Luke 14:31 gives us the hypothetical situation when we have 10000 men about to go to war with 20000. We have to decide whether to fight or seek a peace agreement. Given the very real odds against the armies of Israel; as well as God purposely reducing the size so that only His victory can be acknowledged (such as in Judges 7:2) we should carefully assess whether we are positioned to enter into spiritual warfare (such as Ephesians 6 describes).
Few would argue the importance of love as a virtue of prime importance being that God IS love ( 1 John 4:8). It is to be sought as 1 Corinthians 13:1 demonstrate how other giftings are subordinate to love and of course John 15:13 shows there is no greater love than laying down our life for our friends as demonsrated by our Lord and Savior Himself. I have discussed repentance in earlier posts on this subject. I thought it prudent to point out that we need to go beyond just acknowledgement of what scripture states is sin to the point where there is a revulsion and hatred within. After all; His Spirit is said to testify with our spirit ( Romans 8:16) that we are indeed His children. This sort of balances things out; we are to have Agape love where we love our enemies; also we are to truly hate sin whether it is within us; others or the whole world system. This encompasses the world; the flesh and the Devil. There seems to be a rather laccadasical approach when it comes to the enemy of our souls. Christ makes it perfectly clear as to his character but sadly when the seriousness of the matter of his deadly destructive rampage comes up almost always I seem to get a response that it is really no big deal. That is something frankly I find hard to swallow; given that God Himself will allow Satan to have authority over the whole world so that everyone who isn't written in the Book of Life will worship Antichrist and Satan by default. ( Rev. 13:8). That is coming soon.
Do all believers repent at the end before death? The answer is no, they don't.
The parable of the 10 virgins tells us that if just before Jesus comes for us (this can be also regarded as an individual departure through physical death as well as the rapture of the church as a whole) we must have light(sanctification) in ourselves. Otherwise we will not enter the marriage ( Matthew 25:1-12). Read what Jesus told them, He doesn't know them. But they were virgins(sanctified), they were expecting the Lord with the rest. Yes but they had a troubled christian life and they were not ready when Jesus came. Jesus doesn't recognize them, He only recognizes His children who look like Him in the character, it is them that He considers true children, the rest are just "bastards", Hebrews 12:7-8.
In the parable of the vine, John 15:1-8, in verse 2 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." in verse 6 says, "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.". I don't think a further explanation is needed
Finally in 2 Peter 1:5-11 what christians should try to succeed in their christian life. in verse 10 says, "Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall"
Make our calling sure? Doing these things we will not fail? And here we come to what really all that is about.
It all begins with the relationship between grace and good works. There is where it all starts. Many christians through the ages could not understand that relationship. People like Luther even rejected Jame's epistle as fake because it didn't fit their beliefs.. For some grace has nothing to do with any human work at all. So they rejected good works, so what a man does bad or good has no consequence to their salvation.
Thoughts on the Rapture and timing as well as reasoning/
Note: I can't find the prequel as it were to this thread; so the audience may be limited. I may get into further discussion on the main discussion area but will try to sum things up here.
A major issue here that I have opened the "can of worms" on is; in regard to just who is identified as those dressed in white garments which were made that way through blood ( Rev. 7:14 referring to robes). It certainly can be expected that the witness of the 144,000 will bring many to faith and willing martyrdom. Other verses referring those whose garments were made white make verses such as Revelation 3:4; and Zechariah 3:3 be contrasted with Ephesians 5:27. For if some in Laodicea are naked among other things; surely anyone with a garment in God's presence is saved; although it is much like Jude 1:23 being saved as though through the fire; or 1 Corinthians 3:15 where one suffers loss and not much remains after their works are burned up by and large. In other words I would argue that to have a garment in the first place we are saved; if we allow sin to spot it then there are certain ramifications; including what I propose as missing the reward of a rapture if indeed it is more than just a salvation prerequisite. I would strongly suggest in these last days; there is little fruit being produced; and the Lord of the harvest is looking for it. He will either purge us to produce more fruit ( John 15:2) or as the same verse indicates we are not His child (producing no fruit) and are eventually cut off. Again; we need to broaden our scope and see those who are unbelievers; those judged more harshly for hearing and rejecting the truth; lukewarm believers and those who are producing much fruit. We must as Hebrews suggest; believe God is a rewarder of those things done for Him ( Heb. 11:6). We also should pay attention to those seeking a better country ( Heb. 11:16) of those who willingly gave up their lives for this.
Jesus said ye are made clean by the Word I have spoken unto you John 15:3...Was not Mary's fetus.. Infant Jesus the living word spoken unto Mary....Thus she was made immaculate spiritually speaking....As Jesus was the living word spoken unto Mary...I know that Mary offered up 2 turtle doves for her cleansing according to the law....But that was for her past sins...We cannot throw Jesus's words out of the window...When he said you are made clean by the word i have spoken unto you that applied to Mary also....Or anybody that hears his voice as his voice are his words the good seeds that initiate the new birth of Christ in us...Thats y he always refered to himself as the son of man...Simply b/c mankind has to birth a baby Christ in the SPIRIT as that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit....Which is the H.G. that Child of Promise.... Luke 8:21..Who is my Mother and brethren them that hears my Words and keeps them...His seed....When he breathe on them they were impregnated by his breath which was his words, his seeds...Whosoever receiveth one such child in my name receiveth me...That was the great Promise i will multiply thy seed as the stars of heaven...Thus the sower and his seed his words his breath....He wants us all to be his Mother....That woman in Rev 12:5.. giving birth to the manchild are the children of Promise are his Mother the Church. ...It was his seed the words of the book, that New Covenant n his blood that impregnated the woman in Rev 12....Thats y Isaiah refers to Jesus as everlasting father....He is gonna father many Children with his seed the words of the book in the Fathers right hand...But they are spirits as that which is born of the spirit is spirit....That are gonna be as the stars of heaven in multitude....Unless ya receive the Kingdom of God as a lil Child you will in no wise enter there in....Thats y he is saying blessed are them that follow me in the regeneration...That Mutiplication of Promise....ok lemme go get some coffee...GBU
Other verses referencing the "love of God". Eph. 3:19 "And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God". John 14:21 "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him". 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". 1 John 5:3 "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous".
There's a lot being said in those scriptures and also these!
John 15:18-21.
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
IF YE WERE OF THE WORLD, THE WORLD WOULD LOVE HIS OWN: BUT BECAUSE YE ARE NOT OF THE WORLD, BUT I HAVE CHOSEN YOU OUT OF THE WORLD, THEREFORE THE WORLD HATETH YOU.
Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
They hated the Lord without a cause!! They hated him for telling the truth! John 8:42-47.
Galatians 4:16-20.
John 15:26.
John 16:12-15.
It shouldn't be surprising when we see hatred from the world and those of the world gravitate toward one of the other and those that are Christ gravitate toward one another!
Here's why!
John 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.
John 4:20-21.
If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
1 John 2:3-11.
If Christ spirit doesn't CAUSE you to Love one another then perhaps the world spirit and the father of lies stand in the way.
When the Spirit of truth is taken out of the way then the father of lies will be revealed.
Please Jesus guide Jewel in this adversity she is dealing with right now. You said that we not have more than we can endure with Your righteous right hand. Please Holy Spirit bring comfort to Jewel through biblical scripture and truth, support from other that obey God and some laughter to relieve the stress I ask in the name of Jesus Christ!!
Please reflect on Isaiah 41:10-13, John 16:33, John 15:5-7, 1 Corinthians 10;13, 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.
Please Lord Jesus Christ intervene in Michael's situation and guide him through this challenge he is facing. Please Holy Spirit comfort him with your spiritual gifts and Bible scriptures that he will be a testimony for others I pray in Jesus name!!!
Please consider reflecting on Psalm 91, Psalm 121, Matthew 6:33-34, 1 Corinthians 10:13, John 15:5-6.
Do you believe this is a metaphor or do you actually believe you were physically crucified with Christ around 2,000 years ago.
John 15:5 says Jesus is the vine and "ye are the branches." Do you believe you are actually just a branch? And do you believe Jesus is literally a vine and nothing else?
If those are the metaphors they obviously are, why do you assume ye are gods is not a metaphor in Psalms 82:6? Isn't that cherry picking something to suit your chosen narrative? In the same sentence it also says ye are children, so if this was honestly applied you would then be a literal child? Otherwise its just cherry picking the gods metaphor which could be considered intellectually dishonest. Are Gods children? Do you really believe there's more than one God, despite what so many other scriptures say?
Even the same author of Psalms only 4 chapters later says there's only one God in Psalm 86:10 "thou art God alone". Do you believe this verse just as much the other one you like? How about all the other verses that clearly say there's only one God like 1 Corinthians 8:6, 2 Samuel 7:22, Deuteronomy 4:39, 1 Chronicles 17:20. Why would someone ignore all these but only focus on believing a metaphor in half of one verse is not one instead?
Shouldn't we be using discernment and reading the Bible with an open heart to what God is teaching us rather than the other way around? Just like kings and rulers are called lords (lowercase to show context), gods does not mean God. Anyone who cherry picks and claims they are a god is really deceived and this comes from satan. Satan loves deceiving people in this way and it has his signature all over it. God bless.
Thanks for responding and sorry for such a delay on my response back. I normally can't engage until the weekend due to my work schedule.
Here's my view on this.
We are the light of the world, (The oil filled Lamps.)
In 1 Thessalonians 5:3-5. we see this light mentioned in the believers in connection with the Day of the Lord. (As already established; "Not to be mistaken for the tribulation! but what is interesting is "If" the Holyspirit is taken out of the way/Removed and no longer restraining, then the children of light would become as those who sleep in the night!
He that comforts us, enlighten us and keeps us is no longer doing it and by nature we love Darkness. John 3:19.
Jesus says he will never leave us comfortless. John 14:16-20.
John 15:19. Because of this verse we should see it is not a worldly entity that desires or even capable of restraining evil.
We have three enemies that pushes back against Holiness, Our flesh, the world and the prince of the two, "Satan"
We have one source that empowers, but yet "PERMITS" That's the Holyspirit. We see the involvement and power of the Holyspirit shepherding his Church against these three enemies.
Romans 8:9-15. (The flesh)
1 John 4:4. (Satan)
John 14:16-20. (The World.).
2 Thessalonians 2:1-7. The subject here is the Thessalonians thought the day of the Lord was at hand! Paul says that day shall not come, except there come a apostasy first, and that man of sin be revealed. Paul goes on to say; Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
He is refering to 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. He is reminding them.
By the context of 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians, they knew the order of events Paul was telling them. 1st The rapture. 2nd The man of sin revealed. 3rd the day of the Lord. (Wherefore comfort one another with these words.)
The Church is removed and the Holyspirit operates as it did in the Old Testament.
Revelation 19:10 And I (John) fell at his (Jesus) feet to worship him, and he (Jesus) said unto me (John), See thou doeth it not, I (Jesus) am thy (John) fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony (words) of Jesus: worship God (the father of ALL, including Jesus, Ephesians 4:6), for the testimony (words) of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy.
Jesus is our full brother.
Romans 8:29 For whom he (the Father) did foreknow, he (the Father) also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his (the Father's) SON, that he (Jesus) might be the firstborn of many BRETHREN.
We are also servants to Jesus, as Jesus is a servant to his Father. Just as Jesus, the servant, worships his God and Father, we are not to worship Jesus; but God our Father, we are fellowservants and sons and daughters to God our Father, and are to worship the Father.
Jesus told his disciples as he washed their feet he was SENT to be a SERVANT, a servant does the WORK for his master; therefore, Christ does EVERYTHING for us.
Colossians 1:27 ...this mystery ....Christ in you ....
Philippians 2:13 For it is God that WORKETH in you both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.
John 15:5 I AM the vine, ye are the BRANCHES .....without ME (immortal LIFE) ye can do NOTHING.
No the Bible does not teach anywhere that belief in christ is all that is required for salvation.
It repeatedly from beginning to end continues to teach faith together with obedience to God's ten commandments are a prerequisite to salvation. Everyone in the Bible is judged according to their works. Not according to their faith. Romans 3:31
"Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law." 1 John 2:4
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."
King James
Luke 18:18
"And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" Luke 18:19
"And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God."
Luke 18:20
"Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother."
King James
Matthew
5
Matthew 5:17
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
King James
John
15
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." John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
King James
Luke
13
Luke 13:24
"Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
King James
Romans 2:6
"Who will render to every man according to his deeds:"
King JamesRevelation 22:12
"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be."
King James
There is a ton of more verses that could be attached that continue to back up truth.
The main thing is you must read the Bible for yourself because ultimately you are responsible for your own salvation. Trusting what I say or what this person says is not the way to work out your own salvation.
Jesus was the fulfillment of Scripture in the Old Testament. Luke 24:19-27, Psalms 22, Isaiah 53, Zechariah 13:6, & many more.
The Holy Scriptures are broken down in Books & Separated by New Testament & Old Testament, none of which have been accredited as authored by Jesus. However many believe all were written about Jesus (redemption ) The Old Testament is before Jesus was born. The New Testament begins with Jesus birth, death on cross, resurrection from the grave, the witnessed accounts of Jesus life, ministry, miracles. Then continues the Good News os Salvation & ministry of the Church. Christians & Messianic Jews believe in the New Testament as Christ The Messiah the promised everlasting savior. Psalms 93:2, 1Kings 9:5, Zechariah 6:12-13, Psalms 89:3,4, 1Chronicles 17:11-27, Hebrews 8,
Matthew 8:4, Jesus obeyed scripture, Mark 1:44, & Jesus parents on Earth obeyed scripture, Luke 2:22,
Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit = Luke 11, John 20:21-22, Luke 12, Acts 1:5, John 14:16,26, John 15:26,
Please Lord intervene in Sally's marriage and family foundation that they will endure through difficult time and Your Will done through it. Please Holy Spirit enrich Sally with your divine gifts that will help her understand the Bible scriptures to bring comfort and peace through this I pray in the name of Jesus Christ!!
Please consider reflecting on Psalm 91, Psalm 46, Psalm 139, John 16:33, John 15:5-6, Joshua 1:8-9.
Lamentations 2:11 and associated passages discuss tears when the Babylonian captivity and it's horrors of stervation and destruction by fire of Jerusalem occur which is much like the theme here.
In terms of being as a vine (v. 8) we see such depictions of Israel in John 15:8 as well as Ezekiel and apparently Psalm 88 as well. Verses 10 to 12 also describe great branches such as a cedar (v. 10) which is also descriptive of other nations such as Lebanon which is compared to a cedar in no less than 100 verses in scripture. Trees also describe Egypt ( Ezekiel 31:18) as well as Assyria as ( Isaiah 10:24) which was "planted" in Lebanon.
Once again as in the previous Psalm; we see evidence of a prophetic mention of the city being burned (verse 16) signifying the Babylonian captivity. Verse 17 seems to indicate Christ as a possible man at the "man of thy right hand" made strong. Quickening the people in verse 18 could signify the Resurrection; or restoration at the end of the Tribulation. The idea of God awakening reminds us of Isaiah 54:7-9 where God briefly turns away; again possibly signifying Jacob's trouble.
I'd like to respond to your following comment: "If you do not recognize the body and blood to be literal, why would you take anything else literally?"
I too believe 100% in the Bible and that it's God's inspired word and take it seriously. Some people say they take something literally but actually mean seriously. I think in this case you mean every word in the Bible is literal, so I'd like to politely challenge that.
When Jesus said He's the bread of life do you believe he's literally made of bread? John 6:35. I would call that a metaphor. He's also called the Word, so if I believed that was literal that would mean He only a word spelled out as characters and nothing else?
When it says we're sheep, do you think we are literally sheep?
Jesus said He's a vine. Does that mean He wasn't a man on earth, but just a vine of a plant? John 15:1
The parables are all symbolic metaphors that have a deeper meaning, so if someone believes it's literal does that mean it no longer has a deeper meaning? Like the parable of the sower.
The abundance of symbolism and metaphors in the Bible in no way takes away from the meaning or seriousness for how it applies to our lives. I personally don't believe I'm literally engaging in cannibalism and eating Jesus when I take communion, but believe its deeply symbolic just like all the other symbolic things in the Bible. The symbolism of parables Jesus talked in was actually explained here: Matthew 13:10-11.
Interestingly, after studying scripture I've noticed, GOD gave mankind dominion, on Earth. Genesis 1:26,27,28, GOD didn't take that dominion away, people have misused their powers. They/we will all give account: Revelation 1:5-8, Romans 14:12, Daniel 4:3,34, Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18,
Jesus was here to show us how to bring His Kingdom the Kingdom of GOD on Earth, with Love, John 3:16-21, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1John 4:7,12, 1Peter 3:8, John 15:17, James 2:13-17, Luke 13:34,
one day all dominion will go to Christ: 1Corinthians 15:20-28, Romans 16:20,
Galatians 4:1-8, Colossians 3:21,
Matthew 20:25-28, Ephesians 1, (whole chapters) 1Peter 4, Jude 1,
Jesus gave all that believe in him, authority under heaven: from GOD ALMIGHTY: Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 6, Luke 11, Mark 3:15, Acts 4:30,31, Luke 9:2,
We all have power in the natural if even just to comfort someone else, & as we grow in faith, supernatural power in prayer, through GOD & Christ Jesus our Savior.
part 2, In John 10:7 "I AM" the door of the sheep & in 10:9 I AM the door: by me if any man inter in, he shall be saved, & shall go in and out, and find pasture. John 10:11 "I AM" the good Shepard: the good Shepard giveth his life for the sheep & 14, "I AM" the good Shepard, & know my sheep & am known of mine (believers). Then in John 11:25 "I AM" the resurrection, & the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (an unbeliever), yet shall he live: continue reading - 26. "I AM" the Way, the Truth & the Life, NO man come unto the Father, but by me. And last yet definitely not least, John 15:1,5 "I AM" the Vine ye are the branches: he that abides in me, & I in him, the same abideth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. Good to read on till end of 11. They also link Jesus to the Old Testament revelation of God. The Bible is said to have Many translations; these ppl are either ignorant (merely not knowing the bibles truth), evil or both. When copied, They went directly to the original translations so it was directly written per jot & tittle. We don't have originals now yet we do have documents that date back 100 yrs A.D - 120 A.D. over 6,000 manuscripts of antient writings & over 25,000 Archaeological digs. We have matching documents over 2,000 yrs after the original that match jot per tittle. ANY DEVIATION AND THEY WERE THROWN OUT. plus, in many different languages as; Ceriac, Coptic, Latin & Greek.
Mr. B said, "I'm not here to prove the bible, I'm not here to defend the bible & Charles Spurgen said it best, "I would no more defend the Bible then I would defend a Lion. You don't defend a Lion, You just let him loose, he'll defend himself.!! *"The Bible is a Reliable Collection of Historical Documents. Written by eye witness, 'during the life time of other eye witnesses' that report 'supernatural events'-'that took place in fulfilment of specific prophecies' & claim that their writings are Devine rather than human in origin*".
part 2, In John 10:7 "I AM" the door of the sheep & in 10:9 I AM the door: by me if any man inter in, he shall be saved, & shall go in and out, and find pasture. John 10:11 "I AM" the good Shepard: the good Shepard giveth his life for the sheep & 14, "I AM" the good Shepard, & know my sheep & am known of mine (believers). Then in John 11:25 "I AM" the resurrection, & the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (an unbeliever), yet shall he live: continue reading - 26. "I AM" the Way, the Truth & the Life, NO man come unto the Father, but by me. And last yet definitely not least, John 15:1,5 "I AM" the Vine ye are the branches: he that abides in me, & I in him, the same bringeth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. Good to read on till end of 11. They also link Jesus to the Old Testament revelation of God. The Bible is said to have Many translations; these ppl are either ignorant (merely not knowing the bibles truth), evil or both. When copied, They went directly to the original translations so it was directly written per jot & tittle. We don't have originals now yet we do have documents that date back 100 yrs A.D - 120 A.D. over 6,000 manuscripts of antient writings & over 25,000 Archaeological digs. We have matching documents over 2,000 yrs after the original that match jot per tittle. ANY DEVIATION AND THEY WERE THROWN OUT. plus, in many different languages as; Ceriac, Coptic, Latin & Greek.
Mr. B said, "I'm not here to prove the bible, I'm not here to defend the bible & Charles Spurgen said it best, "I would no more defend the Bible then I would defend a Lion. You don't defend a Lion, You just let him loose, he'll defend himself.!! *"The Bible is a Reliable Collection of Historical Documents. Written by eye witness, 'during the life time of other eye witnesses' that report 'supernatural events'-'that took place in fulfilment of specific prophecies' & claim that their writings are devine rather than human in origin*". Here are some verses...
But he that received seed in the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it, who also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. ( Matthew 13:23)
Now these are believers - and there are different types of believers: hundredfold, sixtyfold, thirtyfold. Remember that our Lord, speaking to His own men in the Upper Room, said, "I am the vine, ye are the branches" ( John 15:5), and then went on to say that His whole point was that they might bring forth fruitmore fruit much fruit - thirtyfold, sixtyfold, and hundredfold. These are the three classes of real believers today.
There are two marks that identify genuine believers. The first mark is this: They receive the Word and they understand it. God has given to every believer the Holy Spirit who will interpret the Word of God and will give an understanding of it. Let me insert a word of warning here. It does not mean that you will understand everything that is in it, nor does it mean that you will not have to study the Word. It does mean that you will be given an aid that the unbeliever does not have. If you have a sincere desire to know, He will see that you understand.
Such a powerful verse. It was on 11/2/22 that God chose me and removed the heart of stone from me and placed a fleshy one in. I was one of many wolves that attacked the flock for decades and now He has called me to become a sheep dog. In all, I see it as God performing a miracle as I never would have entertained the idea of being a Christian yet I am so grateful.
John 1:5 conclusion. When we read John 13:30; we see Judas Iscariot going out "immediately" after given the "sop" which was given traditionally to an honored guest. The narrative continues into John 14 and 15 all the way to John 15:16 which mentions the Disciples being called; chosen AND ordained (sans the traitor). The "fruit production" comes to those God has enabled to do this.
They have promises therefore of inheriting eternal life and the glories of heaven ( John 14:2).
The cost of being a disciple of course was soon to be revealed; namely in Peter's fall. In Luke 22:32 the word "converted" is used in order to describe what would soon happen. Christ knew all; of course that Peter was one of His own (as He would give nicknames to emphasize characteristics of the Apostles). In John 1:42 Jesus said that he would be called Cephus or the rock; later on in Matthew 16:16 we see that Christ was revealed to Peter as to who He was. Therefore the word converted here would mean to be restored spiritually after the fall; but it showed the effects of true repentance. Peter until this point was impetuous and immature in many ways as a child in his walk; so the meaning here is when Peter's outward behavior would represent a radical transfomation and involved dying to self. This made him ready after the Resurrection to take on what he knew would end up in martyrdom ( John 21:18). It also gave him boldness in the Book of Acts despite a realistic fear of his own persecution.
Let us therefore take heed; that we are slow to speak as well as swift to hear and slow to wrath (mixed up interpretation of James 1:19). We need to look out for false teachers as well; who self identify as believers; but show no evidence of true faith and producing good fruit.
Somewhere I have discussion here on the entire book of John focusing on Predestination. I thought this particular verse needed emphasis. This verse shows how those who are in darkness spiritually can't understand the Spirit and how Christ is distinct from the world in Holiness as well as being its Creator. Therefore; the standard set is according to man's interpretation of a "righteous man or a Prophet" ( Matt. 16:15). Such a question this late in the game really boggles the mind; and it is clear early on with John the Baptist ( John 1:33) that the Spirit revealed to him who Christ was. Keep in mind this was BEFORE any miracles were performed by Christ Himself at the onset of the ministry. Jesus went immediately to the wilderness to be tested of the Devil BEFORE His onset of public outreach. This should reveal to us all those world powers and principalities that rule in high places and how hard the enemy will fight those who are potentially dangerous to his world system ( Eph. 6:12). It is interesting to examine this in light of our salvation experience; it seems rare that people take on a fast immediately after conversion but we see Paul for instance in a forced fast after his blindness ( Acts 9:9) after God struck him down.
We need to ensure that the light in us isn't darkness ( Luke 11:35). Satan comes as an angel of light ( 2 Cor. 11:14). This is why we are to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5). Hence the verse of the day ( John 15:16) demonstrates that we are chosen AND ordained to bear fruit. This is slightly different as to Judas Iscariot who was called and chosen but didn't bear good fruit. In God's presence miracles would happen but he was only interested in how it benefited him. This should be a warning to anyone attempting to do good works in their own strength. True fruit only comes from above as the Spirit abides in a man ( John 15:4). We must therefore abide in Him (see Romans 8:16).
I would like to add one more thought comes to mind along with what Myself and Brother Jesse has shared.
Fruit is what's produced inward and expressed outward, the cleansing is internally and the action outwardly is caused by this cleansing.
This is what the natural man can not do.
This is what Jesus is telling the Pharisees in Matthew 23:25-26 "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
This is what Israel could not produce. ( Jeremiah 2:21.)
There was no heart change in the working/covenant of the law.
I believe this is why Jesus says in John 15:1. I AM THE TRUE VINE, and my Father is the husbandman.
This production comes by the new birth or " Born from above" being connected to the life giver.
We are branches baring what the vine produces, being that we're LIVE and attached.
You see the outward result in being a live branch in baptism or "Identified" with Christ mentioned in Romans 6.
1) I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
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.
3) Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
The Greek word for purge is kathairo, which means "to cleanse. The Lord cleanses you that you bring forth "BEAR" more fruit.
Some people consider the purging to be pruning, and He does that too, but it really means to cleanse. There is no doubt that the Lord does some pruning. He moves into our lives and takes out those things that offend,
What is important to see here is who is producing the fruit? The answer is in verses 5 and 6.
4) 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.
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.
Verses 6-12.
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.
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
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.
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
I will leave off there so others may add and improve on my reply and perhaps I will join later.
The word in the New Testament is referred to several times as the water (probably for the word's cleansing of the heart). Ephesians 5:26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word. St. John 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. Hebrews 10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. St. John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Sometime the reference to the water and the word are not in the same verse, but in the following verses it is the water, the word that a person becomes born again. St. John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. James 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. Could also be the separation from sin symbolized by baptism, the children of Israel passing through the Red Sea, etc.
5. Love: Agape-Unconditional. We can't find such a resource in our tool box in our own strength. Go ahead and try and let me know how it works for you. People have; sadly referred to God's love as "reckless"; I will leave out the particular artist that comes to mind with such language...
We are in a feckless world; and the fact that the love of many will grow cold ( Matt. 24:12) certainly extends into the professing church as we see the warning to the Ephesian church ( Rev. 2:4). It is good to be looking for love in the RIGHT places; but sadly many are obsessed with the wrong places; people and situations. In the Body of believers we are commanded to love one another( John 13:34) and of course "they shall know we are Christians by our love (next verse John 13:35). The attributes of love are found in 1 Cor. 13. Our affections need to be grounded there in the fellowship of the saints and our own relationship with the Lord. There are some like myself that I know who have abstained from television for a number of years now. I am living with my parents so watch it sometimes but it is hard to decide when to walk away. Hopefully; we can have a healthy relationship with our cell phone as well as the amount of time on social media or even watching the news. There is much to be avoided with the fear today at epidemic levels; and of course "true love casts out fear." ( 1 John 4:17-18). It is more than for us but for our WITNESS that we avoid having our minds filled with distractions. People will see in our eyes and countenance that we are anchored in Him as Hebrews 6:19 states. We don't need to tell people so much how committed we are they can tell; and let their love or hate for us be dictated by our chastity; and reverence of the Lord Jesus as our Savior and Master.
We are; of course "unworthy servants" ( Luke 17:7-10) along with friends of God ( John 15:15). A healthy balance is good to ponder this upcoming New Year
In the area of deliverance; discernment of spirits is certainly an aid in such a process. There are certain necessary prerequisites to such procedures; firstly of course a thorough knowledge of the Word in our "tool box" to use as weapons against the Evil One. This at times requires such things as prayer AND fasting ( Matt. 17:21). Since we are not Omniscient like Christ we should be regular in such activities and plan on such when we know a deliverance is needed.
Also there is the need for an individual to repent. It doesn't appear that Christ would ask a person who is being delivered to repent first; but He did warn the paralytic who was healed to "sin no more lest something WORSE happen to you." ( John 15:144-18). Considering the decades the man was a paralytic it seems likely that this was a warning of eternal condemnation of the soul in a helpless state. We should consider these things as obstacles when people aren't delivered right away; and of course if we are aware of certain things leading to their state (such as one case I saw when someone was possessed after watching occultic videos) they need to be dealt with. It didn't seem back in Biblical times that it was so easy to have secret sins as now; what was then outward idol worship is today imagery from a virtual reality; a false god and worship nonetheless no matter how someone defines their obsession with it.
A word of caution here is for those who are gifted with spritual discernment we often lack the practical wisdom to get a good picture of the other factors in a persons life; obviously this can tie in directly to besetting sins (things such as past abuse or patterns of behaviors); as well as the interpersonal dynamics; health issues and other things to get a complete picture. For the best diagnosis sometimes we need to seek the Lord if we are discerning correctly; then allow the blanks to be filled in as to WHY this is what the Lord has shown us.
Luke 14:31 gives us the hypothetical situation when we have 10000 men about to go to war with 20000. We have to decide whether to fight or seek a peace agreement. Given the very real odds against the armies of Israel; as well as God purposely reducing the size so that only His victory can be acknowledged (such as in Judges 7:2) we should carefully assess whether we are positioned to enter into spiritual warfare (such as Ephesians 6 describes).
Few would argue the importance of love as a virtue of prime importance being that God IS love ( 1 John 4:8). It is to be sought as 1 Corinthians 13:1 demonstrate how other giftings are subordinate to love and of course John 15:13 shows there is no greater love than laying down our life for our friends as demonsrated by our Lord and Savior Himself. I have discussed repentance in earlier posts on this subject. I thought it prudent to point out that we need to go beyond just acknowledgement of what scripture states is sin to the point where there is a revulsion and hatred within. After all; His Spirit is said to testify with our spirit ( Romans 8:16) that we are indeed His children. This sort of balances things out; we are to have Agape love where we love our enemies; also we are to truly hate sin whether it is within us; others or the whole world system. This encompasses the world; the flesh and the Devil. There seems to be a rather laccadasical approach when it comes to the enemy of our souls. Christ makes it perfectly clear as to his character but sadly when the seriousness of the matter of his deadly destructive rampage comes up almost always I seem to get a response that it is really no big deal. That is something frankly I find hard to swallow; given that God Himself will allow Satan to have authority over the whole world so that everyone who isn't written in the Book of Life will worship Antichrist and Satan by default. ( Rev. 13:8). That is coming soon.
Do all believers repent at the end before death? The answer is no, they don't.
The parable of the 10 virgins tells us that if just before Jesus comes for us (this can be also regarded as an individual departure through physical death as well as the rapture of the church as a whole) we must have light(sanctification) in ourselves. Otherwise we will not enter the marriage ( Matthew 25:1-12). Read what Jesus told them, He doesn't know them. But they were virgins(sanctified), they were expecting the Lord with the rest. Yes but they had a troubled christian life and they were not ready when Jesus came. Jesus doesn't recognize them, He only recognizes His children who look like Him in the character, it is them that He considers true children, the rest are just "bastards", Hebrews 12:7-8.
In the parable of the vine, John 15:1-8, in verse 2 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." in verse 6 says, "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.". I don't think a further explanation is needed
Finally in 2 Peter 1:5-11 what christians should try to succeed in their christian life. in verse 10 says, "Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall"
Make our calling sure? Doing these things we will not fail? And here we come to what really all that is about.
It all begins with the relationship between grace and good works. There is where it all starts. Many christians through the ages could not understand that relationship. People like Luther even rejected Jame's epistle as fake because it didn't fit their beliefs.. For some grace has nothing to do with any human work at all. So they rejected good works, so what a man does bad or good has no consequence to their salvation.
Note: I can't find the prequel as it were to this thread; so the audience may be limited. I may get into further discussion on the main discussion area but will try to sum things up here.
A major issue here that I have opened the "can of worms" on is; in regard to just who is identified as those dressed in white garments which were made that way through blood ( Rev. 7:14 referring to robes). It certainly can be expected that the witness of the 144,000 will bring many to faith and willing martyrdom. Other verses referring those whose garments were made white make verses such as Revelation 3:4; and Zechariah 3:3 be contrasted with Ephesians 5:27. For if some in Laodicea are naked among other things; surely anyone with a garment in God's presence is saved; although it is much like Jude 1:23 being saved as though through the fire; or 1 Corinthians 3:15 where one suffers loss and not much remains after their works are burned up by and large. In other words I would argue that to have a garment in the first place we are saved; if we allow sin to spot it then there are certain ramifications; including what I propose as missing the reward of a rapture if indeed it is more than just a salvation prerequisite. I would strongly suggest in these last days; there is little fruit being produced; and the Lord of the harvest is looking for it. He will either purge us to produce more fruit ( John 15:2) or as the same verse indicates we are not His child (producing no fruit) and are eventually cut off. Again; we need to broaden our scope and see those who are unbelievers; those judged more harshly for hearing and rejecting the truth; lukewarm believers and those who are producing much fruit. We must as Hebrews suggest; believe God is a rewarder of those things done for Him ( Heb. 11:6). We also should pay attention to those seeking a better country ( Heb. 11:16) of those who willingly gave up their lives for this.
Advocate 1 John 2:1
Shephard & Bishop of souls I Peter 2:25
Man of sorrows Isa 53.3
Judge Acts 10:42
Faithful and True Witness Rev 3:14
Head of the Church Eph 5:23
Rock 1 Corth 10:4
High Priest Heb 6:20
Master Matt 8:19
Living Water John 4:10
Rose of Sharon Song of Solomon 2:1
Alpha and Omega Rev 22:13
Lamb of God John 1:29 Messiah Daniel 9:25
Mediator I Tim 2:5
Teacher John 3:2
Author and Finisher of our Faith Heb 12:2
Image of the invisible God Col 1:15
Everlasting Father Isa 9:6
The Word John 1:1
Holy One Mark 1:24
Light of the world John 8:12
Lion of the tribe of Judah Rev 5: 5
LORD OF LORDS I Tim 6:15
The Beloved Eph 1:6
Carpenter Mark 6:3 The Almighty Rev 21:
Shiloh Gen 49:10
The Way, the Truth and The Life John 14:16
Bright and Morning Star Rev 22:16
Good Shepherd John 10:11
Son of Man Matt 20:28
Only Begotten Son John 3:16
King Of Kings 1 Tim 6:15
Prince of Peace Isa 9:6
Bridegroom Matt 9:15
Dayspring Luke 1:78
Saviour of the world Eph 5:23
Immanuel Luke 1:78 & Matt 1:23
Wonderful Counselor Isa 9:6
I AM John 8:58
The Door John 10:9
The True Vine John 15:1
King of the Jews Mark 15:26
Prophet Matt 21:11
Redeemer Job 19:25
Saviour Isa 45:15 , John 42:2, 1 Tim 4:10
The Amen Rev 3:14
The Living God
Anchor Heb 6:19
The BRANCH Zech 6:12
Bread of Life John 6:15
The Resurrection & Life John 11.25
The Living God, who is the Saviour of all men,
There's a lot being said in those scriptures and also these!
John 15:18-21.
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
IF YE WERE OF THE WORLD, THE WORLD WOULD LOVE HIS OWN: BUT BECAUSE YE ARE NOT OF THE WORLD, BUT I HAVE CHOSEN YOU OUT OF THE WORLD, THEREFORE THE WORLD HATETH YOU.
Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.
But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
They hated the Lord without a cause!! They hated him for telling the truth! John 8:42-47.
Galatians 4:16-20.
John 15:26.
John 16:12-15.
It shouldn't be surprising when we see hatred from the world and those of the world gravitate toward one of the other and those that are Christ gravitate toward one another!
Here's why!
John 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.
John 4:20-21.
If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?
And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
1 John 2:3-11.
If Christ spirit doesn't CAUSE you to Love one another then perhaps the world spirit and the father of lies stand in the way.
When the Spirit of truth is taken out of the way then the father of lies will be revealed.
God bless.
Please reflect on Isaiah 41:10-13, John 16:33, John 15:5-7, 1 Corinthians 10;13, 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.
Please consider reflecting on Psalm 91, Psalm 121, Matthew 6:33-34, 1 Corinthians 10:13, John 15:5-6.
Do you believe this is a metaphor or do you actually believe you were physically crucified with Christ around 2,000 years ago.
John 15:5 says Jesus is the vine and "ye are the branches." Do you believe you are actually just a branch? And do you believe Jesus is literally a vine and nothing else?
If those are the metaphors they obviously are, why do you assume ye are gods is not a metaphor in Psalms 82:6? Isn't that cherry picking something to suit your chosen narrative? In the same sentence it also says ye are children, so if this was honestly applied you would then be a literal child? Otherwise its just cherry picking the gods metaphor which could be considered intellectually dishonest. Are Gods children? Do you really believe there's more than one God, despite what so many other scriptures say?
Even the same author of Psalms only 4 chapters later says there's only one God in Psalm 86:10 "thou art God alone". Do you believe this verse just as much the other one you like? How about all the other verses that clearly say there's only one God like 1 Corinthians 8:6, 2 Samuel 7:22, Deuteronomy 4:39, 1 Chronicles 17:20. Why would someone ignore all these but only focus on believing a metaphor in half of one verse is not one instead?
Shouldn't we be using discernment and reading the Bible with an open heart to what God is teaching us rather than the other way around? Just like kings and rulers are called lords (lowercase to show context), gods does not mean God. Anyone who cherry picks and claims they are a god is really deceived and this comes from satan. Satan loves deceiving people in this way and it has his signature all over it. God bless.
Thanks for responding and sorry for such a delay on my response back. I normally can't engage until the weekend due to my work schedule.
Here's my view on this.
We are the light of the world, (The oil filled Lamps.)
In 1 Thessalonians 5:3-5. we see this light mentioned in the believers in connection with the Day of the Lord. (As already established; "Not to be mistaken for the tribulation! but what is interesting is "If" the Holyspirit is taken out of the way/Removed and no longer restraining, then the children of light would become as those who sleep in the night!
He that comforts us, enlighten us and keeps us is no longer doing it and by nature we love Darkness. John 3:19.
Jesus says he will never leave us comfortless. John 14:16-20.
John 15:19. Because of this verse we should see it is not a worldly entity that desires or even capable of restraining evil.
We have three enemies that pushes back against Holiness, Our flesh, the world and the prince of the two, "Satan"
We have one source that empowers, but yet "PERMITS" That's the Holyspirit. We see the involvement and power of the Holyspirit shepherding his Church against these three enemies.
Romans 8:9-15. (The flesh)
1 John 4:4. (Satan)
John 14:16-20. (The World.).
2 Thessalonians 2:1-7. The subject here is the Thessalonians thought the day of the Lord was at hand! Paul says that day shall not come, except there come a apostasy first, and that man of sin be revealed. Paul goes on to say; Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
He is refering to 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. He is reminding them.
By the context of 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians, they knew the order of events Paul was telling them. 1st The rapture. 2nd The man of sin revealed. 3rd the day of the Lord. (Wherefore comfort one another with these words.)
The Church is removed and the Holyspirit operates as it did in the Old Testament.
2 Thessalonians 2:4 parallels with Matthew 24:15.
GB.
Revelation 19:10 And I (John) fell at his (Jesus) feet to worship him, and he (Jesus) said unto me (John), See thou doeth it not, I (Jesus) am thy (John) fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony (words) of Jesus: worship God (the father of ALL, including Jesus, Ephesians 4:6), for the testimony (words) of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy.
Jesus is our full brother.
Romans 8:29 For whom he (the Father) did foreknow, he (the Father) also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his (the Father's) SON, that he (Jesus) might be the firstborn of many BRETHREN.
We are also servants to Jesus, as Jesus is a servant to his Father. Just as Jesus, the servant, worships his God and Father, we are not to worship Jesus; but God our Father, we are fellowservants and sons and daughters to God our Father, and are to worship the Father.
Jesus told his disciples as he washed their feet he was SENT to be a SERVANT, a servant does the WORK for his master; therefore, Christ does EVERYTHING for us.
Colossians 1:27 ...this mystery ....Christ in you ....
Philippians 2:13 For it is God that WORKETH in you both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.
John 15:5 I AM the vine, ye are the BRANCHES .....without ME (immortal LIFE) ye can do NOTHING.
God Bless YOU!
It repeatedly from beginning to end continues to teach faith together with obedience to God's ten commandments are a prerequisite to salvation. Everyone in the Bible is judged according to their works. Not according to their faith. Romans 3:31
"Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law." 1 John 2:4
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him."
King James
Luke 18:18
"And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" Luke 18:19
"And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God."
Luke 18:20
"Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother."
King James
Matthew
5
Matthew 5:17
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
King James
John
15
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." John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
King James
Luke
13
Luke 13:24
"Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
King James
Romans 2:6
"Who will render to every man according to his deeds:"
King JamesRevelation 22:12
"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be."
King James
There is a ton of more verses that could be attached that continue to back up truth.
The main thing is you must read the Bible for yourself because ultimately you are responsible for your own salvation. Trusting what I say or what this person says is not the way to work out your own salvation.
The Holy Scriptures are broken down in Books & Separated by New Testament & Old Testament, none of which have been accredited as authored by Jesus. However many believe all were written about Jesus (redemption ) The Old Testament is before Jesus was born. The New Testament begins with Jesus birth, death on cross, resurrection from the grave, the witnessed accounts of Jesus life, ministry, miracles. Then continues the Good News os Salvation & ministry of the Church. Christians & Messianic Jews believe in the New Testament as Christ The Messiah the promised everlasting savior. Psalms 93:2, 1Kings 9:5, Zechariah 6:12-13, Psalms 89:3,4, 1Chronicles 17:11-27, Hebrews 8,
Matthew 8:4, Jesus obeyed scripture, Mark 1:44, & Jesus parents on Earth obeyed scripture, Luke 2:22,
Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit = Luke 11, John 20:21-22, Luke 12, Acts 1:5, John 14:16,26, John 15:26,
2Timothy 3:16
Hope these are helpful
Please consider reflecting on Psalm 91, Psalm 46, Psalm 139, John 16:33, John 15:5-6, Joshua 1:8-9.
Lamentations 2:11 and associated passages discuss tears when the Babylonian captivity and it's horrors of stervation and destruction by fire of Jerusalem occur which is much like the theme here.
In terms of being as a vine (v. 8) we see such depictions of Israel in John 15:8 as well as Ezekiel and apparently Psalm 88 as well. Verses 10 to 12 also describe great branches such as a cedar (v. 10) which is also descriptive of other nations such as Lebanon which is compared to a cedar in no less than 100 verses in scripture. Trees also describe Egypt ( Ezekiel 31:18) as well as Assyria as ( Isaiah 10:24) which was "planted" in Lebanon.
Once again as in the previous Psalm; we see evidence of a prophetic mention of the city being burned (verse 16) signifying the Babylonian captivity. Verse 17 seems to indicate Christ as a possible man at the "man of thy right hand" made strong. Quickening the people in verse 18 could signify the Resurrection; or restoration at the end of the Tribulation. The idea of God awakening reminds us of Isaiah 54:7-9 where God briefly turns away; again possibly signifying Jacob's trouble.
I'd like to respond to your following comment: "If you do not recognize the body and blood to be literal, why would you take anything else literally?"
I too believe 100% in the Bible and that it's God's inspired word and take it seriously. Some people say they take something literally but actually mean seriously. I think in this case you mean every word in the Bible is literal, so I'd like to politely challenge that.
When Jesus said He's the bread of life do you believe he's literally made of bread? John 6:35. I would call that a metaphor. He's also called the Word, so if I believed that was literal that would mean He only a word spelled out as characters and nothing else?
When it says we're sheep, do you think we are literally sheep?
Jesus said He's a vine. Does that mean He wasn't a man on earth, but just a vine of a plant? John 15:1
The parables are all symbolic metaphors that have a deeper meaning, so if someone believes it's literal does that mean it no longer has a deeper meaning? Like the parable of the sower.
The abundance of symbolism and metaphors in the Bible in no way takes away from the meaning or seriousness for how it applies to our lives. I personally don't believe I'm literally engaging in cannibalism and eating Jesus when I take communion, but believe its deeply symbolic just like all the other symbolic things in the Bible. The symbolism of parables Jesus talked in was actually explained here: Matthew 13:10-11.
God bless.
Interestingly, after studying scripture I've noticed, GOD gave mankind dominion, on Earth. Genesis 1:26,27,28, GOD didn't take that dominion away, people have misused their powers. They/we will all give account: Revelation 1:5-8, Romans 14:12, Daniel 4:3,34, Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 18,
Jesus was here to show us how to bring His Kingdom the Kingdom of GOD on Earth, with Love, John 3:16-21, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, 1John 4:7,12, 1Peter 3:8, John 15:17, James 2:13-17, Luke 13:34,
one day all dominion will go to Christ: 1Corinthians 15:20-28, Romans 16:20,
Galatians 4:1-8, Colossians 3:21,
Matthew 20:25-28, Ephesians 1, (whole chapters) 1Peter 4, Jude 1,
Jesus gave all that believe in him, authority under heaven: from GOD ALMIGHTY: Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 6, Luke 11, Mark 3:15, Acts 4:30,31, Luke 9:2,
We all have power in the natural if even just to comfort someone else, & as we grow in faith, supernatural power in prayer, through GOD & Christ Jesus our Savior.
Hopefully these are helpful
Mr. B said, "I'm not here to prove the bible, I'm not here to defend the bible & Charles Spurgen said it best, "I would no more defend the Bible then I would defend a Lion. You don't defend a Lion, You just let him loose, he'll defend himself.!! *"The Bible is a Reliable Collection of Historical Documents. Written by eye witness, 'during the life time of other eye witnesses' that report 'supernatural events'-'that took place in fulfilment of specific prophecies' & claim that their writings are Devine rather than human in origin*".
Here are some verses...
Mr. B said, "I'm not here to prove the bible, I'm not here to defend the bible & Charles Spurgen said it best, "I would no more defend the Bible then I would defend a Lion. You don't defend a Lion, You just let him loose, he'll defend himself.!! *"The Bible is a Reliable Collection of Historical Documents. Written by eye witness, 'during the life time of other eye witnesses' that report 'supernatural events'-'that took place in fulfilment of specific prophecies' & claim that their writings are devine rather than human in origin*". Here are some verses...
Part 18.
Good Soil
Finally we come to some seed!
But he that received seed in the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it, who also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. ( Matthew 13:23)
Now these are believers - and there are different types of believers: hundredfold, sixtyfold, thirtyfold. Remember that our Lord, speaking to His own men in the Upper Room, said, "I am the vine, ye are the branches" ( John 15:5), and then went on to say that His whole point was that they might bring forth fruitmore fruit much fruit - thirtyfold, sixtyfold, and hundredfold. These are the three classes of real believers today.
There are two marks that identify genuine believers. The first mark is this: They receive the Word and they understand it. God has given to every believer the Holy Spirit who will interpret the Word of God and will give an understanding of it. Let me insert a word of warning here. It does not mean that you will understand everything that is in it, nor does it mean that you will not have to study the Word. It does mean that you will be given an aid that the unbeliever does not have. If you have a sincere desire to know, He will see that you understand.
See Part 19.
and maybe one more.
They have promises therefore of inheriting eternal life and the glories of heaven ( John 14:2).
The cost of being a disciple of course was soon to be revealed; namely in Peter's fall. In Luke 22:32 the word "converted" is used in order to describe what would soon happen. Christ knew all; of course that Peter was one of His own (as He would give nicknames to emphasize characteristics of the Apostles). In John 1:42 Jesus said that he would be called Cephus or the rock; later on in Matthew 16:16 we see that Christ was revealed to Peter as to who He was. Therefore the word converted here would mean to be restored spiritually after the fall; but it showed the effects of true repentance. Peter until this point was impetuous and immature in many ways as a child in his walk; so the meaning here is when Peter's outward behavior would represent a radical transfomation and involved dying to self. This made him ready after the Resurrection to take on what he knew would end up in martyrdom ( John 21:18). It also gave him boldness in the Book of Acts despite a realistic fear of his own persecution.
Let us therefore take heed; that we are slow to speak as well as swift to hear and slow to wrath (mixed up interpretation of James 1:19). We need to look out for false teachers as well; who self identify as believers; but show no evidence of true faith and producing good fruit.
Somewhere I have discussion here on the entire book of John focusing on Predestination. I thought this particular verse needed emphasis. This verse shows how those who are in darkness spiritually can't understand the Spirit and how Christ is distinct from the world in Holiness as well as being its Creator. Therefore; the standard set is according to man's interpretation of a "righteous man or a Prophet" ( Matt. 16:15). Such a question this late in the game really boggles the mind; and it is clear early on with John the Baptist ( John 1:33) that the Spirit revealed to him who Christ was. Keep in mind this was BEFORE any miracles were performed by Christ Himself at the onset of the ministry. Jesus went immediately to the wilderness to be tested of the Devil BEFORE His onset of public outreach. This should reveal to us all those world powers and principalities that rule in high places and how hard the enemy will fight those who are potentially dangerous to his world system ( Eph. 6:12). It is interesting to examine this in light of our salvation experience; it seems rare that people take on a fast immediately after conversion but we see Paul for instance in a forced fast after his blindness ( Acts 9:9) after God struck him down.
We need to ensure that the light in us isn't darkness ( Luke 11:35). Satan comes as an angel of light ( 2 Cor. 11:14). This is why we are to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5). Hence the verse of the day ( John 15:16) demonstrates that we are chosen AND ordained to bear fruit. This is slightly different as to Judas Iscariot who was called and chosen but didn't bear good fruit. In God's presence miracles would happen but he was only interested in how it benefited him. This should be a warning to anyone attempting to do good works in their own strength. True fruit only comes from above as the Spirit abides in a man ( John 15:4). We must therefore abide in Him (see Romans 8:16).
I would like to add one more thought comes to mind along with what Myself and Brother Jesse has shared.
Fruit is what's produced inward and expressed outward, the cleansing is internally and the action outwardly is caused by this cleansing.
This is what the natural man can not do.
This is what Jesus is telling the Pharisees in Matthew 23:25-26 "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
This is what Israel could not produce. ( Jeremiah 2:21.)
There was no heart change in the working/covenant of the law.
I believe this is why Jesus says in John 15:1. I AM THE TRUE VINE, and my Father is the husbandman.
This production comes by the new birth or " Born from above" being connected to the life giver.
We are branches baring what the vine produces, being that we're LIVE and attached.
You see the outward result in being a live branch in baptism or "Identified" with Christ mentioned in Romans 6.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
You are referring to John 15:1-12.
1) I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
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.
3) Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
The Greek word for purge is kathairo, which means "to cleanse. The Lord cleanses you that you bring forth "BEAR" more fruit.
Some people consider the purging to be pruning, and He does that too, but it really means to cleanse. There is no doubt that the Lord does some pruning. He moves into our lives and takes out those things that offend,
What is important to see here is who is producing the fruit? The answer is in verses 5 and 6.
4) 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.
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.
Verses 6-12.
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.
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
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.
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
I will leave off there so others may add and improve on my reply and perhaps I will join later.
God bless.
5. Love: Agape-Unconditional. We can't find such a resource in our tool box in our own strength. Go ahead and try and let me know how it works for you. People have; sadly referred to God's love as "reckless"; I will leave out the particular artist that comes to mind with such language...
We are in a feckless world; and the fact that the love of many will grow cold ( Matt. 24:12) certainly extends into the professing church as we see the warning to the Ephesian church ( Rev. 2:4). It is good to be looking for love in the RIGHT places; but sadly many are obsessed with the wrong places; people and situations. In the Body of believers we are commanded to love one another( John 13:34) and of course "they shall know we are Christians by our love (next verse John 13:35). The attributes of love are found in 1 Cor. 13. Our affections need to be grounded there in the fellowship of the saints and our own relationship with the Lord. There are some like myself that I know who have abstained from television for a number of years now. I am living with my parents so watch it sometimes but it is hard to decide when to walk away. Hopefully; we can have a healthy relationship with our cell phone as well as the amount of time on social media or even watching the news. There is much to be avoided with the fear today at epidemic levels; and of course "true love casts out fear." ( 1 John 4:17-18). It is more than for us but for our WITNESS that we avoid having our minds filled with distractions. People will see in our eyes and countenance that we are anchored in Him as Hebrews 6:19 states. We don't need to tell people so much how committed we are they can tell; and let their love or hate for us be dictated by our chastity; and reverence of the Lord Jesus as our Savior and Master.
We are; of course "unworthy servants" ( Luke 17:7-10) along with friends of God ( John 15:15). A healthy balance is good to ponder this upcoming New Year
AMEN
Hopefully these are helpful
In the area of deliverance; discernment of spirits is certainly an aid in such a process. There are certain necessary prerequisites to such procedures; firstly of course a thorough knowledge of the Word in our "tool box" to use as weapons against the Evil One. This at times requires such things as prayer AND fasting ( Matt. 17:21). Since we are not Omniscient like Christ we should be regular in such activities and plan on such when we know a deliverance is needed.
Also there is the need for an individual to repent. It doesn't appear that Christ would ask a person who is being delivered to repent first; but He did warn the paralytic who was healed to "sin no more lest something WORSE happen to you." ( John 15:144-18). Considering the decades the man was a paralytic it seems likely that this was a warning of eternal condemnation of the soul in a helpless state. We should consider these things as obstacles when people aren't delivered right away; and of course if we are aware of certain things leading to their state (such as one case I saw when someone was possessed after watching occultic videos) they need to be dealt with. It didn't seem back in Biblical times that it was so easy to have secret sins as now; what was then outward idol worship is today imagery from a virtual reality; a false god and worship nonetheless no matter how someone defines their obsession with it.
A word of caution here is for those who are gifted with spritual discernment we often lack the practical wisdom to get a good picture of the other factors in a persons life; obviously this can tie in directly to besetting sins (things such as past abuse or patterns of behaviors); as well as the interpersonal dynamics; health issues and other things to get a complete picture. For the best diagnosis sometimes we need to seek the Lord if we are discerning correctly; then allow the blanks to be filled in as to WHY this is what the Lord has shown us.