Further insights on Ephesians 5:17 (bottom of page)
"Let go and let God".
I recently heard a story from someone on a video describing a woman's daughter and asking about (or his asking about) getting married to her. Apparently there was expectation of a lack of support which materialized with that sentiment as an initial reaction only to be radically altered after prayer when she exclaimed that God had told her she was wrong and he was basically sent by God to her. In this situation we learn several clear principles about wisdom; namely taking all things to prayer despite any prejudices we may have and being willling to admit when we are wrong.
Such insight and discernment may be unusual; and it doesn't contradict sound wisdom. We of course need to pay attention to legitimate alarm signals of abuse; and other valid reasons to object to someone's choice for a life partner among our offspring.
The same idea goes back generations when education was much more highly valued along with a family trade. When a son is an adult; of course we have no business prodding into their affairs should they choose the path of ministry after the fact of a college degree or perhaps a few years of secular work. IF we support them financially a fair deal may be "son work in a secular trade for a few years first"; such skills are useful in ministry and in fact broaden opportunities for service.
Just for fun I looked up how many women as opposed to men change college majors as well as careers. I apparently was wrong thinking men did this more than women in terms of college as well as jobs. Personally; I think women who are strong in areas such as teaching rarely have a problem or concern going in a different direction as someone gifted as a teacher usually knows that calling early on. More interesting is the STEEP drop off of available jobs anywhere once people get past about 30 years of age.
Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
Good morning. I'm not usually the most bright eyed "bushy tailed" specimen on the planet; but the joy of the Lord is my strength ( Nehemiah 8:10).
I thought I would say in general right out of the gate as it were that it isn't focusing on evil or warnings of God constantly that I want to pummel people with. We are generally instructed to rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ( Romans 12:15). It is simply for those already saved; sealed and being sanctified we need to hear the bad news just like we do before we are saved; not as to our eternal state being in jeopardy (if truly saved) but in terms of the opposition we should expect as faithful servants of the King of Kings.
A particular issue I have brought up recently illustrates what is a common practice; people have their opinions and ideas which they often put above scripture as a first response. I'd rather have a disagreement based on a study of God's Word than such presuppositions; I put case in point the remarriage issue; but we could no doubt expand it to anything. Give covetousness. Ephesians 5:5 says this: For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Notice that someone covetous is involved with idolatry; whether it a narcissistic worship of self or self-aggrandizement of those promoting a double standard with the lifestyle of a Pastor; for instance. And that is a major issue: the lifestyle a person displays (you know them by their fruits) ( Matthew 7:16). The policy for discipline of a person in the local church congregation is not indicative of complete foreknowledge of whether someone truly will repent; but if one is saved the Lord will use such discipline to correct; and in any case we are in that sense to act as shepherds over a flock if in leadership and hopefully jealous for His Name's sake that others won't be led astray.
What then of Ephesians 5:31-32? Paul says the husband-wife union is a mystery that illustrates Christ and the church. But Paul still names our identity repeatedly as His Body ( Eph 1:22-23; 5:30; 1 Cor 12:27), "one new man," and a "new creature" ( 2 Cor 5:17; Gal 6:15)-never calling us the Bride. Even 2 Corinthians 11:2 ("espousedas a chaste virgin") is betrothal imagery used to guard the Body from deception; it does not rename the Body as the Bride nor collapse Israel's prophetic marriage into Paul's mystery people. Keeping these categories distinct preserves both God's faithfulness to Israel's covenants and the uniqueness of the church revealed "not made known" before Paul ( Eph 3:1-9; Rom 16:25-26).
On baptism: John's and Peter's water baptisms belonged to Israel's kingdom program ( Mark 1:4; Luke 7:29-30; Acts 2:38; 22:16)-covenantal, priestly, and preparatory for an earthly nation of priests ( Exod 19:6; Ezek 36:25-27). In this dispensation, Christ sent Paul "not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17), and there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) by which the Spirit places us into Christ's death and resurrection ( Rom 6:3-5; 1 Cor 12:13; Col 2:11-12). Romans 6 describes that Spirit baptism's identification with Christ-not a ritual that completes salvation. We are saved by grace through faith apart from works ( Eph 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). Water may testify, but it cannot add to the finished cross-work ( John 19:30; Gal 2:21). To make it a salvation requirement would muddle Israel's kingdom commands with the Body's grace calling.
So, yes: saints from Israel's program and from the Body will both be with Christ and under His rule-but Scripture differentiates their identities and spheres. Israel/Zion/New Jerusalem is the Bride/Wife in prophecy and Revelation; the Body is the heavenly people of the mystery, bone of His bone and seated above. Keeping those distinctions guards the gospel of grace today and honors God's promises to Israel tomorrow.
Thanks for youre reply. I think we are returning back to our previous discussion.
I personally do not believe in a Kingdom of God for national Israel separetly from the church. I believe that during the 1000 yr period all the saints from both Hebrews and gentiles will reign together with Christ.
Go to Rev 2:26-27. Jesus is speaking to the church of Thyatira, a gentile church. He says "26And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father."
That church was a church of that time. Even if we condider that those churches represant successive periods of church history, it is obvious that gentiles from all ages will participate in that kingdom. And of course those slaughtered by antichrist from all nations as Rev 20:4 shows.
In our previous discussion you said that the Bride of Christ is Israel. Paul in Ephesians 5:22-33 gives advice to married couples. He resembles the union of the man with his wife as the union of Christ with the church. Lets read some of them.
Verses 31-32, "31For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church."
To me those verses make it clear that it is the church who is the Bride of Christ, and not Israel. But lets think about it deeper. What was Israel's mission? Israel's mission was to keep the faith in the true God until the Messiah would be born who would save humanity. So the big picture was the whole world, and not a separate nation. Israel's mission ended exactly there and onwards Jesus they should had placed themselves in the church which includes all nations all over the world. Which thing they didn't. But God, because of their fathers, has a plan for them to save them at the end.
This is a very relevant question of the era. God's anointment simply means God's Call. If you have accepted Christ as your savior, it shows that God had known you even before you were born and had arranged everything for your physical and spiritual growth. In other words, you have been anointed by God, with a divine purpose: that is, to share Eternal Life with Him! If He has called you, and if you have accepted the call, He will empower you to serve him and bring others too to Christ.
Aim at bringing your spouse to Christ. It is not so easy as it seems. To preach gospel is easy; but to love your wife / husband as Christ loved you may be something difficult to perform ( Ephesians 5:25). One can act a few rounds, but you cannot hold on long, without experiencing Christ's love and anointing yourselves, first! It requires extreme patience, long suffering and much humiliation ( 1Peter 3:7). You are called to be a 'living sacrifice' acceptable to God ( Romans 12:1). Then you may be able to bring your children to Him. God anoints us to be good husband, good wife, good mother, good father and good children.
May God empower you to undertake this glorious call.
In my last reply, which you made a reply to all, I mentioned one verse that Paul taught about the kingdom of God. We also see in Acts 19:8, Acts 20:25, Acts 28:23, Romans 14:17, 1 Corinthians 4:20, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Galatians 5:21, and Ephesians 5:5. I could list more.
As I mentioned earlier, I am not familiar with dispensationalism, a concept that didn't emerge until the 19th century. I also believe that the idea of the rapture of the Church isn't supported by Scripture. If you don't mind, what is the dispensationalist understanding of the kingdom of God? Is there no need for repentance and baptism? Will the Church be in heaven during the 1000 years?
Thank you so very much for your response. I read Ephesians 5:22-33 and have read it many time in my lifetime. My husband and I have talked about this verse often and we both put Christ first, but I also follow my husband's lead. He is a blessing to me and he does take care of money responsibilities (bills and payments). I want him to do that... I can do it but do not like to do it. So he is not taking the responsibility away from me, I depend on him to do that.
We had a wonderful week. Our son who is in then Army was in Fort Knox, Kentucky, to teach a class of new army boys. He is a Major in the Army and is waiting for Colonel any time.
Also our church, Baptist, is starting classes on Wednesday night to teach any of the members that choose to take the class how to witness to unsaved people. I was very excited about that information. He is a new pastor and we have had him for 6 months. Our church attendance has dropped over the last couple of years and Pastor Mark is doing an excellent job of helping us as members to know 'how' to mentor. My husband is attending the class also even though he has been witnessing to people for many years. Christ shines through him also. He is a deacon and a Sunday School teacher for the Senior members in our church.
God was so gracious to connect me with you because what you say to me is Biblical and gives me hope. In addition prayers are being answered for me to begin to help others.
Thank you so very much for your prayers. I am glad to tell you that your prayers are being answered (in my opinion).
I will most probably hit a depression spot again at some time, but having Christ in my life and doing things at church and other places will help me to turn to God for help. Being with other Christian people is good for me.
Thank you for your prayers and your responses that encourage me to guard against depression.
Many thanks for your answers, and it is just nice to share what i have, maybe to help. You know that we should all continue to pray together. Have you thought about having a prayer service and performing it? Be considerate, be present. Pray unceasingly for the Word to take up residence in people. It is no wonder that people with such gifts of grace become depressed. For they are the ones who sit on the wall.
Isaiah 62:6 Such a service will give you more than it takes from you. So we will pray that you will really light up your heart and mind. And fatigue and discouragement will be far from you. In the Holy Name of Jesus Christ. That the light is strong in you and in your husband so you are together in one and all. Same honor. Also see here what a nice word I got for you today. Ephesians 5:22-33 The words are only for encouragement because they speak about Marriage - Christ and the church. Be blessed sister of grace. love u in Christ.
Our joining together in marriage is to model the relationship between Christ and his Church.
I believe this is emphasized in Ephesians 5:25-32,
"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
THIS IS A GREAT MYSTERY: BUT I SPEAK CONCERNING CHRIST AND THE CHURCH.
I believe marriage is to communicate to us Christ commitment and relationship to the Church.
I believe the man in this relationship must be led and influenced daily by God's Spirit to walk accordingly in this union to lead as well as the woman to follow.
This is a work of God!
I suggest praying often for your husband to lead with the passion and unconditional love that is expected of God.
The implications for us as believers should be a no brainer. We are commanded to continue to "occupy until He comes" ( Luke 19:13 also the concept of Ephesians 5:16).
One thing that is interesting is that it appears from Daniel that the crucifixion was AD 32 if we go 69 years of 7 year periods; that would bring the second coming to 2032 if it is exactly 2000 years until He comes making the Rapture by the end of this year; 2025. In any case we should be paying attention to the signs and not falling asleep.
I therefore look at the Parable of the 10 virgins if indeed it is referring to those at the Rapture and realize that merely alerting people that His coming is near isn't something I need to concern myself as it isn't knowledge of the event but readiness that is the crucial factor. The big question is if the end means I never knew you or I know you not (as a present tense); if intimate fellowship over time due to lukewarmness has faltered. Whether some are not raptured or not is probably a hot topic or if that is indeed what the Parable discusses.
Luke 21:36 states Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. If we agree every born again saint is raptured then we have to agree it seems that every believer is praying like this unless I somehow am misreading the text; hence my conundrum on thinking all saved people are raptured and leading to a reward issue here. I am NOT saying anyone is lost or you can lose salvation; but again since white garments are mentioned. Revelation 7:14 says
And he said, "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Having to wash a garment to me indicates the Tribulation necessitated due to soiled garments of believers beforehand rather than indicating new ones.
I understand that many consider the church as the bride. My understanding, not to say yours is wrong, is based on Ephesians 5:21-25. I see it as a symbolic usage of a man, his wife, and marriage to represent how we should submit ourselves to Christ. Husbands should love their wives as Jesus loved the church so much that He gave His life for it.
2 Corinthians 11:2 the Greek word harmozo, translated as espoused, seems to be used in a marriage context. Considering Corinth, their morals were not very good, and Paul warns of the danger of spiritual infidelity. Saying he was jealous would be like a father concerned for his child.
I see the church figuratively spoken of as the bride, but the church is not explicitly called the bride. I understand you and others may not agree, but this is how I perceive it.
Ephesians 5:24 "Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing."
Ephesians 5:25 "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;"
2 Corinthians 11:2 "For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ."
The Church, the Body of Christ, is distinct from the Bride of Christ-a truth revealed uniquely through the Apostle Paul under the dispensation of grace. While traditional teaching often blends Israel's prophetic promises with the Church's heavenly calling, a right division ( 2 Timothy 2:15) reveals that believers today, saved by grace through faith alone ( Ephesians 2:8-9), are part of a new creation: the Body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Romans 12:5).
Paul never refers to the Church as the "Bride of Christ." Instead, he consistently identifies the Church as a body in which Christ is the Head ( Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). This organism is spiritual, made up of both Jew and Gentile, reconciled into one new man ( Ephesians 2:15-16). This unity was a "mystery" kept hidden from ages past ( Colossians 1:26; Ephesians 3:1-6), never prophesied or associated with Israel's covenantal promises.
In contrast, the bride metaphor is rooted in prophecy and tied to Israel. Revelation 21:9-10 calls the New Jerusalem "the bride, the Lamb's wife," a city prepared for redeemed Israel ( Isaiah 62:4-5; Hosea 2:19-20). John the Baptist called himself a "friend of the bridegroom" ( John 3:29), which places him outside the bride. Paul, while using marriage as a metaphor in Ephesians 5, still emphasizes the Body-not a bride-saying, "We are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones" ( Ephesians 5:30). The analogy teaches love and unity, not identity.
Confusing the Bride with the Body blends Israel's earthly hope with the Church's heavenly calling ( Philippians 3:20). We are not awaiting a wedding ceremony, but rather a catching away ( 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17) to appear with Christ in glory. As members of His Body, we are already spiritually one with Him ( 1 Corinthians 6:17). Understanding this distinction preserves the truth of God's separate programs for Israel and the Church.
What would happen if a layperson would steal from the offering plate? Suppose it was a church member. I think it is safe to say they would receive a much more severe repercussion than some of today's megachurch pastors if we can call them that who are unaccountable for millions of dollars at times of funds.
I won't mention any names here; but again with any other issue a layperson should be and in fact is responsible to say something when those in leadership are bilking a congregation; not spending funds on what they promise or using unjust techniques to "borrow from Peter to pay for Paul" as the old saying goes.
We are told in Corinthians that the church should judge matters themselves (In 1 Cor. 11:13 it is involving women's coverings); but we are not supposed to sue one another ( 1 Cor. 6:1-11). The concept of letting ourselves be defrauded in verse 7 of this passage only goes so far. We are responsible for God's house and certainly should be defending OTHER members who are bilked. Yes; I will go so far as to say that a congregation should be paid BACK if fraud exists at least if things do get to civil courts; handled within again they should be kicked out permanently from leadership. The same concept exists for a child molester; something I hate to even bring up but abuse is everywhere; and in that case of a person's safety legal action should occur. It isn't that we live by the law the same way the world does; but we cannot have a double standard and have to demonstrate righteousness and not even a hint of evil; read Ephesians 5:3.
Those spiritually mature should be able to avoid situations where they are taken advantage of this way; and not fall for some get rich scheme or having their ears tickled. The true church overcomes evil with good ( Romans 12:21). When we seem to find more fair and impartial scriptural knowledge from artificial intelligence than is preached in many churches we know something ain't right.
Like you, I do not believe Calvinism is true but I don't see it as such a big deal as you. You made it this far to marry and have kids- maybe you never discussed it before, proving that it already wasn't that important of an issue to you before. Many Christians have differing views on this and many are married and attend the same churches. Do you know if you disagree with all 5 pillars or just some? I think the 2 biggest are them believing they don't have freewill and not believing Jesus died for everyone like 1 John 2:2 says. You probably disagree with way more than just that if you actually read through the whole Bible together and line by line compared your interpretations. But why assume you have to agree on everything for a marriage to work? No two Christians will agree on everything and that's normal because we're all individuals. Why not instead focus on the main things you have in common? You're both Christians, believe in Jesus, and probably have more in common that you are realizing.
Maybe the real question is why are you choosing to have such a strong reaction to this of all things. You mention you're even worried for your family, but isn't your choice to view and react this way the real threat, instead of the viewpoints themselves? "extremely frustrated, devastated" are not normal reactions to just a difference of opinion. Did you really yell at your husband and call him a tyrant?! That's in violation of the Bible's teachings, probably marital vows to him, and that's unacceptable for a wife to treat her husband that way. That's the only thing shocking about this. Women sometimes have amplified emotions while pregnant. What if the opinions of Calvinism are simply a distraction from the real attack from the enemy deceiving you into resenting and disrespecting your husband? Ephesians 5:23-33 God bless you.
Luke 17:28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;
The following verse describes the suddenness of the unexpected destruction to come. The same can be said in Thessalonians
where they "shall not escape"; we see in 1 Thessalonians 5:2 the concept of a thief and a snare in Luke 21:35.
These passages tend to dissuade many of the so called dreams and visions of a nuclear war about the time of the Rapture; at least immediately before it. What comes as sudden destruction no doubt could be a first phase of what eventually encompasses the earth in Armageddon; but generally the first seal offers a fallacious but convincing bloodless coup and no doubt mirrors the covenant with many in Daniel 9:27 already well underway for the eventual confirming with many. Is it impossible for nuclear war to accompany the Rapture? Somehow I don't see the Resurrection of the dead as being interrupted by such an event; if anything as to make clear that it wasn't bombs being dropped that left the holes in the ground in cemeteries around the world.
Also if we take literally Revelation 5:13 as to its timing it would seem that would be the main focus after the Rapture.
Who is Raptured? Clearly the easy answer is all the saints; at least of the Church Age who were God's children.
Ephesians 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Let's look carefully into this concept. Those who have passed on have; in their souls already been at the Bema Seat of Christ; or they couldn't be present with the Lord. Many were through persecution on earth unlike those particularly in the Western world in the last couple generations. Considering the works that God has for us since before the creation of the world ( Eph. 2:10) it seems likely that God uses the Tribulation to purify many.
Spiritual gifts: Continuing thoughts on avoiding "damnable heresies" ( 2 Peter 2:1)
Continuing with the concept of teaching as a spiritual gift; we see in light of the manifold witness of Peter and Paul the dangers prophesied to come even imminently after their departure of wolves among the flock and within. There is more to the Word than just instruction based on human understanding; or else it would be impossible for error to creep in. Dirst there is twisting of scripture to align with an errant concept and that opens the door for alternative writings such as gnostic teachings or that of other religions. The exclusivity of the Word is something only the Spirit can truly illuminate our minds on. We can in our own strength have tenacity in such a matter "sola scriptura" but even the Ephesians church doing everything right on the outside lost their first love ( Revelation 2:4 left their first love). Once left; it becomes lost it would seem; perhaps among the remnant who are faithful it may be temporarily out of mind but as for the corporate body the Spirit may not by and large be residing there and there is danger it could become dead as Ephesians 5:14 warns about and Revelation 3:2 with the church of Sardis shows can happen at some point. Sobering words.
Legalism is the other side of the coin as to misuse of scripture that also can cause great damage. That is the result of not treating others as part of a spiritual body where all members are needed and "lording it over" them. We see this attitude in certain independent churches (I will leave out denominations here). This type of fellowship not only alienates those of a local fellowship but can prevent healthy interactions with believers elsewhere that can have a positive impact. Again balance is required; while we don't want to have a mutual exclusivity or proclaimed monopoly of the truth as the only ones preaching the true Gospel; caution is needed when working with other churches as error is rife.
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).
May our hearts be clean, so that we may live in holiness and truth before God. Every detail of life reveals His care. We pray, as in Ephesians 1:17, that the Spirit of wisdom and revelation may lead us into a deeper relationship with Him-for apart from His presence, everything loses its true meaning.
Teach us to love as Christ loved-whether in marriage, in friendship, or in service. May our words, thoughts, and actions reflect a heart that walks closely with Him. As 1 Corinthians 13:11 reminds us, maturity in faith transforms how we speak, think, and live. And may we be faithful stewards of our time, resources, and words-so that all things may bring glory to God.
You said you drink everyday but still work and pray and you're so grateful for God's love but your heart is in turmoil and you wants to know is it wrong to still drink and watch preaching.
Derek if you have received Christ and given your life to the Lord but yet is still in some sort of influence outside the Holyspirit perhaps that is the cause of the turmoil.
You said you have gotten off meth.and that is great but now you are on alcohol,.
It's not the substance that matters it is the filling and influence that matters.
In Ephesians 5:18 Paul says; "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
Alcohol and other drugs can calm and relax the flesh and hinder the work of the Holyspirit in many ways. Besides that it hinders your witnessing.
I know it's hard Derek. I ministered to the homeless for years and I learned from them how difficult it is to turn from ANYTHING!
I don't believe anyone can turn from anything that has them in bondage whether it is substance abuse, fornication, gambling ect. unless God does it.
In our efforts we normally stop one influence and start up another and get further and further away from God.
Again, perhaps the uncomfortable feeling you have is of God.
Keep praying and believe that God will deliver you from anything that may hinder you.
8 Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.
9Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.
This verse gives us two interesting insights; the first in verse 8 which we also see mentioned in the New Testament in Revelation as well as other places such as Isaiah in the Old Testament. We are also reminded of Ephesians 5:27 on unspotted and unwrinkled garments of purity.
Verse 9 is interesting in light of Solomon's vast array of wives and concubines. There is some uncertainty apparently in different articles regarding who Solomon's first wife was. At this stage in life perhaps he realized it would have been better not to stray from the covenant that God had intended originally in regard to that subject.
Moving along we see the general sentiment in verse 13 regarding death coming suddenly without warning to everyone. Verses 14-17 talk about the virtue of wisdom in securing a city but how such is forgotten in time; and verse 18 concludes that
"Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good." This shows how; in terms similar to Galatians 5:9 a "little leaven leaveneth the whole lump."
Ecclesiastes 10
The somber tone of the book isn't seen this chapter; and many adages about not being foolish in particular and several other subject matters are covered. Proper etiquette toward kings and rulers is shown in verse 4; which reminds us of Esther with the King and David appealing to the King for more time when Nebuchadnezzar was ready to kill him along with all of his magicians when some couldn't interpret his dream. ( Daniel 2:16). The last verse reads Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice-wisely put.
I am so grateful for your response. It has evoked a deeper consideration of my prayer request. I am a true Christian, and love the Lord with all my heart and soul. To nudge me toward greater maturity does not require bombastic shouting, nor fear of the Lord. Just nurture my willingness with the truth and I will move in that direction. Fiery preaching affects my relationship with my heavenly Father because I feel He is often angry with me and yelling at me through the preacher every Sunday morning.
I'm reminded of the verse in Ephesians 6:4 that says, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord." I can be easily nurtured into righteousness because of the deep love I have for my heavenly Father.
I taught Sunday School in this church for a long time, and have often been bombastically corrected from the pulpit. Instead of having a face to face with me, they wanted to make sure everyone was aware of their interpretation.
The purpose of sermons is to help us gain maturity and grow in the Lord, not to exasperate and provoke us to anger every Sunday morning. Ephesians 5:1 says to be imitators of God as dear children. That's my motivation to be a dear child. I follow about seven other preachers closely online because I love the word, and I'm not ashamed of being corrected when it is done in the right way.
I have already resigned my membership and sent the pastor and his wife a very lengthy email concerning my personal experiences going back some years with examples. I've attended once since then and we all hugged tightly and I felt their love.
I love that you said open rebuke is better than hidden love. I am going to add that to my sermonic prayer so I enter the sermon with the right mindset. Thank you for replying to my prayer.
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness
Seems to agree with the OT verse I gave you. God does not change. But He does work according to His own pleasure, will, and purpose in the OT, NT, and in the time from the ascension through the end of times.
Here are other relevant verses from the NT that speak of the wrath of God being upon the wicked. I think this is present tense from an English perspective, but the Greek may be different.
I think that God is always the same in every way. He is true to His attributes in the OT as well as the NT. And will continue to be true to Himself in this age.
Giannis, I stand by what I have shared with you because I believe that Scriptures teach that God both hates wicked sinners and also desires that many will turn to Him and be saved, but not all will do so because not all have been elected to salvation since before creation.
Ephesians 5:5-6
For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
Colossians 3:5-6
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
John 3:36
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. Whoever rejects the Son will not see life. Instead, the wrath of God remains on him.
Only God can clean us from our flesh and spirit by the word .
2 Corinthians 7:1
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of thefleshandspirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Reading and studying the Word of God washes our spirit and flesh from evil spirits.
Ephesians 5:26
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with thewashingof water by the word,
Evil spirits are real and it's from Satan. May we resist the devil and come to God today and believe the gospel of grace 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
Apostle Paul is giving Timothy instructions for men to become pastors in the church. Apostle Paul never mentioned a woman to becoming a pastor. Bishop means pastor.
1 Timothy 3:1-7
1 This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
2A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
3Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
4One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
6Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
When it comes to becoming a Bishop in the body of the church, it best to have a wive and husband with kids.
Ephesians 5:22-25
22Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
The husband needs to love the wife, like Christ loves the body of the church.
Apostle Paul is my Apostle, my Preacher and my Teacher in Christ Jesus through the Holy Spirit.
1 Timothy 2:7
Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles infaithand verity.
Please read Romans through Philemon for doctrine and pray continually everyday for God to speak to you.
Colossians 3:15 - And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Notice that this all comes under put on the new life. If you're saved and Christ is in you, it's a matter of deciding what way you're going to go. Let the peace of God rule in your hearts. The word peace, EIRENE means to be united. The peace of Christ, and the peace of God, it just means to be at one with Him. When I'm under the influence of God's Spirit, the unity that's already existing flows from one believer to the other in one body. The next command: and be ye thankful. That's not a human practice. That also is a ministry of God's Spirit. It's part of the new life. Just put it on!
Colossians 3:16 - Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
All of this in Verse 16 is the same concepts that are found in Ephesians 5:18-21. Many of the teachings in Ephesians are also in Colossians. In Ephesians 5:18, Paul says be filled with the Spirit which produces certain characteristics.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; and there are three things that are produced by the word of God. And the word dwell means to make His home in your heart. Let the word of Christ make its home in you richly in all wisdom; by teaching, and these are called Modal Participles. By teaching, and by admonishing (warning) one another.
In psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. They used to use singing as a means of teaching. They would learn scriptures with music and would sing. But they would warn one another in singing of psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.
Thirdly, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. It doesn't say with your lips and vocal cords. What the bible is saying is whether you sing out loud, or sing to the Lord privately, it must come from your heart.
Apostle Paul repented for writing a strong letter that made the Corinthian Church sad. Apostle Paul is already saved, but he still repented .
2 Corinthians 7:8
For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do notrepent, though I didrepent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season
My point about repentance is, we don't repent of our sins for Salvation. Jesus Christ took all our sins and nailed on the cross.
Colossians 2:14
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way,nailing it to his cross;
Today we believe the gospel of grace and after we have been saved, we can repent or read the Bible for cleansing of the sins .
Ephesians 5:26
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with thewashingofwaterby the word,
May God Almighty in the third Heaven help us to repent more often if needed as a Christian.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 no repentance required for this gospel of grace
Happy Valentine's Day , may we learn what love is.
What is true love today ? Is love giving the wife a new car , house, jewelry or a great dinner.
Most men don't think of love when the wife is sick or ill , they become blind to true love.
True love is God. We must love first in order to love one another.
1 Corinthians 16:22
If any manlovenot the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.
If we that are saved by believing the gospel is to be married to Christ Jesus as for example, then we should show true love for Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:2
For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to onehusband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.
If the man love the church, the body of Christ Jesus, then he should love the Wife the same way.
Ephesians 5:24-27
24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
27That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
This is God's true love for all of us.
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.
May God give us the strength to love one another in truth, truth is believing and sharing the gospel .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 the love of this gospel
Hi Timmywynne, the trinity Godhead is real and true. It started also with Adam and Eve. God made them a living soul first , then flesh. The spirit communicated with God , like a cb radio.
We can't see the soul and spirit, doesn't mean we don't have it. If we believe the Bible is true because Jesus Christ is the author, then we have a soul and spirit. We that are saved will also have a new body fashioned like Jesus Christ.
1 Thessalonians 5:23
23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 6:20
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in yourbody,andin yourspirit, which are God's.
Jesus Christ will give us a new body .
Ephesians 5:30
For we are members of his body, of hisflesh,andof hisbones.
May God bless you're body, soul and spirit .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 our new body in Christ Jesus will be glorious
Because God is sovereign, He must at the very least, God "permits" all events and happenings. Within God's sovereign will, He chooses to allow many things to occur that do not bring Him pleasure. Referring again to the example of Joseph and his brothers, God decided, through an act of His decretive will, to permit the kidnapping and enslavement of Joseph. God's permissive will allowed the sins of Joseph's brothers to bring about a greater good (see Genesis 50:20). Despite every instance of mistreatment towards Joseph, God had the power to intervene, but He "allowed" the evil to take place, and in that limited sense, He sovereignly "willed" it to happen.
God's revealed or preceptive will is not concealed from us. This aspect of God's will encompasses what God has chosen to disclose to us in the Bible-His precepts are clearly stated. "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God" ( Micah 6:8).
The preceptive will of God is what He desires us to do (or not do). For instance, we understand that it is God's will for us to speak the truth in love ( Ephesians 4:15), to repent, and turn to God ( Acts 3:19). It is God's revealed will that we refrain from committing adultery.
Obeying God's revealed will is crucial. As stated in ( 1 Corinthians 6:18), we should avoid sexual immorality. Similarly, ( Ephesians 5:18) advises against drunkenness. God's revealed will, as mentioned in ( Psalm 19:7), serves to guide and enlighten us.
We are bound to follow God's revealed or preceptive will, although we retain the ability to disobey. Adam and Eve, for instance, were instructed to be fruitful, tend the garden, and avoid a specific tree ( Genesis 1-2). Regrettably, they defied God's instructions ( Genesis 3) and faced the consequences of their actions. We cannot justify our sins by claiming they fulfill God's sovereign will.
"Let go and let God".
I recently heard a story from someone on a video describing a woman's daughter and asking about (or his asking about) getting married to her. Apparently there was expectation of a lack of support which materialized with that sentiment as an initial reaction only to be radically altered after prayer when she exclaimed that God had told her she was wrong and he was basically sent by God to her. In this situation we learn several clear principles about wisdom; namely taking all things to prayer despite any prejudices we may have and being willling to admit when we are wrong.
Such insight and discernment may be unusual; and it doesn't contradict sound wisdom. We of course need to pay attention to legitimate alarm signals of abuse; and other valid reasons to object to someone's choice for a life partner among our offspring.
The same idea goes back generations when education was much more highly valued along with a family trade. When a son is an adult; of course we have no business prodding into their affairs should they choose the path of ministry after the fact of a college degree or perhaps a few years of secular work. IF we support them financially a fair deal may be "son work in a secular trade for a few years first"; such skills are useful in ministry and in fact broaden opportunities for service.
Just for fun I looked up how many women as opposed to men change college majors as well as careers. I apparently was wrong thinking men did this more than women in terms of college as well as jobs. Personally; I think women who are strong in areas such as teaching rarely have a problem or concern going in a different direction as someone gifted as a teacher usually knows that calling early on. More interesting is the STEEP drop off of available jobs anywhere once people get past about 30 years of age.
Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
I thought I would say in general right out of the gate as it were that it isn't focusing on evil or warnings of God constantly that I want to pummel people with. We are generally instructed to rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ( Romans 12:15). It is simply for those already saved; sealed and being sanctified we need to hear the bad news just like we do before we are saved; not as to our eternal state being in jeopardy (if truly saved) but in terms of the opposition we should expect as faithful servants of the King of Kings.
A particular issue I have brought up recently illustrates what is a common practice; people have their opinions and ideas which they often put above scripture as a first response. I'd rather have a disagreement based on a study of God's Word than such presuppositions; I put case in point the remarriage issue; but we could no doubt expand it to anything. Give covetousness. Ephesians 5:5 says this: For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (Notice that someone covetous is involved with idolatry; whether it a narcissistic worship of self or self-aggrandizement of those promoting a double standard with the lifestyle of a Pastor; for instance. And that is a major issue: the lifestyle a person displays (you know them by their fruits) ( Matthew 7:16). The policy for discipline of a person in the local church congregation is not indicative of complete foreknowledge of whether someone truly will repent; but if one is saved the Lord will use such discipline to correct; and in any case we are in that sense to act as shepherds over a flock if in leadership and hopefully jealous for His Name's sake that others won't be led astray.
Maranatha.
RP
What then of Ephesians 5:31-32? Paul says the husband-wife union is a mystery that illustrates Christ and the church. But Paul still names our identity repeatedly as His Body ( Eph 1:22-23; 5:30; 1 Cor 12:27), "one new man," and a "new creature" ( 2 Cor 5:17; Gal 6:15)-never calling us the Bride. Even 2 Corinthians 11:2 ("espousedas a chaste virgin") is betrothal imagery used to guard the Body from deception; it does not rename the Body as the Bride nor collapse Israel's prophetic marriage into Paul's mystery people. Keeping these categories distinct preserves both God's faithfulness to Israel's covenants and the uniqueness of the church revealed "not made known" before Paul ( Eph 3:1-9; Rom 16:25-26).
On baptism: John's and Peter's water baptisms belonged to Israel's kingdom program ( Mark 1:4; Luke 7:29-30; Acts 2:38; 22:16)-covenantal, priestly, and preparatory for an earthly nation of priests ( Exod 19:6; Ezek 36:25-27). In this dispensation, Christ sent Paul "not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17), and there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) by which the Spirit places us into Christ's death and resurrection ( Rom 6:3-5; 1 Cor 12:13; Col 2:11-12). Romans 6 describes that Spirit baptism's identification with Christ-not a ritual that completes salvation. We are saved by grace through faith apart from works ( Eph 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). Water may testify, but it cannot add to the finished cross-work ( John 19:30; Gal 2:21). To make it a salvation requirement would muddle Israel's kingdom commands with the Body's grace calling.
So, yes: saints from Israel's program and from the Body will both be with Christ and under His rule-but Scripture differentiates their identities and spheres. Israel/Zion/New Jerusalem is the Bride/Wife in prophecy and Revelation; the Body is the heavenly people of the mystery, bone of His bone and seated above. Keeping those distinctions guards the gospel of grace today and honors God's promises to Israel tomorrow.
G&P
Thanks for youre reply. I think we are returning back to our previous discussion.
I personally do not believe in a Kingdom of God for national Israel separetly from the church. I believe that during the 1000 yr period all the saints from both Hebrews and gentiles will reign together with Christ.
Go to Rev 2:26-27. Jesus is speaking to the church of Thyatira, a gentile church. He says "26And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father."
That church was a church of that time. Even if we condider that those churches represant successive periods of church history, it is obvious that gentiles from all ages will participate in that kingdom. And of course those slaughtered by antichrist from all nations as Rev 20:4 shows.
In our previous discussion you said that the Bride of Christ is Israel. Paul in Ephesians 5:22-33 gives advice to married couples. He resembles the union of the man with his wife as the union of Christ with the church. Lets read some of them.
Verses 31-32, "31For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church."
To me those verses make it clear that it is the church who is the Bride of Christ, and not Israel. But lets think about it deeper. What was Israel's mission? Israel's mission was to keep the faith in the true God until the Messiah would be born who would save humanity. So the big picture was the whole world, and not a separate nation. Israel's mission ended exactly there and onwards Jesus they should had placed themselves in the church which includes all nations all over the world. Which thing they didn't. But God, because of their fathers, has a plan for them to save them at the end.
see pt 2
This is a very relevant question of the era. God's anointment simply means God's Call. If you have accepted Christ as your savior, it shows that God had known you even before you were born and had arranged everything for your physical and spiritual growth. In other words, you have been anointed by God, with a divine purpose: that is, to share Eternal Life with Him! If He has called you, and if you have accepted the call, He will empower you to serve him and bring others too to Christ.
Aim at bringing your spouse to Christ. It is not so easy as it seems. To preach gospel is easy; but to love your wife / husband as Christ loved you may be something difficult to perform ( Ephesians 5:25). One can act a few rounds, but you cannot hold on long, without experiencing Christ's love and anointing yourselves, first! It requires extreme patience, long suffering and much humiliation ( 1Peter 3:7). You are called to be a 'living sacrifice' acceptable to God ( Romans 12:1). Then you may be able to bring your children to Him. God anoints us to be good husband, good wife, good mother, good father and good children.
May God empower you to undertake this glorious call.
In my last reply, which you made a reply to all, I mentioned one verse that Paul taught about the kingdom of God. We also see in Acts 19:8, Acts 20:25, Acts 28:23, Romans 14:17, 1 Corinthians 4:20, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Galatians 5:21, and Ephesians 5:5. I could list more.
As I mentioned earlier, I am not familiar with dispensationalism, a concept that didn't emerge until the 19th century. I also believe that the idea of the rapture of the Church isn't supported by Scripture. If you don't mind, what is the dispensationalist understanding of the kingdom of God? Is there no need for repentance and baptism? Will the Church be in heaven during the 1000 years?
I am only trying to understand.
God bless,
RLW
We had a wonderful week. Our son who is in then Army was in Fort Knox, Kentucky, to teach a class of new army boys. He is a Major in the Army and is waiting for Colonel any time.
Also our church, Baptist, is starting classes on Wednesday night to teach any of the members that choose to take the class how to witness to unsaved people. I was very excited about that information. He is a new pastor and we have had him for 6 months. Our church attendance has dropped over the last couple of years and Pastor Mark is doing an excellent job of helping us as members to know 'how' to mentor. My husband is attending the class also even though he has been witnessing to people for many years. Christ shines through him also. He is a deacon and a Sunday School teacher for the Senior members in our church.
God was so gracious to connect me with you because what you say to me is Biblical and gives me hope. In addition prayers are being answered for me to begin to help others.
Thank you so very much for your prayers. I am glad to tell you that your prayers are being answered (in my opinion).
I will most probably hit a depression spot again at some time, but having Christ in my life and doing things at church and other places will help me to turn to God for help. Being with other Christian people is good for me.
Thank you for your prayers and your responses that encourage me to guard against depression.
Martha Ann
Isaiah 62:6 Such a service will give you more than it takes from you. So we will pray that you will really light up your heart and mind. And fatigue and discouragement will be far from you. In the Holy Name of Jesus Christ. That the light is strong in you and in your husband so you are together in one and all. Same honor. Also see here what a nice word I got for you today. Ephesians 5:22-33 The words are only for encouragement because they speak about Marriage - Christ and the church. Be blessed sister of grace. love u in Christ.
.
I concur with Brother Chris.
Divorce is not in the plan of God.
Our joining together in marriage is to model the relationship between Christ and his Church.
I believe this is emphasized in Ephesians 5:25-32,
"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
THIS IS A GREAT MYSTERY: BUT I SPEAK CONCERNING CHRIST AND THE CHURCH.
I believe marriage is to communicate to us Christ commitment and relationship to the Church.
I believe the man in this relationship must be led and influenced daily by God's Spirit to walk accordingly in this union to lead as well as the woman to follow.
This is a work of God!
I suggest praying often for your husband to lead with the passion and unconditional love that is expected of God.
God bless.
The implications for us as believers should be a no brainer. We are commanded to continue to "occupy until He comes" ( Luke 19:13 also the concept of Ephesians 5:16).
One thing that is interesting is that it appears from Daniel that the crucifixion was AD 32 if we go 69 years of 7 year periods; that would bring the second coming to 2032 if it is exactly 2000 years until He comes making the Rapture by the end of this year; 2025. In any case we should be paying attention to the signs and not falling asleep.
I therefore look at the Parable of the 10 virgins if indeed it is referring to those at the Rapture and realize that merely alerting people that His coming is near isn't something I need to concern myself as it isn't knowledge of the event but readiness that is the crucial factor. The big question is if the end means I never knew you or I know you not (as a present tense); if intimate fellowship over time due to lukewarmness has faltered. Whether some are not raptured or not is probably a hot topic or if that is indeed what the Parable discusses.
Luke 21:36 states Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. If we agree every born again saint is raptured then we have to agree it seems that every believer is praying like this unless I somehow am misreading the text; hence my conundrum on thinking all saved people are raptured and leading to a reward issue here. I am NOT saying anyone is lost or you can lose salvation; but again since white garments are mentioned. Revelation 7:14 says
And he said, "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Having to wash a garment to me indicates the Tribulation necessitated due to soiled garments of believers beforehand rather than indicating new ones.
I understand that many consider the church as the bride. My understanding, not to say yours is wrong, is based on Ephesians 5:21-25. I see it as a symbolic usage of a man, his wife, and marriage to represent how we should submit ourselves to Christ. Husbands should love their wives as Jesus loved the church so much that He gave His life for it.
2 Corinthians 11:2 the Greek word harmozo, translated as espoused, seems to be used in a marriage context. Considering Corinth, their morals were not very good, and Paul warns of the danger of spiritual infidelity. Saying he was jealous would be like a father concerned for his child.
I see the church figuratively spoken of as the bride, but the church is not explicitly called the bride. I understand you and others may not agree, but this is how I perceive it.
Thank you for your reply.
God bless,
RLW
Ephesians 5:25 "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;"
2 Corinthians 11:2 "For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ."
Blessings
Any thoughts?
Right Division ( 2 Timothy 2:15)
The Church, the Body of Christ, is distinct from the Bride of Christ-a truth revealed uniquely through the Apostle Paul under the dispensation of grace. While traditional teaching often blends Israel's prophetic promises with the Church's heavenly calling, a right division ( 2 Timothy 2:15) reveals that believers today, saved by grace through faith alone ( Ephesians 2:8-9), are part of a new creation: the Body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Romans 12:5).
Paul never refers to the Church as the "Bride of Christ." Instead, he consistently identifies the Church as a body in which Christ is the Head ( Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). This organism is spiritual, made up of both Jew and Gentile, reconciled into one new man ( Ephesians 2:15-16). This unity was a "mystery" kept hidden from ages past ( Colossians 1:26; Ephesians 3:1-6), never prophesied or associated with Israel's covenantal promises.
In contrast, the bride metaphor is rooted in prophecy and tied to Israel. Revelation 21:9-10 calls the New Jerusalem "the bride, the Lamb's wife," a city prepared for redeemed Israel ( Isaiah 62:4-5; Hosea 2:19-20). John the Baptist called himself a "friend of the bridegroom" ( John 3:29), which places him outside the bride. Paul, while using marriage as a metaphor in Ephesians 5, still emphasizes the Body-not a bride-saying, "We are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones" ( Ephesians 5:30). The analogy teaches love and unity, not identity.
Confusing the Bride with the Body blends Israel's earthly hope with the Church's heavenly calling ( Philippians 3:20). We are not awaiting a wedding ceremony, but rather a catching away ( 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17) to appear with Christ in glory. As members of His Body, we are already spiritually one with Him ( 1 Corinthians 6:17). Understanding this distinction preserves the truth of God's separate programs for Israel and the Church.
God Bless
What would happen if a layperson would steal from the offering plate? Suppose it was a church member. I think it is safe to say they would receive a much more severe repercussion than some of today's megachurch pastors if we can call them that who are unaccountable for millions of dollars at times of funds.
I won't mention any names here; but again with any other issue a layperson should be and in fact is responsible to say something when those in leadership are bilking a congregation; not spending funds on what they promise or using unjust techniques to "borrow from Peter to pay for Paul" as the old saying goes.
We are told in Corinthians that the church should judge matters themselves (In 1 Cor. 11:13 it is involving women's coverings); but we are not supposed to sue one another ( 1 Cor. 6:1-11). The concept of letting ourselves be defrauded in verse 7 of this passage only goes so far. We are responsible for God's house and certainly should be defending OTHER members who are bilked. Yes; I will go so far as to say that a congregation should be paid BACK if fraud exists at least if things do get to civil courts; handled within again they should be kicked out permanently from leadership. The same concept exists for a child molester; something I hate to even bring up but abuse is everywhere; and in that case of a person's safety legal action should occur. It isn't that we live by the law the same way the world does; but we cannot have a double standard and have to demonstrate righteousness and not even a hint of evil; read Ephesians 5:3.
Those spiritually mature should be able to avoid situations where they are taken advantage of this way; and not fall for some get rich scheme or having their ears tickled. The true church overcomes evil with good ( Romans 12:21). When we seem to find more fair and impartial scriptural knowledge from artificial intelligence than is preached in many churches we know something ain't right.
Like you, I do not believe Calvinism is true but I don't see it as such a big deal as you. You made it this far to marry and have kids- maybe you never discussed it before, proving that it already wasn't that important of an issue to you before. Many Christians have differing views on this and many are married and attend the same churches. Do you know if you disagree with all 5 pillars or just some? I think the 2 biggest are them believing they don't have freewill and not believing Jesus died for everyone like 1 John 2:2 says. You probably disagree with way more than just that if you actually read through the whole Bible together and line by line compared your interpretations. But why assume you have to agree on everything for a marriage to work? No two Christians will agree on everything and that's normal because we're all individuals. Why not instead focus on the main things you have in common? You're both Christians, believe in Jesus, and probably have more in common that you are realizing.
Maybe the real question is why are you choosing to have such a strong reaction to this of all things. You mention you're even worried for your family, but isn't your choice to view and react this way the real threat, instead of the viewpoints themselves? "extremely frustrated, devastated" are not normal reactions to just a difference of opinion. Did you really yell at your husband and call him a tyrant?! That's in violation of the Bible's teachings, probably marital vows to him, and that's unacceptable for a wife to treat her husband that way. That's the only thing shocking about this. Women sometimes have amplified emotions while pregnant. What if the opinions of Calvinism are simply a distraction from the real attack from the enemy deceiving you into resenting and disrespecting your husband? Ephesians 5:23-33 God bless you.
Luke 17:28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;
The following verse describes the suddenness of the unexpected destruction to come. The same can be said in Thessalonians
where they "shall not escape"; we see in 1 Thessalonians 5:2 the concept of a thief and a snare in Luke 21:35.
These passages tend to dissuade many of the so called dreams and visions of a nuclear war about the time of the Rapture; at least immediately before it. What comes as sudden destruction no doubt could be a first phase of what eventually encompasses the earth in Armageddon; but generally the first seal offers a fallacious but convincing bloodless coup and no doubt mirrors the covenant with many in Daniel 9:27 already well underway for the eventual confirming with many. Is it impossible for nuclear war to accompany the Rapture? Somehow I don't see the Resurrection of the dead as being interrupted by such an event; if anything as to make clear that it wasn't bombs being dropped that left the holes in the ground in cemeteries around the world.
Also if we take literally Revelation 5:13 as to its timing it would seem that would be the main focus after the Rapture.
Who is Raptured? Clearly the easy answer is all the saints; at least of the Church Age who were God's children.
Ephesians 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Let's look carefully into this concept. Those who have passed on have; in their souls already been at the Bema Seat of Christ; or they couldn't be present with the Lord. Many were through persecution on earth unlike those particularly in the Western world in the last couple generations. Considering the works that God has for us since before the creation of the world ( Eph. 2:10) it seems likely that God uses the Tribulation to purify many.
Continuing with the concept of teaching as a spiritual gift; we see in light of the manifold witness of Peter and Paul the dangers prophesied to come even imminently after their departure of wolves among the flock and within. There is more to the Word than just instruction based on human understanding; or else it would be impossible for error to creep in. Dirst there is twisting of scripture to align with an errant concept and that opens the door for alternative writings such as gnostic teachings or that of other religions. The exclusivity of the Word is something only the Spirit can truly illuminate our minds on. We can in our own strength have tenacity in such a matter "sola scriptura" but even the Ephesians church doing everything right on the outside lost their first love ( Revelation 2:4 left their first love). Once left; it becomes lost it would seem; perhaps among the remnant who are faithful it may be temporarily out of mind but as for the corporate body the Spirit may not by and large be residing there and there is danger it could become dead as Ephesians 5:14 warns about and Revelation 3:2 with the church of Sardis shows can happen at some point. Sobering words.
Legalism is the other side of the coin as to misuse of scripture that also can cause great damage. That is the result of not treating others as part of a spiritual body where all members are needed and "lording it over" them. We see this attitude in certain independent churches (I will leave out denominations here). This type of fellowship not only alienates those of a local fellowship but can prevent healthy interactions with believers elsewhere that can have a positive impact. Again balance is required; while we don't want to have a mutual exclusivity or proclaimed monopoly of the truth as the only ones preaching the true Gospel; caution is needed when working with other churches as error is rife.
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).
May our hearts be clean, so that we may live in holiness and truth before God. Every detail of life reveals His care. We pray, as in Ephesians 1:17, that the Spirit of wisdom and revelation may lead us into a deeper relationship with Him-for apart from His presence, everything loses its true meaning.
Teach us to love as Christ loved-whether in marriage, in friendship, or in service. May our words, thoughts, and actions reflect a heart that walks closely with Him. As 1 Corinthians 13:11 reminds us, maturity in faith transforms how we speak, think, and live. And may we be faithful stewards of our time, resources, and words-so that all things may bring glory to God.
You said you drink everyday but still work and pray and you're so grateful for God's love but your heart is in turmoil and you wants to know is it wrong to still drink and watch preaching.
Derek if you have received Christ and given your life to the Lord but yet is still in some sort of influence outside the Holyspirit perhaps that is the cause of the turmoil.
You said you have gotten off meth.and that is great but now you are on alcohol,.
It's not the substance that matters it is the filling and influence that matters.
In Ephesians 5:18 Paul says; "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
Alcohol and other drugs can calm and relax the flesh and hinder the work of the Holyspirit in many ways. Besides that it hinders your witnessing.
I know it's hard Derek. I ministered to the homeless for years and I learned from them how difficult it is to turn from ANYTHING!
I don't believe anyone can turn from anything that has them in bondage whether it is substance abuse, fornication, gambling ect. unless God does it.
In our efforts we normally stop one influence and start up another and get further and further away from God.
Again, perhaps the uncomfortable feeling you have is of God.
Keep praying and believe that God will deliver you from anything that may hinder you.
I hope this helps and God bless you.
8 Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.
9Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.
This verse gives us two interesting insights; the first in verse 8 which we also see mentioned in the New Testament in Revelation as well as other places such as Isaiah in the Old Testament. We are also reminded of Ephesians 5:27 on unspotted and unwrinkled garments of purity.
Verse 9 is interesting in light of Solomon's vast array of wives and concubines. There is some uncertainty apparently in different articles regarding who Solomon's first wife was. At this stage in life perhaps he realized it would have been better not to stray from the covenant that God had intended originally in regard to that subject.
Moving along we see the general sentiment in verse 13 regarding death coming suddenly without warning to everyone. Verses 14-17 talk about the virtue of wisdom in securing a city but how such is forgotten in time; and verse 18 concludes that
"Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good." This shows how; in terms similar to Galatians 5:9 a "little leaven leaveneth the whole lump."
Ecclesiastes 10
The somber tone of the book isn't seen this chapter; and many adages about not being foolish in particular and several other subject matters are covered. Proper etiquette toward kings and rulers is shown in verse 4; which reminds us of Esther with the King and David appealing to the King for more time when Nebuchadnezzar was ready to kill him along with all of his magicians when some couldn't interpret his dream. ( Daniel 2:16). The last verse reads Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice-wisely put.
I'm reminded of the verse in Ephesians 6:4 that says, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord." I can be easily nurtured into righteousness because of the deep love I have for my heavenly Father.
I taught Sunday School in this church for a long time, and have often been bombastically corrected from the pulpit. Instead of having a face to face with me, they wanted to make sure everyone was aware of their interpretation.
The purpose of sermons is to help us gain maturity and grow in the Lord, not to exasperate and provoke us to anger every Sunday morning. Ephesians 5:1 says to be imitators of God as dear children. That's my motivation to be a dear child. I follow about seven other preachers closely online because I love the word, and I'm not ashamed of being corrected when it is done in the right way.
I have already resigned my membership and sent the pastor and his wife a very lengthy email concerning my personal experiences going back some years with examples. I've attended once since then and we all hugged tightly and I felt their love.
I love that you said open rebuke is better than hidden love. I am going to add that to my sermonic prayer so I enter the sermon with the right mindset. Thank you for replying to my prayer.
Romans 1:18
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness
Seems to agree with the OT verse I gave you. God does not change. But He does work according to His own pleasure, will, and purpose in the OT, NT, and in the time from the ascension through the end of times.
Here are other relevant verses from the NT that speak of the wrath of God being upon the wicked. I think this is present tense from an English perspective, but the Greek may be different.
I think that God is always the same in every way. He is true to His attributes in the OT as well as the NT. And will continue to be true to Himself in this age.
Giannis, I stand by what I have shared with you because I believe that Scriptures teach that God both hates wicked sinners and also desires that many will turn to Him and be saved, but not all will do so because not all have been elected to salvation since before creation.
Ephesians 5:5-6
For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
Colossians 3:5-6
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
John 3:36
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. Whoever rejects the Son will not see life. Instead, the wrath of God remains on him.
Only God can clean us from our flesh and spirit by the word .
2 Corinthians 7:1
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of thefleshandspirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Reading and studying the Word of God washes our spirit and flesh from evil spirits.
Ephesians 5:26
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with thewashingof water by the word,
Evil spirits are real and it's from Satan. May we resist the devil and come to God today and believe the gospel of grace 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 .
Ray, in Christ Jesus
1 Timothy 3:1-7
1 This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
2A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
3Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
4One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
6Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
When it comes to becoming a Bishop in the body of the church, it best to have a wive and husband with kids.
Ephesians 5:22-25
22Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
The husband needs to love the wife, like Christ loves the body of the church.
Apostle Paul is my Apostle, my Preacher and my Teacher in Christ Jesus through the Holy Spirit.
1 Timothy 2:7
Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles infaithand verity.
Please read Romans through Philemon for doctrine and pray continually everyday for God to speak to you.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Let the gospel of grace change your life.
Colossians 3:15 - And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Notice that this all comes under put on the new life. If you're saved and Christ is in you, it's a matter of deciding what way you're going to go. Let the peace of God rule in your hearts. The word peace, EIRENE means to be united. The peace of Christ, and the peace of God, it just means to be at one with Him. When I'm under the influence of God's Spirit, the unity that's already existing flows from one believer to the other in one body. The next command: and be ye thankful. That's not a human practice. That also is a ministry of God's Spirit. It's part of the new life. Just put it on!
Colossians 3:16 - Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
All of this in Verse 16 is the same concepts that are found in Ephesians 5:18-21. Many of the teachings in Ephesians are also in Colossians. In Ephesians 5:18, Paul says be filled with the Spirit which produces certain characteristics.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; and there are three things that are produced by the word of God. And the word dwell means to make His home in your heart. Let the word of Christ make its home in you richly in all wisdom; by teaching, and these are called Modal Participles. By teaching, and by admonishing (warning) one another.
In psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. They used to use singing as a means of teaching. They would learn scriptures with music and would sing. But they would warn one another in singing of psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.
Thirdly, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. It doesn't say with your lips and vocal cords. What the bible is saying is whether you sing out loud, or sing to the Lord privately, it must come from your heart.
Apostle Paul repented for writing a strong letter that made the Corinthian Church sad. Apostle Paul is already saved, but he still repented .
2 Corinthians 7:8
For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do notrepent, though I didrepent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season
My point about repentance is, we don't repent of our sins for Salvation. Jesus Christ took all our sins and nailed on the cross.
Colossians 2:14
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way,nailing it to his cross;
Today we believe the gospel of grace and after we have been saved, we can repent or read the Bible for cleansing of the sins .
Ephesians 5:26
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with thewashingofwaterby the word,
May God Almighty in the third Heaven help us to repent more often if needed as a Christian.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 no repentance required for this gospel of grace
What is true love today ? Is love giving the wife a new car , house, jewelry or a great dinner.
Most men don't think of love when the wife is sick or ill , they become blind to true love.
True love is God. We must love first in order to love one another.
1 Corinthians 16:22
If any manlovenot the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.
If we that are saved by believing the gospel is to be married to Christ Jesus as for example, then we should show true love for Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:2
For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to onehusband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.
If the man love the church, the body of Christ Jesus, then he should love the Wife the same way.
Ephesians 5:24-27
24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
27That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
This is God's true love for all of us.
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.
May God give us the strength to love one another in truth, truth is believing and sharing the gospel .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 the love of this gospel
We can't see the soul and spirit, doesn't mean we don't have it. If we believe the Bible is true because Jesus Christ is the author, then we have a soul and spirit. We that are saved will also have a new body fashioned like Jesus Christ.
1 Thessalonians 5:23
23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 6:20
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in yourbody,andin yourspirit, which are God's.
Jesus Christ will give us a new body .
Ephesians 5:30
For we are members of his body, of hisflesh,andof hisbones.
May God bless you're body, soul and spirit .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 our new body in Christ Jesus will be glorious
Pt. 3
Because God is sovereign, He must at the very least, God "permits" all events and happenings. Within God's sovereign will, He chooses to allow many things to occur that do not bring Him pleasure. Referring again to the example of Joseph and his brothers, God decided, through an act of His decretive will, to permit the kidnapping and enslavement of Joseph. God's permissive will allowed the sins of Joseph's brothers to bring about a greater good (see Genesis 50:20). Despite every instance of mistreatment towards Joseph, God had the power to intervene, but He "allowed" the evil to take place, and in that limited sense, He sovereignly "willed" it to happen.
God's revealed or preceptive will is not concealed from us. This aspect of God's will encompasses what God has chosen to disclose to us in the Bible-His precepts are clearly stated. "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God" ( Micah 6:8).
The preceptive will of God is what He desires us to do (or not do). For instance, we understand that it is God's will for us to speak the truth in love ( Ephesians 4:15), to repent, and turn to God ( Acts 3:19). It is God's revealed will that we refrain from committing adultery.
Obeying God's revealed will is crucial. As stated in ( 1 Corinthians 6:18), we should avoid sexual immorality. Similarly, ( Ephesians 5:18) advises against drunkenness. God's revealed will, as mentioned in ( Psalm 19:7), serves to guide and enlighten us.
We are bound to follow God's revealed or preceptive will, although we retain the ability to disobey. Adam and Eve, for instance, were instructed to be fruitful, tend the garden, and avoid a specific tree ( Genesis 1-2). Regrettably, they defied God's instructions ( Genesis 3) and faced the consequences of their actions. We cannot justify our sins by claiming they fulfill God's sovereign will.
See Pt. 4