Thanks, brother, I'm not the best at putting on paper my understanding. I know some Scriptures refer to the Holy Spirit as he, but the Spirit is the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God dwells in us, Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 3:16 and, more. It is the power of the Holy Spirit that does the work of God, Romans 15:19, Jesus did the miracles by the Holy Spirit, Matthew 12:28, Luke 4:18, Acts 10:38, Hebrews 2:4.
Jesus said the words He spoke were not His words but the Fathers and God did the works, this was done by the Holy Spirit through Jesus. John 14:10. Jesus said the Holy Spirit/Comforter proceedeth from the Father John 15:26, Jesus said the Holy Ghost will not speak of himself but what he is told, so the Holy Spirit is under the direction of the Father and Jesus, John 16:13.
All the salutations are from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is not in any salutations. In Revelation 21:22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb is the temple of it. No Holy Spirit, what I see in Scripture is the Holy Spirit is the conduit that God works through and now Jesus as well.
I hope this gives you enough info to see how I see the Holy Spirit and I know that is not what many believe. I do not want to offend and I hope I don't, but this is what I see in Scripture. I do not see the Holy Spirit as a person but as the power of God that surrounds this earth by which God and Jesus dwell in us to communicate, guide, and comfort us.
I would be the first to confess that the Trinity teaching goes against everything my mind tells me is true, for how indeed, can God be divided into three, let alone Him coming to Earth in human form? Yet fortunately, I have two appeals against holding such a belief: firstly, I would have to twist or alter the Word of God to suit my natural understanding, and this I will not do or else what then would I do to the rest of God's Word & how would it then instruct me if I were to change its meaning to appease my conscience & understanding?
And secondly, my conversion to Christ was very dramatic, requiring a full conversion (so to speak), than just the verbal assent given before my godly parents with maybe my limited childhood understanding. Not only did the Spirit of God come upon me (in Oct 23, 1979), arresting me in my sinful tracks, showing me the awful consequences of my sin & eternal hell, but as I then read the Bible with a regenerated spirit, I wondered 'why would such an Holy God send His only begotten Son to be the payment for my sin, and that I could make no acceptable sacrifice to Him to absolve my sin & guilt'? Couldn't He just provide a spotless heavenly lamb or bullock, where all Israel could see descending from the clouds & hear God's Voice say: 'this lamb is my great provision as sacrifice for your sins & by believing, you will be forgiven and received as my special children'? I thought, wouldn't that be more preferable, than creating another human just to put Him to death for no sins of His Own? We know "that greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" ( John 15:13). And this spoke to me as well; here we have a picture of one laying down his life for another, not having an iota of a chance of escaping death - but that through his death, another life (of someone that he loved) would be spared & given a chance to live. Onto Page 3.
Hello Timmywynne. There are many Scriptures that point to the Triune Nature of God, and specifically, that Jesus Christ & the Holy Spirit are revealed to us from the very Being of God the Father. When we think of the Trinity, we know we won't find that word in the Bible, as it is purely a descriptive word of what the Bible declares to be the fullness of God's Being. So to the verses you seek, and you will need to read them fully in your Bible.
Of Jesus Christ: Isaiah 9:6,7 (an Old Testament Prophecy); Micah 5:2 & John 1:1-14 (from everlasting); Matthew 1:22,23; Mark 2:5-7; John 8:56-58; John 16: 27,28; John 17:4,5; John 20:27,28; Philippians 2:5-7; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:13; Hebrews 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:8-10; 1 John 5:7; 1 John 5:20.
Of the Holy Spirit: Matthew 12:31; Luke 1:34,35; Luke 11:13; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7-11; Acts 5:3; Acts 8:29; Acts 13:4; Romans 8:14; Romans 8:26,27; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Corinthians 12:11; Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 10:29; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 John 5:6.
The above are a few Scriptures that point to the deity of Jesus Christ & God's Spirit: all showing that they don't work independently from God, but have been sent out from God, from God's Being, to accomplish His Purposes in the world. And we know that Jesus, as the Word of God clothed with humanity, is the very expression of God to the world ( John 14:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 4:2). Hope these will help you in your study of this very important doctrine. Blessings.
Hello Fuji. That's a good question, because if we try to find reference to what the people said in John 12:34 in the Mosaic Law, even in the Pentateuch, then we will be disappointed. Sometimes, reference to the Law doesn't imply the Mosaic Law, but the Laws & all of the Word of God that is the body of the Old Testament. An example of this would be when Jesus answered the Jews in John 10:34, "Is it not written in your LAW, I said, Ye are gods?" It was never written in the Mosaic Law, but in Psalm 82:6, "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High." And "gods" here is the other meaning of Elohim, and that is 'judges or rulers'. Another example is in John 15:25 (cf Psalm 35:19 & Psalm 69:4) or 1 Corinthians 14:21 (cf Isaiah 28:11,12).
So, the reference you gave won't be found in the Mosaic Law, but derived from the references elsewhere to Christ's eternal existence. And my Bible cross references the following to John 12:34: Psalm 110:4, Isaiah 9:7, and Daniel 7:13,14. Hope this helps a little.
Dear Peyla: This question typically involves Post Millenial and often Reformed believers who don't believe in the Millennial rule of Christ as coming after the Tribulation; they believe Christ returns instead and the new heaven and earth immediately commence.
There are many reasons that I disagree with that eschatological viewpoint but I won't elaborate here except to say that a literal interpretation of passages in Isaiah and Revelation in particular should make it clear enough that a literal 1000 year rule and reign of Christ will occur on the earth; as many allude to being like the seventh day of creation in the seventh millenium of earth which according to the Jewish calendar is near 6000 years at present (and supposedly off by about 200 years).
Anyway; the principal difference is that those whose works are judged are cast into the lake of fire which would indicate the unsaved status of those in that judgment from all the lost dead from all ages of earth. I have pointed out that the exception to those whose names weren't in the Book of Life would be the physical survivors for the entire Millennium period; who no doubt would live as Methuselah and Noah did over 900 years. Those who would die at 100 are considered accursed ( Isaiah 65:20).
This group would likely enter heaven as the old heaven and earth pass away.
As for those mentioned in 2 Corinthians 5:10 we see a purging of believers based on their works whether they were good or bad. This is not a salvation issue; but a reward one. Loss of rewards will no doubt be painful and the effects particularly pronounced during the Millennium when we rule as kings and priests on the earth ( Rev. 1; etal). This fire is for our final purification not hellfire which is eternal and doesn't bring any purification.
Let us be open to pruning and purification now ( John 15:2). This comes with sufferings and trials which all true believers are promised according to numerous scriptures.
"And I will put my spirit within you, and CAUSE you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
CAUSE. Means to make or to bring forth.
KEEP. (shamar)
A primitive root; properly to hedge about (as with {thorns}) that {is} guard; generally to {protect} attend {to} etc.: - {beware} be {circumspect} take heed (to {self}) keep ({-er} {self}) {mark} look {narrowly} {observe} {preserve} {regard} {reserve} save ({self}) {sure} (that lay) wait ({for}) watch (-man).
When we examine verses such as Matthew 16:18 we see how the church would never be extinguished by the forces of darkness.
Again; as my last posting and many others that I have placed on this site in the past I emphasized the believing remnant of the true Christians vs pretenders as being much smaller than the professing church. In that group we once again need to differentiate a smaller group who wish to be godly in Christ Jesus and suffer persecution. ( 2 Timothy 3:12). Thus; we see a differentiation of rewards in heaven and those who wish to be great will seek His face to be given the desire to run the race with endurance as Paul did and find examples of godly individuals to emulate.
Ruling and reigning is something the book of Hebrews discusses of those who are in the "hall of fame" and in the great cloud of witnesses ( Heb. 12:1-2). Therefore we are currently "seated in heavenly places" ( Ephesians 2:6). Therefore the history of the church is something which will be today once tomorrow comes; and it leads to the future when we will rule as "kings and priests" on the earth. ( Rev. 1:6; also see 5:10). For now the church is in training for this future by our pruning by the Spirit and our trials and testings on earth to refine us as gold ( 1 Peter 1:7).
It is a good thing that the church has continued to succeed; especially when ALL seven churches that originated in the area of Turkey today ceased to exist within a few centuries of their inception at least where they were originally as the vast majority of citizens there are Muslim. We can also see that deception comes shortly after revivals as was the case where Paul warned Timothy of what would come in the last days after he departed within their own midst. Much of this these days can be blamed on faulty logic; when we just want to bring in numbers to fill the church there is always compromise on verses such as 2 Cor. 13:5; and John 15:2. We should make disciples.
In your patience possess ye your souls. ( Luke 21:19).
"Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain." ( James 5:7).
There are many verses on the subject of patience or longsuffering both related to God and His approved servants who eventually enter into their reward. There is no doubt that God honors those who persevere but we also need to recall the situation of Lot who as 2 Peter 2:7 states ...And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked". We don't want to be too comfortable with evil around us and in particular become compromised to maintain a lifestyle of ease. As we see with Lot his choice to enter the well watered lowlands looked good when he split up from Abraham but in the end he escaped literally from the flames with the collateral damage of what happened to his wife.
Patience therefore with our own sin can't be tolerated. We also are to sound our voice as a trumpet as Jeremiah did and the other Prophets. God patiently endures vessels fitted for destruction ( Romans 9:22; read on to verse 23). Wickedness will not be tolerated in God's Kingdom when He reigns on earth after He comes again. We need to see that God is refining us through the wickedness of sinners opposed to us and generally in rebellion that we see all around us. We don't know who is going to come to Christ and also we should keep in mind John 15:2 and 2 Timothy 2:21 where the branches we possess as believers can be purged or other useless appendages cut out from sinful connections to our dead past that we hang on to.
God will complete the work He has started ( Philippians 1:6). He will see all His sheep who hear His voice eventually enter heaven and safe pasture; and all the goats will be judged.
These earthly trials will soon be over; let us encourage one another until He comes.
For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
Nevertheless, when our hearts are rightly related to Him, then there is a confidence given to us:
Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. (v. 21)
Furthermore, when we are in His will, there are added tokens that we are His children:
And whatever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. (v. 22)
Answered prayer is an argument that one is a legitimate child of God. The prayer life of the believer is vital in assuring the soul of salvation.
Love for the Brethren!!
A love for the brethren and a passion for the souls of men are evidence that we are children of God. One of the most convicting and confirming facts sealing assurance to the heart is love of the brethren. Scripture is positive at this point:
We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. ( 1 John 3:14)
Animosity and hatred in the heart will rob the child of God of assurance. Malice toward another Christian produces bitterness of soul and is therefore not a fertile soil to cultivate assurance. Malice is condensed anger. Lack of love for another believer robs more Christians of real enjoyment and satisfaction in the Christian life than perhaps any other single factor. It not only blights the soul of the Christian, but it also destroys any public testimony:
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. ( John 13:35)
To love other believers is not elective:
These things I command you, that ye love one another. ( John 15:17)
Do not let a little root of bitterness rob you of assurance. Make things right with other believers.
RED APPLE TREATY 4 ME ONLY - In Reply - 5 months ago
Line 8-11 My Respond: I believe fruit can also allow growth and to bear.
God's confirming his covenant & to be God's son and in growth. Galatians 3:17 KJV
Though we have an important role to play, even our determination to flourish with fruit of the Spirit is evidence of God's grace.
Eveidence- Hebrews 11:1 KJV
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Myself trusting God and having faith has blessed me with evidence to receive (fruit of the Spirit)
Ways you can have faith is by reading your Holy Bible, prayer, attending church, involved in ministry, volunteering.
The Holy Spirit is the one who stimulates our desire to grow in Christ. Growth is gracious. My interpetation is God's grace Matthew 3:2 KJV, Ephesians 2:8 KJV
Trust that growth will happen, and when it does, thank Jesus for the fruit produced by his appointment.
Producing fruit John 15:7-8 KJV
Elder Graves Quoted Motivations for Christian Excellence
4. Excellence is a Witness to Others:
Line 5-8 My Respond: Having faith on Jesus death,burial and resurrection1 Corinthians 15:3-4 has blessed me and with integrity and Fairness.
Elder Graves Quoted Examples of Biblical Excellence
I like your scripture on Daniel and the Three Hebrew Boys:
My Respond:Daniel giving God credit, reference, Glory that is due.
Elder Graves Quoted 2.Define What Excellence Means to You:
My Respond:
Myself practicing these helps me show myself approved.
Elder Graves Quoted 3.Develop Habits of Diligence and Discipline:
My repsond:
Yes it prepared me in career, ministry, amd personal life.
My interpetation and Word spoken by Redappletreaty4meonly
John 15:3 - Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
Notice the Perfect Tense "I have spoken unto you." In other words, it covers the entire three-year period. The Lord says you are clean through the word that I have spoken unto you. God cleanses His people spiritually through the hearing and study of His word. It is a very fascinating concept!
John 15:5 - I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
The word abideth is a Present Participle. Literally it is translated "The one who is continually abiding in me." It is a lifestyle; it is an unchanged condition. The one who is abiding in me and I in him, this same one, and I'll read it to you literally: is bearing much fruit: It is a factual statement! Not should bear fruit, but is bearing fruit.
Jesus says the one who is continually abiding (MENO) in me, (that is a condition, a saved person), and I in him, this same person is bearing fruit. It is impossible to have the Spirit of Christ in you and you not bear fruit. Impossible!
John 15:15 - Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
From now on I call you not servants; (that is the word DOULOS for slaves), for the slave doesn't know what his lord or master is doing: but I have called you friends; because all things that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.
John 15:25 - But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
"They hated me without a cause."
What is interesting in this clause, the last word "cause" is both the Hebrew and Greek word for "gift," to give something to someone without a cause, no reason for it.
John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
It's interesting that Jesus said the peace that He gives is not the same peace that the world gives. And yet that's what we expect, tranquility, calmness, no turmoil in the physical realm. That is how we view peace. But that's the world's peace.
The word peace (EIRENE), its root word means oneness or unity. It has nothing to do with feelings. How does this peace work? Paul taught in Ephesians 2:14 that Jesus Christ is our peace, and that has the definite article with it. Jesus Christ is "the" peace of us. He is our peace. What Paul is saying is that peace is a person, not a feeling, not tranquility.
When I ask Him "Lord, I need your peace," what I am praying for spiritually is that I become one with him, that He's with me, and I'm with Him, and He's there to take me through. But it has nothing to do with feelings. Jesus said Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: Interesting in the Greek text where it says, "my peace I give unto you," it is not MY, it is MINE.
The peace that is mine, I give to you, not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, again TARASO, agitated, neither let it be afraid.
That is not the normal word for fear. That's the word for courage with the Alpha Privative in front of it. He says, "Let not your heart be troubled, neither be without courage."
John 15:2 - Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
The word "purgeth" does not mean to purge the way we think of the word. It would be better translated "every branch that beareth fruit, he cleanses it." The Greek word is KATHAIREI, and it means to cleanse, not purge. Some people see the word purge and they think it means to prune. But the Greek word means cleansing.
For the next few days we'll consider how spiritual growth, is gracious, gradual, and guaranteed. My interpetation is God's confirming his covenant & to be God's son and in growth. Galatians 3:17 KJV
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
Though we have an important role to play, even our determination to flourish with fruit of the Spirit is evidence of God's grace.
Eveidence- Hebrews 11:1 KJV
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Myself trusting God and having faith has blessed me with evidence to receive (fruit of the Spirit)
Ways you can have faith is by reading your Holy Bible, prayer, attending church, involved in ministry, volunteering.
The Holy Spirit is the one who stimulates our desire to grow in Christ. Growth is gracious. My interpetation is God's grace Matthew 3:2 KJV, Ephesians 2:8 KJV
Trust that growth will happen, and when it does, thank Jesus for the fruit produced by his appointment.
Scriptures that will help you trust God that he establish Deuteronomy 8:18 KJV, Proverbs 10:22 KJV
Producing fruit John 15:7-8 KJV
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
John 10:27-28, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.:
So who are those that God chooses? The answer is those who are going to hear (and accept) His calling, voice, and follow Him.
Pay attention to that "follow Him", it doesn't say just to hear but to follow Him as well. Following Him produces a fruit in their lives. In John 15:2 in the parable of the vineyard it says, "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.". So one must stay in the vineyard, in Christ? This means to stay in His Word and do what He commands. Also to stay in His grace because otherwise one does not have the power to obey Him.
Going all the way to end is essential. An atlhete may run well during most of the race, but if he doesn't finish all that in vain.
1 Timothy 6:12, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.". LAY HOLD.
Colossians 2:22-23, " And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciledIn the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;"
Jesus will present us holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: (and this is very important) IF we continue in the faith grounded and settled, and not be moved away from the hope of the gospel. That IF...
Finishing our race in victory will give us the eternal life which we were promished.
Nicely phrased, and it explains, "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you."( John 15:16). Have a great weekend,
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
Jesus as the light of the world fulfilled the law as the light of the Lamb fulfilling it in terms of the law of Moses. We shall see from the commentary on the law. "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."(Matt.22:37-40)
These two we shall consider as the two stones Urim and Thummim that the high priest carried next to his heart. "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind./ This is the first and great commandment./And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."
These stones signify Eden, the mountain of God and Zion, the stone cut not with hands. In Ez.28:13 the covering cherub covered with 10 stones. "Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee." The Law consequently established the Law of sin. For this reason the red dragon in the vision is given ten horns, "and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads." The same number we see in the beast as well.(Re.12:3;13:1)
Second commandment 'love thy neighbour as thyself' was fulfilled in the death of Jesus Christ on the cross."Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."( John 15:13). Consequently "blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it."(Col.4:14-17) The blood is the fulfillment of the emblem in the will of God, slain Lamb "And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world./If any man have an ear, let him hear."
Does Omnipotent God need to remember and need a book of remembrance as stated in Malachi? The Spirit in another place says 'God remembered Noah' and does God needs to be reminded of whom he found as righteous in his generation? "For thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation."(Ge.7:1;8:1) God is setting the event in terms of the covenant and having given free will to man, God is comparing the names in the book of life with those who have denied the Son of man. His Fellowship with Man gives man the privilege to be counted in the book of life. This "book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name./And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him." They are his jewels and they shall have part in the light of the Lamb. "In that day" refers to the day of Regeneration, the Alpha and Omega aspect in Jesus Christ being fully validated. So Jesus warned, "for without me ye can do nothing./If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned." ( John 15:5-6)
"And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."(Re.20:15). All judgment is invested with the Son, and the throne of the Lamb refers to all those who are found righteous in his Son. "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." (20:4) For them there is no more condemnation and have the confidence in the great white throne of judgment.
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
My interpretation: textual evidence scriptures( 2 Corinthians 4:14 )To be delivered to become like God and becoming like God through sacrifice of praise and fruit of your lips giving thanksguving.
Interpretation- The act of interpreting,explanation of unintelligible words in language that is intelligible.
The new testament( New Convenant) was written in Greek
How to keep faith and have the victory over compassion not to come up short to become like God Philippians 4:13 KJV 1 Corinthians 1:23 KJV
John 15:26 KJV But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
That the testimony of Jesus Christ will bless you in all ways in life to have what you want.- 2 Corinthians 5:14 KJV.
My interpetation and spoken by Reginald Taylor Jr is plain and evident"(token " Not to be in state of hunger, depression, poverty" becoming wealthy and rich which is the new Convenant.- Psalm 112:3 KJV Proverbs 23:7 KJV
The testimony of Jesus Christ has blessed me - Psalm 112:3 KJV believing in the Gospel of Jesus Christ offering the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. ( 1 Peter 2:9, Hebrews 7:26, Joshua 1:8)
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1 John 5:7: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are one.
John 14:26: But the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 1:14: And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth.
Matthew 28:18- 20: And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and on earth. (Read More)
John 15:26 But when the Comforter comes, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceeds from the Father, he shall testify of me:
1 Corinthians 8:6: But to us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
John 14:10: Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwells in me, he doeth the works.
Genesis 1:26: And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and the cattle, and all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.
Romans 8:26- 27: Likewise, the Spirit also helps our infirmities, for we know not what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit makes intercession for us with groanings that cannot be uttered. (Read More...)
Ephesians 4:6: One God and Father of all, who is above all, through all, and in you all.
1 Peter 1:2: Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
Isaiah 48:16: Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the begin
"The haters of the Lord should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever."
Psalmist Asaph labels Israel as "haters of the Lord." Jesus was aware of it. "They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of mine head: they that would destroy me, being mine enemies wrongfully, are mighty." This was foreknown and Jesus would quote this to forewarn his disciple. "(Ps.69:4; John 15:18-27;Ep.6:12). "He that hateth me hateth my Father also." Such hatred persisting in this world tells what St Paul warned as to what we are up against. Spiritual wickedness in high places is nothing personal but serving Satan as a proxy. How often we come across the apologists for Israel and bending backwards to justify the slaughter of the innocents in Gaza. Israel has done much worse than Herod in evil. It is all because these simple ignoramuses do not study the Word to their profit. Literal passages are enough for them. There was a cult group formerly known as Ceylon Pentecostal Mission. Citing Ezekiel they were all for Israel reinstating animal sacrifices. At surface they were to assert God cannot go wrong. Where Israel failed God will lead them to prove His ways are the best. Was it their reverence for unseen God or their hatred of the perfect sacrifice of the Son? Their will worship ,-touch not, taste not and see not was more enforced than abiding with Christ. This is how a dead fly like Israel has caused the pot of imposter churches stink.
"Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!/I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries. "(Ps.81:13-14)
The Psalmist applies the time to the nation and not forever. "but their time should have endured for ever."
The Word of GOD is from everlasting to everlasting, the Word is GOD, GOD Himself, self-executing, understand?
My Lord JESUS, Christ JESUS, make it very clear, saying: John 15:
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He - the Father - taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Fulness of Christ is like a seed in itself so 'thy word is truth' and indweiing Spirit helps you sprout and put out shoots leaves and fruits. Our abundance is not of ourselves but of his fulness. " I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."( John 15:5). This is the tree of righteousness planted by the waters. (Ps.1:3) The tree is an emblem of heaven earth and lower parts becoming crystallised so we are bound to time and place yet we are on the right side of the river and of the tree of life.(Re.22:1)
We are also as Christ promised his apostles., "And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matt.4:19) We are like fishers in the vision of Ezekiel, " And it shall come to pass, that the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many. "(Ez.47:10)
Instead what do we find prayer request a week ago in this forum but conspiracy theories insinuating 'this senile guy sniffing kids' and the prayer for Trump. For instance the shooter is not a lone wolf as evident in this, "I have been praying. And yes, it seems that there may be more to this than just the 20 year old shooter." It is what spirit of the times have made the simple spread lies under 'pious' statement. True believers ought to compare spiritual with spiritual and aid and abet the unrighteous. This strong delusion is from the spirit of the times.
In order to understand them the Spirit has laid down two numbers one of which are to be seen from the two groups from the vision of the Woman clothed with the Sun. God has prepared a place for the woman "they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days."(Re.12:6). It is to which Jesus referred and also lays down the only rule to be found there. "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me."( John 14:6). So the place prepared of God holds a tag 1260. This is set in days as the everlasting covenant is marked by day. Both are consistent with the day that God has appointed for his Son by a decree.(Ps.2:7)
Another tag is set in months. "for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months." Significance of month is also set by God. "This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you."(Ex.12:2). We come across this number in the life of Elisha who was jeered at for his baldness. Why would some children jeer him without a cause? The reason is simple. He is set in the God directive as a double for Jesus Christ. It is the holy angel who stands as witness before God in heaven. Jesus also quotes what the Psalmist had written beforehand."But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. "( John 15:25;Ps.69:4)
2 Ki.2:23-24. Elisha was on the way to Bethel the house of God and those children of Belial are tagged as 42. They represented sons of perdition and we read that the authority of the beast is tagged by 42. ("and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months."-Re.13:5) The great dragon represents those who hated man-child. It is no brainer to think of the nation of Israel hated Jesus for the reason he came from God. "And there came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them."(v.24)
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Why doesn't a branch in Christ bear a fruit? It is a branch, isn't it? So if it a natural thing to have fruit what makes it to not make one?
John 15:7
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
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.
So for one to abide in Christ, His words must abide in them, and in simple words they must keep His commandments. This is not natural, it is a disicion we make and succeed through God's/Jesus' grace
They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated-
Other parts of this passage mention torture and wandering as nomads. It is fairly clear that when people are put to severe physical suffering and or death directly because of their profession of faith that persecution is occurring. When we look to the individuals who are exiled or made homeless because of either being directly evicted or put in a position of poverty because of their faith (even related to a caste system so encompassing anyone not in the elite status) it can be less clear. Some of this seems like "collateral damage"; and if we look at more subtle things such as verbal abuse and harassment on the job it may be even less clear. No doubt having a work ethic to work "heartily unto the Lord" (Coossians 3:23); to work as unto the Lord and to be above reproach thus not agreeing to use illegal means to promote the econonic status also can have fallout. Of course we must be diligent not to be robbing from our employer's time in having conversations that cause us to deviate from the work at hand; such much normally be reserved for break or after work hours; although there are times when in my own situation I have had to emphasize that I'd better clock out when being alone with one individual on my past job discussing theology. A lot; of course would depend on how complex the task is; there have been one or two times I can think of specifically when working in a warehouse; for instance when the whole production line jammed and there was literally nothing else to do at that time but usually there is some mundane task we can do to fill in for these moments.
Jesus promised that all who were Godly in Christ Jesus would be persecuted ( 2 Tim. 3:12; John 15:20). The origin and SOURCE of this situation is nearly always Satan's minions.
More on assurance of salvation or "eternal security"
As stated before space ran out in the last post; Romans 8:16 shows the communication between our spirit and His Spirit who resides within all true believers ( John 14:23; see also Eph. 3:17). For Him to RESIDE in our souls we must be born again.
And being children of God we also are made aware of opportunities which God gives us (i.e. "good works") that will be rewarded in heaven someday that are imperishable ( 1 Cor. 9:25; Matt. 6:19-21). Keep in mind the end of that passage stating that wherever your treasure is; your heart is also (loosely translated).
Again; as I have stated a LOT on this site; God's method is to chastise all those He loves (let the reader find the scriptures). There is no desire for this in the flesh; as it is stated in Hebrews 12:11 to be disciplined in this way. We learn to recognize and appreciate this "pruning" effort ( John 15:2); for without it we would be in danger of producing no fruit and in the end being burned (in everlasting punishment). Our confidence is that in the end we are made into a glorious image; and reflect perfectly His radiance as He truly IS our life. Our reward; therefore comes from Him and in reality is HIS reward. He will; of course have His saints rule and reign with Him as part of our inheritance.
Another point to be made is an effectual witness has to be bold in their testimony and bring the fear of the Lord as well as demonstrate His love. It is therefore as Philippians 1:28 states a "token of their perdition" that we remain steadfast in the confidence of all that He has promised us. Our coming exaltation to rule and reign with Christ isn't brought forth by arrogance on our part; but nonetheless the unnerving thing to those who hear our witness is that we are; indeed already seated in heavenly places. ( Eph. 2:6). Christ also overcame and is seated at the right hand of the Father. God will be magnified whether hell or heaven is our end.
Calvinism is from John 15:16 "ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it to you."
If you do not believe that God chose you, then that is fine. Just do not call a Liar!
There's many reasons why we can feel a void in the Spirit moving in our lives.
Sometimes it's chastening or just being out of the will of God.
Other times it could be a wavering of our faith.
And then it can be pruning for Spiritual growth.
Sometimes God's presence is not clear or obvious to the human eye.
That's one reason why we are called to "live by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7.
The Holyspirit causes us to trust in God's promises such as Hebrews 13:5-6.
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me".
King David had to deal with Chastening and Correction in his reign as King.
But David knew God and trusted God and believed in his promises and mercy.
You see it evident in his Psalms 71:1-24 prayer.
Especially verses "20-21.Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.
Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.
We are to bare fruit. We are expected to.
John 15:7-8.
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
There's things that hinder us.
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
Having discussed briefly the desires of the flesh for money that convince people (supposedly) that they too can have mountains of cash or at least a foothill or two if they sow generously to the megachurch we turn our attention to the other major appeal; that is of healings. As long as botox and plastic surgery keep the preacher (or "Apostle" or "prophet") from looking as crooked as their heart is they can hold some leverage; to those foolish enough to believe them to the concept that somehow they have locked into some sort of "healing ministry" that they can attach to their official title. It reminds me of the Jethro Tull song "Wind up" where he says "he's not the kind you have to wind up on Sundays" as one of his lines describing God. The same could be said for his song "My God" where the hypocricy of those who use a "plastic crucifix" is mocked. Sometimes we can find more wisdom with secular music than so called "Christian."
At any "road" as they say in England; if they can't sell you the concept of healing they will also often promote products that are; of course overpriced that are organic or something to that effect to keep your appearance younger. It appears almost always the evidence of so called healings have no factual backup; such as names; places or verifiable witnesses. Emotional healings of course aren't as easily verified and spiritual change is more than hype and drama. I am not a "cessationist" in principle; but would venture to say that any true miracle isn't something which should be made a spectacle; just as any true conversion has lasting power as based on John 15:5 about remaining in Him. If there is a true miracle of God it certainly isn't to promote a particular ministry but to give glory to God. It also; no doubt will bring the same sort of persecution that happened during the time of Christ. The same could be said about tongues; another thing these churches tend to emphasize.
Thanks, brother, I'm not the best at putting on paper my understanding. I know some Scriptures refer to the Holy Spirit as he, but the Spirit is the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God dwells in us, Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 3:16 and, more. It is the power of the Holy Spirit that does the work of God, Romans 15:19, Jesus did the miracles by the Holy Spirit, Matthew 12:28, Luke 4:18, Acts 10:38, Hebrews 2:4.
Jesus said the words He spoke were not His words but the Fathers and God did the works, this was done by the Holy Spirit through Jesus. John 14:10. Jesus said the Holy Spirit/Comforter proceedeth from the Father John 15:26, Jesus said the Holy Ghost will not speak of himself but what he is told, so the Holy Spirit is under the direction of the Father and Jesus, John 16:13.
All the salutations are from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is not in any salutations. In Revelation 21:22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb is the temple of it. No Holy Spirit, what I see in Scripture is the Holy Spirit is the conduit that God works through and now Jesus as well.
I hope this gives you enough info to see how I see the Holy Spirit and I know that is not what many believe. I do not want to offend and I hope I don't, but this is what I see in Scripture. I do not see the Holy Spirit as a person but as the power of God that surrounds this earth by which God and Jesus dwell in us to communicate, guide, and comfort us.
God bless,
RLW
I would be the first to confess that the Trinity teaching goes against everything my mind tells me is true, for how indeed, can God be divided into three, let alone Him coming to Earth in human form? Yet fortunately, I have two appeals against holding such a belief: firstly, I would have to twist or alter the Word of God to suit my natural understanding, and this I will not do or else what then would I do to the rest of God's Word & how would it then instruct me if I were to change its meaning to appease my conscience & understanding?
And secondly, my conversion to Christ was very dramatic, requiring a full conversion (so to speak), than just the verbal assent given before my godly parents with maybe my limited childhood understanding. Not only did the Spirit of God come upon me (in Oct 23, 1979), arresting me in my sinful tracks, showing me the awful consequences of my sin & eternal hell, but as I then read the Bible with a regenerated spirit, I wondered 'why would such an Holy God send His only begotten Son to be the payment for my sin, and that I could make no acceptable sacrifice to Him to absolve my sin & guilt'? Couldn't He just provide a spotless heavenly lamb or bullock, where all Israel could see descending from the clouds & hear God's Voice say: 'this lamb is my great provision as sacrifice for your sins & by believing, you will be forgiven and received as my special children'? I thought, wouldn't that be more preferable, than creating another human just to put Him to death for no sins of His Own? We know "that greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" ( John 15:13). And this spoke to me as well; here we have a picture of one laying down his life for another, not having an iota of a chance of escaping death - but that through his death, another life (of someone that he loved) would be spared & given a chance to live. Onto Page 3.
Of Jesus Christ: Isaiah 9:6,7 (an Old Testament Prophecy); Micah 5:2 & John 1:1-14 (from everlasting); Matthew 1:22,23; Mark 2:5-7; John 8:56-58; John 16: 27,28; John 17:4,5; John 20:27,28; Philippians 2:5-7; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 3:13; Hebrews 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:8-10; 1 John 5:7; 1 John 5:20.
Of the Holy Spirit: Matthew 12:31; Luke 1:34,35; Luke 11:13; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7-11; Acts 5:3; Acts 8:29; Acts 13:4; Romans 8:14; Romans 8:26,27; 1 Corinthians 2:10-14; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Corinthians 12:11; Ephesians 4:30; Hebrews 10:29; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 John 5:6.
The above are a few Scriptures that point to the deity of Jesus Christ & God's Spirit: all showing that they don't work independently from God, but have been sent out from God, from God's Being, to accomplish His Purposes in the world. And we know that Jesus, as the Word of God clothed with humanity, is the very expression of God to the world ( John 14:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 4:2). Hope these will help you in your study of this very important doctrine. Blessings.
So, the reference you gave won't be found in the Mosaic Law, but derived from the references elsewhere to Christ's eternal existence. And my Bible cross references the following to John 12:34: Psalm 110:4, Isaiah 9:7, and Daniel 7:13,14. Hope this helps a little.
There are many reasons that I disagree with that eschatological viewpoint but I won't elaborate here except to say that a literal interpretation of passages in Isaiah and Revelation in particular should make it clear enough that a literal 1000 year rule and reign of Christ will occur on the earth; as many allude to being like the seventh day of creation in the seventh millenium of earth which according to the Jewish calendar is near 6000 years at present (and supposedly off by about 200 years).
Anyway; the principal difference is that those whose works are judged are cast into the lake of fire which would indicate the unsaved status of those in that judgment from all the lost dead from all ages of earth. I have pointed out that the exception to those whose names weren't in the Book of Life would be the physical survivors for the entire Millennium period; who no doubt would live as Methuselah and Noah did over 900 years. Those who would die at 100 are considered accursed ( Isaiah 65:20).
This group would likely enter heaven as the old heaven and earth pass away.
As for those mentioned in 2 Corinthians 5:10 we see a purging of believers based on their works whether they were good or bad. This is not a salvation issue; but a reward one. Loss of rewards will no doubt be painful and the effects particularly pronounced during the Millennium when we rule as kings and priests on the earth ( Rev. 1; etal). This fire is for our final purification not hellfire which is eternal and doesn't bring any purification.
Let us be open to pruning and purification now ( John 15:2). This comes with sufferings and trials which all true believers are promised according to numerous scriptures.
Agape; blessings.
RHP
"And I will put my spirit within you, and CAUSE you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
CAUSE. Means to make or to bring forth.
KEEP. (shamar)
A primitive root; properly to hedge about (as with {thorns}) that {is} guard; generally to {protect} attend {to} etc.: - {beware} be {circumspect} take heed (to {self}) keep ({-er} {self}) {mark} look {narrowly} {observe} {preserve} {regard} {reserve} save ({self}) {sure} (that lay) wait ({for}) watch (-man).
KJV Usage: keep(283x), observe(46x), heed(35x), keeper(28x), preserve(21x), beware(9x), mark(8x), watchman(8x), wait(7x), watch(7x), regard(5x), save(2x), misc(9x).
Occurs: 468
In verses: 440.
Here we notice "obey" is omitted.
This is directed to the heart of man that LEADS to obedience.
We're not perfect but that what you do obey is persuaded.
John 15:4-5 reads
"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
Paul describes this battle of this persuasion in these fleshly bodies in Romans 7.
This is what the Holyspirit does!
Jesus carried the Apostles and when he went away he sent them another Comforter. .
They wasn't prepared for ministry until then. .
God bless.
When we examine verses such as Matthew 16:18 we see how the church would never be extinguished by the forces of darkness.
Again; as my last posting and many others that I have placed on this site in the past I emphasized the believing remnant of the true Christians vs pretenders as being much smaller than the professing church. In that group we once again need to differentiate a smaller group who wish to be godly in Christ Jesus and suffer persecution. ( 2 Timothy 3:12). Thus; we see a differentiation of rewards in heaven and those who wish to be great will seek His face to be given the desire to run the race with endurance as Paul did and find examples of godly individuals to emulate.
Ruling and reigning is something the book of Hebrews discusses of those who are in the "hall of fame" and in the great cloud of witnesses ( Heb. 12:1-2). Therefore we are currently "seated in heavenly places" ( Ephesians 2:6). Therefore the history of the church is something which will be today once tomorrow comes; and it leads to the future when we will rule as "kings and priests" on the earth. ( Rev. 1:6; also see 5:10). For now the church is in training for this future by our pruning by the Spirit and our trials and testings on earth to refine us as gold ( 1 Peter 1:7).
It is a good thing that the church has continued to succeed; especially when ALL seven churches that originated in the area of Turkey today ceased to exist within a few centuries of their inception at least where they were originally as the vast majority of citizens there are Muslim. We can also see that deception comes shortly after revivals as was the case where Paul warned Timothy of what would come in the last days after he departed within their own midst. Much of this these days can be blamed on faulty logic; when we just want to bring in numbers to fill the church there is always compromise on verses such as 2 Cor. 13:5; and John 15:2. We should make disciples.
"Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain." ( James 5:7).
There are many verses on the subject of patience or longsuffering both related to God and His approved servants who eventually enter into their reward. There is no doubt that God honors those who persevere but we also need to recall the situation of Lot who as 2 Peter 2:7 states ...And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked". We don't want to be too comfortable with evil around us and in particular become compromised to maintain a lifestyle of ease. As we see with Lot his choice to enter the well watered lowlands looked good when he split up from Abraham but in the end he escaped literally from the flames with the collateral damage of what happened to his wife.
Patience therefore with our own sin can't be tolerated. We also are to sound our voice as a trumpet as Jeremiah did and the other Prophets. God patiently endures vessels fitted for destruction ( Romans 9:22; read on to verse 23). Wickedness will not be tolerated in God's Kingdom when He reigns on earth after He comes again. We need to see that God is refining us through the wickedness of sinners opposed to us and generally in rebellion that we see all around us. We don't know who is going to come to Christ and also we should keep in mind John 15:2 and 2 Timothy 2:21 where the branches we possess as believers can be purged or other useless appendages cut out from sinful connections to our dead past that we hang on to.
God will complete the work He has started ( Philippians 1:6). He will see all His sheep who hear His voice eventually enter heaven and safe pasture; and all the goats will be judged.
These earthly trials will soon be over; let us encourage one another until He comes.
1 John 3:20.
For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
Nevertheless, when our hearts are rightly related to Him, then there is a confidence given to us:
Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. (v. 21)
Furthermore, when we are in His will, there are added tokens that we are His children:
And whatever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. (v. 22)
Answered prayer is an argument that one is a legitimate child of God. The prayer life of the believer is vital in assuring the soul of salvation.
Love for the Brethren!!
A love for the brethren and a passion for the souls of men are evidence that we are children of God. One of the most convicting and confirming facts sealing assurance to the heart is love of the brethren. Scripture is positive at this point:
We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. ( 1 John 3:14)
Animosity and hatred in the heart will rob the child of God of assurance. Malice toward another Christian produces bitterness of soul and is therefore not a fertile soil to cultivate assurance. Malice is condensed anger. Lack of love for another believer robs more Christians of real enjoyment and satisfaction in the Christian life than perhaps any other single factor. It not only blights the soul of the Christian, but it also destroys any public testimony:
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. ( John 13:35)
To love other believers is not elective:
These things I command you, that ye love one another. ( John 15:17)
Do not let a little root of bitterness rob you of assurance. Make things right with other believers.
See Part 9.
God's confirming his covenant & to be God's son and in growth. Galatians 3:17 KJV
Though we have an important role to play, even our determination to flourish with fruit of the Spirit is evidence of God's grace.
Eveidence- Hebrews 11:1 KJV
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Myself trusting God and having faith has blessed me with evidence to receive (fruit of the Spirit)
Ways you can have faith is by reading your Holy Bible, prayer, attending church, involved in ministry, volunteering.
The Holy Spirit is the one who stimulates our desire to grow in Christ. Growth is gracious. My interpetation is God's grace Matthew 3:2 KJV, Ephesians 2:8 KJV
Trust that growth will happen, and when it does, thank Jesus for the fruit produced by his appointment.
Producing fruit John 15:7-8 KJV
Elder Graves Quoted Motivations for Christian Excellence
4. Excellence is a Witness to Others:
Line 5-8 My Respond: Having faith on Jesus death,burial and resurrection1 Corinthians 15:3-4 has blessed me and with integrity and Fairness.
Elder Graves Quoted Examples of Biblical Excellence
I like your scripture on Daniel and the Three Hebrew Boys:
My Respond:Daniel giving God credit, reference, Glory that is due.
Elder Graves Quoted 2.Define What Excellence Means to You:
My Respond:
Myself practicing these helps me show myself approved.
Elder Graves Quoted 3.Develop Habits of Diligence and Discipline:
My repsond:
Yes it prepared me in career, ministry, amd personal life.
My interpetation and Word spoken by Redappletreaty4meonly
West Angeles Church Cogic Cathedral member
John 15:3 - Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
Notice the Perfect Tense "I have spoken unto you." In other words, it covers the entire three-year period. The Lord says you are clean through the word that I have spoken unto you. God cleanses His people spiritually through the hearing and study of His word. It is a very fascinating concept!
John 15:5 - I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
The word abideth is a Present Participle. Literally it is translated "The one who is continually abiding in me." It is a lifestyle; it is an unchanged condition. The one who is abiding in me and I in him, this same one, and I'll read it to you literally: is bearing much fruit: It is a factual statement! Not should bear fruit, but is bearing fruit.
Jesus says the one who is continually abiding (MENO) in me, (that is a condition, a saved person), and I in him, this same person is bearing fruit. It is impossible to have the Spirit of Christ in you and you not bear fruit. Impossible!
John 15:15 - Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
From now on I call you not servants; (that is the word DOULOS for slaves), for the slave doesn't know what his lord or master is doing: but I have called you friends; because all things that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.
John 15:25 - But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
"They hated me without a cause."
What is interesting in this clause, the last word "cause" is both the Hebrew and Greek word for "gift," to give something to someone without a cause, no reason for it.
John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
It's interesting that Jesus said the peace that He gives is not the same peace that the world gives. And yet that's what we expect, tranquility, calmness, no turmoil in the physical realm. That is how we view peace. But that's the world's peace.
The word peace (EIRENE), its root word means oneness or unity. It has nothing to do with feelings. How does this peace work? Paul taught in Ephesians 2:14 that Jesus Christ is our peace, and that has the definite article with it. Jesus Christ is "the" peace of us. He is our peace. What Paul is saying is that peace is a person, not a feeling, not tranquility.
When I ask Him "Lord, I need your peace," what I am praying for spiritually is that I become one with him, that He's with me, and I'm with Him, and He's there to take me through. But it has nothing to do with feelings. Jesus said Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: Interesting in the Greek text where it says, "my peace I give unto you," it is not MY, it is MINE.
The peace that is mine, I give to you, not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, again TARASO, agitated, neither let it be afraid.
That is not the normal word for fear. That's the word for courage with the Alpha Privative in front of it. He says, "Let not your heart be troubled, neither be without courage."
John 15:2 - Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
The word "purgeth" does not mean to purge the way we think of the word. It would be better translated "every branch that beareth fruit, he cleanses it." The Greek word is KATHAIREI, and it means to cleanse, not purge. Some people see the word purge and they think it means to prune. But the Greek word means cleansing.
For the next few days we'll consider how spiritual growth, is gracious, gradual, and guaranteed. My interpetation is God's confirming his covenant & to be God's son and in growth. Galatians 3:17 KJV
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
Though we have an important role to play, even our determination to flourish with fruit of the Spirit is evidence of God's grace.
Eveidence- Hebrews 11:1 KJV
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Myself trusting God and having faith has blessed me with evidence to receive (fruit of the Spirit)
Ways you can have faith is by reading your Holy Bible, prayer, attending church, involved in ministry, volunteering.
The Holy Spirit is the one who stimulates our desire to grow in Christ. Growth is gracious. My interpetation is God's grace Matthew 3:2 KJV, Ephesians 2:8 KJV
Trust that growth will happen, and when it does, thank Jesus for the fruit produced by his appointment.
Scriptures that will help you trust God that he establish Deuteronomy 8:18 KJV, Proverbs 10:22 KJV
Producing fruit John 15:7-8 KJV
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
Written and Word spoken by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
If I may add the following:
John 10:27-28, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.:
So who are those that God chooses? The answer is those who are going to hear (and accept) His calling, voice, and follow Him.
Pay attention to that "follow Him", it doesn't say just to hear but to follow Him as well. Following Him produces a fruit in their lives. In John 15:2 in the parable of the vineyard it says, "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.". So one must stay in the vineyard, in Christ? This means to stay in His Word and do what He commands. Also to stay in His grace because otherwise one does not have the power to obey Him.
Going all the way to end is essential. An atlhete may run well during most of the race, but if he doesn't finish all that in vain.
1 Timothy 6:12, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.". LAY HOLD.
Colossians 2:22-23, " And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciledIn the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;"
Jesus will present us holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: (and this is very important) IF we continue in the faith grounded and settled, and not be moved away from the hope of the gospel. That IF...
Finishing our race in victory will give us the eternal life which we were promished.
Nicely phrased, and it explains, "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you."( John 15:16). Have a great weekend,
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
Jesus as the light of the world fulfilled the law as the light of the Lamb fulfilling it in terms of the law of Moses. We shall see from the commentary on the law. "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."(Matt.22:37-40)
These two we shall consider as the two stones Urim and Thummim that the high priest carried next to his heart. "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind./ This is the first and great commandment./And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."
These stones signify Eden, the mountain of God and Zion, the stone cut not with hands. In Ez.28:13 the covering cherub covered with 10 stones. "Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee." The Law consequently established the Law of sin. For this reason the red dragon in the vision is given ten horns, "and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads." The same number we see in the beast as well.(Re.12:3;13:1)
Second commandment 'love thy neighbour as thyself' was fulfilled in the death of Jesus Christ on the cross."Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."( John 15:13). Consequently "blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it."(Col.4:14-17) The blood is the fulfillment of the emblem in the will of God, slain Lamb "And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world./If any man have an ear, let him hear."
Does Omnipotent God need to remember and need a book of remembrance as stated in Malachi? The Spirit in another place says 'God remembered Noah' and does God needs to be reminded of whom he found as righteous in his generation? "For thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation."(Ge.7:1;8:1) God is setting the event in terms of the covenant and having given free will to man, God is comparing the names in the book of life with those who have denied the Son of man. His Fellowship with Man gives man the privilege to be counted in the book of life. This "book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name./And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him." They are his jewels and they shall have part in the light of the Lamb. "In that day" refers to the day of Regeneration, the Alpha and Omega aspect in Jesus Christ being fully validated. So Jesus warned, "for without me ye can do nothing./If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned." ( John 15:5-6)
"And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."(Re.20:15). All judgment is invested with the Son, and the throne of the Lamb refers to all those who are found righteous in his Son. "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." (20:4) For them there is no more condemnation and have the confidence in the great white throne of judgment.
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
My interpretation: textual evidence scriptures( 2 Corinthians 4:14 )To be delivered to become like God and becoming like God through sacrifice of praise and fruit of your lips giving thanksguving.
Interpretation- The act of interpreting,explanation of unintelligible words in language that is intelligible.
The new testament( New Convenant) was written in Greek
How to keep faith and have the victory over compassion not to come up short to become like God Philippians 4:13 KJV 1 Corinthians 1:23 KJV
John 15:26 KJV But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
That the testimony of Jesus Christ will bless you in all ways in life to have what you want.- 2 Corinthians 5:14 KJV.
My interpetation and spoken by Reginald Taylor Jr is plain and evident"(token " Not to be in state of hunger, depression, poverty" becoming wealthy and rich which is the new Convenant.- Psalm 112:3 KJV Proverbs 23:7 KJV
The testimony of Jesus Christ has blessed me - Psalm 112:3 KJV believing in the Gospel of Jesus Christ offering the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. ( 1 Peter 2:9, Hebrews 7:26, Joshua 1:8)
Published and spoken Word by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
1 John 5:7: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are one.
John 14:26: But the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 1:14: And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth.
Matthew 28:18- 20: And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and on earth. (Read More)
John 15:26 But when the Comforter comes, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth, which proceeds from the Father, he shall testify of me:
1 Corinthians 8:6: But to us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
John 14:10: Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwells in me, he doeth the works.
Genesis 1:26: And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and the cattle, and all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.
Romans 8:26- 27: Likewise, the Spirit also helps our infirmities, for we know not what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit makes intercession for us with groanings that cannot be uttered. (Read More...)
Ephesians 4:6: One God and Father of all, who is above all, through all, and in you all.
1 Peter 1:2: Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
Isaiah 48:16: Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the begin
"The haters of the Lord should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever."
Psalmist Asaph labels Israel as "haters of the Lord." Jesus was aware of it. "They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of mine head: they that would destroy me, being mine enemies wrongfully, are mighty." This was foreknown and Jesus would quote this to forewarn his disciple. "(Ps.69:4; John 15:18-27;Ep.6:12). "He that hateth me hateth my Father also." Such hatred persisting in this world tells what St Paul warned as to what we are up against. Spiritual wickedness in high places is nothing personal but serving Satan as a proxy. How often we come across the apologists for Israel and bending backwards to justify the slaughter of the innocents in Gaza. Israel has done much worse than Herod in evil. It is all because these simple ignoramuses do not study the Word to their profit. Literal passages are enough for them. There was a cult group formerly known as Ceylon Pentecostal Mission. Citing Ezekiel they were all for Israel reinstating animal sacrifices. At surface they were to assert God cannot go wrong. Where Israel failed God will lead them to prove His ways are the best. Was it their reverence for unseen God or their hatred of the perfect sacrifice of the Son? Their will worship ,-touch not, taste not and see not was more enforced than abiding with Christ. This is how a dead fly like Israel has caused the pot of imposter churches stink.
"Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!/I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries. "(Ps.81:13-14)
The Psalmist applies the time to the nation and not forever. "but their time should have endured for ever."
My Lord JESUS, Christ JESUS, make it very clear, saying: John 15:
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He - the Father - taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Fulness of Christ is like a seed in itself so 'thy word is truth' and indweiing Spirit helps you sprout and put out shoots leaves and fruits. Our abundance is not of ourselves but of his fulness. " I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."( John 15:5). This is the tree of righteousness planted by the waters. (Ps.1:3) The tree is an emblem of heaven earth and lower parts becoming crystallised so we are bound to time and place yet we are on the right side of the river and of the tree of life.(Re.22:1)
We are also as Christ promised his apostles., "And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matt.4:19) We are like fishers in the vision of Ezekiel, " And it shall come to pass, that the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many. "(Ez.47:10)
Instead what do we find prayer request a week ago in this forum but conspiracy theories insinuating 'this senile guy sniffing kids' and the prayer for Trump. For instance the shooter is not a lone wolf as evident in this, "I have been praying. And yes, it seems that there may be more to this than just the 20 year old shooter." It is what spirit of the times have made the simple spread lies under 'pious' statement. True believers ought to compare spiritual with spiritual and aid and abet the unrighteous. This strong delusion is from the spirit of the times.
In order to understand them the Spirit has laid down two numbers one of which are to be seen from the two groups from the vision of the Woman clothed with the Sun. God has prepared a place for the woman "they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days."(Re.12:6). It is to which Jesus referred and also lays down the only rule to be found there. "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me."( John 14:6). So the place prepared of God holds a tag 1260. This is set in days as the everlasting covenant is marked by day. Both are consistent with the day that God has appointed for his Son by a decree.(Ps.2:7)
Another tag is set in months. "for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months." Significance of month is also set by God. "This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you."(Ex.12:2). We come across this number in the life of Elisha who was jeered at for his baldness. Why would some children jeer him without a cause? The reason is simple. He is set in the God directive as a double for Jesus Christ. It is the holy angel who stands as witness before God in heaven. Jesus also quotes what the Psalmist had written beforehand."But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. "( John 15:25;Ps.69:4)
2 Ki.2:23-24. Elisha was on the way to Bethel the house of God and those children of Belial are tagged as 42. They represented sons of perdition and we read that the authority of the beast is tagged by 42. ("and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months."-Re.13:5) The great dragon represents those who hated man-child. It is no brainer to think of the nation of Israel hated Jesus for the reason he came from God. "And there came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them."(v.24)
John 15:2
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Why doesn't a branch in Christ bear a fruit? It is a branch, isn't it? So if it a natural thing to have fruit what makes it to not make one?
John 15:7
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
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.
So for one to abide in Christ, His words must abide in them, and in simple words they must keep His commandments. This is not natural, it is a disicion we make and succeed through God's/Jesus' grace
I have heard and studied both views on John 3:5 with the water mentioned being either the word of God or the physical birth.
Your in good company either way it goes.
I lean over to the water mentioned in John 3:5 is the word of God because of the verses you both sited
1 Peter 1:23-25.
Ephesians 5:26.
However, I don't see how it relates to water baptism.
I don't believe water baptism represents a washing.
I believe it testifies in one's belief in the death of Christ and the resurrection.
I believe the washing by the word has to be taken place prior to water baptism.
John 15:3.
God bless.
Hebrews 11:37
They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated-
Other parts of this passage mention torture and wandering as nomads. It is fairly clear that when people are put to severe physical suffering and or death directly because of their profession of faith that persecution is occurring. When we look to the individuals who are exiled or made homeless because of either being directly evicted or put in a position of poverty because of their faith (even related to a caste system so encompassing anyone not in the elite status) it can be less clear. Some of this seems like "collateral damage"; and if we look at more subtle things such as verbal abuse and harassment on the job it may be even less clear. No doubt having a work ethic to work "heartily unto the Lord" (Coossians 3:23); to work as unto the Lord and to be above reproach thus not agreeing to use illegal means to promote the econonic status also can have fallout. Of course we must be diligent not to be robbing from our employer's time in having conversations that cause us to deviate from the work at hand; such much normally be reserved for break or after work hours; although there are times when in my own situation I have had to emphasize that I'd better clock out when being alone with one individual on my past job discussing theology. A lot; of course would depend on how complex the task is; there have been one or two times I can think of specifically when working in a warehouse; for instance when the whole production line jammed and there was literally nothing else to do at that time but usually there is some mundane task we can do to fill in for these moments.
Jesus promised that all who were Godly in Christ Jesus would be persecuted ( 2 Tim. 3:12; John 15:20). The origin and SOURCE of this situation is nearly always Satan's minions.
As stated before space ran out in the last post; Romans 8:16 shows the communication between our spirit and His Spirit who resides within all true believers ( John 14:23; see also Eph. 3:17). For Him to RESIDE in our souls we must be born again.
And being children of God we also are made aware of opportunities which God gives us (i.e. "good works") that will be rewarded in heaven someday that are imperishable ( 1 Cor. 9:25; Matt. 6:19-21). Keep in mind the end of that passage stating that wherever your treasure is; your heart is also (loosely translated).
Again; as I have stated a LOT on this site; God's method is to chastise all those He loves (let the reader find the scriptures). There is no desire for this in the flesh; as it is stated in Hebrews 12:11 to be disciplined in this way. We learn to recognize and appreciate this "pruning" effort ( John 15:2); for without it we would be in danger of producing no fruit and in the end being burned (in everlasting punishment). Our confidence is that in the end we are made into a glorious image; and reflect perfectly His radiance as He truly IS our life. Our reward; therefore comes from Him and in reality is HIS reward. He will; of course have His saints rule and reign with Him as part of our inheritance.
Another point to be made is an effectual witness has to be bold in their testimony and bring the fear of the Lord as well as demonstrate His love. It is therefore as Philippians 1:28 states a "token of their perdition" that we remain steadfast in the confidence of all that He has promised us. Our coming exaltation to rule and reign with Christ isn't brought forth by arrogance on our part; but nonetheless the unnerving thing to those who hear our witness is that we are; indeed already seated in heavenly places. ( Eph. 2:6). Christ also overcame and is seated at the right hand of the Father. God will be magnified whether hell or heaven is our end.
If you do not believe that God chose you, then that is fine. Just do not call a Liar!
There's many reasons why we can feel a void in the Spirit moving in our lives.
Sometimes it's chastening or just being out of the will of God.
Other times it could be a wavering of our faith.
And then it can be pruning for Spiritual growth.
Sometimes God's presence is not clear or obvious to the human eye.
That's one reason why we are called to "live by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7.
The Holyspirit causes us to trust in God's promises such as Hebrews 13:5-6.
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me".
King David had to deal with Chastening and Correction in his reign as King.
But David knew God and trusted God and believed in his promises and mercy.
You see it evident in his Psalms 71:1-24 prayer.
Especially verses "20-21.Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.
Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.
We are to bare fruit. We are expected to.
John 15:7-8.
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
There's things that hinder us.
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
Hebrews. 12:1-3..
GB
HEALTH
Having discussed briefly the desires of the flesh for money that convince people (supposedly) that they too can have mountains of cash or at least a foothill or two if they sow generously to the megachurch we turn our attention to the other major appeal; that is of healings. As long as botox and plastic surgery keep the preacher (or "Apostle" or "prophet") from looking as crooked as their heart is they can hold some leverage; to those foolish enough to believe them to the concept that somehow they have locked into some sort of "healing ministry" that they can attach to their official title. It reminds me of the Jethro Tull song "Wind up" where he says "he's not the kind you have to wind up on Sundays" as one of his lines describing God. The same could be said for his song "My God" where the hypocricy of those who use a "plastic crucifix" is mocked. Sometimes we can find more wisdom with secular music than so called "Christian."
At any "road" as they say in England; if they can't sell you the concept of healing they will also often promote products that are; of course overpriced that are organic or something to that effect to keep your appearance younger. It appears almost always the evidence of so called healings have no factual backup; such as names; places or verifiable witnesses. Emotional healings of course aren't as easily verified and spiritual change is more than hype and drama. I am not a "cessationist" in principle; but would venture to say that any true miracle isn't something which should be made a spectacle; just as any true conversion has lasting power as based on John 15:5 about remaining in Him. If there is a true miracle of God it certainly isn't to promote a particular ministry but to give glory to God. It also; no doubt will bring the same sort of persecution that happened during the time of Christ. The same could be said about tongues; another thing these churches tend to emphasize.