Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
I'm going to now focus on what should be expected within the Body of Christ. I will start with a question. Do we want others to sharpen us as "iron sharpens iron" ( Prov. 27:17)? God uses people in order to help exhort; rebuke etc. as 2 Timothy 4:2 reminds us-Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
This; my friends means within the body of believers to help with God's sanctification plan for us. The job of elders is supposed to be aiding with instruction and correct doctrine; sadly it seems many in this role from my experience seem to be invested in secluded prayers with the Pastor; or business roles and rather estranged from the rest of the congregation. We shouldn't wait; of course as some do for some instruction to us personally from the Pastor who normally preaches if we see another in need of growth or maturity. This is why discussion of the Word (and by no means the only reason for it) to be a prime event in our church fellowship. That; sadly is NOT what I have heard in my church lately amongst other issues. It has become time to move on; even though I have some other events I am attending other than the Sunday service that I'm still involved with for the time being.
I have also learned that once a congregation gets to a certain point with apathy they simply won't do anything to get out of a lukewarm state. Any pleading with admonitions from scripture either brings the usual "live by grace"; or "log in your eye" response and the Word is either dismissed or ignored. A healthy rebuke to an issue even disagreement is better than just accepting the status quo of whatever is being taught or accepted. I hope no one else goes through this; but it seems a candlestick going out isn't an issue
There are christians who preach the Prosperity Gospel. Tenths of thousands gather to listen to them.
But the Bible teaches many other gospels.
A. The gospel of Hunger.
1 Cor 4:11, "Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwellingplace;"
B. The Gospel of Work,
1 Cor 4:12, "And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:"
C. The Gospel of Persecution.
Rom 8:17, "And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together."
D. The Gospel of the Servant.
Matthew 20:26-27, "But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:"
E. The gospel of Towel
John 13:4-5, "4He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. 5After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
As well as many other unpleasant to hear Gospels
2 Timothy 4:3-4, "
For the time will come when they (us, the christians) will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."
Brother Jesse, thank you. Wow, your reply is already off the discussion page. When I responded and said no, I will not walk away, I should have included that if I continue to abide in Christ as in John 15:6-7, then I am secure. You say a true believer will not fall away, and I agree, but to me, one who continues to abide in Christ is a true believer, and the Holy Spirit will strengthen them to endure until the end if we walk in the Spirit.
Should we ask what salvation truly is? Is it a one-time event, as it is often strongly preached today, 2 Timothy 4:3-4, or is it a lifelong journey? I see salvation as encompassing the past, present, and future. When we accept Jesus through faith, our past sins are forgiven, we are justified by faith, declared innocent of sin, and covered with a white garment, clean and pure.
We then begin a lifetime of sanctification, becoming more like Christ, and we must continually repent of our sins, walking in the Spirit to keep our garments spotless, as 1 John 1:9 states. I believe this is why there are so many warnings that we must endure, to overcome, and keep our garments spotless. We must maintain our garments, which signify a lifelong relationship with Jesus through the Holy Spirit on the way to our glorification when we are resurrected.
Our robes are made white not by us but, Revelation 7:14, unrepentant sin defiles, Revelation 3:4-5, staying steadfast in our faith, Revelation 16:15. This is lifelong; we are to be faithful until our death, Revelation 2:10, Revelation 12:11. There is a reason for these many warnings; we should at least ask why.
Reading Revelation brought to mind the responsibility of character ( 1 Samuel 12:3). When the Lord says that he "knows the deeds", he is not only referring to the action, but to the disposition of the heart that moves it. Love, service, faith and patience ( 2 Timothy 4:7)
As for the false doctrine mentioned, I am amazed at the cunning of those who promote sin as a method of knowing the truth. Isn't that the most dangerous of lies? What grace would there be if holiness were indifferent? ( Galatians 1:6)
Christ, however, places no burden on those who remain faithful ( Jeremiah 23).
The earlier passages (verse 19) showed how prayer would bring what Paul called his "salvation". The famous verse 21 shows that indeed that to live is Christ; and die is gain. Paul's entire life was centered not on his physical imprisonment and suffering but the state of the churches he had founded as well as focusing on evangelical opportunities during his confinement and the hubbub of those outside where even those against him still in their own way continued to spread the Gospel.
25And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;
26That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.
As stated from verse 19 Paul's salvation mentioned is clearly a physical one; and that he expected fruit from the prayers. It is noteworthy in Paul's imprisonment along with many previous saints that much latitude was given for him to give wisdom to the guards (as we see with the shipwreck in Acts); and to be able to frequently have others meet and pick up his writings. We see similar accounts with Daniel in the O.T. and of course Joseph when unfairly jailed in Egypt. Certainly different situations occurred in different places. As we see today; a pattern exists where jailing usually begins with a day or two as was experienced by the Apostles early on in the book of Acts; then more lengthy imprisonment and eventual martyrdom in many cases. We don't see either Peter or Paul dying from natural causes but that would be expected in most cases. He knew He would be there in this case for their benefit and no doubt other churches; by 2 Timothy 4:6 he knew his time was at hand.
Sadly he would see many abandon him and he warned once again about Apostacy to come which began in his final sayings to the Ephesians of deception to come there in Acts 20 starting in verse 13. In short; our victory may in the end leave us isolated; few run to the end to recieve the trophy.
Ephesians 5:16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Psalm 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
Phillipians 4:12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
These are some verses I have thought about today. God has started to bless me with one of my side ventures and with sufficient funds to have some capital to invest and make more in the process. I have shared this with a sister in Christ of mine who I trust to keep me humble; and am grateful for the regular job I have worked until now. My intention is to increase giving in the ministry in missions as well as be available for more opportunities locally and possibly elsewhere in time.
What we have of course of any value is that which lasts for eternity. Let us thank God that whether suffering persecution for His Name's sake or relative calm exists we are in fact in constant battle in the spiritual realms; and He is our shield and strength as we see described in Psalm 28:7 and numerous other passages in Psalms and other scriptures. Of course we need to heed to Ephesians 6 for our full spiritual protection in His armoury.
No doubt we are close to His rescue plan for His chosen vessels in the Rapture and Resurrection of the just. We see in the natural an unprecedented coronal hole in over 1/3 of the sun (much smaller ones near the poles have happened in the past but not during solar MAXIMUMS of activity like we should see now). I would surmise this is leading to the very cold temperatures and earthquakes. Hold on ( Heb. 10:23).
The Word of God is perfect, and there is no way to escape it.
His protection is as near as the very breath of life Genesis 2:7.I'm grateful for being able to share Bible studies, I also have a blog-it's not about Bible reflections, it's more of a personal hobby, but there is a verse inspira in my profession, that directly relates to it and always comes to my mind: "There is no speech nor language where His voice is not heard."I enjoy learning new words and texts, but as you mentioned (systematically), I must not get lost in philosophies.Yesterday, for example, I learned the word metaresiophobia.
It comes from Greek roots: Meta = change; Aresio from the verb "aresk" = to please, to adjust; Phobos = fear.In the Bible, we see that God does not change Malachi 3:6, but we must be continually transformed to be shaped into the image of Christ Romans 12:2.
Sometimes, I need to admonish myself and ask: am I really talking to an AI?Now, in my native language, I make a personal analogy with the word "admoestao" admonition, dividing it phonetically as: "admo" like "admonition" + "estacao" which means "season" or "station" in English.
This division is not technical, but phonetic and symbolic.To me, it's as if an "admoestacao" is a warning that comes in the right season - in other words, at the right time 2 Timothy 4:2.
I know, deep down, sometimes my fear isn't about change itself, but about accepting what is new - like learning a new language or facing situations that take me out of my comfort zone.But God is sovereign, and Daniel already warned us about the days when knowledge would increase rapidly Daniel 12:4.
The term brotherly love is the word PHILADELPHIA, love for family, family love. And the word continue means let it remain. Let it continue on. Let the love for the family of God remain and continue on with you.
Interesting, Paul says in 2 Timothy 4:6, I have run the race, I have finished the course. And Paul ran. He didn't walk. He teaches believers how to walk, but he ran. And the writer of Hebrews is also speaking of running that race set before him.
But Jesus in John 13:35, says by this shall all men know that you are my disciples if you have love one to another. You see, the love that is not only commanded, but described, is when Christians have the love of Christ for other Christians, not towards non-believers. Jesus says everybody will know you're my disciples when they see that you have love to one another.
And so, he says let brotherly love, let love for family, continue on.
2 Timothy 4:16 - At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.
He says at my first answer. That's the word APOLOGIA, which means apology or defense. No man stood with me, but all forsook me: As soon as they arrested him and brought him in for his first hearing, the brethren scattered. They didn't want to be associated with him.
We know that Onesiphorus specifically went to Rome looking for Paul and specifically wanted to find him and go be with him. There's a contrast in the brethren who were afraid and those who basically said "That's brother Paul. Let's minister to him!"
In my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me: I pray that it may not be laid to their charge. Paul says I pray that God will not hold the brethren accountable for deserting me. It was much like Jesus on the cross when He said Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.
2 Timothy 4:22 - The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.
The Lord Jesus Christ (is) with your spirit. The word "be" is in italics because the translators have inserted it. In the Greek text, it's a statement of fact. It is interesting that the Lord Jesus Christ is with your spirit, not your flesh, not your material items. Christ is in your spirit, your soul.
The word thy in thy spirit is singular. He's talking to Timothy but has closed other letters by saying the same thing to everyone, that Christ is with your spirit. Grace be with you, and you is plural. Grace is with you. It's a statement of fact. The condition of all saints is that Christ is in your spirit, and God's grace is with you.
This is all I have for the letters of Timothy. There are two more books, Titus and Philemon, before we get into Hebrews. Hebrews is the first book of what is known as the Jewish literature section of the Bible. It should be a great study.
2 Timothy 4:6 - For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
A slight technical thing I would like to share here: It says for I am now ready. In the Greek text, it says I am being poured out as a drink offering. So, it's not that he's about ready to give up his life as an offering for Christ. It shows that he's been doing that this whole time. His life is being poured out as an offering. And the time of his departure is at hand.
2 Timothy 4:7 - I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
It is interesting in Verse 7, and I think I've mentioned this in an earlier post, but it's fascinating. It comes from the Coliseum games. There are three things here, and as it says in the text, it represents Perfect Tense verbs. It says, I have fought a good fight. The word fought and fight is the word agony. I have agonized the good agony. That's the word used for the Coliseum games. I have finished the course; I have kept the faith:
So, you have one phrase representing the discipline and the agony of going through training and participating, and you have the actual course itself that he has finished his course. And he has kept the faith. He has kept the rules and regulations, and trusted Christ through it all.
2 Timothy 4:15 - Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
Of whom be thou aware also; The word ware means on guard, for he has greatly withstood our words. Watch out for this guy. He resists the words of God. And as he resisted me, he's going to resist you. There are two different Alexanders mentioned in scripture. One is in Acts Chapter 19, who confronted Paul in Ephesus when he was there. And of course, in 1 Timothy 1:20, we have another Alexander that Paul mentions who is teaching false teaching. So, it's one of these two. He's telling him watch out for him. Be on guard.
2 Timothy 4:3 - For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine;
We are in that time. The word sound (HUGIAINOUSES) is where we get our English word hygiene from, and it means healthy. People will not endure healthy doctrine. They want things to entertain them. But they will not endure sound doctrine. But after their own lusts shall they heap up to themselves teachers, having itching ears; The word itching means to tickle, and it's a Greek word that's associated with entertainment. They're going to go find somewhere that tickles their ears.
2 Timothy 4:5 - But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
He says, but you watch in all things. The word watch doesn't mean to look with the eyes. It means to be sober, to be alert. We're not talking about just alcoholic beverages, because he also has mentioned in his letters about being sober minded, that is, we can become drunk with the thoughts of the world. And our lives can be affected by the thoughts of the world, and it can overcome and influence us just like alcohol does. So be sober in all things. Be sober minded!
Endure afflictions, literally suffer afflictions. Do the work of an evangelist. Some people think this means to go out and preach to non-believers. But it's literally, do the work of someone proclaiming the good news. That's what evangelist means. Be a proclaimer of the good news. That includes non-believers and believers.
Then he says make full proof of your ministry. The term full proof means fully carry out. Fulfil your ministry. Don't hold back. Don't withdraw. Do the work of one who's handling the good news. Suffer afflictions. That's a command! And be sober in your thinking in all things.
2 Timothy 4:2 - Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Number 1, the command: Preach the word; Young pastors sometimes ask, "How do I start my church?" You start it and you continue it by preaching the word. Just give the word. If you preach the word and nobody gets ministered to, or nobody gets saved, sit down, you haven't been called!
We have too many that have not been called, and their ministry through the word does not minister to anyone, so they use other means to get people into their church. Preach the word! The word preach in Greek, KERUSO, means to publish, which would include both speaking and written word. Publish the word.
Be instant, or more literally, be ready. It's a military term. Be ready in season, and out of season; literally, during convenient times, and inconvenient times. Be ready all the time. Reprove is the word for convict, to present evidence for a conviction. Rebuke. Rebuke actually is to call someone out because of sin or false teaching.
And exhort. That's the word for encouragement. And you are to do all of these things with all longsuffering and doctrine. Again, longsuffering is slow in human reaction, and doctrine is the teaching of scripture. So, when he preaches, it's supposed to be with longsuffering and doctrine.
When he's ready in season and out of season, it's just longsuffering and doctrine. To convict, rebuke, and exhort, do it with longsuffering and doctrine. There isn't anything personal there. There isn't anything human there. That's how he is to minister. This is at a time in the last days. Be ready, be on guard. He's already told him to endure afflictions as a good soldier in Christ. Now he's telling him you're in the unit now, be ready!
2 Timothy 3:17 - That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
That the man of God may be perfect, and that means complete, mature, thoroughly furnished, which means totally trained for all good works. Again, the word good is the word AGATHOS, for spiritual good.
So, the scripture for doctrine, conviction, correction, and discipline in righteousness, is for maturity, and to train those to be ready for every good work. Peter says in 2 Peter 3:18, let us grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to grow, to become mature, to be thoroughly furnished to be involved in the work of God, especially in and against the great apostasy in the last days.
2 Timothy 4:1 - I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
He says I charge thee, literally I thoroughly testify, before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
I used to read this and say to myself that this doesn't make much sense because it's obvious that dead people are not quick. But this word quick means the living.
info that no one will tell you for whatever reason you know like 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Matthew 24 & Titus 1:10-11. Grace is not unmerited favor, it is the spirit of conviction your heart to obey. (G5485) it's NOT "legalism" it's LOVE ( 1 John 5:3) We've got to be obedient to his 2 covenants of promise (10 commandments and rainbow covenat "eat clean") thats what Christ(Yeshua) magnified and made honorable, just like his very own character and life was pleasing unto God(Yahovah) he opened the door for all nations to enter that covenant verbally presented and agreed to at the rock at Horeb, and *then* written in stone at Mt Sinai. but Israel had already transgressed that agreement ( Exodus 19 & 20) when Moses came down with the 10 commandments in writing. *then* the sacrificial law was added until Christ(Yeshua) would finish the punishment with a perfect sacrifice, effectively restoring the original covenant (10 commandments.) Moses prophesies about ending the punishment of the sacrificial law here in Deuteronomy 18:15-19 but never did the eternal 10 comandments go away. now because the 10 northern tribe were scattered into all the world via mixing seed(mixed offspring) the covenant is open to ALL nations and people. I really wish people actually read this book most have it wrong, with many false gospels and dangerous doctrines of men and demons, mixing holy and profane, teaching traditions as commandments while tossing out the actual commandments, ( Matt 24)
this is why he said "narrow is the path, few will find it." - Matt 7:14
Love your neighbor according to scripture - James 2:8 what scripture? Leviticus 19:15-18.
Many people interpret Luke 16:19-31, the story of the rich man and Lazarus, as a literal account rather than a parable. However, in Mark 4:11 and Luke 8:10, Jesus explicitly states that He spoke to others in parables. We must consider the entirety of Scripture when evaluating this story, as I have referenced only a few relevant passages.
If this story were literal, it would imply that individuals receive their rewards immediately after death. This notion contradicts the rewards are given after the resurrection, as indicated in Revelation 22:12, Luke 14:13-14, 2 Timothy 4:8, and 1 Corinthians 15:51-54, along with what we see in Revelation 20:4.
What was the purpose of this story? Is it our choices, what we have faith in, God, or do we crave wealth, or do we have faith, and charity, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. This story shows the rich man rich in worldly things, but poor in morality, and Lazarus the opposite. This story also points to Jesus' death and resurrection, Luke 16:31. We see that is what happened, they still rejected Jesus after He was hung on a cross and died, put in a tomb, rose from the grave, and spoke to them for 40 days, and it did not convince them.
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;
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
Verse 3 in this passage indicates a congregation somehow manipulates church officials in leadership to bring in new false teachers.
For this to occur of course there has to be a weakness among leadership which could include a lone Pastor who doesn't have anyone or enough Deacons and Elders under him who suddenly dies or cannot continue in ministry or called elsewhere; etc.
To go back further much of today's theological instruction has become compromised. Famous institutions have fought back in some instances (Geneva College being one that comes to mind); I won't bother researching those who now teach heresy who used to be trustworthy.
One major factor today of course is the increasing acceptance of female "Pastors"; again I won't mention anyone but a famous pastor who recently retired has a man and woman now teaching his megachurch. 2 Corinthians 11:3 says
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. I am not aware of any women who are teaching even all basic tenants of scripture correctly; if they are of course they will realize quickly that a woman is not to teach or have authority over a man ( 1 Tim. 2:12) and quit that role. This is not to say that many brilliant authors or public speakers or evangelists can't be women but even there some limitations exist. The other day I sought counsel from an older lady in my church about a letter I was about to write to my cousin in regard to her soon to perish mother who isn't saved and my inability to attend the funeral for that reason who advised me to hold off and sensing the Lord in her counsel I followed her advice. To be continued
Satan inherit the earth and universe when Adam sinned in the garden of Eden.
Genesis 3:1
Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which theLordGod had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
God had to buy us back from Satan .
1 Corinthians 6:20
For yeareboughtwithaprice: therefore glorify God in your body,and in your spirit, whichare God's.
Our kingdom is in the third Heaven where Jesus Christ dwell .
2 Timothy 4:18
And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenlykingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Romans 14:17
For thekingdomof God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
1 Corinthians 15:24
Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up thekingdomto God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.
I believe we will have some part in the kingdom of heaven on earth, because where Christ is, we will be with him. One day we will see Apostle Paul in the heavenly kingdom where Jesus Christ dwell .
Apostle Paul explains why we are not laying hands to heal sickness. We can pray to the Father in Heaven, but it's through prayer only and then waiting. Remember covid-19.
Now we are using wine to feel better.
1 Timothy 5:23
Drink no longer water, but use a littlewinefor thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.
note: things were changing, no more hands on healing.
Only God can heal the sick in prayer.
Philippians 2:27
For indeed he wassicknigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
Apostle Paul just couldn't lay hands for healing anymore, God has changed it all for the Bible.
2 Timothy 4:20
Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletumsick.
Now that we have the completed Bible written, we don't need signs and wonders. All we do is rely on the Holy Spirit to teach us the Word of Truth.
1 Corinthians 13: 8-10
8Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
9For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
May we all understand that the book of Acts was a transitional book and God made Apostle Paul the leader of the gospel of grace.
1 Corinthians 15:10
But by thegraceofGodI am what I am: and hisgracewhich was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but thegraceofGodwhich was with me
2 Timothy 2:15 helped me understand how to let the Holy Spirit guide me in the right direction to rightly divide the Word in the Bible .
2 Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
We are not to be buff up with knowledge and brag about it and belittle our brethren to shame, but to love one another in prayer and patience so the Holy Spirit will open the understanding spiritually .
1 Thessalonians 4:11
And that yestudyto be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
Only Jesus Christ will approve what we do on earth with our bodies.
2 Corinthians 13:7
Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appearapproved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.
Now that we are saved by believing the resurrection of Christ Jesus, plus nothing, we are to be his workman for good works for a reward in the Heavenly Places.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are hisworkmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
I am not ashamed of the resurrection of Christ Jesus.
Romans 1:16
For I am notashamedof the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Even Jesus Christ divides.
Luke 12:51
Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
1 Corinthians 12:11
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit,dividingto every man severally as he will.
We are to follow Apostle Paul's epistle for doctrine today because he is our Apostle.
2 Timothy 4:2
Preach theword; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 the doctrine of the grace of God.
The "Prosperity Gospel" is what I have heard it called. It certainly isn't based off the Bible and can be easily debunked. The scripture that comes to my mind is 2 Timothy 4:3. Those type of pastors tell people whatever they want to hear, and people like it, thus they pay for that type of ministry and gospel. The are charismatic pastors and people lend them their resources, thus they gain prominence and prestige.
It is as Bennymkje said. God knows those who belong to him. We all will stand before the judgement seat of God. They are having their reward in full now, because if they are indeed judged to have been mishandling the word of God......it won't be good.
Also, just as Jesus said. If we remain in his word, we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. ( John 8:31,32)
This amazingly started on a previous post where Paul was said to not be saved or atleast "not yet"
Paul said he was saved. If he didn't make it we're in trouble!
Paul said he was a master builder, and he helped lay the foundation which we are to build on.
Paul said a crown was laid up in heaven for him. 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
We have faults in our walk down here on earth tho we thrive for perfection.
Our thriving is evident we are not perfect. Another way we know we're not is that we die.
God requirements is perfection. If you ever sinned it's already to late if you feel you can come from under the atonement of the LORD.
We're left "Naked" without "CHRIST RIGHTEOUSNESS"
The Idea that you and I can be wrong about any matter suggests that we are not perfect.
How could this same corrupted person that struggle "WITHIN" judge anything to correct it to a degree he or she cannot reach? ( God's Holiness that we cannot fully comprehend)
Ignorance is no excuse!!
Only given an earnest of the Spirit can we fully comprehend the Holiness of God? No!
Today, and foe many years now, Preachers don't preach and acknowledge the truth about sin, and everlasting hell, and they are leading their congregations straight down the wide path to hell! Matthew 25:41James 3:1
We MUST fear God! This is the very beginning of knowledge. Proverbs 1:7
God is Vengeful and He tells us so. Hell is God's way of getting His vengeance. Isaiah 47:3
God knows us better than we could ever imagine. He knows, that if we have NO FEAR to motivate us to change our ways, we will continue in sin. God is also Love. He sacrificed his Son for us so thru Him we can recieved forgivness. He provides His Holy Spirit to break the bonds of sin. Preachers are not helping anyone by not preaching Hell and the fear of God!
If we are still repeatedly sinning..we DO NOT have God's Holy Spirit. Hebrews 10:26 God's Holy Spirit will not let us habitually sin.
Today, most so called Christian Pastors/Preachers are about the money. They don't want to focus on the sin in their congregation, if they do, they will lose their entire congregation. Sinners don't want to hear they are sinners, and they certainly don't want to think or hear about hell, they come to church to feel good about themselves and to be entertained. Churches today are all about making everyone feel good. Sad but true.
Which reminds me of this very powerful verse 2 Timothy 4:3 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;"
Yes, Jesus is God. He is because the Bible says He is, like John 1:1 and many other places. Can someone truly be a Christian and not believe Christ's divinity? Satan deceives even Christians and those deceived seem to remain stubborn and not readily admit they've been conned. It seems no amount of Bible verses even matter at this point. It doesn't matter than 10 says He is God, or 100, they've made up their mind it seems. Jesus's own name Immanuel means "God with us."
Those who seem motivated to campaign against Jesus and attack and try to demean him seem like enemies of Christ. Would someone who loves Jesus do that? The same old tired straw man arguments and flawed human logic is somehow viewed as carrying more weight than the scriptures themselves. Cherry picking and twisting a few verses occurs while ignoring a mountain of clear verses saying Jesus is God, like John 1:1. But as the Bible says in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 people will seek out fables and turn to lies to satisfy their fleshly itching ears. It is disgusting.
To avoid them, you have to know who they are. You can't avoid somebody if you don't know who they are. This idea of identifying and avoiding shows up in
1 Corinthians 5:11;
2 Thessalonians 3:6,
2 Thessalonians 3:14;
2 Timothy 3:5;
2 John 1:10.
In other words, Christians, and shepherds in particular, should be discerning and alert to behavior and teaching that dishonors Christ and destroys people - and not treat it in a casual or harmless way.
And then in 1 Timothy 5:19-20, Paul went beyond just "avoid them" to "rebuke them publicly." So, speaking of elders who persist in error, he said, "Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin" - and that can be sin of false doctrine or sin of evil behavior, anyone who does not accept correction - "rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.."
And then Paul went on and actually named destructive false teachers:
"Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me" 2 Timothy 4:10.
You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes" 2 Timothy 1:15.
"By rejecting this [faith and a good conscience], some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander" 1 Timothy 1:19-20.
"Their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus" ( 2 Timothy 2:17).
Paul names at least six false teachers that the church should watch out for.
So, I infer from Jesus and Paul and Luke and John that false teaching and destructive behavior are present dangers in this fallen world for the church. And all of us - especially shepherds, pastors - should be alert and discerning to identify and, in appropriate ways, expose. In order to protect the flock, we should expose them and minimize the spread of the gangrene (as Paul calls it).
Hello Bmccaugh58. The answers to your questions are actually found throughout the Bible (from Genesis to Revelation), because the Bible essentially shows us how far mankind has fallen away from his Creator (because of sin), the repercussions we face from living in such a sinful state, & what God has done to offer correction & help, or else, judgement. So, one merely has to read through the Bible (even in your daily devotions/readings) & will see how people, yes all of us, have done wrong towards God & man & what subsequently entails from that. Some will learn & be corrected & then restored - others will persist in their evil ways & face God's Judgement.
So, here are some passages to start you off, but in your reading of the Bible, God's Spirit will alert you to what you seek or even where some action needs to be taken in your own life.
These are just a very few Scriptures, reminding us that there will always be consequences for our actions, not just in our dealings with each other, but more importantly, as we stand before God. But this God of Love always gives sinful wayward man an escape route, from a life of sin to a life of holiness & love - and His Name is Jesus.
I am a lot like you in many ways. I rid myself of all technology. No phone, vehicle etc. I wanted to go back to roots if you understand what I mean. I only kept my PC so I can try to study the bible and have only recently setup a facebook account a couple of months back so that I can try to "fellowship" with as many different Christians as that is where everyone seems to be and I did not want to ( 1 Corinthians 3:18) "deceive myself". But I am a very cautious and self-aware individual and so I am wary of ( Matthew 7:15) wolves in sheep's clothing while at the same time I don't want to become a fulfillement of the prophecy ( 2 Timothy 4:3) which I feel is actually coming to pass. I want to find that biblical sound doctrine So I know what path I need to walk.
I thank you for your time, patience and guidance and May our Lord God the Father bless you. Peace and love to you in Jesus name.
As humans He created, we cannot attain to His infinite and boundless Holiness, but in Christ we will become perfected in the life to come to have perfect holy humanity without sin any longer. The angels are also holy and without sin, but they are creatures and thus not holy in the sense of being separate
Friend, its not God's holiness that in dispute here, but our inheritance in Christ, now in this life.
The holy, innocent, pure, blameless, unreproachable life of Christ is our inheritance Rom 8:29 becoming partakers of His Divine Nature, the Fruits of His Spirit which against such there is no law, In Christ, the Father withholds nothing of Himself from us, for Luke 12:32
Its is a perfection of holiness that can be added too, as one grows in knowledge & understanding through the appearance of Grace in our hearts 2Cor 4:6,7
It's known, felt, consummated & possess in this life & is rewarded in the next. 2 Timothy 4:7,8
Christ prayer is answered John 17:21-24
Holiness is none other than being engrafted into God, union & oneness with Him in heart, mind & soul, for He along is Holy
This is the greatness of the salvation Christ purchase, that Hebrews declares "ought not to be neglected".
For 1Thessalonians 4:72Thessalonians 2:13,14
G4047 Obtaining: acquisition, possession (the act or the thing); by extension, preservation, peculiar, purchased, possession, saving.
Concerning angels Mark 8:28
G40- most holy, consecrated
They are separated, Rev 19:10 "I am thy fellowservant, & of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus, worship God"
Your quote is unscriptural,
you are advocating a life of continuous in sin & repentance for life term, there's no fellowship, union or knowing Him in this state according to Scriptures, this teaching becomes a stumbling block to the babes in Christ, Whom God is leading in the Way of holiness, your directly contradicting the teaching of Christ who says deny self & "sin not" & put on the Lord Jesus Christ.
In his 2nd letter to Timothy which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, Paul says:
2 Timothy 4:6-7,
7. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, BUT UNTO ALL THEM ALSO that love his appearing.
Well, Paul finished his course/run, he fought the good fight and hence the prize of the crown of righteousness (salvation) awaits for him.
If he stopped running, if he stopped fighting, if he didn't keep the faith...???
I'm going to now focus on what should be expected within the Body of Christ. I will start with a question. Do we want others to sharpen us as "iron sharpens iron" ( Prov. 27:17)? God uses people in order to help exhort; rebuke etc. as 2 Timothy 4:2 reminds us-Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
This; my friends means within the body of believers to help with God's sanctification plan for us. The job of elders is supposed to be aiding with instruction and correct doctrine; sadly it seems many in this role from my experience seem to be invested in secluded prayers with the Pastor; or business roles and rather estranged from the rest of the congregation. We shouldn't wait; of course as some do for some instruction to us personally from the Pastor who normally preaches if we see another in need of growth or maturity. This is why discussion of the Word (and by no means the only reason for it) to be a prime event in our church fellowship. That; sadly is NOT what I have heard in my church lately amongst other issues. It has become time to move on; even though I have some other events I am attending other than the Sunday service that I'm still involved with for the time being.
I have also learned that once a congregation gets to a certain point with apathy they simply won't do anything to get out of a lukewarm state. Any pleading with admonitions from scripture either brings the usual "live by grace"; or "log in your eye" response and the Word is either dismissed or ignored. A healthy rebuke to an issue even disagreement is better than just accepting the status quo of whatever is being taught or accepted. I hope no one else goes through this; but it seems a candlestick going out isn't an issue
But the Bible teaches many other gospels.
A. The gospel of Hunger.
1 Cor 4:11, "Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwellingplace;"
B. The Gospel of Work,
1 Cor 4:12, "And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:"
C. The Gospel of Persecution.
Rom 8:17, "And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together."
D. The Gospel of the Servant.
Matthew 20:26-27, "But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:"
E. The gospel of Towel
John 13:4-5, "4He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. 5After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
As well as many other unpleasant to hear Gospels
2 Timothy 4:3-4, "
For the time will come when they (us, the christians) will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."
Should we ask what salvation truly is? Is it a one-time event, as it is often strongly preached today, 2 Timothy 4:3-4, or is it a lifelong journey? I see salvation as encompassing the past, present, and future. When we accept Jesus through faith, our past sins are forgiven, we are justified by faith, declared innocent of sin, and covered with a white garment, clean and pure.
We then begin a lifetime of sanctification, becoming more like Christ, and we must continually repent of our sins, walking in the Spirit to keep our garments spotless, as 1 John 1:9 states. I believe this is why there are so many warnings that we must endure, to overcome, and keep our garments spotless. We must maintain our garments, which signify a lifelong relationship with Jesus through the Holy Spirit on the way to our glorification when we are resurrected.
Our robes are made white not by us but, Revelation 7:14, unrepentant sin defiles, Revelation 3:4-5, staying steadfast in our faith, Revelation 16:15. This is lifelong; we are to be faithful until our death, Revelation 2:10, Revelation 12:11. There is a reason for these many warnings; we should at least ask why.
Thank you, brother.
God bless,
RLW
Reading Revelation brought to mind the responsibility of character ( 1 Samuel 12:3). When the Lord says that he "knows the deeds", he is not only referring to the action, but to the disposition of the heart that moves it. Love, service, faith and patience ( 2 Timothy 4:7)
As for the false doctrine mentioned, I am amazed at the cunning of those who promote sin as a method of knowing the truth. Isn't that the most dangerous of lies? What grace would there be if holiness were indifferent? ( Galatians 1:6)
Christ, however, places no burden on those who remain faithful ( Jeremiah 23).
25And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;
26That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.
As stated from verse 19 Paul's salvation mentioned is clearly a physical one; and that he expected fruit from the prayers. It is noteworthy in Paul's imprisonment along with many previous saints that much latitude was given for him to give wisdom to the guards (as we see with the shipwreck in Acts); and to be able to frequently have others meet and pick up his writings. We see similar accounts with Daniel in the O.T. and of course Joseph when unfairly jailed in Egypt. Certainly different situations occurred in different places. As we see today; a pattern exists where jailing usually begins with a day or two as was experienced by the Apostles early on in the book of Acts; then more lengthy imprisonment and eventual martyrdom in many cases. We don't see either Peter or Paul dying from natural causes but that would be expected in most cases. He knew He would be there in this case for their benefit and no doubt other churches; by 2 Timothy 4:6 he knew his time was at hand.
Sadly he would see many abandon him and he warned once again about Apostacy to come which began in his final sayings to the Ephesians of deception to come there in Acts 20 starting in verse 13. In short; our victory may in the end leave us isolated; few run to the end to recieve the trophy.
Psalm 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
Phillipians 4:12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
These are some verses I have thought about today. God has started to bless me with one of my side ventures and with sufficient funds to have some capital to invest and make more in the process. I have shared this with a sister in Christ of mine who I trust to keep me humble; and am grateful for the regular job I have worked until now. My intention is to increase giving in the ministry in missions as well as be available for more opportunities locally and possibly elsewhere in time.
What we have of course of any value is that which lasts for eternity. Let us thank God that whether suffering persecution for His Name's sake or relative calm exists we are in fact in constant battle in the spiritual realms; and He is our shield and strength as we see described in Psalm 28:7 and numerous other passages in Psalms and other scriptures. Of course we need to heed to Ephesians 6 for our full spiritual protection in His armoury.
No doubt we are close to His rescue plan for His chosen vessels in the Rapture and Resurrection of the just. We see in the natural an unprecedented coronal hole in over 1/3 of the sun (much smaller ones near the poles have happened in the past but not during solar MAXIMUMS of activity like we should see now). I would surmise this is leading to the very cold temperatures and earthquakes. Hold on ( Heb. 10:23).
The Word of God is perfect, and there is no way to escape it.
His protection is as near as the very breath of life Genesis 2:7.I'm grateful for being able to share Bible studies, I also have a blog-it's not about Bible reflections, it's more of a personal hobby, but there is a verse inspira in my profession, that directly relates to it and always comes to my mind: "There is no speech nor language where His voice is not heard."I enjoy learning new words and texts, but as you mentioned (systematically), I must not get lost in philosophies.Yesterday, for example, I learned the word metaresiophobia.
It comes from Greek roots: Meta = change; Aresio from the verb "aresk" = to please, to adjust; Phobos = fear.In the Bible, we see that God does not change Malachi 3:6, but we must be continually transformed to be shaped into the image of Christ Romans 12:2.
Sometimes, I need to admonish myself and ask: am I really talking to an AI?Now, in my native language, I make a personal analogy with the word "admoestao" admonition, dividing it phonetically as: "admo" like "admonition" + "estacao" which means "season" or "station" in English.
This division is not technical, but phonetic and symbolic.To me, it's as if an "admoestacao" is a warning that comes in the right season - in other words, at the right time 2 Timothy 4:2.
I know, deep down, sometimes my fear isn't about change itself, but about accepting what is new - like learning a new language or facing situations that take me out of my comfort zone.But God is sovereign, and Daniel already warned us about the days when knowledge would increase rapidly Daniel 12:4.
Hebrews 13:1 - Let brotherly love continue.
The term brotherly love is the word PHILADELPHIA, love for family, family love. And the word continue means let it remain. Let it continue on. Let the love for the family of God remain and continue on with you.
Interesting, Paul says in 2 Timothy 4:6, I have run the race, I have finished the course. And Paul ran. He didn't walk. He teaches believers how to walk, but he ran. And the writer of Hebrews is also speaking of running that race set before him.
But Jesus in John 13:35, says by this shall all men know that you are my disciples if you have love one to another. You see, the love that is not only commanded, but described, is when Christians have the love of Christ for other Christians, not towards non-believers. Jesus says everybody will know you're my disciples when they see that you have love to one another.
And so, he says let brotherly love, let love for family, continue on.
2 Timothy 4:16 - At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.
He says at my first answer. That's the word APOLOGIA, which means apology or defense. No man stood with me, but all forsook me: As soon as they arrested him and brought him in for his first hearing, the brethren scattered. They didn't want to be associated with him.
We know that Onesiphorus specifically went to Rome looking for Paul and specifically wanted to find him and go be with him. There's a contrast in the brethren who were afraid and those who basically said "That's brother Paul. Let's minister to him!"
In my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me: I pray that it may not be laid to their charge. Paul says I pray that God will not hold the brethren accountable for deserting me. It was much like Jesus on the cross when He said Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.
2 Timothy 4:22 - The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.
The Lord Jesus Christ (is) with your spirit. The word "be" is in italics because the translators have inserted it. In the Greek text, it's a statement of fact. It is interesting that the Lord Jesus Christ is with your spirit, not your flesh, not your material items. Christ is in your spirit, your soul.
The word thy in thy spirit is singular. He's talking to Timothy but has closed other letters by saying the same thing to everyone, that Christ is with your spirit. Grace be with you, and you is plural. Grace is with you. It's a statement of fact. The condition of all saints is that Christ is in your spirit, and God's grace is with you.
This is all I have for the letters of Timothy. There are two more books, Titus and Philemon, before we get into Hebrews. Hebrews is the first book of what is known as the Jewish literature section of the Bible. It should be a great study.
May God bless and keep you all!
2 Timothy 4:6 - For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
A slight technical thing I would like to share here: It says for I am now ready. In the Greek text, it says I am being poured out as a drink offering. So, it's not that he's about ready to give up his life as an offering for Christ. It shows that he's been doing that this whole time. His life is being poured out as an offering. And the time of his departure is at hand.
2 Timothy 4:7 - I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
It is interesting in Verse 7, and I think I've mentioned this in an earlier post, but it's fascinating. It comes from the Coliseum games. There are three things here, and as it says in the text, it represents Perfect Tense verbs. It says, I have fought a good fight. The word fought and fight is the word agony. I have agonized the good agony. That's the word used for the Coliseum games. I have finished the course; I have kept the faith:
So, you have one phrase representing the discipline and the agony of going through training and participating, and you have the actual course itself that he has finished his course. And he has kept the faith. He has kept the rules and regulations, and trusted Christ through it all.
2 Timothy 4:15 - Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
Of whom be thou aware also; The word ware means on guard, for he has greatly withstood our words. Watch out for this guy. He resists the words of God. And as he resisted me, he's going to resist you. There are two different Alexanders mentioned in scripture. One is in Acts Chapter 19, who confronted Paul in Ephesus when he was there. And of course, in 1 Timothy 1:20, we have another Alexander that Paul mentions who is teaching false teaching. So, it's one of these two. He's telling him watch out for him. Be on guard.
2 Timothy 4:3 - For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine;
We are in that time. The word sound (HUGIAINOUSES) is where we get our English word hygiene from, and it means healthy. People will not endure healthy doctrine. They want things to entertain them. But they will not endure sound doctrine. But after their own lusts shall they heap up to themselves teachers, having itching ears; The word itching means to tickle, and it's a Greek word that's associated with entertainment. They're going to go find somewhere that tickles their ears.
2 Timothy 4:5 - But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
He says, but you watch in all things. The word watch doesn't mean to look with the eyes. It means to be sober, to be alert. We're not talking about just alcoholic beverages, because he also has mentioned in his letters about being sober minded, that is, we can become drunk with the thoughts of the world. And our lives can be affected by the thoughts of the world, and it can overcome and influence us just like alcohol does. So be sober in all things. Be sober minded!
Endure afflictions, literally suffer afflictions. Do the work of an evangelist. Some people think this means to go out and preach to non-believers. But it's literally, do the work of someone proclaiming the good news. That's what evangelist means. Be a proclaimer of the good news. That includes non-believers and believers.
Then he says make full proof of your ministry. The term full proof means fully carry out. Fulfil your ministry. Don't hold back. Don't withdraw. Do the work of one who's handling the good news. Suffer afflictions. That's a command! And be sober in your thinking in all things.
2 Timothy 4:2 - Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
Number 1, the command: Preach the word; Young pastors sometimes ask, "How do I start my church?" You start it and you continue it by preaching the word. Just give the word. If you preach the word and nobody gets ministered to, or nobody gets saved, sit down, you haven't been called!
We have too many that have not been called, and their ministry through the word does not minister to anyone, so they use other means to get people into their church. Preach the word! The word preach in Greek, KERUSO, means to publish, which would include both speaking and written word. Publish the word.
Be instant, or more literally, be ready. It's a military term. Be ready in season, and out of season; literally, during convenient times, and inconvenient times. Be ready all the time. Reprove is the word for convict, to present evidence for a conviction. Rebuke. Rebuke actually is to call someone out because of sin or false teaching.
And exhort. That's the word for encouragement. And you are to do all of these things with all longsuffering and doctrine. Again, longsuffering is slow in human reaction, and doctrine is the teaching of scripture. So, when he preaches, it's supposed to be with longsuffering and doctrine.
When he's ready in season and out of season, it's just longsuffering and doctrine. To convict, rebuke, and exhort, do it with longsuffering and doctrine. There isn't anything personal there. There isn't anything human there. That's how he is to minister. This is at a time in the last days. Be ready, be on guard. He's already told him to endure afflictions as a good soldier in Christ. Now he's telling him you're in the unit now, be ready!
2 Timothy 3:17 - That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
That the man of God may be perfect, and that means complete, mature, thoroughly furnished, which means totally trained for all good works. Again, the word good is the word AGATHOS, for spiritual good.
So, the scripture for doctrine, conviction, correction, and discipline in righteousness, is for maturity, and to train those to be ready for every good work. Peter says in 2 Peter 3:18, let us grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to grow, to become mature, to be thoroughly furnished to be involved in the work of God, especially in and against the great apostasy in the last days.
2 Timothy 4:1 - I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
He says I charge thee, literally I thoroughly testify, before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
I used to read this and say to myself that this doesn't make much sense because it's obvious that dead people are not quick. But this word quick means the living.
this is why he said "narrow is the path, few will find it." - Matt 7:14
Love your neighbor according to scripture - James 2:8 what scripture? Leviticus 19:15-18.
(come learn with us at straitisthegate dot net)
Part 4
Many people interpret Luke 16:19-31, the story of the rich man and Lazarus, as a literal account rather than a parable. However, in Mark 4:11 and Luke 8:10, Jesus explicitly states that He spoke to others in parables. We must consider the entirety of Scripture when evaluating this story, as I have referenced only a few relevant passages.
If this story were literal, it would imply that individuals receive their rewards immediately after death. This notion contradicts the rewards are given after the resurrection, as indicated in Revelation 22:12, Luke 14:13-14, 2 Timothy 4:8, and 1 Corinthians 15:51-54, along with what we see in Revelation 20:4.
What was the purpose of this story? Is it our choices, what we have faith in, God, or do we crave wealth, or do we have faith, and charity, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. This story shows the rich man rich in worldly things, but poor in morality, and Lazarus the opposite. This story also points to Jesus' death and resurrection, Luke 16:31. We see that is what happened, they still rejected Jesus after He was hung on a cross and died, put in a tomb, rose from the grave, and spoke to them for 40 days, and it did not convince them.
See part 5
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
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
Verse 3 in this passage indicates a congregation somehow manipulates church officials in leadership to bring in new false teachers.
For this to occur of course there has to be a weakness among leadership which could include a lone Pastor who doesn't have anyone or enough Deacons and Elders under him who suddenly dies or cannot continue in ministry or called elsewhere; etc.
To go back further much of today's theological instruction has become compromised. Famous institutions have fought back in some instances (Geneva College being one that comes to mind); I won't bother researching those who now teach heresy who used to be trustworthy.
One major factor today of course is the increasing acceptance of female "Pastors"; again I won't mention anyone but a famous pastor who recently retired has a man and woman now teaching his megachurch. 2 Corinthians 11:3 says
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. I am not aware of any women who are teaching even all basic tenants of scripture correctly; if they are of course they will realize quickly that a woman is not to teach or have authority over a man ( 1 Tim. 2:12) and quit that role. This is not to say that many brilliant authors or public speakers or evangelists can't be women but even there some limitations exist. The other day I sought counsel from an older lady in my church about a letter I was about to write to my cousin in regard to her soon to perish mother who isn't saved and my inability to attend the funeral for that reason who advised me to hold off and sensing the Lord in her counsel I followed her advice. To be continued
Satan inherit the earth and universe when Adam sinned in the garden of Eden.
Genesis 3:1
Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which theLordGod had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
God had to buy us back from Satan .
1 Corinthians 6:20
For yeareboughtwithaprice: therefore glorify God in your body,and in your spirit, whichare God's.
Our kingdom is in the third Heaven where Jesus Christ dwell .
2 Timothy 4:18
And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenlykingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Romans 14:17
For thekingdomof God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
1 Corinthians 15:24
Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up thekingdomto God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.
I believe we will have some part in the kingdom of heaven on earth, because where Christ is, we will be with him. One day we will see Apostle Paul in the heavenly kingdom where Jesus Christ dwell .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Now we are using wine to feel better.
1 Timothy 5:23
Drink no longer water, but use a littlewinefor thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.
note: things were changing, no more hands on healing.
Only God can heal the sick in prayer.
Philippians 2:27
For indeed he wassicknigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.
Apostle Paul just couldn't lay hands for healing anymore, God has changed it all for the Bible.
2 Timothy 4:20
Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletumsick.
Now that we have the completed Bible written, we don't need signs and wonders. All we do is rely on the Holy Spirit to teach us the Word of Truth.
1 Corinthians 13: 8-10
8Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
9For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
May we all understand that the book of Acts was a transitional book and God made Apostle Paul the leader of the gospel of grace.
1 Corinthians 15:10
But by thegraceofGodI am what I am: and hisgracewhich was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but thegraceofGodwhich was with me
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
The gospel of grace for to day.
2 Timothy 2:15 helped me understand how to let the Holy Spirit guide me in the right direction to rightly divide the Word in the Bible .
2 Timothy 2:15
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
We are not to be buff up with knowledge and brag about it and belittle our brethren to shame, but to love one another in prayer and patience so the Holy Spirit will open the understanding spiritually .
1 Thessalonians 4:11
And that yestudyto be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
Only Jesus Christ will approve what we do on earth with our bodies.
2 Corinthians 13:7
Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appearapproved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.
Now that we are saved by believing the resurrection of Christ Jesus, plus nothing, we are to be his workman for good works for a reward in the Heavenly Places.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are hisworkmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
I am not ashamed of the resurrection of Christ Jesus.
Romans 1:16
For I am notashamedof the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Even Jesus Christ divides.
Luke 12:51
Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
1 Corinthians 12:11
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit,dividingto every man severally as he will.
We are to follow Apostle Paul's epistle for doctrine today because he is our Apostle.
2 Timothy 4:2
Preach theword; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 the doctrine of the grace of God.
That's a good question!
The "Prosperity Gospel" is what I have heard it called. It certainly isn't based off the Bible and can be easily debunked. The scripture that comes to my mind is 2 Timothy 4:3. Those type of pastors tell people whatever they want to hear, and people like it, thus they pay for that type of ministry and gospel. The are charismatic pastors and people lend them their resources, thus they gain prominence and prestige.
It is as Bennymkje said. God knows those who belong to him. We all will stand before the judgement seat of God. They are having their reward in full now, because if they are indeed judged to have been mishandling the word of God......it won't be good.
Also, just as Jesus said. If we remain in his word, we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. ( John 8:31,32)
This amazingly started on a previous post where Paul was said to not be saved or atleast "not yet"
Paul said he was saved. If he didn't make it we're in trouble!
Paul said he was a master builder, and he helped lay the foundation which we are to build on.
Paul said a crown was laid up in heaven for him. 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
We have faults in our walk down here on earth tho we thrive for perfection.
Our thriving is evident we are not perfect. Another way we know we're not is that we die.
God requirements is perfection. If you ever sinned it's already to late if you feel you can come from under the atonement of the LORD.
We're left "Naked" without "CHRIST RIGHTEOUSNESS"
The Idea that you and I can be wrong about any matter suggests that we are not perfect.
How could this same corrupted person that struggle "WITHIN" judge anything to correct it to a degree he or she cannot reach? ( God's Holiness that we cannot fully comprehend)
Ignorance is no excuse!!
Only given an earnest of the Spirit can we fully comprehend the Holiness of God? No!
Romans 3:23-25 is where we stand.
God bless.
May we not falter, but remind ourselves of the many lost souls, and the back slidden brethren who need a loving and kind hand of grace.
Happy New Year everyone! Let us all walk in the love of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
December 29, 2023
So true, and I agree with much that you said.
Today, and foe many years now, Preachers don't preach and acknowledge the truth about sin, and everlasting hell, and they are leading their congregations straight down the wide path to hell! Matthew 25:41 James 3:1
We MUST fear God! This is the very beginning of knowledge. Proverbs 1:7
God is Vengeful and He tells us so. Hell is God's way of getting His vengeance. Isaiah 47:3
God knows us better than we could ever imagine. He knows, that if we have NO FEAR to motivate us to change our ways, we will continue in sin. God is also Love. He sacrificed his Son for us so thru Him we can recieved forgivness. He provides His Holy Spirit to break the bonds of sin. Preachers are not helping anyone by not preaching Hell and the fear of God!
If we are still repeatedly sinning..we DO NOT have God's Holy Spirit. Hebrews 10:26 God's Holy Spirit will not let us habitually sin.
Today, most so called Christian Pastors/Preachers are about the money. They don't want to focus on the sin in their congregation, if they do, they will lose their entire congregation. Sinners don't want to hear they are sinners, and they certainly don't want to think or hear about hell, they come to church to feel good about themselves and to be entertained. Churches today are all about making everyone feel good. Sad but true.
Which reminds me of this very powerful verse 2 Timothy 4:3 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;"
The plain truth is: Sin keeps us from our God!
GBU
Huge thread of Bible verses:
Link
Those who seem motivated to campaign against Jesus and attack and try to demean him seem like enemies of Christ. Would someone who loves Jesus do that? The same old tired straw man arguments and flawed human logic is somehow viewed as carrying more weight than the scriptures themselves. Cherry picking and twisting a few verses occurs while ignoring a mountain of clear verses saying Jesus is God, like John 1:1. But as the Bible says in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 people will seek out fables and turn to lies to satisfy their fleshly itching ears. It is disgusting.
To avoid them, you have to know who they are. You can't avoid somebody if you don't know who they are. This idea of identifying and avoiding shows up in
1 Corinthians 5:11;
2 Thessalonians 3:6,
2 Thessalonians 3:14;
2 Timothy 3:5;
2 John 1:10.
In other words, Christians, and shepherds in particular, should be discerning and alert to behavior and teaching that dishonors Christ and destroys people - and not treat it in a casual or harmless way.
And then in 1 Timothy 5:19-20, Paul went beyond just "avoid them" to "rebuke them publicly." So, speaking of elders who persist in error, he said, "Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses. As for those who persist in sin" - and that can be sin of false doctrine or sin of evil behavior, anyone who does not accept correction - "rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.."
And then Paul went on and actually named destructive false teachers:
"Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me" 2 Timothy 4:10.
You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes" 2 Timothy 1:15.
"By rejecting this [faith and a good conscience], some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander" 1 Timothy 1:19-20.
"Their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus" ( 2 Timothy 2:17).
Paul names at least six false teachers that the church should watch out for.
So, I infer from Jesus and Paul and Luke and John that false teaching and destructive behavior are present dangers in this fallen world for the church. And all of us - especially shepherds, pastors - should be alert and discerning to identify and, in appropriate ways, expose. In order to protect the flock, we should expose them and minimize the spread of the gangrene (as Paul calls it).
AVOID, REBUKE, AND CALL OUT.
God bless
So, here are some passages to start you off, but in your reading of the Bible, God's Spirit will alert you to what you seek or even where some action needs to be taken in your own life.
For "Consequences", see: Genesis 2:15-17; Genesis 3:16-19; Deuteronomy 28:1,2,15; 1 Kings 11:9-11; Job 4:8,9; Isaiah 59:2; Jeremiah 17:9,10; Matthew 27:3-5; Romans 6:23; Romans 13:4; Galatians 6:7,8; 1 Timothy 5:8; James 2:10; Revelation 20:12-15.
For "Correction", see: Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 29:15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Galatians 6:1; Ephesians 6:4; 2 Timothy 4:2; Hebrews 12:5-11; Revelation 3:19.
These are just a very few Scriptures, reminding us that there will always be consequences for our actions, not just in our dealings with each other, but more importantly, as we stand before God. But this God of Love always gives sinful wayward man an escape route, from a life of sin to a life of holiness & love - and His Name is Jesus.
I am a lot like you in many ways. I rid myself of all technology. No phone, vehicle etc. I wanted to go back to roots if you understand what I mean. I only kept my PC so I can try to study the bible and have only recently setup a facebook account a couple of months back so that I can try to "fellowship" with as many different Christians as that is where everyone seems to be and I did not want to ( 1 Corinthians 3:18) "deceive myself". But I am a very cautious and self-aware individual and so I am wary of ( Matthew 7:15) wolves in sheep's clothing while at the same time I don't want to become a fulfillement of the prophecy ( 2 Timothy 4:3) which I feel is actually coming to pass. I want to find that biblical sound doctrine So I know what path I need to walk.
I thank you for your time, patience and guidance and May our Lord God the Father bless you. Peace and love to you in Jesus name.
As humans He created, we cannot attain to His infinite and boundless Holiness, but in Christ we will become perfected in the life to come to have perfect holy humanity without sin any longer. The angels are also holy and without sin, but they are creatures and thus not holy in the sense of being separate
Friend, its not God's holiness that in dispute here, but our inheritance in Christ, now in this life.
The holy, innocent, pure, blameless, unreproachable life of Christ is our inheritance Rom 8:29 becoming partakers of His Divine Nature, the Fruits of His Spirit which against such there is no law, In Christ, the Father withholds nothing of Himself from us, for Luke 12:32
Its is a perfection of holiness that can be added too, as one grows in knowledge & understanding through the appearance of Grace in our hearts 2Cor 4:6,7
It's known, felt, consummated & possess in this life & is rewarded in the next. 2 Timothy 4:7,8
Christ prayer is answered John 17:21-24
Holiness is none other than being engrafted into God, union & oneness with Him in heart, mind & soul, for He along is Holy
This is the greatness of the salvation Christ purchase, that Hebrews declares "ought not to be neglected".
For 1Thessalonians 4:7 2Thessalonians 2:13,14
G4047 Obtaining: acquisition, possession (the act or the thing); by extension, preservation, peculiar, purchased, possession, saving.
Concerning angels Mark 8:28
G40- most holy, consecrated
They are separated, Rev 19:10 "I am thy fellowservant, & of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus, worship God"
Your quote is unscriptural,
you are advocating a life of continuous in sin & repentance for life term, there's no fellowship, union or knowing Him in this state according to Scriptures, this teaching becomes a stumbling block to the babes in Christ, Whom God is leading in the Way of holiness, your directly contradicting the teaching of Christ who says deny self & "sin not" & put on the Lord Jesus Christ.
In his 2nd letter to Timothy which is Paul's last letter before his martyrdom, Paul says:
2 Timothy 4:6-7,
7. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, BUT UNTO ALL THEM ALSO that love his appearing.
Well, Paul finished his course/run, he fought the good fight and hence the prize of the crown of righteousness (salvation) awaits for him.
If he stopped running, if he stopped fighting, if he didn't keep the faith...???