Him with everything within you and each other as we love ourselves forgiving everyone! He only gives the Holy Ghost to those who OBEY Him! Acts 5:32 Ecc.12:13 1 John 2:4James 2:10 Let go of the cares of this life ie ungodly people places and things fast pray read His Word daily and spread His Gospel to those who will hear! Don't hold nothing back or there will be eternal consequences and will be held accountable when it's all said and done! Ez.3:18-21 We must be holy and strive for perfection DAILY! If it wasn't attainable or possible He wouldn't have written it! Our brother Job 1:1 proved that! Heb.12:14 1Pet.1:16 Matt.5:48 2 Cor.5:10 1John 3:6-11 Eph.5:27 Offic'ly warndYah bless!
Yes, according to the Bible. It also depends on one's definition of "saved" and when this event occurs. Are people saved while still on earth instantly after they say their first prayer, at some point later, or are they saved after they are judged by God Himself? What does the Bible say...
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race" (not the race was already won.)
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
1 Corinthians 4:5
2 Corinthians 5:10 whether "good or bad". People are sorted at this time.
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
OSAS believers: "Ok, but a Christian would never do that."
Christians no longer have freewill to sin?" Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
"OSAS: But no one has ever done that."
Sadly, many Christians fall away. Look at "ex-Christian" on Reddit with 107,000 members. Very prominent pastors have denounced faith and later denied Jesus is Lord.
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
Hebrews 6:4-6
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
The Moral law contains the Love and legal code God has for His Universe and beloved children. It is;
Written in stone by God's own finger - Exodus 31:18, Deuteronomy 4:12-13, 9:10
Has always existed & will be kept throughout eternity and throughout all the universe - Psalm 111:7,8, Romans 5:19 refers to Adam sinning in the Garden of Eden
Jesus said He did not come to destroy it but to fulfil it - Matt 5:17 - 19
Jesus said 'If you love me keep my commandments' John 14:15 and that 'He is the Lord of the Sabbath - Mark 2:28 - yet never mentions it being dissolved or changed
God's people are commanded to keep the Commandments of God for all eternity & God's people are identified by it because they keep it out of love to God and by faith - Exodus 19:5, Ecclesiastes 12:13,14, Psalm 111:7,8, Revelation 14:12, 12:17
Lives in the heart of God's children - Psalms 40:8
We are judged by them - James 2:12
Blessed with access to the Tree of Life if you keep them by faith - Revelation 22:14
Romans 10:2-5: "For I bear them record that they (Israel) have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them."
Again, "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth". To all who put their trust in Jesus, Christ's coming ended the Law that should have brought righteousness but failed. Nothing wrong with the Law - the problem was with man. The Law failed to achieve it - but faith in Christ & a new birth did, ending the demands of the Law that only brought death.
And there can't be any syncretism, coming under both the Law & under God's Grace. We cannot be justified by the Law - even keeping or trying to keep one Law & still claim Grace. Galatians 5:4; Romans 4:13,14. And the keeping of the Sabbath is just one of the ten Laws. Whoever wants to keep the Law is bound to keep them perfectly (all ten of them) James 2:10 - and there remains no avenue to claim Grace when under the Law.
May we walk in the Spirit, obeying the Spirit, that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us ( Romans 8:4) and not bound to the letter ( Romans 7:6; 2 Corinthians 3:6). The Sabbath Rest is not found in a day set aside for physical rest, but in a Person Whom we have sanctified in our hearts & lives. Blessings.
The Bible speaks to to salvation from sins and atonement for sins which is of grace for we had a debt we could not pay. When the Bible talks of eternal salvation it speaks of works. Some of the verses...... Hebrews 5:9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Luke 10:28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. (if he was alive was he saved?) John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. (if we don't abide in his love are we saved?) Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 19:16,17 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. (if we haven't enter into life, are we saved?) James 2:14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? (Read this chapter carefully. We want it to say that works are a result of salvation. I understand it to say that faith without works is dead for salvation). Rahab did nothing to have the opportunity to be saved (of grace), but she had to respond properly (stay in the house) to be saved. It might be beneficial to differentiate between the works of the law (which no flesh shall be justified) and the works and teachings of Jesus. The lawgiver proceeded out of Juda, not Levi. Genesis 49:10
This can be very encouraging to people and these are great verses.
It is worth considering that sometimes people try to simplify things by cutting out key verses about salvation, but its in the Bible for a reason and shouldn't be ignored. For example, the Bible over and over talks about obedience. If someone discards all these verses and assumes it will happen magically through the spirit and not their own freewill then they can be misled into following evil. Maybe they assume their sins don't count or matter or that God doesn't even care or they no longer have the freewill to sin, but the Bible doesn't say any of those things.
Maybe they their friends are going out drinking and doing "just a little" drugs, and going to a strip club "just a for a few minutes" and rob a store "sharing was done in Jesus's time" and commit a murder "just one who 'deserved' it". Then they go to church on Sunday and they are reminded of the above verses and not to worry about it as they are forgiven, so they do it again and again every weekend. Lying, cheating, stealing, assaulting, harming, idolatry, worshipping the world and satan.
This may throw a wet blanket on the simplicity of all the warm fuzzy verses cherry picked from the Bible, but life isn't simple and temptation of sin isn't simple. Sometimes someone SHOULD feel guilt and convicted by the holy spirit of evil that person has done. Some are deceived into believing they are "saved" when they are following satan and not Jesus. If they aren't following Jesus they may not be Christian and may not have assurance of salvation, but assume they are because someone told them not to worry about it.
There are many important Bible verses that people should heed about salvation and not simply throw them out:
In James 2:14-16. we have the context and resolve
"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?")
You see a similar verse here in
1 John 3:17. "But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, HOW DWELLETH THE LOVE OF GOD IN HIM?"
The love of God IN YOU CAUSES YOU TO RESPOND WITH WORKS, It's a fruit of the spirit. you're "persuaded" From within.
You're not acting out faith or manifestating faith.
You're persuaded!!
If you don't respond "putting in the work" You are not persuaded!
Philippians 2:13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
These scriptures don't contradict. Faith is dead without works and works is dead without Faith. God is not in you until he saves you and if you are not saved no matter what you do you can't please him. It is Christ faith in you that causes you to work!! This is why in James 2:18 he says "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."
God doesn't accept works from a unclean person "the unsaved" in a attempt to make himself righteous.
Men righteousness is as filthy rags. If you are saved by faith you will work, If you won't work, your faith is vain.
God bless.
I agree that some perceive these as conflicting verses, but just because some assume something is contradictory does not make it so.
Why can't both verses be true?
Ephesians 2:8-9 is true that we are saved by grace alone through faith and James 2:17 is also true that faith without works is dead. Why exactly can't these both be true? The entire chapter of James 2 already explains this. For instance James 2:18 "...shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works." Isn't it possible that faith and belief is like an overall umbrella and the fruit are good deeds and works that can flow through as a result of genuine faith? And if no works, then it would be like the parable of the sower in Luke 8. The scriptures do not contradict each other.
Romans 2 also explains this. Romans 2:13 (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.
People seem to like to cherry pick and pluck out only Ephesians 2:8-9 and ignore James 2:17. Or, some may pluck out only James 2:17 and ignore Ephesians 2:8-9. But the reality is it is both. Both are God's word and both are true. All of the scriptures must be taken cohesively in context.
I believe this can happen with other topics too. For instance, yes, someone can just read John 3:16, and conclude that only "believing" is all someone needs. While true, it's assumed it's genuine belief is active and would also include Acts 2:38, which introduces more actions such as repenting, and being baptized. These are not contradictions as some may assume. They instead compliment each other and are both true. People can get a simple understanding with light reading of broad statements and a deeper understanding by deeper study. I think this is by design. Some believe the Bible is a living Word of God and that the more we read that God can supernaturally reveal more and more insights that we didn't notice the first time.
Do you believe the Bible is 100% true and is God's word?
Yes, I do Adam.
If so, do you believe Jesus is the Word as it says in John 1:14 and that He is God and created everything as it says in John 1:1-3?
Yes, I do Adam.
And do you believe Ephesians 2:8-9 is true that we're saved by grace and not by works?
I believe both writings of James and Paul, meaning, we are saved by both grace and works because the two apostles contradict each other.
Going back to your first question,
Do you believe the Bible is 100% true and is God's word?
Yes, meaning, I don't believe Paul over James nor James over Paul but I believe both are teaching true doctrines making the entire Bible 100% true.
Paul says,
We are saved by grace through faith and not by works for if it is by works it is no more grace. (Ephesians and Romans)
Grace comes through faith...
And James says,
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. ( James 2:26)
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. ( James 2:17)
The only conclusion to these doctrines and believing the Bible 100% and not just parts of it would be to say we are saved both by works and grace.
Making what the Book of Mormon prophet Nephi says,
We are saved by grace, after all we can doa true doctrine.
And solidifying Isaiah's doctrine which says,
They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine. ( Isaiah 29:24)
Which, I believe, is speaking about the Book of Mormon.
Adam, do you believe Paul is correct? and do you believe James is also correct?
Hopefully these help
James 1:21 Here is this verse the apostle now deals with the salvation of the soul as being separate from that of the spirit, for he insists that our soul will be saved by the engrafted word, not by faith without works in Calvary. Now we know that the only thing that was engrafted into every Christian on the day of salvation as an unconditional promise was the Ten Commandments in the heart, also known as the new covenant. For this reason he continues to teach in chapter 2 about this very thought and testified that faith without works is dead, meaning when it comes to saving our souls, rather we must have faith with works, from obeying with meekness the Ten Commandments written in the heart, he calls this the royal law and the law of liberty in James 2:8 and 2:12
your first question:
It all about what the Bible says.
So we have the same punishment for sin. ref Romans 6:23-for the wages of SIN is death... this means sin is sin and it has the same punishment. Remember even in the garden off Eden as Adam and Eve ate of the tree of good and evil God pre warned that the day they eat from that tree they will surely die.
."
James 2:10-11. when we break one part of the law it deemed as breaking the whole law. Death has always been the punishment but we have consequences of our sins. ref: 1 John 5:17 "All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death
your second question:
well i haven't come across the exact word you used LIE-MURDERER but 1 John 3:15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
when you hate your brother you CAN lie about him also.
i will remember your son in prayers too. Amen
We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God, Romans 3:23. Therefore, we have all broken God's ten commandments. When we break one, we are guilty of breaking them all, James 2:10-20.
Jesus is the only way to Heaven. He told Nicodemus that a man must be born again to enter Heaven, John 3:3. No man comes to the Father but by Jesus, John 14:6.
To be born again:
Romans 10:9-13 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Scripture agrees with what Luke has spoken.
For one the law wasn't given to Gentiles it was given to Israel. I wasn't given to JUSTIFY anyone for salvation.
Galatians 5:4. "Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; YE ARE FALLEN FROM GRACE."
Here's a few scriptures to study:
Please don't just read these Scriptures, Study them!! These are very important Scriptures that is ignored by some. Understanding these scriptures can help keep one from being deceived atleast in this area anyway.
Galatians 3:1-29.
Galatians Ch 4 and 5.
2 Corinthians 3:6-14.
Also study.
Hebrews 8:1-13 and
Hebrews 9:1-28.
It's interesting what you will find in Hebrews when ministering the first covenant. It WASN'T about just being obedient to the 10 commandments, There were services that had to be performed to extreme precision.
There was the high priest that ministered THOSE services under THAT covenant in a WORLDLY sanctuary. The services had to be rendered perfectly but they couldn't make you perfect. They had no effect on the heart of man. Men heart is incurably wicked. The new covenant where Christ is the High priest He came to give you a new Heart and the REST that the old covenant couldn't give. Because no one could keep or be justified by the old covenant.
Why is it that those who desire to add their means of justifying themselves they choose what they think is the easiest to do and not realize in their lusty heart they break the commandments.
James 2:10.
Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Matthew 5:27-28.
Study those chapters.
God bless.
What should be asked and a great concern is what should salvation look like in a believer because many shall be deceived.
First of all shall you continue in sin?
Paul answers that here in
Romans 6:1-4.
We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through us. Titus 3:4-6.
We have eternal life now that can bare fruit such as faith ect...
This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18.
What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in him by his works. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.
When you are saved, you are baptized into Christ. It is he that works in you. Philippians 2:13.
Also;
Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, THAT HE WHICH HATH BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL PERFORM IT UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST:
If you can loose your salvation all these scriptures means nothing.
Here's another scripture often used.
John 14:15. "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Well look at the next verse.
Vs 16. "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, THAT HE MAY ABIDE WITH YOU FOR EVER; This Love is a fruit, so who is causing you to Love Christ? CHRIST SPIRIT, The HG.
Most people say you can loose your salvation also believes you can earn salvation which you can't do. And if they hold to that it's sad to say but the scripture says they have fallen from Grace. Galatians 5:4.
I believe this means comes up short.
Now if you come up short you will hear this. "And then will I profess unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matthew 7:23.
I never knew you can never be told to a believer because of this verse. "My sheep hear my voice,.... AND I KNOW THEM,.... and they follow me: John 10:27.
Now if a person have habitual sin in their life, Chances are you're not saved. And you can't loose what you don't have.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
This is a common question and that's even one of the FAQs: Link
My question is if it was impossible for Christians to lose salvation, then why did Jesus warn His followers so many times to avoid sin? They were literal Christians in that they literally followed Christ around and remember all the challenges and parables He spoke? Most involved being separate from those thrown into the fire. Jesus never said to relax and don't worry, and enjoy the world, including sin, because there's no consequences anymore. One would think that satan would say that. That doesn't mean people earn heaven by works, as it's only grace, but being allowed into heaven is conditional on being a legit follower of Christ, meaning actually doing what He says! James 1:22. And sadly most people won't make it, and probably many of them think they're 'good' and entitled to get in, and some may even call themselves Christians. Matthew 7:21-23
Also, if all you have to do to get to heaven is just believe, then why does the Bible say this? James 2:19. The fact is that satan is roaming to deceive people, even among Christians. Is he deceiving people into being 'gooder' than they need to be or is it more likely he is deceiving people into assuming rationalizing evil and assuming they're saved when they are actually disrespecting and spitting on Jesus? Hebrews 10:26. This should deeply scare some people and they should feel it in their heart if this applies to them.
Instead Jesus kept warning Christians and everyone over and over and challenging them. Paul also was frustrated with some of the Christians who were going astray and read what he wrote in his letters to them. Paul said to run the race to get the prize. He didn't say the race is already won, so go sin as much as you want. There's lots of scripture echoing this, but these are easy to find and there's lists in that page above too. Also the idea of being able to commit horrible sins as a Christian and still go to heaven contradicts scripture in blasphemy of the holy ghost, because it clearly says no one will be forgiven of that.
Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
2 Corinthians 5:10 - all will be judged, including Christians. Some like to assume they get to skip that as if they have a free pass . It clearly says ALL, not some, and not just non-Christians.
Hebrews 10:26
This is illustrated with Peter who clearly knew Christ; but he in a sense had to be "converted" ( Luke 22:32) from the mindset of his old nature. This would be accomplished after the Resurrection and confirmed by the questioning of Christ as to whether he loved Him and the prophesied death for Christ that he would have to endure in the future ( John 21:18).
Judas Iscariot was only sorry for the consequences of what he did and still only saw Christ as the world did; a good man. Satan had held him for years with his greed and of course he betrayed Christ for a pittance: 30 pieces of silver. This suicidal mindset was probably a result of Satan's hypnotic pull suddenly ending; perhaps when whatever human conscience he had finally recovered. There was never any recognition given of Christ's Holiness nor was Judas ever rebuked by Him as Peter often was and no doubt everyone else. He "rebukes all those He loves" ( Rev. 3:19). Even though the other disciples ran away they still stayed from afar to witness what was happening. Judas couldn't face that. It is tragic that he could get to see the Resurrection 3 days later. He only faced an end to all meaningful existence in his mind; not realizing that he then should have sought repentance and a right standing with God. It is the sin nature which is the root cause; and we need to be Born Again to put our old self to death.
Galatians 5:4 discusses "falling from grace" in terms of attempting to follow the law again and whoever breaks it is accursed; where anyone who breaks the law even in one area according to James 2:10 breaks it all. Falling from grace would mean once trusting in grace then going back to the law; hence never really having a salvation experience where we are enlightened to grace being needed and our own helpless ability to follow the Lord. (see Romans 8:5-8).
Even if I say Giannis has explained it very well, if you not "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." 2 Peter 1:20-1. I can only perceived by reading "Nats if Jesus is God" you are still searching if Jesus Christ is God. I would be happy to show you how to be saved and obtain the Holy Spirit. Only then the verses you have inquired about will make sense to you because the Holy Spirit will guide you to the truth.
In John 10:36 Jesus Christ himself said He is the Son of God. If you read the entire conversation between the unbelieving Jews and Jesus Christ they will not believe no matter how anybody explained it to them. It is already prophesied in Isaiah 6:9-10, Isaiah 42:20; Jeremiah 5:21; Acts 28:27; Roman's 11.8
In John 14:28 the situation was that Jesus was about to fulfill another prophesy and that was to die on the cross for the sins of the world 1 John 2:2. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Colossians 2:2-3. When Jesus was buried and rose again the third day according to the scriptures, Jesus fulfilled what God the Father sent Jesus to do on earth. The mystery is that God the Father is greater than Jesus the Son of God. Remember Jesus came to Virgin Mary from God the Father. Then Jesus has to go unto the Father after Jesus rose the third day so the Comforter (i.e. Holy Spirit) will be fulfilled. John 14:16; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7. There is only one God. Romans 3:30; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6; 1 Timothy 2:5; James 2:19. Hope this helps and that you be saved soon. Good question.
So, using my Ephesians 2:1 verse, I understand that Paul is saying that after sin was imputed to us (through committing the first act), then we died spiritually. Physically alive, but spiritually dead - but God, through His Son, has quickened (enlivened) us, that our spirits might become alive God-wards & not dead, once upon a time having our spirits inclined only towards evil. So, I can't see where we are "BORN dead in trespasses & sins" - I believe that we can only die spiritually after we sin & its imputation to us & not at birth.
Re: "body, soul, & spirit". As I shared in another thread, this triunity of man is given us in the womb - though obviously undeveloped & without expression. I don't understand if you're stating that before our spiritual re-birth, we had only a body & 'breath life soul', without a spirit? Maybe, you're equating the arrival of our spirit only upon the onset of our spiritual rebirth. I could in a small way understand what you're saying (if that's what you're inferring), except for the volume of Scriptures indicating that a human (whatever his spiritual state) must have a human spirit to be alive.
I think these Scriptures reveal what I believe: Haggai 1:14; Job 32:8; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Proverbs 20:27; Zechariah 12:1; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Hebrews 4:12; James 2:26. I've picked a few verses specifically showing the evidence of a human spirit well before ever being touched by God's Spirit. If our spirits are untouched by God's Spirit (i.e. without rebirth), we remain spiritually dead towards God, but humanly alive & our spirits accountable to Him in that coming day.
I would like to use a verse that almost every believer probably has memorized, and it is John 3:16 which says, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth (in him) should not perish, but have everlasting life.
But is that all it takes to have everlasting life, just to believe in Jesus? I would have to say no. Believing in Jesus is a must, but just believing alone cannot save a person.
Here's something I would like to share about John 3:16, and other verses that use the word in. First of all, in John 3:16, the original text does not say whosoever believeth in Him. It says whosoever believeth into Him. It is the word EIS which means into, not in. This is very important because there is a difference between believing in and believing into Jesus.
You see, a person can believe in Jesus but still not surrender their life to Him. Their belief will not save them. They must experience a Spiritual birth from above. They must receive Christ. They must transfer that belief in Him to a belief into him, meaning they must be born of His Spirit (Spiritual birth), them in Christ and Christ in them.
When I read verses that say believe in Jesus, especially John 3:16, I already know that in the original text it says believe into, not believe in. And again, there is a difference. There are people who will say that all you have to do to be saved and have eternal life is believe in Jesus. But that is not true. Again, belief is important but will not save a person.
The bible tells us in James 2:19 that even the demons believe in Jesus. They know who He is but they will never surrender their life to Him. They will never believe into Him.
Just thought I'd share this!
Titus 3:4-6. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of REGENERATION, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Which he shed on us abundantly THROUGH Jesus Christ our Saviour;
Let's look at this word regeneration. Greek:
Transliteration: paliggenesia
Pronunciation: pal-ing-ghen-es-ee'-ah
Definition: From G3825 and G1078; (spiritual) rebirth (the state or the act) that is (figuratively) spiritual renovation; specifically Messianic restoration: - regeneration.
We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through you.
So we have the words Quickening.
Greek:
Transliteration: zopoie
Pronunciation: dzo-op-oy-eh'-o
Definition: From the same as G2226 and G4160; to (re-) vitalize (literally or figuratively): - make alive give life quicken.
KJV Usage: quicken(9x), give life(2x), make alive(1x).
It means to make alive or give life.
Here in
1 Corinthians 15:45.
We know Jesus is that Quickening spirit which is also the Holyspirit that gives life in Romans 8:11-14.
( If you notice verse 14 you have to be led by the Spirit.)
A life now that can bare fruit such as faith.
This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
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.
What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in me by his work. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.
This is why the Lord says you shall know them by their fruits. It doesn't say you shall know them by their works! You see your fruits is something only God can produce such as Love/Agape, Faith, ect.. and fruit determines what type of works it is. "OF God/Spirit. or of Self/flesh. Matthew 7:15-20.
God bless.
Romans 8, Hebrews 4:12,
Warning, 1Timothy 4:1,
1John 4:1-11, 1John 4,
Hopefully these are helpful in your study of your spirit & flesh; (body)
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
1 Cor 9:24-27 run the race
Matthew 12:31-32
Romans 14:12
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
2 Peter 2:20-21
Romans 11
Hebrews 6:4-6
Important to read all scripture in its full context, not just cherry pick. When reading in context its obvious from countless passages, parables, teachings that God wants us to obey him! Satan deceives believers into assuming doing evil is ok; it's not.
James 2:18 To this the apostle replies, that the two things referred to, faith and works, were not independent things, which could exist separately, without the one materially influencing another--as, for example, charity and chastity, zeal and meekness; but that the one was the germ or source of the other, and that the existence of the one was to be known only by its developing itself in the form of the other. A man could not show that he possessed the one unless it developed itself in the form of the other. In proof of this, he could boldly appeal to any one to show a case where faith existed without works. He was himself willing to submit to this just trial in regard to this point, and to demonstrate the existence of his own faith by his works.
Shew me thy faith without thy works. That is, you who maintain that faith is enough to prove the existence of religion; that a man may be justified and saved by that alone, or where it does not develope itself in holy living; or that all that is necessary in order to be saved is merely to believe. Let the reality of any such faith as that be shown, if it can be; let any real faith be shown to exist without a life of good works, and the point will be settled. I, says the apostle, will undertake to exhibit the evidence of my faith in a different way-- in a way about which there can be no doubt, and which is the appropriate method. It is clear, if the common reading here is correct, that the apostle meant to deny that true faith could be evinced without appropriate works. It should be said, however, that there is a difference of reading here of considerable importance. Many manuscripts and printed editions of the New Testament, instead of without [works--cwriV], read from or by, (ek,) as in the other part of the verse, "show me thy faith by thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works." This reading is found in Walton, Wetstein, Mill, and in the received text generally;
We are saved by grace through faith.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: ( Ephesians 2:8)
And Jesus said the to woman who anointed His feet,
And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace. ( Luke 7:30)
But James teaches,
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. ( James 2:26)
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. ( James 2:17)
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. ( James 2:18)
Therefore, James and Paul contradict.
And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. ( Romans 11:6)
Consequently, we are saved by both faith and works, which says both James and Paul are inspired and not one over the other.
And Christ's apostles will judge
when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
"I need Thee every hour most gracious LORD, No tender voice like Thine can peace afford.
I need Thee, O I Thee every hour I need Thee. O bless me now, my Savior I come to Thee."
Author(refrain): Robert Lowry(1872); Author:Annie S. Hawks (1872) Tune: NEED (Lowry)
Praise the LORD.
July 14, 2022 Praying for our Nations leaders.
The faith of Christ.
Galatians 2:15-16.
We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by "THE FAITH "OF" CHRIST", even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Who's faith? CHRIST FAITH! We were lacking faith it had to be given to us! Ephesians 2:8-9.
Some have objected to this interpretation, saying that faith (pistis) is feminine, while that (touto) is neuter. That poses no problem, however, as long as it is understood that that does not refer precisely to the noun faith but to the act of believing. Further, this interpretation makes the best sense of the text, since if that refers to by grace you have been saved through faith (that is, to the whole statement), the adding of and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God would be redundant, because grace is defined as an unearned act of God. If salvation is of grace, it has to be an undeserved gift of God. Faith is presented as a gift from God in 2 Peter 1:1, Philippians 1:29, and Acts 3:16.
Boy is that humbling! We can't produce faith, there is nothing to boast on that either!
That is why some say you can lose your salvation, and no one is saved until the Judgement.
THEY'RE NOT SURE. "VOID OF CHRIST FAITH"
Just believing is his name don't cut it either.
John 2;23-24. "Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many "BELIEVED IN HIS NAME", when they saw the miracles which he did. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,
You have to believe in his work, through the Holyspirit. (FAITH OF CHRIST)
Romans 10:9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and SHALT BELIEVE IN THY HEART THAT GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, thou shalt be saved.
1 Corinthians 1:18.
See part 9.
James 2:14-26.
God bless.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race" (not the race was already won.)
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
1 Corinthians 4:5
2 Corinthians 5:10 whether "good or bad". People are sorted at this time.
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
OSAS believers: "Ok, but a Christian would never do that."
Christians no longer have freewill to sin?" Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
"OSAS: But no one has ever done that."
Sadly, many Christians fall away. Look at "ex-Christian" on Reddit with 107,000 members. Very prominent pastors have denounced faith and later denied Jesus is Lord.
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
Hebrews 6:4-6
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
Romans 11
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Matthew 12:31-32
Romans 14:12
God bless and pray for wisdom and truth.
The Moral law contains the Love and legal code God has for His Universe and beloved children. It is;
Written in stone by God's own finger - Exodus 31:18, Deuteronomy 4:12-13, 9:10
Has always existed & will be kept throughout eternity and throughout all the universe - Psalm 111:7,8, Romans 5:19 refers to Adam sinning in the Garden of Eden
Jesus said He did not come to destroy it but to fulfil it - Matt 5:17 - 19
Jesus said 'If you love me keep my commandments' John 14:15 and that 'He is the Lord of the Sabbath - Mark 2:28 - yet never mentions it being dissolved or changed
God's people are commanded to keep the Commandments of God for all eternity & God's people are identified by it because they keep it out of love to God and by faith - Exodus 19:5, Ecclesiastes 12:13,14, Psalm 111:7,8, Revelation 14:12, 12:17
Lives in the heart of God's children - Psalms 40:8
We are judged by them - James 2:12
Blessed with access to the Tree of Life if you keep them by faith - Revelation 22:14
Romans 10:2-5: "For I bear them record that they (Israel) have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them."
Again, "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth". To all who put their trust in Jesus, Christ's coming ended the Law that should have brought righteousness but failed. Nothing wrong with the Law - the problem was with man. The Law failed to achieve it - but faith in Christ & a new birth did, ending the demands of the Law that only brought death.
And there can't be any syncretism, coming under both the Law & under God's Grace. We cannot be justified by the Law - even keeping or trying to keep one Law & still claim Grace. Galatians 5:4; Romans 4:13,14. And the keeping of the Sabbath is just one of the ten Laws. Whoever wants to keep the Law is bound to keep them perfectly (all ten of them) James 2:10 - and there remains no avenue to claim Grace when under the Law.
May we walk in the Spirit, obeying the Spirit, that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us ( Romans 8:4) and not bound to the letter ( Romans 7:6; 2 Corinthians 3:6). The Sabbath Rest is not found in a day set aside for physical rest, but in a Person Whom we have sanctified in our hearts & lives. Blessings.
It is worth considering that sometimes people try to simplify things by cutting out key verses about salvation, but its in the Bible for a reason and shouldn't be ignored. For example, the Bible over and over talks about obedience. If someone discards all these verses and assumes it will happen magically through the spirit and not their own freewill then they can be misled into following evil. Maybe they assume their sins don't count or matter or that God doesn't even care or they no longer have the freewill to sin, but the Bible doesn't say any of those things.
Maybe they their friends are going out drinking and doing "just a little" drugs, and going to a strip club "just a for a few minutes" and rob a store "sharing was done in Jesus's time" and commit a murder "just one who 'deserved' it". Then they go to church on Sunday and they are reminded of the above verses and not to worry about it as they are forgiven, so they do it again and again every weekend. Lying, cheating, stealing, assaulting, harming, idolatry, worshipping the world and satan.
This may throw a wet blanket on the simplicity of all the warm fuzzy verses cherry picked from the Bible, but life isn't simple and temptation of sin isn't simple. Sometimes someone SHOULD feel guilt and convicted by the holy spirit of evil that person has done. Some are deceived into believing they are "saved" when they are following satan and not Jesus. If they aren't following Jesus they may not be Christian and may not have assurance of salvation, but assume they are because someone told them not to worry about it.
There are many important Bible verses that people should heed about salvation and not simply throw them out:
Matthew 7:21-23
Matthew 12:32
Hebrews 10:26
John 14:15
James 2:14-26
1 Peter 1:5
1 Cor 9:24-27
1 Peter 1:13