12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. ( 1 Corinthians 15:12) (or 13:12).
I have been doing a deep dive into some secular music that is in the old progressive rock and sadly one or two of these groups directly mention pagan gods in their music. This is something I will have to monitor carefully; as some songs seem not to have any elements of this; and of course individuals in bands and music styles change over time. I could use prayer of wisdom as I am learning guitar and have a musical ear; and wish to honor the Lord but not get caught in the trap of hypnotic trance and other oppressive elements of certain music. This is even possible with certain classical music but much of it of the Baroque artists gives glory to God.
We all are led astray when following our own flesh and its natural desires. As with anything else; Satan can tempt us and not only may but WILL fool ALL unregenerate men who will be following the pied piper to eventually fight against Christ at Armageddon even after hiding from Him in the sixth seal knnowing what they've don no doubt.
We need to guard as much in our individual lives as we do with those we associate with. According to 1 Timothy 6:7-8
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
Obsessing over our material gains and creature comforts isn't healthy for us. Again; it is a balance with my coin collecting as I have been able to work meticulously with purchasing under cost but I don't plan to invest beyond a certain limit and not at the expense of opportunities to serve the Lord through service; witnessing; etc. This is why I don't hold onto too much and sell frequently (also I don't want too much at home if something gets stolen).
Job also said that the Lord gives and takes away (someone in college told me that).
Those are important reminders you have shared bro Giannis. As our Lord even said, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Unfortunately, most of Christendom have been caught up with the world, where having the latest technologies and keeping up with the Jones', is equally, even more important. And yet, we are reminded by the apostle, "But godliness with contentment is great gain." ( 1 Timothy 6:6).
It is true that in old times, most people had very little, especially concerning food, clothing, shelter, and jobs. Were they content?They had to be content because there was very little they could do to improve their lot, given the sparsity of offerings. But they still lived on 'struggle street' and were very likely anxious, despondent, and driven to desperate actions. But as you wrote, that we have so much more than they, and we live relatively comfortable healthy lives, yet still many today are no better mentally or emotionally than those others, facing pressures from various sources. What they feel will bring them happiness and contentment, is only found to be temporal, ever lusting for more & more to sustain those satisfied feelings. And again, as you wrote, "they are searching for happiness in the wrong places".
But when you think of it, what else does the unbelieving world have in this life? Or, of any hope of eternity? Absolutely nothing. Their lives consist of what they know, have, and feel in the present, for tomorrow we die & are no more. But if they heed Jesus' Words ( Luke 12:15), "..(that) a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth" and they could have greater eternal treasures from Heaven (of full salvation, real joy, inner peace, and power to live righteously), their whole perspective of life & its real worth will be changed for their eternal good. If the Church at large can get out their stagnation & be a living witness to the world, the world might understand their true poverty. Blessings.
Everything going on right now, these scriptures come to mind. God Bless You all.
1 Timothy 6:4-5 - He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
Brother Jesse has provided Scriptures to consider on this matter. I could offer Scriptures that would debate these points, but that would not answer your questions. This doctrine originated in 325 A.D. and was expanded over the next 150 years or so. You need to pray and study for your own conscience.
The majority support this doctrine, and some believe it is essential to be a Christian. Jesus is our Lord, and He gave His life to pay the penalty for sin so that we, through Him, can be reconciled to God. The wages of sin are death, Romans 6:23. Jesus' death on the cross paid this price.
Jesus had His own will, but was obedient and did the will of the Father, John 14:31, Luke 22:42, John 5:30, John 17:16, John 12:49.
The Chalcedonian Creed A.D. 451 states, "Christ, Son, Lord, only begotten, to be acknowledged in two natures, in confusedly, unchangeably, indivisibly, inseparably; the distinction of nature's being by no means taken away by the union, but rather the property of each nature being preserved." Does Scripture support this?
God alone possesses immortality, 1 Timothy 6:16. Our faith rests on the death and resurrection of Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 1 Corinthians 15:12-17. God cannot die. Jesus was tempted in the same ways we are, Hebrews 4:14-16. God cannot be tempted, James 1:13.
The Bible will answer all questions we have if we are ready to receive the answer, Matthew 7:7, James 1:5, with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit-not man.
The flesh. Trusting in God to meet all our needs of course is paramount to achieving success in being satisfied in Him for His Providence in all things; and supply of food and clothing as primary examples. Obviously prayer in giving thanks is helpful here routinely but it has to mean something and not just become a mantra.
When online these days; it is unfortunate that even on sites that are informational or even many Christian ones there are at least suggestive if not down right what would have been described 40 years ago as a soft version of that "P" word. We have to question how in general a search for information is as to its importance since that in and of itself is an endless insatiable appetite; which the world will not bring any satisfaction to. Simply read Ecclesiastes and we see how much vanity caused Solomon's downfall. We see this in material possessions such as accumulating gold and silver and other possessions which God warned about ahead of time not to be doing. We see how one obsession can lead to another; it doesn't seem that Solomon was particularly obsessed with possessions but it was the foreign women that were involved in his endless wives and concubines that were all part of this and that in turn turned him to either be neutral towards or tacitly accept the foreign gods they brought into his life and no doubt with his associates to turn the nation eventually against the Lord and incurring God's wrath. We are warned in scripture not only to avoid things that lead to perdition in 1 Timothy 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. We are equally admonished in Luke 19:22 about heavenly treasures where others will gain reward if we don't invest in the Kingdom of God; and Matthew 25 suggests some aren't genuine believers by being cast into outer darkness as a wicked and lazy servant.
And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness. ( 1 John 5:19).
But godliness with contentment is great gain. ( 1 Timothy 6:6)
This posting is really bearing my soul as it were but necessary medicine.
When we start out life we are utterly dependent on our parents or whoever our caretaker happens to be for food; clothing and shelter. Of course the famous adage is that you never need to train a child to say NO and therefore they need parameters.
As someone gets older; of course they are expected to become more and more independent until eventually they forge a life on their own with their life partner in marriage many times.
This of course can be used as an analogy of the same situation of someone just Born Again; and in others not. God is forever sustaining us and we are ever dependent on His provisions. We are asked to suffer as indeed Christ suffered as a servant. In all this we are UTTERLY dependent on the Holy Spirit. Although He lives inside us as a permanent resident we need to constantly fellowship and pray; today the Pastor discussed the Transfiguration and Christ in prayer immediately before that. Thus we are restored and renewed or you could say refilled in the proper context. I look at it more as our old self trying to assert dominance and we forget who we truly are; again with the caveat that only a truly saved person can do that or even has any joy in it. I can only speak for myself but always recognize the Spirit at work but it amazes me how I seem to be estranged much of the time and sadly often think I'm doing alright when in fact I have drifted away from where I should be. It simply isn't enough to make a formula out of procedures every day reading the Bible; prayer; etc. and in fact it probably does more harm than good if it is disingenuous from some ritualistic routine. I for one have to seek Him more every day before anything else.
I focused an earlier segment on 2 Peter 3:16 regarding twisting scripture that is complex; today I want to focus on another verse.
1 Timothy 6:3-5: "If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words."
At best a tare is someone who tolerates church; Bible reading and other Christian activities. One way or another they play church. As the Word says in Matthew 12:34
34 Brood[a] of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
I was thinking of the last part of the passage but in reality we see in the whole verse the true evil we are discussing here.
The Pharisees certainly were masters at form and ceremony for recognition. There are some tares in the church today that do this; if they aren't just sitting on the sidelines; they are likely to be endlessly conversing; oftentimes not about the Word I would surmise. When they are I would say 9 times out of 10 it is praising the Pastor for the message and delivery and people centered on those whose influence is most important to their own social circle of interest (likely business or for gossip purposes). Again as I have cautioned before someone can be immature in the faith who does this; and conversely more dangerously may appear in many more ways to do works that demonstrate genuine faith. Less often would that be focusing on prayer and other such activities outside church. I would say that this could be; as with my earlier posting be someone who is ultimately swayed by a political agenda; and that can be on either side of the spectrum. If we agree with the right for instance it should never be at the expense of idolizing anyone in power; or supporting excesses of power not in their authority to do.
3, And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
This is one powerful verse: "And this is life eternal." This was the primary purpose of Jesus' mission: the immortality of the Father came to earth, manifested in Jesus, and eternal life which God the Father alone possesses, 1 Timothy 6:16.
God was revealed in the flesh of His only Son, Jesus. What is eternal was manifested in the world and is now available to us. This eternal life is given that we might know the only true God and His Son Jesus Christ, whom His Father sent, 1 John 4:7-16.
There are 38 times in the gospels where Jesus said God sent Him, the most expressive is in John 7:16-29. When Jesus was sent, it was first for the lost sheep of the house of Israel, Matthew 15:24, at the fullness of time, for those under the law, Galatians 4:4-5. This was part of God's plan from the beginning and happened at the fullness of time.
In 1 John 5:20, John says Jesus gave them understanding that they should know the Son of God, the Messiah has come, and that we should know the true God, and we are in Him, the true God, and in the Son of Him that is the only God from whom eternal life comes. Paul says the same in 1 Corinthians 8:6 But to us there is but 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. God, the Father, of whom are all things, "of whom are" Greek ek" or "ex" indicates the origin or source. "Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, Greek dia ho, he, to pas, on the account of Jesus are all things.
Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side.
19And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
20And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.
21And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.
22But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.
As Jesus headed toward the boat on the shore; and retreating from the crowds temporarily He gave the two challenges to "whittle out" people; in this case a scribe and one of the disciples not to end up in the final 12 mentioned in the upcoming chapter. It is interesting in light of 1 Timothy 6:8 that food and clothing were to be things we were content with; that shelter isn't mentioned. It also isn't mentioned in Matthew 6:26-34 regarding how the birds of the air don't toil for food and clothing.
The next case involves a seemingly callous statement by Christ regarding a man burying his father. One should keep in mind that often there were long rituals taking up many months with such an event; and that Christ knew that in his heart it was a stalling mechanism. Interestingly we don't have the final response of these two individuals as we do in like scriptures. We can see that in the second case the father and rest of the family were lost individuals.
The rest of Chapter 8 finds us with two challenges or events; the first being the tempestous sea where Christ was asleep in the boat and calmed the sea; the second was the casting out of the demons into a herd of swine; and the subsequent request that Christ leave the area. We see a similar occurrence in Mark but there it appears to be one man and the statement of the demons shows that as well. Skeptics would question this but I take it as two separate events; perhaps someone can elaborate on these verses.
2 Timothy 3:2 - For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Number one, for men shall be lovers of their own selves. Secondly, covetous, which literally means lovers of money, PHILARGUROI. It is the same word that is found in 1 Timothy 6:10 where it says for the love of money is the root of all evil.
So, the first two have to do with love, lovers of their own selves, and lovers of money. The word love is PHILOS, which means to be fond of or to be friendly towards. It means to rearrange one's life to make these things a priority, first our own selves, and then money.
Thirdly, boasters. This word is found in 1 John 2:15-16. John says love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
Pride of life is the same word. And the pride of life is not of the Father, but is of the world. So, when it has to do with material things, it has to do with using one's material things to boast. In other words, I go out and buy two or three expensive cars, and I build a multimillion-dollar house up on a hill and try to get the best of everything. It's a status thing!
1 Timothy 6:21 - Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.
The last phrase, the postlude of Paul as he gives the benediction, only we see a benediction as a pronouncing of blessing, which is in most English bibles, but you'll notice the word be, in Grace be with the, the word be is in italics. That's because it's not in the Greek text. In the Greek text it is a factual statement. It says Grace is with you. Amen.
This is all I have to share in 1 Timothy. I will start 2 Timothy next. When Paul wrote 1 Timothy, he wrote 1 Timothy and Titus. And it was some years later, right before he was going to die, that he wrote 2 Timothy. 2 Timothy is Paul's last letter before he died. He's in the Mamertine prison in Rome, not the house arrest that he was in during his first imprisonment.
I don't know if you've ever studied anything about the Mamertine prisons, but basically in our society, it would be like taking someone downtown, taking the sewer cover off the street, and dropping you down into the sewer. That was the prison.
This is all I have to share in 1 Timothy. I will be going through and sharing 2 Timothy next. Lord willing!
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.
The word fight as a command is the word AGONIDZO, agonize, the good agony of faith. It doesn't mean that in your human effort, you're going out to conquer the world or fight for the things of Christ in the world. It's an athletic term. It's what athletes go through in their discipline, their focus, and in their purpose. They agonize through the agony of being an athlete.
1 Timothy 6:16 - Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
In Verses 15 and 16, we have the creed concerning Christ. Verses 12 to 14 was the commands concerning our confession. This is the creed concerning Christ. He says Timothy, here's what you confessed. Hold to it. The first one is: who shall show the blessed and only Potentate. That's Jesus Christ. Potentate means power.
Secondly, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. That's all one phrase for God. It's a phrase for Jesus. Jesus is called King of kings, and Lord of lords in Revelation 17:14 and in Revelation 19:16. He is the only blessed, and the only power. He is the King of kings, and Lord of lords.
Thirdly, the only one that has immortality.
Fourthly, He is dwelling in the light, constantly, this light which no man can approach; and whom no man has seen, nor can see:
His invisibility is the fifth thing. To whom be the honor and the glory, or literally strength, KRATOS. Whenever a writer uses the word KRATOS to describe power, and there's different words for power, DUNAMIS is where we get our word dynamite, and that's the normal word for power. But KRATOS means grip. It shows somebody who's in control. The whole universe is in the grip of Christ. So, to Him be the honor. To Him be the power, the grip, forever!
1 Timothy 6:10 - For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
For the love of money is the root of all evil: First of all, the term love of money is one compound word in Greek, and it means to have an affection for silver. Silver was the word used for money in those days.
And it's interesting that it doesn't have the word lust, it has the word affection, or PHILEO, for friendship. It's as if money's our best friend. It's going to get us to where we want to go. We get to do what we want to do with our good friend money! It doesn't say money is the root of all evil. It says the love of money is the root of all evil.
1 Timothy 6:11 - But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
He says but thou, O man of God. If Paul ever called you a man of God, or a woman of God, that would be a great compliment. Timothy's the only one in the New Testament. 70 times it is used in the Old Testament. Timothy is the only one in the new.
And secondly, follow after righteousness, godliness, and again, that means reverence for God, faith, love, patience, which is literally endurance, and meekness, which is the Greek word PRAOTETHIS, which means openness, be receptive or be open.
Now check this out: Some pastors will use this and tell people that they are to be open and receptive to the things they have to say. But the command is to the pastors, for them to be open and receptive to feedback.
1 Timothy 6:5 - Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
The word minds is the word NOUS, which in the Greek, it has to do with perception. Their perception is corrupt. When somebody comes to you and says that they want to explain some scriptures to you, should we try to perceive their ability to perceive? Do they have the Holy Spirit to help them perceive what the scripture is saying? Or are they just coming off the wall?
And they are destitute of the truth, and listen to this: supposing that gain is godliness: Does that sound familiar? Some ministries say that material gain is godliness.
But please notice this because it's only in the manuscripts of the Textus Receptus. The other Greek manuscripts for the other translations don't have it. He says to Timothy, from such withdraw yourself. Anyone that preaches a gospel that basically says in its philosophy that material gain is godliness, withdraw yourself from those people.
1 Timothy 6:6 - But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Contentment in Greek means to be self-sufficient. In the spiritual sense, it means that I have everything inside of me in Christ that I need. That's contentment! Whatever's going on outside of me, inside I'm content within my own heart. What's going on outside doesn't have anything to do with me. It gets into my brain, but it never penetrates my soul. It's interesting because this word for contentment is what the Stoics used. A Stoic is somebody who just handles things factually. The Stoics had a reputation of being unmoved by the outward circumstances.
If you've ever been around somebody like that, whatever is going on, it's like "Oh well, God will take care of it." So, godliness, reverence for God, with contentment is great gain. That person is the wealthiest person in the world. They are at peace, they are content, they are satisfied, and they need nothing.
1 Timothy 6:2 - And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
The word benefit (EUERGESIAS) means good work, your good work, the good work of the slave. They are believers, they are the objects of God's love, and they are the benefit of your good work. So, he says these things teach and exhort or encourage. When Paul says this about the master and slave, it covers all areas, treating all people well because we represent Christ.
1 Timothy 6:4 - He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
He is proud, or as the Greek text reads, he is puffed up. He has been puffed up like blowing up a balloon. Secondly, they know nothing. But they are doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof comes envy, secondly strife, thirdly railings, which is the word slander, and evil surmisings, meaning evil thoughts.
The only way to be safe by the evil spirits, we need to read and pray continually everyday for God to speak to us . The devil will tempt our spirit and then we could sin in our flesh.
Galatians 5:18-21
18But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
19Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
21Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
It is easy for the devil to use man to deceive us with all the worldly things .
Colossians 2:8
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of theworld, and not after Christ.
A rich Christian can fall very easily.
1 Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in thisworld, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
Apostle Paul said that Demas loved this world and departed , but still saved .
2 Timothy 4:10
For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this presentworld, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
Drinking alcohol can put us in a bad spirit of this world.
Titus 2:12
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness andworldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this presentworld;
Apostle Paul the preacher was making tents for income.
Acts 18:3
And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they weretentmakers.
Apostle Paul warns the preacher Timothy of the money being collected for the poor Jews in the Kingdom.
1 Timothy 6:10
For the love ofmoneyis the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
I think it's best not to judge a Pastor of how much he takes in for a payroll. If a Pastor doesn't want to get judge, it would be better to have a job besides the tithing payroll , like Apostle Paul.
For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bearfalsewitness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Apostle Paul said that we will be calls false witnesses for God in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 15:15
Yea, and we are foundfalsewitnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not.
Apostle Paul warns us of false apostles.
2 Corinthians 11:13
For such arefalseapostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
Apostle Paul warns us of false Jews in the ministry.
2 Corinthians 11:26
In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils amongfalsebrethren;
Apostle Paul said that false Jews will spy and try to put us in bondage inwhich is the law.
Galatians 2:4
And that because offalsebrethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:
Apostle Paul warns us of false science and vain babblings.
1 Timothy 6:20
O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of sciencefalsely so called:
Apostle Paul warns us of false accusers.
2 Timothy 3:3
Without natural affection, trucebreakers,falseaccusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
I know our understandings differ on this and I hope you don't mind my reply. I am grateful for this site and the brothers and sisters on it.
The word of God has a message from the beginning.
The message; the word of life and the eternal life that God the Father alone possesses, 1 Timothy 6:16 was revealed in the flesh of His only Son, Jesus. What is eternal has been manifested in this world and is now available to us. Those of us who share in Christ's death can now have fellowship in eternal life through Jesus, the Son of God.
The eternal life that existed with the Father came to earth so that God, who cannot be seen, could be revealed through Jesus, Emanuel, God with us. This eternal life, which was with God before anything was created, is now accessible to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. The Father sent Him, sacrificed Him, and raised Him from the grave as the only begotten from the dead.
God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit without measure, affirming Him as the Messiah. Jesus served as God's agent, known in Hebrew as Shaliah, which means God's emissary who performs actions of legal significance for the benefit of the sender, rather than for himself. Jesus repeatedly said, not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him.
In Philippians 2:7, it states that Jesus, fully empowered by the Holy Spirit, humbled Himself and was obedient to the Father, acting as a servant. This is further illustrated in John, where He washed the disciples' feet, teaching them the importance of humility. I know we have different perspectives, but I just wanted to share this.
Revelation 21:4 - And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
John 14:2 - In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Romans 10:9-13 - That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Read More...)
1 Corinthians 2:9 - But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
Revelation 22:1-5 - And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. (Read More...)
Luke 23:43 - And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: (Read More...)
Luke 12:33-34 - Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. (Read More...)
1 Timothy 6:17-19 - Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; (Read More...)
Revelation 21:22-27 - And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. (Read More...)
Hebrews 11:16 - But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
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.
Christ's death and resurrection destroyed the OLD and ushered in the NEW.
ALL flesh DIED on the cross of Christ, a new creation was resurrected, the image of Christ and his Father, the equal of Christ and his Father.
Isaiah 43:8 God does not share his glory with another, flesh and blood, they had to DIE, but he does bestow his glory on Christ; John 17:22 and we have been made ONE FLESH with Christ, by his resurrection, we are IN TRAVAIL of birth pains, waiting to be delivered into that PROMISE.
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be IN YOU, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:6 Who being in the FORM of God, thought it not robbery to be EQUAL with God.
Christ is not THE ONE GOD, but by INHERITANCE, is EQUAL with his Father, the one God.
We share that EQUALITY with Christ, by DYING with Christ on his cross, and being raised with him as ONE FLESH.
If we are going to LIVE by the WORD of God (the sword), we have to DIE by the WORD of God (the sword), understand the NEW and DIE to the OLD.
Psalms 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
We have the faith of Christ, we have the mind of Christ, we have the glory of Christ, we have the works of Christ, by inheritance.
2 Corinthians 3:18 And we ALL .... are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE .....by the Spirit of God.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ..... this mortal MUST put on IMMORTALITY ....
1 Timothy 6:16 .... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light ....
Isaiah 63:9 And in all their affliction, he was afflicted, and the angel of HIS presence saved them ....
Colossians 1:27 ..... this mystery, hidden from the ages ..... Christ IN YOU ....
The Old Testament Saints were given the same promise as those of the house of David are given today:
IMMORTAL LIFE
The Old Testament Saints could not receive that promise because Christ, the resurrection, had not yet come to fulfill the prophecies.
They DIED not yet receiving the promise, immortal life.
Hebrews 11:39 And all these, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
Hebrews 11:40 God having something BETTER for us, that they (the saints of old) without us should not be made perfect (the image of Christ, being resurrected with Christ as ONE FLESH).
The 144,000 are those OLD SAINTS, from the twelve tribes of Israel, the first fruits of his resurrection, we are a kind of first fruit, also being resurrected with Christ.
Zachariah 12:7 The LORD also shall SAVE (give immortal life) to the house of JUDAH FIRST (the 144,00), that the GLORY of the house of David and Jerusalem doth not magnify THEMSELVES against the the house of Judah.
The kingdom of God, IS CHRIST.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ... this MORTAL shall put on IMMORTALITY ......
1 Timothy 6:16 ...Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY .....
1 Corinthians 6:16 .... for TWO, saith he, shall be ONE FLESH .....
No one is saved until thy depart this body of dust.
What is the kingdom of God?
The kingdom of God is Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ..... this mortal shall put on IMMORTALITY .......
1 Timothy 6:16 ..... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY .......
1 Corinthians 15:54 ..... DEATH is swallowed up in VICTORY .....
John 14:6 ..... I am the (only) LIFE .....
How can YOU have free will, unless you believe you DID NOT died on the cross of Christ, and if you weren't crucified with Christ, then you were not resurrected with Christ, yet you proclaim to BE SAVED.
Isaiah 14:29 ...... for out of the SERPENTS ROOT (humanity) shall come froth a cockatrice, and his (the cockatrice's) FRUIT (Son's of God) shall be a FLYING FIERY SERPENT.
Christ laid down his divine nature and took on the nature of humanity (the serpents root).
Psalms 51:5 Behold, I (Christ) was shapen in iniquity (the serpents root),; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Job 15:14 What is man, that he should be clean? and he that is BORN OF A WOMAN, that he should be righteous.
Christ, as humanity DIED, unclean and unrighteous, but by the Spirit of God, was raised justified, sanctified, and glorified, and WE (humanity) were JOINT HEIRS.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ....this mortal shall put on IMMORTALITY ....
1 Timothy 6:16 CHRIST ONLY hath IMMORTALITY ......
By the death and resurrection of all things were MADE NEW, were were created in the IMAGE of CHRIST.
As stated in some comments some months ago; we should still be able to trust God in regard to His Word; and that indeed He can and will prosper people financially. In this world we should adhere to 1 Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
Some are born into riches; others earn it through hard work and God's Providence of resulting financial success. Money is uncertain and we can't put our trust in things that "moth and rust" corrupt ( Matt. 6:19).
Certainly it isn't Pastors who should be cornering the market or seeking "filthy lucre" ( Titus 1:11 AND 1 Peter 5:2). The best they can hope for is making it into heaven as through the fire; but there is probably a much better chance they aren't saved at all. Only God knows but why make that lifestyle your legacy?
What we see today is more of these so called "Apostles" dying; while others making half hearted "repentance" statements then continuing on with the sin of covetousness; much like the parable of a dog returning to its own vomit ( Proverbs 26:11). We certainly bring nothing into this world and we aren't taking anything out ( 1 Timothy 6:7). What we can do is gain heavenly treasure by harvesting souls ( Matt. 6:19).
He who covers or conceals his sin is not doing themselves any favors. ( Proverbs 28:13). It actually says the man will not prosper. There are enough warnings in scripture including to the Pharisees as to the spiritual ramifications of continuing in such behaviors and many others in the Old Testament as well.
Ultimately; the desire for fame and popularity is tied into those with this narcissistic mindset and lifestyle. All will be lost after this life; which is as a vapor has passed. Let us live lives in strict obedience and holiness not due to compulsion but love and gratitude for what Christ did for us.
Necessary doctrines: Fruit vs non fruit bearing activities
When we get into practical things; for instance the last few chapters of Romans after the lengthy dissertation on the depravity of man (no one is rightous); and the "Gospel of Grace" related to covenants and the like; there could be a tendancy to discount our behaviors as being as important as these doctrinal truths. The fact is they are both important and we can't live bearing good fruit without following the truth and showing obedient love for Christ with our lifestyles. We only need to look at Luke 6:46 to see the importance of doing what He says; and John 14:15 which shows that if we love Him we will obey His commandments. The basic command to love one another is seen in both the Gospel of John and first John as a necessary mandate for a true brother in Christ. This should be a basic litmus test to draw out those who are Judas Iscariot's in our midst. These issues make things difficult when we follow such commandments as 1 Corinthians 5:11 where we are told not to even eat with one who is living in immorality or other sins as a LIFESTYLE or continuing pattern who calls themself a "Christian". This should eliminate many prosperity Gospel folks who are "swindlers"; and those practicing idolatry where a false Christ is worshipped at least in the midst of a given true fellowship of saints. There are times when we can witness to others who are in error if we are not worshipping where they are if we can have some control on the meeting situation. In short; producing good fruit is mentioned in numerous scriptures and thus only occurs with a true believer as the Parable of the Sower indicates. This is essential doctrine which is evidenced by those who are drowning in perdition due to the cares of this world overtaking them ( 1 Timothy 6:9; see also Matthew 13:23). The attitude toward authority covered in Romans 13:1-2; we are called whenever it doesn't contradict scripture to obey authorities.
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? ( Jeremiah 17:9).
I thought that I should be honest here as to the state of my own heart. When a woman the other day showed kindness to me at the store a few days ago I suddenly found myself thinking about how it made me feel and if there was something in the future there. Those situations are times when those not grounded in the Word can suddenly be swept away into something outside the will of God. Being a man; of course there are some women no doubt who would chalk that off to the stupidity of a man as opposed to their greater senses of judgment on such matters. Frankly I don't really care about that analysis; I have done much thinking about my actions and much scriptural analysis in recent years but have to admit that there are some real weaknesses here that the enemy could easily exploit if I am off guard.
Such madness of course in my own situation as many may know led to my wife excusing her own actions in getting involved with a long term friend at work (which probably commenced long before I realized it). My former Pastor had the wisdom when I was going through the separation to advise me NOT to be alone with a woman in a car or similar situation as I was still a married man but didn't seem to mind when the divorce was final. My belief holds firm about remarriage being wrong when a former spouse is alive but that isn't the focus here. Such vigilence that my former Pastor had is similar to what Billy Graham did not allowing himself to be in an elevator alone with a woman. "I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?" ( Job 31:1).
I am of the firm belief that fornication and adultery are two chief ways that men will "drown in perdition" ( 1 Timothy 6:9). There are other sins related here such as covetousness; which I may go into more detail in the next post.
GOD bless all on this forum. May we improve daily in our walk in CHRIST name as we read and apply HIS precepts and commandments.
Merry Christmas everyone! Have a wonderful and prosperous time with family and friends.
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Luke 2:
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9:
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Let us praise and glory our KING and SAVIOR by telling others of HIS free gift of SALVATION before it is too late.
I have been doing a deep dive into some secular music that is in the old progressive rock and sadly one or two of these groups directly mention pagan gods in their music. This is something I will have to monitor carefully; as some songs seem not to have any elements of this; and of course individuals in bands and music styles change over time. I could use prayer of wisdom as I am learning guitar and have a musical ear; and wish to honor the Lord but not get caught in the trap of hypnotic trance and other oppressive elements of certain music. This is even possible with certain classical music but much of it of the Baroque artists gives glory to God.
We all are led astray when following our own flesh and its natural desires. As with anything else; Satan can tempt us and not only may but WILL fool ALL unregenerate men who will be following the pied piper to eventually fight against Christ at Armageddon even after hiding from Him in the sixth seal knnowing what they've don no doubt.
We need to guard as much in our individual lives as we do with those we associate with. According to 1 Timothy 6:7-8
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
Obsessing over our material gains and creature comforts isn't healthy for us. Again; it is a balance with my coin collecting as I have been able to work meticulously with purchasing under cost but I don't plan to invest beyond a certain limit and not at the expense of opportunities to serve the Lord through service; witnessing; etc. This is why I don't hold onto too much and sell frequently (also I don't want too much at home if something gets stolen).
Job also said that the Lord gives and takes away (someone in college told me that).
Agape; RP
It is true that in old times, most people had very little, especially concerning food, clothing, shelter, and jobs. Were they content?They had to be content because there was very little they could do to improve their lot, given the sparsity of offerings. But they still lived on 'struggle street' and were very likely anxious, despondent, and driven to desperate actions. But as you wrote, that we have so much more than they, and we live relatively comfortable healthy lives, yet still many today are no better mentally or emotionally than those others, facing pressures from various sources. What they feel will bring them happiness and contentment, is only found to be temporal, ever lusting for more & more to sustain those satisfied feelings. And again, as you wrote, "they are searching for happiness in the wrong places".
But when you think of it, what else does the unbelieving world have in this life? Or, of any hope of eternity? Absolutely nothing. Their lives consist of what they know, have, and feel in the present, for tomorrow we die & are no more. But if they heed Jesus' Words ( Luke 12:15), "..(that) a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth" and they could have greater eternal treasures from Heaven (of full salvation, real joy, inner peace, and power to live righteously), their whole perspective of life & its real worth will be changed for their eternal good. If the Church at large can get out their stagnation & be a living witness to the world, the world might understand their true poverty. Blessings.
1 Timothy 6:4-5 - He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
Brother Jesse has provided Scriptures to consider on this matter. I could offer Scriptures that would debate these points, but that would not answer your questions. This doctrine originated in 325 A.D. and was expanded over the next 150 years or so. You need to pray and study for your own conscience.
The majority support this doctrine, and some believe it is essential to be a Christian. Jesus is our Lord, and He gave His life to pay the penalty for sin so that we, through Him, can be reconciled to God. The wages of sin are death, Romans 6:23. Jesus' death on the cross paid this price.
Jesus had His own will, but was obedient and did the will of the Father, John 14:31, Luke 22:42, John 5:30, John 17:16, John 12:49.
The Chalcedonian Creed A.D. 451 states, "Christ, Son, Lord, only begotten, to be acknowledged in two natures, in confusedly, unchangeably, indivisibly, inseparably; the distinction of nature's being by no means taken away by the union, but rather the property of each nature being preserved." Does Scripture support this?
God alone possesses immortality, 1 Timothy 6:16. Our faith rests on the death and resurrection of Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 1 Corinthians 15:12-17. God cannot die. Jesus was tempted in the same ways we are, Hebrews 4:14-16. God cannot be tempted, James 1:13.
The Bible will answer all questions we have if we are ready to receive the answer, Matthew 7:7, James 1:5, with prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit-not man.
God bless your study,
RLW
The flesh. Trusting in God to meet all our needs of course is paramount to achieving success in being satisfied in Him for His Providence in all things; and supply of food and clothing as primary examples. Obviously prayer in giving thanks is helpful here routinely but it has to mean something and not just become a mantra.
When online these days; it is unfortunate that even on sites that are informational or even many Christian ones there are at least suggestive if not down right what would have been described 40 years ago as a soft version of that "P" word. We have to question how in general a search for information is as to its importance since that in and of itself is an endless insatiable appetite; which the world will not bring any satisfaction to. Simply read Ecclesiastes and we see how much vanity caused Solomon's downfall. We see this in material possessions such as accumulating gold and silver and other possessions which God warned about ahead of time not to be doing. We see how one obsession can lead to another; it doesn't seem that Solomon was particularly obsessed with possessions but it was the foreign women that were involved in his endless wives and concubines that were all part of this and that in turn turned him to either be neutral towards or tacitly accept the foreign gods they brought into his life and no doubt with his associates to turn the nation eventually against the Lord and incurring God's wrath. We are warned in scripture not only to avoid things that lead to perdition in 1 Timothy 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. We are equally admonished in Luke 19:22 about heavenly treasures where others will gain reward if we don't invest in the Kingdom of God; and Matthew 25 suggests some aren't genuine believers by being cast into outer darkness as a wicked and lazy servant.
And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness. ( 1 John 5:19).
But godliness with contentment is great gain. ( 1 Timothy 6:6)
This posting is really bearing my soul as it were but necessary medicine.
When we start out life we are utterly dependent on our parents or whoever our caretaker happens to be for food; clothing and shelter. Of course the famous adage is that you never need to train a child to say NO and therefore they need parameters.
As someone gets older; of course they are expected to become more and more independent until eventually they forge a life on their own with their life partner in marriage many times.
This of course can be used as an analogy of the same situation of someone just Born Again; and in others not. God is forever sustaining us and we are ever dependent on His provisions. We are asked to suffer as indeed Christ suffered as a servant. In all this we are UTTERLY dependent on the Holy Spirit. Although He lives inside us as a permanent resident we need to constantly fellowship and pray; today the Pastor discussed the Transfiguration and Christ in prayer immediately before that. Thus we are restored and renewed or you could say refilled in the proper context. I look at it more as our old self trying to assert dominance and we forget who we truly are; again with the caveat that only a truly saved person can do that or even has any joy in it. I can only speak for myself but always recognize the Spirit at work but it amazes me how I seem to be estranged much of the time and sadly often think I'm doing alright when in fact I have drifted away from where I should be. It simply isn't enough to make a formula out of procedures every day reading the Bible; prayer; etc. and in fact it probably does more harm than good if it is disingenuous from some ritualistic routine. I for one have to seek Him more every day before anything else.
God bless.
Later.
RHP
I focused an earlier segment on 2 Peter 3:16 regarding twisting scripture that is complex; today I want to focus on another verse.
1 Timothy 6:3-5: "If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words."
At best a tare is someone who tolerates church; Bible reading and other Christian activities. One way or another they play church. As the Word says in Matthew 12:34
34 Brood[a] of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
I was thinking of the last part of the passage but in reality we see in the whole verse the true evil we are discussing here.
The Pharisees certainly were masters at form and ceremony for recognition. There are some tares in the church today that do this; if they aren't just sitting on the sidelines; they are likely to be endlessly conversing; oftentimes not about the Word I would surmise. When they are I would say 9 times out of 10 it is praising the Pastor for the message and delivery and people centered on those whose influence is most important to their own social circle of interest (likely business or for gossip purposes). Again as I have cautioned before someone can be immature in the faith who does this; and conversely more dangerously may appear in many more ways to do works that demonstrate genuine faith. Less often would that be focusing on prayer and other such activities outside church. I would say that this could be; as with my earlier posting be someone who is ultimately swayed by a political agenda; and that can be on either side of the spectrum. If we agree with the right for instance it should never be at the expense of idolizing anyone in power; or supporting excesses of power not in their authority to do.
3, And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
This is one powerful verse: "And this is life eternal." This was the primary purpose of Jesus' mission: the immortality of the Father came to earth, manifested in Jesus, and eternal life which God the Father alone possesses, 1 Timothy 6:16.
God was revealed in the flesh of His only Son, Jesus. What is eternal was manifested in the world and is now available to us. This eternal life is given that we might know the only true God and His Son Jesus Christ, whom His Father sent, 1 John 4:7-16.
There are 38 times in the gospels where Jesus said God sent Him, the most expressive is in John 7:16-29. When Jesus was sent, it was first for the lost sheep of the house of Israel, Matthew 15:24, at the fullness of time, for those under the law, Galatians 4:4-5. This was part of God's plan from the beginning and happened at the fullness of time.
In 1 John 5:20, John says Jesus gave them understanding that they should know the Son of God, the Messiah has come, and that we should know the true God, and we are in Him, the true God, and in the Son of Him that is the only God from whom eternal life comes. Paul says the same in 1 Corinthians 8:6 But to us there is but 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. God, the Father, of whom are all things, "of whom are" Greek ek" or "ex" indicates the origin or source. "Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, Greek dia ho, he, to pas, on the account of Jesus are all things.
See part 4.
19And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
20And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.
21And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.
22But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.
As Jesus headed toward the boat on the shore; and retreating from the crowds temporarily He gave the two challenges to "whittle out" people; in this case a scribe and one of the disciples not to end up in the final 12 mentioned in the upcoming chapter. It is interesting in light of 1 Timothy 6:8 that food and clothing were to be things we were content with; that shelter isn't mentioned. It also isn't mentioned in Matthew 6:26-34 regarding how the birds of the air don't toil for food and clothing.
The next case involves a seemingly callous statement by Christ regarding a man burying his father. One should keep in mind that often there were long rituals taking up many months with such an event; and that Christ knew that in his heart it was a stalling mechanism. Interestingly we don't have the final response of these two individuals as we do in like scriptures. We can see that in the second case the father and rest of the family were lost individuals.
The rest of Chapter 8 finds us with two challenges or events; the first being the tempestous sea where Christ was asleep in the boat and calmed the sea; the second was the casting out of the demons into a herd of swine; and the subsequent request that Christ leave the area. We see a similar occurrence in Mark but there it appears to be one man and the statement of the demons shows that as well. Skeptics would question this but I take it as two separate events; perhaps someone can elaborate on these verses.
2 Timothy 3:2 - For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Number one, for men shall be lovers of their own selves. Secondly, covetous, which literally means lovers of money, PHILARGUROI. It is the same word that is found in 1 Timothy 6:10 where it says for the love of money is the root of all evil.
So, the first two have to do with love, lovers of their own selves, and lovers of money. The word love is PHILOS, which means to be fond of or to be friendly towards. It means to rearrange one's life to make these things a priority, first our own selves, and then money.
Thirdly, boasters. This word is found in 1 John 2:15-16. John says love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
Pride of life is the same word. And the pride of life is not of the Father, but is of the world. So, when it has to do with material things, it has to do with using one's material things to boast. In other words, I go out and buy two or three expensive cars, and I build a multimillion-dollar house up on a hill and try to get the best of everything. It's a status thing!
1 Timothy 6:21 - Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.
The last phrase, the postlude of Paul as he gives the benediction, only we see a benediction as a pronouncing of blessing, which is in most English bibles, but you'll notice the word be, in Grace be with the, the word be is in italics. That's because it's not in the Greek text. In the Greek text it is a factual statement. It says Grace is with you. Amen.
This is all I have to share in 1 Timothy. I will start 2 Timothy next. When Paul wrote 1 Timothy, he wrote 1 Timothy and Titus. And it was some years later, right before he was going to die, that he wrote 2 Timothy. 2 Timothy is Paul's last letter before he died. He's in the Mamertine prison in Rome, not the house arrest that he was in during his first imprisonment.
I don't know if you've ever studied anything about the Mamertine prisons, but basically in our society, it would be like taking someone downtown, taking the sewer cover off the street, and dropping you down into the sewer. That was the prison.
This is all I have to share in 1 Timothy. I will be going through and sharing 2 Timothy next. Lord willing!
Blessings in Christ!
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.
The word fight as a command is the word AGONIDZO, agonize, the good agony of faith. It doesn't mean that in your human effort, you're going out to conquer the world or fight for the things of Christ in the world. It's an athletic term. It's what athletes go through in their discipline, their focus, and in their purpose. They agonize through the agony of being an athlete.
1 Timothy 6:16 - Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
In Verses 15 and 16, we have the creed concerning Christ. Verses 12 to 14 was the commands concerning our confession. This is the creed concerning Christ. He says Timothy, here's what you confessed. Hold to it. The first one is: who shall show the blessed and only Potentate. That's Jesus Christ. Potentate means power.
Secondly, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. That's all one phrase for God. It's a phrase for Jesus. Jesus is called King of kings, and Lord of lords in Revelation 17:14 and in Revelation 19:16. He is the only blessed, and the only power. He is the King of kings, and Lord of lords.
Thirdly, the only one that has immortality.
Fourthly, He is dwelling in the light, constantly, this light which no man can approach; and whom no man has seen, nor can see:
His invisibility is the fifth thing. To whom be the honor and the glory, or literally strength, KRATOS. Whenever a writer uses the word KRATOS to describe power, and there's different words for power, DUNAMIS is where we get our word dynamite, and that's the normal word for power. But KRATOS means grip. It shows somebody who's in control. The whole universe is in the grip of Christ. So, to Him be the honor. To Him be the power, the grip, forever!
1 Timothy 6:10 - For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
For the love of money is the root of all evil: First of all, the term love of money is one compound word in Greek, and it means to have an affection for silver. Silver was the word used for money in those days.
And it's interesting that it doesn't have the word lust, it has the word affection, or PHILEO, for friendship. It's as if money's our best friend. It's going to get us to where we want to go. We get to do what we want to do with our good friend money! It doesn't say money is the root of all evil. It says the love of money is the root of all evil.
1 Timothy 6:11 - But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
He says but thou, O man of God. If Paul ever called you a man of God, or a woman of God, that would be a great compliment. Timothy's the only one in the New Testament. 70 times it is used in the Old Testament. Timothy is the only one in the new.
And secondly, follow after righteousness, godliness, and again, that means reverence for God, faith, love, patience, which is literally endurance, and meekness, which is the Greek word PRAOTETHIS, which means openness, be receptive or be open.
Now check this out: Some pastors will use this and tell people that they are to be open and receptive to the things they have to say. But the command is to the pastors, for them to be open and receptive to feedback.
1 Timothy 6:5 - Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
The word minds is the word NOUS, which in the Greek, it has to do with perception. Their perception is corrupt. When somebody comes to you and says that they want to explain some scriptures to you, should we try to perceive their ability to perceive? Do they have the Holy Spirit to help them perceive what the scripture is saying? Or are they just coming off the wall?
And they are destitute of the truth, and listen to this: supposing that gain is godliness: Does that sound familiar? Some ministries say that material gain is godliness.
But please notice this because it's only in the manuscripts of the Textus Receptus. The other Greek manuscripts for the other translations don't have it. He says to Timothy, from such withdraw yourself. Anyone that preaches a gospel that basically says in its philosophy that material gain is godliness, withdraw yourself from those people.
1 Timothy 6:6 - But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Contentment in Greek means to be self-sufficient. In the spiritual sense, it means that I have everything inside of me in Christ that I need. That's contentment! Whatever's going on outside of me, inside I'm content within my own heart. What's going on outside doesn't have anything to do with me. It gets into my brain, but it never penetrates my soul. It's interesting because this word for contentment is what the Stoics used. A Stoic is somebody who just handles things factually. The Stoics had a reputation of being unmoved by the outward circumstances.
If you've ever been around somebody like that, whatever is going on, it's like "Oh well, God will take care of it." So, godliness, reverence for God, with contentment is great gain. That person is the wealthiest person in the world. They are at peace, they are content, they are satisfied, and they need nothing.
1 Timothy 6:2 - And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
The word benefit (EUERGESIAS) means good work, your good work, the good work of the slave. They are believers, they are the objects of God's love, and they are the benefit of your good work. So, he says these things teach and exhort or encourage. When Paul says this about the master and slave, it covers all areas, treating all people well because we represent Christ.
1 Timothy 6:4 - He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
He is proud, or as the Greek text reads, he is puffed up. He has been puffed up like blowing up a balloon. Secondly, they know nothing. But they are doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof comes envy, secondly strife, thirdly railings, which is the word slander, and evil surmisings, meaning evil thoughts.
The only way to be safe by the evil spirits, we need to read and pray continually everyday for God to speak to us . The devil will tempt our spirit and then we could sin in our flesh.
Galatians 5:18-21
18But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
19Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
20Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
21Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
It is easy for the devil to use man to deceive us with all the worldly things .
Colossians 2:8
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of theworld, and not after Christ.
A rich Christian can fall very easily.
1 Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in thisworld, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
Apostle Paul said that Demas loved this world and departed , but still saved .
2 Timothy 4:10
For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this presentworld, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
Drinking alcohol can put us in a bad spirit of this world.
Titus 2:12
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness andworldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this presentworld;
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Apostle Paul the preacher was making tents for income.
Acts 18:3
And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they weretentmakers.
Apostle Paul warns the preacher Timothy of the money being collected for the poor Jews in the Kingdom.
1 Timothy 6:10
For the love ofmoneyis the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
I think it's best not to judge a Pastor of how much he takes in for a payroll. If a Pastor doesn't want to get judge, it would be better to have a job besides the tithing payroll , like Apostle Paul.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
May we pray for our Pastors in Christ.
Apostle Paul warns us of false witness.
Romans 13:9
For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bearfalsewitness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Apostle Paul said that we will be calls false witnesses for God in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 15:15
Yea, and we are foundfalsewitnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not.
Apostle Paul warns us of false apostles.
2 Corinthians 11:13
For such arefalseapostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
Apostle Paul warns us of false Jews in the ministry.
2 Corinthians 11:26
In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils amongfalsebrethren;
Apostle Paul said that false Jews will spy and try to put us in bondage inwhich is the law.
Galatians 2:4
And that because offalsebrethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:
Apostle Paul warns us of false science and vain babblings.
1 Timothy 6:20
O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of sciencefalsely so called:
Apostle Paul warns us of false accusers.
2 Timothy 3:3
Without natural affection, trucebreakers,falseaccusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
I know our understandings differ on this and I hope you don't mind my reply. I am grateful for this site and the brothers and sisters on it.
The word of God has a message from the beginning.
The message; the word of life and the eternal life that God the Father alone possesses, 1 Timothy 6:16 was revealed in the flesh of His only Son, Jesus. What is eternal has been manifested in this world and is now available to us. Those of us who share in Christ's death can now have fellowship in eternal life through Jesus, the Son of God.
The eternal life that existed with the Father came to earth so that God, who cannot be seen, could be revealed through Jesus, Emanuel, God with us. This eternal life, which was with God before anything was created, is now accessible to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. The Father sent Him, sacrificed Him, and raised Him from the grave as the only begotten from the dead.
God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit without measure, affirming Him as the Messiah. Jesus served as God's agent, known in Hebrew as Shaliah, which means God's emissary who performs actions of legal significance for the benefit of the sender, rather than for himself. Jesus repeatedly said, not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him.
In Philippians 2:7, it states that Jesus, fully empowered by the Holy Spirit, humbled Himself and was obedient to the Father, acting as a servant. This is further illustrated in John, where He washed the disciples' feet, teaching them the importance of humility. I know we have different perspectives, but I just wanted to share this.
God bless,
RLW
John 14:2 - In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Romans 10:9-13 - That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Read More...)
1 Corinthians 2:9 - But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
Revelation 22:1-5 - And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. (Read More...)
Luke 23:43 - And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
Matthew 6:19-21 - Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: (Read More...)
Luke 12:33-34 - Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. (Read More...)
1 Timothy 6:17-19 - Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; (Read More...)
Revelation 21:22-27 - And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. (Read More...)
Hebrews 11:16 - But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
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.
Christ's death and resurrection destroyed the OLD and ushered in the NEW.
ALL flesh DIED on the cross of Christ, a new creation was resurrected, the image of Christ and his Father, the equal of Christ and his Father.
Isaiah 43:8 God does not share his glory with another, flesh and blood, they had to DIE, but he does bestow his glory on Christ; John 17:22 and we have been made ONE FLESH with Christ, by his resurrection, we are IN TRAVAIL of birth pains, waiting to be delivered into that PROMISE.
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be IN YOU, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:6 Who being in the FORM of God, thought it not robbery to be EQUAL with God.
Christ is not THE ONE GOD, but by INHERITANCE, is EQUAL with his Father, the one God.
We share that EQUALITY with Christ, by DYING with Christ on his cross, and being raised with him as ONE FLESH.
If we are going to LIVE by the WORD of God (the sword), we have to DIE by the WORD of God (the sword), understand the NEW and DIE to the OLD.
Psalms 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
We have the faith of Christ, we have the mind of Christ, we have the glory of Christ, we have the works of Christ, by inheritance.
2 Corinthians 3:18 And we ALL .... are CHANGED into the SAME IMAGE .....by the Spirit of God.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ..... this mortal MUST put on IMMORTALITY ....
1 Timothy 6:16 .... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light ....
Isaiah 63:9 And in all their affliction, he was afflicted, and the angel of HIS presence saved them ....
Colossians 1:27 ..... this mystery, hidden from the ages ..... Christ IN YOU ....
God Bless You
King David was flesh and blood, therefore he is in the grave, dust to dust.
Acts 2:29-34
King David, the NEW CREATION, by the resurrection of Christ, is now in the presence of God, being made ONE FLESH, by the resurrection of Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ... this mortal shall PUT ON IMMORTALITY ......
1 Timothy 6:16 ...... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light ......
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all...... are CHANGED into the same IMAGE .... even so by the Spirit of God.
John 11:25 ..... Christ is the RESURRECTION .......
God Bless You
The Old Testament Saints were given the same promise as those of the house of David are given today:
IMMORTAL LIFE
The Old Testament Saints could not receive that promise because Christ, the resurrection, had not yet come to fulfill the prophecies.
They DIED not yet receiving the promise, immortal life.
Hebrews 11:39 And all these, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
Hebrews 11:40 God having something BETTER for us, that they (the saints of old) without us should not be made perfect (the image of Christ, being resurrected with Christ as ONE FLESH).
The 144,000 are those OLD SAINTS, from the twelve tribes of Israel, the first fruits of his resurrection, we are a kind of first fruit, also being resurrected with Christ.
Zachariah 12:7 The LORD also shall SAVE (give immortal life) to the house of JUDAH FIRST (the 144,00), that the GLORY of the house of David and Jerusalem doth not magnify THEMSELVES against the the house of Judah.
The kingdom of God, IS CHRIST.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ... this MORTAL shall put on IMMORTALITY ......
1 Timothy 6:16 ...Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY .....
1 Corinthians 6:16 .... for TWO, saith he, shall be ONE FLESH .....
God Bless You
Salvation is the gift of IMMORTAL life.
No one is saved until thy depart this body of dust.
What is the kingdom of God?
The kingdom of God is Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ..... this mortal shall put on IMMORTALITY .......
1 Timothy 6:16 ..... Christ ONLY hath IMMORTALITY .......
1 Corinthians 15:54 ..... DEATH is swallowed up in VICTORY .....
John 14:6 ..... I am the (only) LIFE .....
How can YOU have free will, unless you believe you DID NOT died on the cross of Christ, and if you weren't crucified with Christ, then you were not resurrected with Christ, yet you proclaim to BE SAVED.
God Bless You
Isaiah 14:29 ...... for out of the SERPENTS ROOT (humanity) shall come froth a cockatrice, and his (the cockatrice's) FRUIT (Son's of God) shall be a FLYING FIERY SERPENT.
Christ laid down his divine nature and took on the nature of humanity (the serpents root).
Psalms 51:5 Behold, I (Christ) was shapen in iniquity (the serpents root),; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Job 15:14 What is man, that he should be clean? and he that is BORN OF A WOMAN, that he should be righteous.
Christ, as humanity DIED, unclean and unrighteous, but by the Spirit of God, was raised justified, sanctified, and glorified, and WE (humanity) were JOINT HEIRS.
1 Corinthians 15:53 ....this mortal shall put on IMMORTALITY ....
1 Timothy 6:16 CHRIST ONLY hath IMMORTALITY ......
By the death and resurrection of all things were MADE NEW, were were created in the IMAGE of CHRIST.
OF TWO was made ONE FLESH.
Walk in truth, you are the body of Christ.
There is ONLY one LIFE.
John 14:16 I AM truth and LIFE.
God Bless You
As stated in some comments some months ago; we should still be able to trust God in regard to His Word; and that indeed He can and will prosper people financially. In this world we should adhere to 1 Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
Some are born into riches; others earn it through hard work and God's Providence of resulting financial success. Money is uncertain and we can't put our trust in things that "moth and rust" corrupt ( Matt. 6:19).
Certainly it isn't Pastors who should be cornering the market or seeking "filthy lucre" ( Titus 1:11 AND 1 Peter 5:2). The best they can hope for is making it into heaven as through the fire; but there is probably a much better chance they aren't saved at all. Only God knows but why make that lifestyle your legacy?
What we see today is more of these so called "Apostles" dying; while others making half hearted "repentance" statements then continuing on with the sin of covetousness; much like the parable of a dog returning to its own vomit ( Proverbs 26:11). We certainly bring nothing into this world and we aren't taking anything out ( 1 Timothy 6:7). What we can do is gain heavenly treasure by harvesting souls ( Matt. 6:19).
He who covers or conceals his sin is not doing themselves any favors. ( Proverbs 28:13). It actually says the man will not prosper. There are enough warnings in scripture including to the Pharisees as to the spiritual ramifications of continuing in such behaviors and many others in the Old Testament as well.
Ultimately; the desire for fame and popularity is tied into those with this narcissistic mindset and lifestyle. All will be lost after this life; which is as a vapor has passed. Let us live lives in strict obedience and holiness not due to compulsion but love and gratitude for what Christ did for us.
When we get into practical things; for instance the last few chapters of Romans after the lengthy dissertation on the depravity of man (no one is rightous); and the "Gospel of Grace" related to covenants and the like; there could be a tendancy to discount our behaviors as being as important as these doctrinal truths. The fact is they are both important and we can't live bearing good fruit without following the truth and showing obedient love for Christ with our lifestyles. We only need to look at Luke 6:46 to see the importance of doing what He says; and John 14:15 which shows that if we love Him we will obey His commandments. The basic command to love one another is seen in both the Gospel of John and first John as a necessary mandate for a true brother in Christ. This should be a basic litmus test to draw out those who are Judas Iscariot's in our midst. These issues make things difficult when we follow such commandments as 1 Corinthians 5:11 where we are told not to even eat with one who is living in immorality or other sins as a LIFESTYLE or continuing pattern who calls themself a "Christian". This should eliminate many prosperity Gospel folks who are "swindlers"; and those practicing idolatry where a false Christ is worshipped at least in the midst of a given true fellowship of saints. There are times when we can witness to others who are in error if we are not worshipping where they are if we can have some control on the meeting situation. In short; producing good fruit is mentioned in numerous scriptures and thus only occurs with a true believer as the Parable of the Sower indicates. This is essential doctrine which is evidenced by those who are drowning in perdition due to the cares of this world overtaking them ( 1 Timothy 6:9; see also Matthew 13:23). The attitude toward authority covered in Romans 13:1-2; we are called whenever it doesn't contradict scripture to obey authorities.
I thought that I should be honest here as to the state of my own heart. When a woman the other day showed kindness to me at the store a few days ago I suddenly found myself thinking about how it made me feel and if there was something in the future there. Those situations are times when those not grounded in the Word can suddenly be swept away into something outside the will of God. Being a man; of course there are some women no doubt who would chalk that off to the stupidity of a man as opposed to their greater senses of judgment on such matters. Frankly I don't really care about that analysis; I have done much thinking about my actions and much scriptural analysis in recent years but have to admit that there are some real weaknesses here that the enemy could easily exploit if I am off guard.
Such madness of course in my own situation as many may know led to my wife excusing her own actions in getting involved with a long term friend at work (which probably commenced long before I realized it). My former Pastor had the wisdom when I was going through the separation to advise me NOT to be alone with a woman in a car or similar situation as I was still a married man but didn't seem to mind when the divorce was final. My belief holds firm about remarriage being wrong when a former spouse is alive but that isn't the focus here. Such vigilence that my former Pastor had is similar to what Billy Graham did not allowing himself to be in an elevator alone with a woman. "I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?" ( Job 31:1).
I am of the firm belief that fornication and adultery are two chief ways that men will "drown in perdition" ( 1 Timothy 6:9). There are other sins related here such as covetousness; which I may go into more detail in the next post.
When temptation calls; flee.
Merry Christmas everyone! Have a wonderful and prosperous time with family and friends.
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Luke 2:
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9:
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Let us praise and glory our KING and SAVIOR by telling others of HIS free gift of SALVATION before it is too late.
December 24, 2023