When Paul speaks of "my gospel" ( Rom. 2:16; 16:25; 2 Tim. 2:8), he is not merely saying "the good news I happen to carry." He identifies it as a distinct revelation committed to him by the risen Christ. Galatians 1:11-12 makes it clear-he received it not from men but by direct revelation. Acts 21:21 shows the tension: Paul taught Jews among Gentiles not to continue in Moses. That is far different from Peter's Pentecostal preaching which required repentance, baptism, and participation in Israel's covenant program.
Peter's gospel ( Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19-21) looked to the restoration of Israel and the coming kingdom. Baptism was tied to remission of sins and receiving the Spirit. By contrast, Paul preached the cross as the power of God unto salvation for Jew and Gentile alike ( Rom. 1:16). In Paul's message, salvation is by grace through faith alone apart from works or rituals ( Rom. 3:28; Eph. 2:8-9). To blend Acts 2:38 with Paul's gospel is to confuse Israel's earthly promises with the Body's heavenly calling.
Regarding Israel, Romans 2:28-29 shows that outward circumcision alone is insufficient, but this does not mean the church has become "the true Israel." In Romans 9-11 Paul insists Israel remains nationally distinct, awaiting future restoration. Today, Jew and Gentile who believe are baptized by the Spirit into one Body, a "new man" ( Eph. 2:15), separate from Israel's covenants.
Finally, it is true that law revealed sin, and without law grace would not be needed. Yet Paul declares we are "not under the law, but under grace" ( Rom. 6:14). Grace does not abolish the law's purpose; it fulfills righteousness apart from the law through Christ's finished work.
Therefore, dispensational truth shows Peter's gospel of the kingdom and Paul's gospel of grace are not the same. Both are of God, but each serves a different purpose in His progressive revelation.
I want to share with you why it is not only unwise but dangerous to blur the distinction between Paul's message and the twelve apostles. God gave Paul a unique dispensation of grace, revealing the "mystery" of the Body of Christ, a truth hidden until his ministry ( Ephesians 3:1-9; Colossians 1:25-27). When we blend his message with the kingdom program preached by Peter and the others, we risk corrupting the gospel of grace.
Peter preached to Israel, offering the promised kingdom upon national repentance and baptism ( Acts 2:38; 3:19). Paul preached justification by faith alone apart from works of the law ( Romans 3:28; Ephesians 2:8-9). To confuse these messages is to either add works to grace, or to remove Israel's kingdom promises. Paul warned that adding to his gospel of grace produces "another gospel" ( Galatians 1:6-9), and he pronounced a curse on anyone who preached such.
Blending also robs believers of assurance. If salvation depends partly on works, ordinances, or kingdom requirements, then we can never rest in the finished work of Christ. The beauty of Paul's message is that Christ did it all-our salvation is complete in Him ( Colossians 2:10). Mixing law and grace leaves Christians unstable, unsure if they have done enough, and strips the cross of its sufficiency.
Finally, confusion weakens the testimony of the Church. The Body of Christ is not Israel, nor is it inheriting an earthly kingdom. Our hope is heavenly ( Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 3:1-4). When we preach Israel's program as our own, we not only deny our identity but also cloud Israel's future promises, making God appear unfaithful.
For these reasons, we must carefully obey 2 Timothy 2:15: rightly divide the word of truth. Blending the programs corrupts the gospel, shakes assurance, and dishonors God's distinct plans.
If there is nothing to divide, why did Paul say to rightly divide the word of truth?
I write with deep concern because God's Word makes it plain that without rightly dividing the word of truth ( 2 Timothy 2:15), one cannot come to a clear and saving knowledge of Christ in this present dispensation of grace. Right division is not an optional study method; it is God's command for how His Word is to be understood. Failure to make the distinction between Israel's prophetic program and the mystery revealed to Paul for the Body of Christ leads only to confusion, and confusion in the gospel is eternally dangerous.
Paul makes a bold statement in Galatians 1:11-12, declaring that the gospel he preached was "not after man," but received by direct revelation of Jesus Christ. This message, summarized in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, is that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day. This alone is the gospel of salvation today. Yet if we blend this with Israel's gospel of the kingdom, which involved repentance, water baptism, and looking for the Messiah's earthly reign, we pervert the truth and trust in a message God is not offering in this age.
Paul warned soberly that any who preach another gospel are accursed ( Galatians 1:8-9). That is why right division is vital-it protects us from confusing law with grace, earthly promises with heavenly, and faith plus works with faith alone in Christ's finished work. God has only one gospel today, the gospel of the grace of God ( Acts 20:24). To miss this truth, or to mix it with another program, is to miss salvation itself.
I urge all to believe the message Christ gave to Paul for us. Trust completely in His finished work on the cross, apart from anything you can add. Salvation is by grace through faith, not of works ( Ephesians 2:8-9). Without rightly dividing, the gospel becomes distorted, and distorted truth cannot save.
The twelve apostles were sent to Israel under the kingdom program ( Matthew 10:5-7; Galatians 2:7-9). Their preaching emphasized repentance, water baptism, and works consistent with faith ( Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19; James 2:17-24). For them, faith that did not produce works was considered dead. So, none of the twelve are recorded as preaching "faith without works."
The Apostle Paul
Paul, however, is unique. He is the only apostle who clearly taught justification by faith alone, without works of the law.
Examples:
"Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." ( Romans 3:28)
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works..." ( Ephesians 2:8-9)
"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness." ( Romans 4:5)
Paul preached a new revelation of grace ( Romans 16:25; Galatians 1:11-12), distinct from the kingdom message of the twelve. His gospel revealed that salvation is entirely a gift, apart from law-keeping or works.
The twelve never preached "faith without works." Their message tied faith with repentance and obedience under Israel's covenant program.
Paul alone preached faith without works-the gospel of the grace of God for Jew and Gentile alike.
Question...Should works follow after we are saved
Yes - but it's very important to keep the order straight.
Salvation Is by Grace Alone-Period!
Paul makes it absolutely clear: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." ( Ephesians 2:8-9). We are saved by faith alone in Christ's finished work, not by anything we do before or after.
Audience: Israel, under the covenants and promises.
Message: The long-promised kingdom, with Messiah reigning on David's throne, was "at hand."
Matthew 4:23 - "And Jesus went about preaching the gospel of the kingdom"
Matthew 10:5-7 - The Twelve were sent only to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" with this gospel.
Luke 22:29-30 - The apostles are promised to sit on twelve thrones judging Israel in that kingdom.
Acts 3:19-21 - Peter still offers the kingdom if Israel repents, showing this program was continuing post-cross.
This gospel was prophetic, rooted in promises made "since the world began" ( Luke 1:70; Acts 3:21).
2. The Gospel of the Grace of God (Paul's Gospel)
Audience: Jew and Gentile alike, apart from Israel's covenants.
Message: Christ's death, burial, and resurrection for sins, offering free justification by faith.
Acts 20:24 - Paul calls it "the gospel of the grace of God."
Romans 16:25 - This gospel was "according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began."
1 Corinthians 15:1-4 - The content: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again.
Galatians 1:11-12 - Paul received it by direct revelation from Christ, not from the Twelve.
This gospel creates the Body of Christ ( 1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 3:6), uniting Jew and Gentile in one new man.
3. Jews Responding to Both Programs
Some Jews believed Peter and the Eleven's message of the kingdom ( Acts 2:41; Acts 4:4). James writes to these scattered tribes ( James 1:1), exhorting them in kingdom-related works and endurance.
Other Jews believed Paul's gospel of grace and became part of the Body ( Rom. 11:13-14; 1 Cor. 9:20-22).
4. Dispensational Distinction
Kingdom Gospel = Israel's prophetic hope on earth.
Grace Gospel = Body of Christ's heavenly hope, revealed through Paul.
Both have Christ as center, but their scope and promises differ.
I am getting into tricky waters here; Lord help me communicate this as you would see fit.
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
Galatians 1:6-9 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
2 Corinthians 11:3 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.
Many are concerned about sin and falling away from Christ. What needs to be realized is passages like this which; if we think about it often aren't of concern before one makes a confession of faith and is in the world; especially if they haven't had a ritualistic religious background in their upbringing. The same principle would exist in the case of Adam and Eve; if there wasn't a tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the first place any attempt to tempt them would be fairly ineffective. Spiritual truth; therefore brings about the opening of the door for the counterfeit lest we should stray from His path. Pride and self righteousness can often be methods where Satan convinces us with all of our actions and activities in church that everything is alright. In short; therefore we need to value God's Word as gold and silver; and such admonitions are in Proverbs as a repeated theme of exhortation. To love someone as we should our Lord is to trust and value Him and hate not only our sin but any false teaching.
Indeed Gerald. If we all held firmly onto the Word and apostolic teaching, with the Spirit's ministry in us & in the Church, we should not be moved or swayed with every wind of doctrine. If this is not the case now, it is certain that it wasn't the case in apostolic days either. In anguish we might exclaim with the apostle, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ" ( Galatians 1:6,7). Why would it be any different now?
We can presently see the same thing, whether some come in to pervert Christ's pure Gospel, or bring in another teaching contrary to the Word, and by their exuberance and smooth speech lead babes in Christ astray. Cults and sects are formed because of this, where all among them are taught to have the same understanding, but unfortunately they are based on erroneous exegesis and likely with visions and dreams to give support to their word. Yet, there are still believers who hold to the Truth, aligning to the Word & the Spirit's ministry in them and amongst them, and we need to be alert to this, bold to call out those bringing in another Gospel or Word, & separate from them.
However, our discussions (debates?) here are useful, not for "laying again the doctrines of baptisms", but to give opportunity to consider other beliefs & the reasons for them. To most, this would be unnecessary & a waste of time, but to those who love to study the Word & understand what others take in from it, it can sometimes be very enlightening, intriguing, sometimes worrying. I find it much more worthwhile to discuss the Word at this level with like-minded folk rather than the small talk of family, the weather, & vacations that goes on in after Fellowship meetings.
Question...Should we can't mix the kingdom program (preached by Peter, James, and John) with the mystery gospel given to Paul, focus on right division of Scripture ( 2 Timothy 2:15). Let's affirm that all Scripture is inspired and that both Peter and Paul were called by God. The issue isn't about rejecting any part of the Bible but understanding God's progressive revelation.
Peter and the 12 preached the kingdom gospel-a message prophesied in the Old Testament ( Acts 3:21-24). It focused on Israel, the coming earthly kingdom, and required repentance, water baptism, and obedience to the law ( Acts 2:38; Matthew 19:17). This message was based on Jesus being Israel's promised Messiah and King, And was the correct message for that time.
In contrast, Paul received his gospel by direct revelation from the risen Christ ( Galatians 1:11-12). Paul called it the mystery, which had been hidden from ages past but revealed through him ( Romans 16:25; Ephesians 3:3-5). His message centered on justification by grace through faith alone, apart from works ( Romans 4:5), and introduced the Body of Christ, a new creation made up of both Jews and Gentiles with a heavenly hope, not an earthly kingdom, this is key. (not a earthly kingdom)
Mixing these programs leads to confusion-especially on salvation, baptism, and the church's identity. In Acts 15 and Galatians 2, even the apostles agreed that Paul had a distinct ministry to the Gentiles, apart from the kingdom program of Peter and the 12. Paul even said, "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Corinthians 1:17), showing a break from the earlier kingdom requirements. "BAPTISM WAS A KINGDOM REQUIREMENT"
Understanding these differences helps us rightly divide God's Word and see how the church today operates under the dispensation of grace, not under Israel's kingdom law. This isn't rejecting the gospels or Peter or the other 11-it's honoring God's design by keeping the messages in their proper place.
Matthew 4:23 - Jesus preached "the gospel of the kingdom."
Acts 20:24 - Paul speaks of "the gospel of the grace of God."
Galatians 1:11-12 - Paul received his gospel by direct revelation from Christ.
Many assume the Bible presents one unified gospel throughout. But a closer reading reveals distinctions between the gospel of the kingdom (offered to Israel) and the gospel of grace (offered to the Gentiles and the Body of Christ).
Denominational tradition may attempt to blend these messages, creating theological confusion. But by removing those filters and taking Scripture slowly, we see that Paul's message of grace was a new revelation-a "mystery" ( Ephesians 3:1-6), hidden from past ages but revealed through him.
The Role of "Right Division" in Clarity
Paul commands believers to "rightly divide the word of truth" ( 2 Timothy 2:15). This doesn't mean dividing truth from error-it means dividing truth from truth, identifying what applies to Israel and what applies to the Church, the Body of Christ.
Right division isn't about rejecting parts of the Bible-it's about placing them in their proper context, understanding that God has dealt with humanity in different ways throughout time ( Hebrews 1:1-2). It honors the integrity of each passage and avoids blending programs that God intended to remain distinct.
When rightly divided, the Scriptures form a cohesive whole. God's dealings with Israel under the law (Exodus through Malachi) differ from His dealings with the Body of Christ under grace (Romans through Philemon). When we respect those distinctions, confusion clears.
Examples of Clarity Through Slow, Careful Study
The Sermon on the Mount ( Matthew 5-7)
Jesus' teaching here emphasizes law-based living, including commands like "cut off your hand" if it causes you to sin and a strict standard of righteousness exceeding that of the Pharisees.
Hi again Lbooth1955. Clearly, you are passionate about getting this point across to us, about the difference between Paul's Gospel, as opposed to any other presentation. The main points you raised: a) Paul's (or my) Gospel; b) revelation of this Mystery; and c) Gospel of the Kingdom.
a) Paul not only received his salvation by direct revelation from Heaven ( Acts 9:3-9), but also was taught, exercised in faith, & had revelations as to his ministry separate from any outside influence ( Galatians 1:11-18). Thus what he learned became what he often spoke of as "my Gospel", which implies that he received it directly from the Lord and was charged to make it known chiefly to the Gentiles.
So the question, how was this Gospel any different to say what the other apostles preached? The only other apostle's preaching, that is often recorded is that of Peter. And when I consider his presentations (found in Acts 2:14-41; Acts 3:11-19; Acts 4:6-12; Acts 10:34-48), I find that the same Gospel was preached by Peter (i.e. nothing extra or different to Paul's Gospel, apart from the specifics relating to his audience: their knowledge of the Scriptures & events surrounding Jesus' Life on Earth). His Gospel was the same as Paul's: the need for repentance, faith, calling upon Jesus for salvation.
b) the Mystery. Paul does speak of this revelation given to him, but did not the others know about Gentiles also receiving this blessing of salvation after hearing the Gospel? Peter spoke about him being sent to the Gentiles ( Acts 15:7; Acts chap 10 (Cornelius, a Gentile). And Peter, through the vision of the unclean animals given for him to eat ( Acts 10:9-17), understood that this Mystery that Paul spoke about, was also given to him to understand. Even Paul spoke of this ( Ephesians 3:3-6) that the present apostles and prophets were made aware of this mystery, that the Gentiles would be fellow-heirs, or the same Body, and partakers of the promises. Onto Page 2.
The Bible speaks for itself, no dictionary or man's concordance needed.
The apostle Paul is uniquely identified in Scripture as the chosen vessel through whom God revealed the mystery of the Body of Christ. In Romans 11:13, Paul declares, "I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office." Unlike the Twelve Apostles, who were sent to the lost sheep of the house of Israel ( Matthew 10:5-6), Paul was sent by the risen, glorified Christ from heaven ( Acts 9:15; Galatians 1:11-12) to proclaim a new message-not the Gospel of the Kingdom, but the Gospel of the Grace of God ( Acts 20:24). Paul alone speaks of the "Church which is His Body" ( Ephesians 1:22-23), a new creation made up of both Jew and Gentile, united by faith and baptized by the Holy Spirit into one Body ( 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 2:14-16).
The Body of Christ was a mystery "kept secret since the world began" ( Romans 16:25) and not revealed until Paul. He was given this revelation by Christ directly ( Ephesians 3:1-9; Colossians 1:24-27) and is the only apostle who teaches its doctrines-such as salvation by grace through faith without works ( Ephesians 2:8-9), the heavenly position of believers ( Colossians 3:1-4), and the rapture of the Church ( 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Paul calls himself the "wise masterbuilder" who laid the foundation for this present dispensation of grace ( 1 Corinthians 3:10). The other apostles, including Peter, recognized Paul's distinct apostleship and agreed to confine their ministry to the circumcision, while Paul went to the Gentiles ( Galatians 2:7-9).
No other apostle is identified in Scripture as the apostle of the Body of Christ. Only Paul received the full revelation of the mystery, the doctrines, and the heavenly calling of the Church. Therefore, Paul stands alone as the God-appointed apostle to the Body of Christ.
The Kingdom Gospel preached by Peter and the Grace Gospel revealed through Paul represent two distinct programs in God's redemptive plan.
1. Peter's Kingdom Gospel (Faith + Works) - For Israel and the Little Flock
Peter's message centered on Israel's prophetic hope, the coming earthly kingdom, and the Messiahship of Jesus. This gospel required faith in Jesus as the Messiah, but it also included repentance, water baptism, and adherence to the law, as seen in Acts 2:38:
"Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins..." ( Acts 2:38, KJV)
Key elements:
Audience: Jews (especially "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" - Matthew 10:5-6)
Content: Jesus is the promised Messiah; repent and be baptized.
Requirement: Faith plus works (baptism, continued obedience).
Goal: Entry into the earthly kingdom promised to Israel ( Luke 12:32 - "little flock").
James 2:24 supports this...
"Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only."
This shows that under the Kingdom Gospel, works confirmed faith for salvation, especially for the Jewish remnant.
2. Paul's Grace Gospel (Faith Alone) - For the Body of Christ
Paul preached a new, previously hidden "mystery" gospel revealed to him by Christ ( Galatians 1:11-12; Ephesians 3:1-9). This message was not based on Israel's covenants or prophecy, but on grace alone through faith alone in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
Key elements:
Audience: All (Jew and Gentile alike), forming the Body of Christ.
Content: Christ died for our sins and rose again.
Requirement: Faith alone (no works, no law, no baptism required for salvation).
We see two places where angels are chained in darkness: 2 Peter 2:4-5 and Jude 1:6. To me, this is a prison, a confinement area, as we see in Revelation 9, 11, 17, and 20. These angels did not keep their original estate or position and left their own dwelling place. These angels were disobedient to God, as seen in Genesis 6:1-2. There are fallen angels, demons, and devils on this earth, but what these angels did was so terrible that God locked them in the bottomless pit until the great day of judgment.
In Ephesians 4:8-10, there is another reference; verses 9-10 are debated depending on the manuscript. They say that before Jesus ascended to heaven, He first descended to the lower parts of the earth. Paul quotes Psalm 68:18, which describes the ark ascending to Mount Zion, leading captivity captive, symbolizing deliverance. Also, in Judges 5:12, part of Deborah's song, it states, "led thy captivity captive," meaning victory over oppression.
The same theme appears in Ephesians 4:8, victory over sin, death, and the grave through the life, sacrifice, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as referenced in Galatians 1:4 and 1 Corinthians 15:52-55. We also see the gifts given in Ephesians 4:11, Romans 12:4-8, and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
When Jesus was resurrected, God placed Him above all, as shown in Philippians 2:9-11, Ephesians 1:19-21, and 1 Peter 3:22. Satan, just like the leaders of Jerusalem, thought that when the Messiah came, He would immediately deliver them and establish His kingdom at that time, the expectation not yet fulfilled. When Satan influenced Judas to betray Jesus to death, he thought he had won.
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).
Hebrews 4:3 references Psalm 95, which describes the Israelites' journey with Moses through the wilderness, enduring dunes, rocky paths, and scarce food and water. Those who did not remain faithful, trusting in God's promise, did not enter God's rest. This passage stresses faith and the rest God has promised to those who, in faith, overcome the trials of this life filled with challenges, temptations, and struggles.
Revelation 3:5 shows us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. We cannot earn our salvation through our actions; rather, this rest is dependent on accepting the grace and redemption offered in Christ, works that were finished from the foundation of the world.
Revelation 13:7-8 states that all who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. This time is still to come; only true believers will be able to resist this hour of temptation that is foretold in Revelation 3:10. We see this same language in the concept that the Lamb was slain before the foundation of the world.
The challenge and reward are found in Revelation 2:7 and Revelation 13:9-10, "He who has ears, let him hear." We can read and study the Bible without grasping the truth of its message for different reasons, truth comes from prayer. Our ears are connected to our eyes; if we cannot hear, we are also blind.
We have these verses to consider.
Before being ordained, Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 13:48, 1 Corinthians 2:7, Ephesians 2:10, Galatians 1:15
The foreknowledge of God, Acts 2:23, Ephesians 3:9, Colossians 1:26-27, 1 Peter 1:2, 1 Peter 1:20
When we were lost , being not saved by believing the gospel of grace, we were part of the world system and was the devil's child.
Ephesians 2:12
That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in theworld:
Satan has advantages on the unsaved.
Ephesians 2:2
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of thisworld, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
We that are unsaved , are in bondage to the cares of the world.
Galatians 4:3
Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of theworld:
Even as a saved Christian, it's easy to let Satan in our spirit.
Ephesians 4:27
Neither give place to thedevil.
Today, the worldly spirit of Satan is very strong because of cellphone, television and being very busy doing worldly things instead of godly things
1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines ofdevils;
One day we will leave the evil world and be with Jesus Christ.
Galatians 1:4
Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evilworld, according to the will of God and our Father:
Satan is good at hiding the gospel of grace.
2 Corinthians 4:4
In whom the god of thisworldhath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
God gave us a spirit to worship Him. The spirit of the world is of Satan.
1 Corinthians 2:12
Now we have received, not the spirit of theworld, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Jesse, I like your illustration of wine and water. Apostle Paul talks about meat offer to idols, we have to make our decision in Christ Jesus how to handle in Faith.
Let me tell you, wine makers will not admit to adding water, but some do, it's all about adding profit to the bottom line.
Apostle Paul's gospel was constantly being added by other false apostles and followers . They wanted to add circumcision and works.
Galatians 1:7
Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and wouldpervertthe gospel of Christ.
It's all about Jesus Christ faith in his grace that we believe for Salvation.
Romans 1:17
For therein is the righteousness of God revealed fromfaithtofaith: as it is written, The just shall live byfaith.
Romans 3:28
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified byfaithwithout the deeds of the law.
Romans 4:16
Therefore it is offaith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of thefaithof Abraham; who is the father of us all,
I know that you think I'm making all this up, but the truth is, Apostle Paul is a special person to Jesus Christ and we should take notice. I know you might have knowledge , but God hide secrets that only Him will He reveal.
Deuteronomy 29:29
ThesecretthingsbelonguntotheLordour God: but thosethingswhich are revealedbelonguntous and to our children for ever, that we may do allthewords of this law.
May God Almighty bless these people in the word of truth, Chris , Richard H Priday , Giannis , Fuji ,
GiGi , Ronald Whittemore , Jesse , Bennymkje.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 this is the only way to Salvation for today and its believing only if we Follow the epistles of Apostle Paul.
Today we may call the " gospel ", the good news. It's news from God to believe and follow .
1. The first good news.
Genesis 2:16-17
16And theLordGod commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:
17But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
2. The second good news.
Genesis 7:1
And theLordsaid untoNoah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation.
3. The third good news. The promises and covenants.
Genesis 17:5
Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall beAbraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee.
4. The fourth good news. Moses and the law.
Exodus 3:6
Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. AndMoseshid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.
5. The fifth good news is John the Baptist.
Matthew 3:1-2
1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,
2And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
6. The sixth good news . Jesus Christ the Messiah, the King, and the Savior.
John 1:17
For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came byJesusChrist.
7. The seventh good news . Apostle Paul with the gospel of grace in the resurrection of Christ Jesus.
Romans 1:16
ForIamnotashamedof the gospel of Christ:foritis the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek
Galatians 1:1
Paul, anapostle, (not omen, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;
Now we are here today with the writing of Apostle Paul. We all have a choice to receive the good news from Apostle Paul's epistle.
May God Almighty in the third Heaven bless the gospel of grace to all .
The only angels on earth and the universe are the fallen angels. The Holy Angels are in the Third Heaven .
Galatians 1:8
But though we, or anangelfrom heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Satan was a fallen angel and is still around.
2 Corinthians 11:14
And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into anangeloflight.
We should not worship angels that are fallen.
Colossians 2:18
Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping ofangels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,
The Holy Angeles are in Heaven waiting for the descending of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 1:7
And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mightyangels,
Every Angel in the Bible has a male name, I don't think there's a female Angel .
We have the Holy Spirit of God and the Word of Truth here on earth.
Romans 8:26
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us withgroanings which cannot be uttered.
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard thewordof truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with thatholySpirit of promise,
May we spread the gospel of grace .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 may we believe the gospel for Salvation
Galatians 1:8 - But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
The word for accursed is the word ANATHEMA. And its basic meaning is to consecrate or dedicate a sacrifice for destruction. Very strong language!
Galatians 1:11 - But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.
But I certify, or literally I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after, or according to man.
Galatians 1:13 - For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:
He says for you have heard of my conversation, or lifestyle, in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure, and there are three Imperfect Tenses coming up, two here and one in Verse 14. Imperfect Tense means continuous action in the past. And I will read it that way.
That beyond measure, (I was persecuting) the church of God. And (I was destroying) it continuously.
Thirdly, in Verse 14:
Galatians 1:14 - And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
And profited, or more literally, (was advancing). And those are the three Imperfect Tenses (continuous action in the past). And I was advancing in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
Galatians 1:16 - To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:
That last little phrase, "conferred not with flesh and blood" is a Hebraism that means human. After his conversion on the road to Damascus, he did not look up people to find out what do I do next.
Galatians 1:6 - I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:
He says I marvel, and the word marvel means surprised. And it's in the Present Tense, which means he says that I am continually surprised. He's in a state of shock! That you are so soon removed. If I may break this down, the word "so" is called the adverb of manner, or way in which something is done.
That you are in this way, soon, adverb of time. The word soon means quickly. And the word removed actually means to be off in the opposite direction in which you were going. So, I am surprised that you are in this way, that is these false teachings, and so quickly, after being established in the gospel, removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ.
He says you were called. God called you, and the grace of Christ called you. And now you're going in the opposite direction, and that you are removed unto another gospel:
There are two words for the word another in the Greek language. One means another of a different kind, and one means another of the same kind. This one is another of a different kind. You are so soon removed unto another, a different gospel. That's his concern for them!
Galatians 1:7 - Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
He says, which is not another;
That's another of the same kind, different Greek word. So, you've been removed to a different gospel, which is really not another gospel. A false gospel is not another one. It's different. But there be some that trouble you, and the word trouble is in the Present Participle, and it means to agitate.
(Galatians Part 1): Authored by the Apostle Paul and written to several churches in Asia Minor in the region of Galatia. The theme of Galatians is Salvation by Grace through faith alone. Whereas Romans is considered by many to be the Constitution of the Christian Faith, Galatians is considered to be the Declaration of Independence of the Christian Faith.
Galatians 1:3 - Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,
Paul prayed that grace would be with them and peace. In fact, the word "be" is in italics because there is no verb in the Greek text. But according to Greek structure, it is to be received as an "is." It is a fact. It's not a wish or a prayer.
Grace is to you, and peace, from God the Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace, CHARIS, is a form of greeting for Greek and is the greeting for Gentiles. Then he says, and peace. And that's the greeting for the Jews, SHALOM.
Galatians 1:4 - Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:
In speaking of Jesus Christ, it says, who gave himself for our sins. The purpose: that he might deliver us from this present evil world. The plan: according to the will of God and our Father:
It is God's will that all of those that respond to Christ, all of those who are born of the Spirit of God, will be delivered from this present evil world. The word "present" is a Perfect Participle. The world that stands in a condition of being evil. And God has delivered us, and it's all according to His will and plan.
1 Corinthians (Letter to a Carnal Church containing Correction and Instruction)
(1 Corinthians Part 1):
1 Corinthians 1:1 - Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,
As I noted before in an earlier study, in all of Paul's letters, the words "to be" are in italics. It's because it is not in the original Greek transcript. He is literally saying that he is a called apostle. He's expressing what kind of apostle he is. He is an apostle by calling. It was his emphasis that this is not his ambition or his choice. The word apostle means someone sent out with a commission.
Notice that he claims himself not only to be a called apostle, but he is an apostle of Jesus Christ, not of people. In Galatians 1:1, Paul told them that he is an apostle, not through men, not from men (plural) meaning a committee, nor through a man (singular), meaning no human element appointed him. His appointment to be an apostle came from God.
So, number 1, he's a called apostle. Number 2, he's an apostle of Jesus Christ. And again, in Galatians 1:10, Paul says if I try to please men, I would no longer be a servant of Christ. That's a verse that needs to cut through the heart of every person in the ministry. If you represent Christ and His word, you can't work for anybody else. You've got to represent Christ and His word. And then thirdly, he's an apostle through the will of God. This is God's will for his life. Again, not ambition nor appointment.
Q. If they believed the bible was the written word of God, why didn't they use the manuscripts God used and just make simple changes to the language?
A. Again, not knowing their motive, I cannot answer this one. But if these men truly believed the bible was the written word of God, I would have to believe that there would be no need to for them to even "make simple changes to the language."
Q. Why if they loved God and respected His word would they do what they did and now there are those of you who don't even believe God wrote a word of truth for us?
A. Once again, I have no way of knowing what their motives were.
Q. What joy is there in reading man's interpretation of what God may have said, or maybe not?
A. I'm sure no one would find any joy in that! If I were to read the preface of any bible and it said that the word written herein may be what God has said, or may not be what He said, the preface would be as far as I would read.
Q. How do we know that they (JW's, Mormons, Buddhists) don't have the truth?
A. If what they teach goes against what Paul preached and taught, their "truth" is to be rejected. ( Galatians 1:8-9)
Q. Why don't we just all make up our own religion and do what we want from whatever versions we choose to believe or maybe bits here and bits there from every version. Whatever suits us.
A. With all the various religions out there (too many to count), it's already been done! The reason why we have so many religions and denominations are because man cannot agree on what God's word says. Many of us here (including you and I) read the KJB but we disagree on what it says in certain places. Why is that? It's because English is such a general language. Hebrew also is a general language. But not so with Greek. Greek is such an exact language to where it makes it almost impossible to come up with different conclusions as to what the text is saying.
Consider for a moment someone who is kind and considerate all his life to friends; family and others but either doesn't believe or never shares the Gospel with them. Many would say "he is a good man"-and we are reminded of those who said that about Jesus or that He was a prophet but not recognized as God in the flesh.
Meanwhile consider someone else who is characteristically gruff; loudmouthed; opinionated and overall a pain to be around who takes the time to correctly explain the Gospel; but of course befitting his usual character doesn't show empathy or bothers to listen much to any responses or otherwise be very helpful even with practical needs that are obvious to others such as atheists who reach out.
Natural man; of course would hang out with the first person and be repulsed with the second; but in all fairness the second person is the one who gives a message in which eternity hangs in the balance. Such a case study of course isn't to justify such an approach to witnessing; but to also avoid what is far WORSE; that is showing all sorts of compassion to someone but WATERING down the Gospel; and not giving a clear warning of the deadly and eternal destruction which every unbeliever is about to face as life is as a vapor.
Luke 6:26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.
John 12:43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
John 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
Galatians 1:10
For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.
Praise and highly esteeming a brother seems rare today but it can be edifying
We know that Jesus is forever our high priest and mediator between mankind and the Father. ( Heb. 510; 6:20; 8:6; 1 Tim. 2:5.
The doctrine that Jesus will forever remain God and man is commonly held doctrine throughout the centuries. If you have not heard of it, perhaps you can try to learn more about it historically before dismissing it.
At Jesus' ascension, the angels told the disciples that Jesus would return in the SAME manner as He ascended. This not only means "on the clouds" but in the same body.
As to your second concern about Jesus being everywhere present. His divine nature is not confined to within His human body. As the divine Son of God, He can be everywhere present because He always has the divine spirit nature as the Father and Holy Spirit.
He told the disciples that He would always be with them, EACH of them individually. ( Mt. 28:20) He said that the Father and the Son will come and make their abode in the believer who loves God and obeys His commands. ( Jn. 14:2). Jesus' divine nature is limitless, but His human nature, though glorified is limited. He can live as God in His human nature AND also fill the universe as His Father and the Spirit can. His divine nature can be everywhere present but His human nature is limited. Jesus sits on the throne in heaven as "God made flesh" and also abides in every believer in His divine nature.
As the your third concern about Paul's instruction. He was many years in the Arabian desert where he was given the gospel message from the risen Jesus Himself (see Galatians 1:11-17; 1Cor. 11:23).
Hi Symone63. You must be referring to some other teaching (e.g. Roman Catholicism) which maintains Mary's perpetual virginity. If you are, then the Scriptures are replete with verses to show that after Jesus was born to Mary, then Mary gave birth to other children (sons & daughters), but Mary was indeed a virgin when the Holy Spirit placed this Godly Seed into her, so that God could appear unto men in the flesh in the Person of Jesus, as only God could make the full, acceptable, & permanent payment for mankind sins ( 1 Timothy 2:16; 1 John 3:16; John 15:13).
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
Did Jesus exist before creation? Did the Holy Spirit exist before creation?
Jesus existed in God's plan, Jesus is the beginning of creation Rev. 3:14 and by Him were all things created Col. 1:16 my understanding is Jesus, was the first in God's plan of creation and everything was created by God, in and through the plan and purpose of Jesus. My understanding Jesus did not physically exist until the fullness of time. Ephesians 1:10 He was born of Mary the Son of God. the seed of woman. Genesis 3:15Matthew 1:20
My understanding is the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, not a person, Genesis 1:2. We see all the greetings are from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:71 Corinthians 1:32 Corinthians 1:2Galatians 1:3Ephesians 1:2Ephesians 6:23Philippians 1:2Colossians 1:2 and 6 more. The Holy Spirit not being included is a good clue the Holy Spirit was not considered a person by Paul and others at that time.
If so, who were they in relation to the Father?
I believe the above answers this.
How did the Father, the Son, and the Spirit all create all that is, seen or unseen?
My understanding is God the Father created all, Genesis 1:1Genesis 1:31Proverbs 16:4Isaiah 45:18Nehemiah 9:6.
Does Scripture teach that God is only one person who manifests in three forms, but all these manifestations are only one person?
Scripture does not support Modalism I have never considered this and do not know anything about it.
Thank you again, from my heart, the truth is my search not to offend. It all goes back to one verse when I read it, it stood out in my heart, Corinthians 11:4. I know I am alone here on this, but saying Jesus is part of the Triune God, who eternally exists and expresses himself as three distinct persons with one essence all three co-equal. One God in three persons-the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This to me denies the Son, 1 John 2:23
What I see in the Bible is the relationship between the Father and the Son, the Son is obedient to the Father. Jesus said His Father is greater than Him, John 14:28. Jesus has said the Father is His God, John 20:17Revelation 3:12.
The Bible defines God's nature as eternal and unchanging; there is only one throne of God and through the Bible, only the Father is on the throne until the Father raised His Son from the dead and placed Him on His right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, there is nothing about the Holy Spirit.
As we see in Revelation Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple and the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof, Rev. 21:22-23 no Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God is the Holy Spirit, not another person.
Jesus confirmed there is only one true God, Mark 12:28-34, in Jesus's prayer to His Father said in John 17:3. All the greetings in the New Testament are from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, Galatians 1:3Ephesians 6:231 Thessalonians 1:12 Timothy 1:2Titus 1:42 John 1:3 and more but no Holy Spirit.
If the Trinity true and is so important, why is it not once taught in Scripture? God cannot change and God cannot die, so how do we understand John 3:16 if God the Father did not send his actual begotten Son to die for our sins? We see Jesus also had His own will, Luke 22:42.
Peter's gospel ( Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19-21) looked to the restoration of Israel and the coming kingdom. Baptism was tied to remission of sins and receiving the Spirit. By contrast, Paul preached the cross as the power of God unto salvation for Jew and Gentile alike ( Rom. 1:16). In Paul's message, salvation is by grace through faith alone apart from works or rituals ( Rom. 3:28; Eph. 2:8-9). To blend Acts 2:38 with Paul's gospel is to confuse Israel's earthly promises with the Body's heavenly calling.
Regarding Israel, Romans 2:28-29 shows that outward circumcision alone is insufficient, but this does not mean the church has become "the true Israel." In Romans 9-11 Paul insists Israel remains nationally distinct, awaiting future restoration. Today, Jew and Gentile who believe are baptized by the Spirit into one Body, a "new man" ( Eph. 2:15), separate from Israel's covenants.
Finally, it is true that law revealed sin, and without law grace would not be needed. Yet Paul declares we are "not under the law, but under grace" ( Rom. 6:14). Grace does not abolish the law's purpose; it fulfills righteousness apart from the law through Christ's finished work.
Therefore, dispensational truth shows Peter's gospel of the kingdom and Paul's gospel of grace are not the same. Both are of God, but each serves a different purpose in His progressive revelation.
G&P
I want to share with you why it is not only unwise but dangerous to blur the distinction between Paul's message and the twelve apostles. God gave Paul a unique dispensation of grace, revealing the "mystery" of the Body of Christ, a truth hidden until his ministry ( Ephesians 3:1-9; Colossians 1:25-27). When we blend his message with the kingdom program preached by Peter and the others, we risk corrupting the gospel of grace.
Peter preached to Israel, offering the promised kingdom upon national repentance and baptism ( Acts 2:38; 3:19). Paul preached justification by faith alone apart from works of the law ( Romans 3:28; Ephesians 2:8-9). To confuse these messages is to either add works to grace, or to remove Israel's kingdom promises. Paul warned that adding to his gospel of grace produces "another gospel" ( Galatians 1:6-9), and he pronounced a curse on anyone who preached such.
Blending also robs believers of assurance. If salvation depends partly on works, ordinances, or kingdom requirements, then we can never rest in the finished work of Christ. The beauty of Paul's message is that Christ did it all-our salvation is complete in Him ( Colossians 2:10). Mixing law and grace leaves Christians unstable, unsure if they have done enough, and strips the cross of its sufficiency.
Finally, confusion weakens the testimony of the Church. The Body of Christ is not Israel, nor is it inheriting an earthly kingdom. Our hope is heavenly ( Philippians 3:20-21; Colossians 3:1-4). When we preach Israel's program as our own, we not only deny our identity but also cloud Israel's future promises, making God appear unfaithful.
For these reasons, we must carefully obey 2 Timothy 2:15: rightly divide the word of truth. Blending the programs corrupts the gospel, shakes assurance, and dishonors God's distinct plans.
If there is nothing to divide, why did Paul say to rightly divide the word of truth?
G&P
I write with deep concern because God's Word makes it plain that without rightly dividing the word of truth ( 2 Timothy 2:15), one cannot come to a clear and saving knowledge of Christ in this present dispensation of grace. Right division is not an optional study method; it is God's command for how His Word is to be understood. Failure to make the distinction between Israel's prophetic program and the mystery revealed to Paul for the Body of Christ leads only to confusion, and confusion in the gospel is eternally dangerous.
Paul makes a bold statement in Galatians 1:11-12, declaring that the gospel he preached was "not after man," but received by direct revelation of Jesus Christ. This message, summarized in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, is that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day. This alone is the gospel of salvation today. Yet if we blend this with Israel's gospel of the kingdom, which involved repentance, water baptism, and looking for the Messiah's earthly reign, we pervert the truth and trust in a message God is not offering in this age.
Paul warned soberly that any who preach another gospel are accursed ( Galatians 1:8-9). That is why right division is vital-it protects us from confusing law with grace, earthly promises with heavenly, and faith plus works with faith alone in Christ's finished work. God has only one gospel today, the gospel of the grace of God ( Acts 20:24). To miss this truth, or to mix it with another program, is to miss salvation itself.
I urge all to believe the message Christ gave to Paul for us. Trust completely in His finished work on the cross, apart from anything you can add. Salvation is by grace through faith, not of works ( Ephesians 2:8-9). Without rightly dividing, the gospel becomes distorted, and distorted truth cannot save.
In Christ's grace...
The twelve apostles were sent to Israel under the kingdom program ( Matthew 10:5-7; Galatians 2:7-9). Their preaching emphasized repentance, water baptism, and works consistent with faith ( Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19; James 2:17-24). For them, faith that did not produce works was considered dead. So, none of the twelve are recorded as preaching "faith without works."
The Apostle Paul
Paul, however, is unique. He is the only apostle who clearly taught justification by faith alone, without works of the law.
Examples:
"Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." ( Romans 3:28)
"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works..." ( Ephesians 2:8-9)
"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness." ( Romans 4:5)
Paul preached a new revelation of grace ( Romans 16:25; Galatians 1:11-12), distinct from the kingdom message of the twelve. His gospel revealed that salvation is entirely a gift, apart from law-keeping or works.
The twelve never preached "faith without works." Their message tied faith with repentance and obedience under Israel's covenant program.
Paul alone preached faith without works-the gospel of the grace of God for Jew and Gentile alike.
Question...Should works follow after we are saved
Yes - but it's very important to keep the order straight.
Salvation Is by Grace Alone-Period!
Paul makes it absolutely clear: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." ( Ephesians 2:8-9). We are saved by faith alone in Christ's finished work, not by anything we do before or after.
see pg 2
Here's a more detailed breakdown for you.
. The Gospel of the Kingdom
Audience: Israel, under the covenants and promises.
Message: The long-promised kingdom, with Messiah reigning on David's throne, was "at hand."
Matthew 4:23 - "And Jesus went about preaching the gospel of the kingdom"
Matthew 10:5-7 - The Twelve were sent only to "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" with this gospel.
Luke 22:29-30 - The apostles are promised to sit on twelve thrones judging Israel in that kingdom.
Acts 3:19-21 - Peter still offers the kingdom if Israel repents, showing this program was continuing post-cross.
This gospel was prophetic, rooted in promises made "since the world began" ( Luke 1:70; Acts 3:21).
2. The Gospel of the Grace of God (Paul's Gospel)
Audience: Jew and Gentile alike, apart from Israel's covenants.
Message: Christ's death, burial, and resurrection for sins, offering free justification by faith.
Acts 20:24 - Paul calls it "the gospel of the grace of God."
Romans 16:25 - This gospel was "according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began."
1 Corinthians 15:1-4 - The content: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again.
Galatians 1:11-12 - Paul received it by direct revelation from Christ, not from the Twelve.
This gospel creates the Body of Christ ( 1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 3:6), uniting Jew and Gentile in one new man.
3. Jews Responding to Both Programs
Some Jews believed Peter and the Eleven's message of the kingdom ( Acts 2:41; Acts 4:4). James writes to these scattered tribes ( James 1:1), exhorting them in kingdom-related works and endurance.
Other Jews believed Paul's gospel of grace and became part of the Body ( Rom. 11:13-14; 1 Cor. 9:20-22).
4. Dispensational Distinction
Kingdom Gospel = Israel's prophetic hope on earth.
Grace Gospel = Body of Christ's heavenly hope, revealed through Paul.
Both have Christ as center, but their scope and promises differ.
see pg2
I am getting into tricky waters here; Lord help me communicate this as you would see fit.
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
Galatians 1:6-9 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
2 Corinthians 11:3 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.
Many are concerned about sin and falling away from Christ. What needs to be realized is passages like this which; if we think about it often aren't of concern before one makes a confession of faith and is in the world; especially if they haven't had a ritualistic religious background in their upbringing. The same principle would exist in the case of Adam and Eve; if there wasn't a tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the first place any attempt to tempt them would be fairly ineffective. Spiritual truth; therefore brings about the opening of the door for the counterfeit lest we should stray from His path. Pride and self righteousness can often be methods where Satan convinces us with all of our actions and activities in church that everything is alright. In short; therefore we need to value God's Word as gold and silver; and such admonitions are in Proverbs as a repeated theme of exhortation. To love someone as we should our Lord is to trust and value Him and hate not only our sin but any false teaching.
We can presently see the same thing, whether some come in to pervert Christ's pure Gospel, or bring in another teaching contrary to the Word, and by their exuberance and smooth speech lead babes in Christ astray. Cults and sects are formed because of this, where all among them are taught to have the same understanding, but unfortunately they are based on erroneous exegesis and likely with visions and dreams to give support to their word. Yet, there are still believers who hold to the Truth, aligning to the Word & the Spirit's ministry in them and amongst them, and we need to be alert to this, bold to call out those bringing in another Gospel or Word, & separate from them.
However, our discussions (debates?) here are useful, not for "laying again the doctrines of baptisms", but to give opportunity to consider other beliefs & the reasons for them. To most, this would be unnecessary & a waste of time, but to those who love to study the Word & understand what others take in from it, it can sometimes be very enlightening, intriguing, sometimes worrying. I find it much more worthwhile to discuss the Word at this level with like-minded folk rather than the small talk of family, the weather, & vacations that goes on in after Fellowship meetings.
Question...Should we can't mix the kingdom program (preached by Peter, James, and John) with the mystery gospel given to Paul, focus on right division of Scripture ( 2 Timothy 2:15). Let's affirm that all Scripture is inspired and that both Peter and Paul were called by God. The issue isn't about rejecting any part of the Bible but understanding God's progressive revelation.
Peter and the 12 preached the kingdom gospel-a message prophesied in the Old Testament ( Acts 3:21-24). It focused on Israel, the coming earthly kingdom, and required repentance, water baptism, and obedience to the law ( Acts 2:38; Matthew 19:17). This message was based on Jesus being Israel's promised Messiah and King, And was the correct message for that time.
In contrast, Paul received his gospel by direct revelation from the risen Christ ( Galatians 1:11-12). Paul called it the mystery, which had been hidden from ages past but revealed through him ( Romans 16:25; Ephesians 3:3-5). His message centered on justification by grace through faith alone, apart from works ( Romans 4:5), and introduced the Body of Christ, a new creation made up of both Jews and Gentiles with a heavenly hope, not an earthly kingdom, this is key. (not a earthly kingdom)
Mixing these programs leads to confusion-especially on salvation, baptism, and the church's identity. In Acts 15 and Galatians 2, even the apostles agreed that Paul had a distinct ministry to the Gentiles, apart from the kingdom program of Peter and the 12. Paul even said, "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Corinthians 1:17), showing a break from the earlier kingdom requirements. "BAPTISM WAS A KINGDOM REQUIREMENT"
Understanding these differences helps us rightly divide God's Word and see how the church today operates under the dispensation of grace, not under Israel's kingdom law. This isn't rejecting the gospels or Peter or the other 11-it's honoring God's design by keeping the messages in their proper place.
God Bless
2. The Gospel Messages: Same or Different?
Matthew 4:23 - Jesus preached "the gospel of the kingdom."
Acts 20:24 - Paul speaks of "the gospel of the grace of God."
Galatians 1:11-12 - Paul received his gospel by direct revelation from Christ.
Many assume the Bible presents one unified gospel throughout. But a closer reading reveals distinctions between the gospel of the kingdom (offered to Israel) and the gospel of grace (offered to the Gentiles and the Body of Christ).
Denominational tradition may attempt to blend these messages, creating theological confusion. But by removing those filters and taking Scripture slowly, we see that Paul's message of grace was a new revelation-a "mystery" ( Ephesians 3:1-6), hidden from past ages but revealed through him.
The Role of "Right Division" in Clarity
Paul commands believers to "rightly divide the word of truth" ( 2 Timothy 2:15). This doesn't mean dividing truth from error-it means dividing truth from truth, identifying what applies to Israel and what applies to the Church, the Body of Christ.
Right division isn't about rejecting parts of the Bible-it's about placing them in their proper context, understanding that God has dealt with humanity in different ways throughout time ( Hebrews 1:1-2). It honors the integrity of each passage and avoids blending programs that God intended to remain distinct.
When rightly divided, the Scriptures form a cohesive whole. God's dealings with Israel under the law (Exodus through Malachi) differ from His dealings with the Body of Christ under grace (Romans through Philemon). When we respect those distinctions, confusion clears.
Examples of Clarity Through Slow, Careful Study
The Sermon on the Mount ( Matthew 5-7)
Jesus' teaching here emphasizes law-based living, including commands like "cut off your hand" if it causes you to sin and a strict standard of righteousness exceeding that of the Pharisees.
Hi again Lbooth1955. Clearly, you are passionate about getting this point across to us, about the difference between Paul's Gospel, as opposed to any other presentation. The main points you raised: a) Paul's (or my) Gospel; b) revelation of this Mystery; and c) Gospel of the Kingdom.
a) Paul not only received his salvation by direct revelation from Heaven ( Acts 9:3-9), but also was taught, exercised in faith, & had revelations as to his ministry separate from any outside influence ( Galatians 1:11-18). Thus what he learned became what he often spoke of as "my Gospel", which implies that he received it directly from the Lord and was charged to make it known chiefly to the Gentiles.
So the question, how was this Gospel any different to say what the other apostles preached? The only other apostle's preaching, that is often recorded is that of Peter. And when I consider his presentations (found in Acts 2:14-41; Acts 3:11-19; Acts 4:6-12; Acts 10:34-48), I find that the same Gospel was preached by Peter (i.e. nothing extra or different to Paul's Gospel, apart from the specifics relating to his audience: their knowledge of the Scriptures & events surrounding Jesus' Life on Earth). His Gospel was the same as Paul's: the need for repentance, faith, calling upon Jesus for salvation.
b) the Mystery. Paul does speak of this revelation given to him, but did not the others know about Gentiles also receiving this blessing of salvation after hearing the Gospel? Peter spoke about him being sent to the Gentiles ( Acts 15:7; Acts chap 10 (Cornelius, a Gentile). And Peter, through the vision of the unclean animals given for him to eat ( Acts 10:9-17), understood that this Mystery that Paul spoke about, was also given to him to understand. Even Paul spoke of this ( Ephesians 3:3-6) that the present apostles and prophets were made aware of this mystery, that the Gentiles would be fellow-heirs, or the same Body, and partakers of the promises. Onto Page 2.
The apostle Paul is uniquely identified in Scripture as the chosen vessel through whom God revealed the mystery of the Body of Christ. In Romans 11:13, Paul declares, "I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office." Unlike the Twelve Apostles, who were sent to the lost sheep of the house of Israel ( Matthew 10:5-6), Paul was sent by the risen, glorified Christ from heaven ( Acts 9:15; Galatians 1:11-12) to proclaim a new message-not the Gospel of the Kingdom, but the Gospel of the Grace of God ( Acts 20:24). Paul alone speaks of the "Church which is His Body" ( Ephesians 1:22-23), a new creation made up of both Jew and Gentile, united by faith and baptized by the Holy Spirit into one Body ( 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 2:14-16).
The Body of Christ was a mystery "kept secret since the world began" ( Romans 16:25) and not revealed until Paul. He was given this revelation by Christ directly ( Ephesians 3:1-9; Colossians 1:24-27) and is the only apostle who teaches its doctrines-such as salvation by grace through faith without works ( Ephesians 2:8-9), the heavenly position of believers ( Colossians 3:1-4), and the rapture of the Church ( 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Paul calls himself the "wise masterbuilder" who laid the foundation for this present dispensation of grace ( 1 Corinthians 3:10). The other apostles, including Peter, recognized Paul's distinct apostleship and agreed to confine their ministry to the circumcision, while Paul went to the Gentiles ( Galatians 2:7-9).
No other apostle is identified in Scripture as the apostle of the Body of Christ. Only Paul received the full revelation of the mystery, the doctrines, and the heavenly calling of the Church. Therefore, Paul stands alone as the God-appointed apostle to the Body of Christ.
1. Peter's Kingdom Gospel (Faith + Works) - For Israel and the Little Flock
Peter's message centered on Israel's prophetic hope, the coming earthly kingdom, and the Messiahship of Jesus. This gospel required faith in Jesus as the Messiah, but it also included repentance, water baptism, and adherence to the law, as seen in Acts 2:38:
"Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins..." ( Acts 2:38, KJV)
Key elements:
Audience: Jews (especially "the lost sheep of the house of Israel" - Matthew 10:5-6)
Content: Jesus is the promised Messiah; repent and be baptized.
Requirement: Faith plus works (baptism, continued obedience).
Goal: Entry into the earthly kingdom promised to Israel ( Luke 12:32 - "little flock").
James 2:24 supports this...
"Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only."
This shows that under the Kingdom Gospel, works confirmed faith for salvation, especially for the Jewish remnant.
2. Paul's Grace Gospel (Faith Alone) - For the Body of Christ
Paul preached a new, previously hidden "mystery" gospel revealed to him by Christ ( Galatians 1:11-12; Ephesians 3:1-9). This message was not based on Israel's covenants or prophecy, but on grace alone through faith alone in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
Key elements:
Audience: All (Jew and Gentile alike), forming the Body of Christ.
Content: Christ died for our sins and rose again.
Requirement: Faith alone (no works, no law, no baptism required for salvation).
Goal: Salvation unto a heavenly inheritance ( Philippians 3:20; Ephesians 1:3).
Romans 4:5 is definitive:
"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is
Did they both preach Jesus as Savior, of course, but the requirements for salvation changed with Paul.
We see two places where angels are chained in darkness: 2 Peter 2:4-5 and Jude 1:6. To me, this is a prison, a confinement area, as we see in Revelation 9, 11, 17, and 20. These angels did not keep their original estate or position and left their own dwelling place. These angels were disobedient to God, as seen in Genesis 6:1-2. There are fallen angels, demons, and devils on this earth, but what these angels did was so terrible that God locked them in the bottomless pit until the great day of judgment.
In Ephesians 4:8-10, there is another reference; verses 9-10 are debated depending on the manuscript. They say that before Jesus ascended to heaven, He first descended to the lower parts of the earth. Paul quotes Psalm 68:18, which describes the ark ascending to Mount Zion, leading captivity captive, symbolizing deliverance. Also, in Judges 5:12, part of Deborah's song, it states, "led thy captivity captive," meaning victory over oppression.
The same theme appears in Ephesians 4:8, victory over sin, death, and the grave through the life, sacrifice, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as referenced in Galatians 1:4 and 1 Corinthians 15:52-55. We also see the gifts given in Ephesians 4:11, Romans 12:4-8, and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
When Jesus was resurrected, God placed Him above all, as shown in Philippians 2:9-11, Ephesians 1:19-21, and 1 Peter 3:22. Satan, just like the leaders of Jerusalem, thought that when the Messiah came, He would immediately deliver them and establish His kingdom at that time, the expectation not yet fulfilled. When Satan influenced Judas to betray Jesus to death, he thought he had won.
See part 3
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).
Part 7.
Hebrews 4:3 references Psalm 95, which describes the Israelites' journey with Moses through the wilderness, enduring dunes, rocky paths, and scarce food and water. Those who did not remain faithful, trusting in God's promise, did not enter God's rest. This passage stresses faith and the rest God has promised to those who, in faith, overcome the trials of this life filled with challenges, temptations, and struggles.
Revelation 3:5 shows us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. We cannot earn our salvation through our actions; rather, this rest is dependent on accepting the grace and redemption offered in Christ, works that were finished from the foundation of the world.
Revelation 13:7-8 states that all who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. This time is still to come; only true believers will be able to resist this hour of temptation that is foretold in Revelation 3:10. We see this same language in the concept that the Lamb was slain before the foundation of the world.
The challenge and reward are found in Revelation 2:7 and Revelation 13:9-10, "He who has ears, let him hear." We can read and study the Bible without grasping the truth of its message for different reasons, truth comes from prayer. Our ears are connected to our eyes; if we cannot hear, we are also blind.
We have these verses to consider.
Before being ordained, Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 13:48, 1 Corinthians 2:7, Ephesians 2:10, Galatians 1:15
The foreknowledge of God, Acts 2:23, Ephesians 3:9, Colossians 1:26-27, 1 Peter 1:2, 1 Peter 1:20
Predestination, Acts 4:27-28, Romans 8:29-30, Ephesians 1:5, Ephesians 1:10-12
God's plan.
2 Kings 19:25, Psalm 33:11, Isaiah 14:27, Isaiah 22:11, Isaiah 25:1, Isaiah 37:26, Isaiah 46:10, Jeremiah 29:11.
See last part 8
When we were lost , being not saved by believing the gospel of grace, we were part of the world system and was the devil's child.
Ephesians 2:12
That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in theworld:
Satan has advantages on the unsaved.
Ephesians 2:2
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of thisworld, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
We that are unsaved , are in bondage to the cares of the world.
Galatians 4:3
Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of theworld:
Even as a saved Christian, it's easy to let Satan in our spirit.
Ephesians 4:27
Neither give place to thedevil.
Today, the worldly spirit of Satan is very strong because of cellphone, television and being very busy doing worldly things instead of godly things
1 Timothy 4:1
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines ofdevils;
One day we will leave the evil world and be with Jesus Christ.
Galatians 1:4
Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evilworld, according to the will of God and our Father:
Satan is good at hiding the gospel of grace.
2 Corinthians 4:4
In whom the god of thisworldhath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
God gave us a spirit to worship Him. The spirit of the world is of Satan.
1 Corinthians 2:12
Now we have received, not the spirit of theworld, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Ray , in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Let me tell you, wine makers will not admit to adding water, but some do, it's all about adding profit to the bottom line.
Apostle Paul's gospel was constantly being added by other false apostles and followers . They wanted to add circumcision and works.
Galatians 1:7
Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and wouldpervertthe gospel of Christ.
It's all about Jesus Christ faith in his grace that we believe for Salvation.
Romans 1:17
For therein is the righteousness of God revealed fromfaithtofaith: as it is written, The just shall live byfaith.
Romans 3:28
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified byfaithwithout the deeds of the law.
Romans 4:16
Therefore it is offaith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of thefaithof Abraham; who is the father of us all,
I know that you think I'm making all this up, but the truth is, Apostle Paul is a special person to Jesus Christ and we should take notice. I know you might have knowledge , but God hide secrets that only Him will He reveal.
Deuteronomy 29:29
ThesecretthingsbelonguntotheLordour God: but thosethingswhich are revealedbelonguntous and to our children for ever, that we may do allthewords of this law.
May God Almighty bless these people in the word of truth, Chris , Richard H Priday , Giannis , Fuji ,
GiGi , Ronald Whittemore , Jesse , Bennymkje.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 this is the only way to Salvation for today and its believing only if we Follow the epistles of Apostle Paul.
1. The first good news.
Genesis 2:16-17
16And theLordGod commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat:
17But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
2. The second good news.
Genesis 7:1
And theLordsaid untoNoah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation.
3. The third good news. The promises and covenants.
Genesis 17:5
Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall beAbraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee.
4. The fourth good news. Moses and the law.
Exodus 3:6
Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. AndMoseshid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.
5. The fifth good news is John the Baptist.
Matthew 3:1-2
1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,
2And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
6. The sixth good news . Jesus Christ the Messiah, the King, and the Savior.
John 1:17
For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came byJesusChrist.
7. The seventh good news . Apostle Paul with the gospel of grace in the resurrection of Christ Jesus.
Romans 1:16
ForIamnotashamedof the gospel of Christ:foritis the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek
Galatians 1:1
Paul, anapostle, (not omen, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;
Now we are here today with the writing of Apostle Paul. We all have a choice to receive the good news from Apostle Paul's epistle.
May God Almighty in the third Heaven bless the gospel of grace to all .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Galatians 1:8
But though we, or anangelfrom heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
Satan was a fallen angel and is still around.
2 Corinthians 11:14
And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into anangeloflight.
We should not worship angels that are fallen.
Colossians 2:18
Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping ofangels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,
The Holy Angeles are in Heaven waiting for the descending of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 1:7
And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mightyangels,
Every Angel in the Bible has a male name, I don't think there's a female Angel .
We have the Holy Spirit of God and the Word of Truth here on earth.
Romans 8:26
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us withgroanings which cannot be uttered.
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard thewordof truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with thatholySpirit of promise,
May we spread the gospel of grace .
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 may we believe the gospel for Salvation
Galatians 1:11-12
11But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.
12For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
This is Apostle Paul's GOSPEL
1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
2By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
3For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
4And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
This is the most important verses to believe for Salvation today.
May God open the understanding of people who wants Salvation today .
Ray , in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Let's celebrate Salvation in Christ Jesus today
Galatians 1:8 - But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
The word for accursed is the word ANATHEMA. And its basic meaning is to consecrate or dedicate a sacrifice for destruction. Very strong language!
Galatians 1:11 - But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.
But I certify, or literally I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after, or according to man.
Galatians 1:13 - For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:
He says for you have heard of my conversation, or lifestyle, in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure, and there are three Imperfect Tenses coming up, two here and one in Verse 14. Imperfect Tense means continuous action in the past. And I will read it that way.
That beyond measure, (I was persecuting) the church of God. And (I was destroying) it continuously.
Thirdly, in Verse 14:
Galatians 1:14 - And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
And profited, or more literally, (was advancing). And those are the three Imperfect Tenses (continuous action in the past). And I was advancing in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
Galatians 1:16 - To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:
That last little phrase, "conferred not with flesh and blood" is a Hebraism that means human. After his conversion on the road to Damascus, he did not look up people to find out what do I do next.
Galatians 1:6 - I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:
He says I marvel, and the word marvel means surprised. And it's in the Present Tense, which means he says that I am continually surprised. He's in a state of shock! That you are so soon removed. If I may break this down, the word "so" is called the adverb of manner, or way in which something is done.
That you are in this way, soon, adverb of time. The word soon means quickly. And the word removed actually means to be off in the opposite direction in which you were going. So, I am surprised that you are in this way, that is these false teachings, and so quickly, after being established in the gospel, removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ.
He says you were called. God called you, and the grace of Christ called you. And now you're going in the opposite direction, and that you are removed unto another gospel:
There are two words for the word another in the Greek language. One means another of a different kind, and one means another of the same kind. This one is another of a different kind. You are so soon removed unto another, a different gospel. That's his concern for them!
Galatians 1:7 - Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.
He says, which is not another;
That's another of the same kind, different Greek word. So, you've been removed to a different gospel, which is really not another gospel. A false gospel is not another one. It's different. But there be some that trouble you, and the word trouble is in the Present Participle, and it means to agitate.
(Galatians Part 1): Authored by the Apostle Paul and written to several churches in Asia Minor in the region of Galatia. The theme of Galatians is Salvation by Grace through faith alone. Whereas Romans is considered by many to be the Constitution of the Christian Faith, Galatians is considered to be the Declaration of Independence of the Christian Faith.
Galatians 1:3 - Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,
Paul prayed that grace would be with them and peace. In fact, the word "be" is in italics because there is no verb in the Greek text. But according to Greek structure, it is to be received as an "is." It is a fact. It's not a wish or a prayer.
Grace is to you, and peace, from God the Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace, CHARIS, is a form of greeting for Greek and is the greeting for Gentiles. Then he says, and peace. And that's the greeting for the Jews, SHALOM.
Galatians 1:4 - Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:
In speaking of Jesus Christ, it says, who gave himself for our sins. The purpose: that he might deliver us from this present evil world. The plan: according to the will of God and our Father:
It is God's will that all of those that respond to Christ, all of those who are born of the Spirit of God, will be delivered from this present evil world. The word "present" is a Perfect Participle. The world that stands in a condition of being evil. And God has delivered us, and it's all according to His will and plan.
1 Corinthians (Letter to a Carnal Church containing Correction and Instruction)
(1 Corinthians Part 1):
1 Corinthians 1:1 - Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,
As I noted before in an earlier study, in all of Paul's letters, the words "to be" are in italics. It's because it is not in the original Greek transcript. He is literally saying that he is a called apostle. He's expressing what kind of apostle he is. He is an apostle by calling. It was his emphasis that this is not his ambition or his choice. The word apostle means someone sent out with a commission.
Notice that he claims himself not only to be a called apostle, but he is an apostle of Jesus Christ, not of people. In Galatians 1:1, Paul told them that he is an apostle, not through men, not from men (plural) meaning a committee, nor through a man (singular), meaning no human element appointed him. His appointment to be an apostle came from God.
So, number 1, he's a called apostle. Number 2, he's an apostle of Jesus Christ. And again, in Galatians 1:10, Paul says if I try to please men, I would no longer be a servant of Christ. That's a verse that needs to cut through the heart of every person in the ministry. If you represent Christ and His word, you can't work for anybody else. You've got to represent Christ and His word. And then thirdly, he's an apostle through the will of God. This is God's will for his life. Again, not ambition nor appointment.
(Part 2):
Continuation of your questions:
Q. If they believed the bible was the written word of God, why didn't they use the manuscripts God used and just make simple changes to the language?
A. Again, not knowing their motive, I cannot answer this one. But if these men truly believed the bible was the written word of God, I would have to believe that there would be no need to for them to even "make simple changes to the language."
Q. Why if they loved God and respected His word would they do what they did and now there are those of you who don't even believe God wrote a word of truth for us?
A. Once again, I have no way of knowing what their motives were.
Q. What joy is there in reading man's interpretation of what God may have said, or maybe not?
A. I'm sure no one would find any joy in that! If I were to read the preface of any bible and it said that the word written herein may be what God has said, or may not be what He said, the preface would be as far as I would read.
Q. How do we know that they (JW's, Mormons, Buddhists) don't have the truth?
A. If what they teach goes against what Paul preached and taught, their "truth" is to be rejected. ( Galatians 1:8-9)
Q. Why don't we just all make up our own religion and do what we want from whatever versions we choose to believe or maybe bits here and bits there from every version. Whatever suits us.
A. With all the various religions out there (too many to count), it's already been done! The reason why we have so many religions and denominations are because man cannot agree on what God's word says. Many of us here (including you and I) read the KJB but we disagree on what it says in certain places. Why is that? It's because English is such a general language. Hebrew also is a general language. But not so with Greek. Greek is such an exact language to where it makes it almost impossible to come up with different conclusions as to what the text is saying.
One more short post, I promise!
Meanwhile consider someone else who is characteristically gruff; loudmouthed; opinionated and overall a pain to be around who takes the time to correctly explain the Gospel; but of course befitting his usual character doesn't show empathy or bothers to listen much to any responses or otherwise be very helpful even with practical needs that are obvious to others such as atheists who reach out.
Natural man; of course would hang out with the first person and be repulsed with the second; but in all fairness the second person is the one who gives a message in which eternity hangs in the balance. Such a case study of course isn't to justify such an approach to witnessing; but to also avoid what is far WORSE; that is showing all sorts of compassion to someone but WATERING down the Gospel; and not giving a clear warning of the deadly and eternal destruction which every unbeliever is about to face as life is as a vapor.
Luke 6:26 Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.
John 12:43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
John 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
Galatians 1:10
For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.
Praise and highly esteeming a brother seems rare today but it can be edifying
Good to hear back from you.
As to your first concern.
We know that Jesus is forever our high priest and mediator between mankind and the Father. ( Heb. 510; 6:20; 8:6; 1 Tim. 2:5.
The doctrine that Jesus will forever remain God and man is commonly held doctrine throughout the centuries. If you have not heard of it, perhaps you can try to learn more about it historically before dismissing it.
At Jesus' ascension, the angels told the disciples that Jesus would return in the SAME manner as He ascended. This not only means "on the clouds" but in the same body.
As to your second concern about Jesus being everywhere present. His divine nature is not confined to within His human body. As the divine Son of God, He can be everywhere present because He always has the divine spirit nature as the Father and Holy Spirit.
He told the disciples that He would always be with them, EACH of them individually. ( Mt. 28:20) He said that the Father and the Son will come and make their abode in the believer who loves God and obeys His commands. ( Jn. 14:2). Jesus' divine nature is limitless, but His human nature, though glorified is limited. He can live as God in His human nature AND also fill the universe as His Father and the Spirit can. His divine nature can be everywhere present but His human nature is limited. Jesus sits on the throne in heaven as "God made flesh" and also abides in every believer in His divine nature.
As the your third concern about Paul's instruction. He was many years in the Arabian desert where he was given the gospel message from the risen Jesus Himself (see Galatians 1:11-17; 1Cor. 11:23).
You can look at the following Scriptures to show that Jesus did have siblings, albeit half-siblings now by both Joseph & Mary. Matthew 12:46,47; Matthew 13:55,56; Mark 6:3; John 2:12; John 7:3,5,10; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
Part 2 Trinity discussion
Did Jesus exist before creation? Did the Holy Spirit exist before creation?
Jesus existed in God's plan, Jesus is the beginning of creation Rev. 3:14 and by Him were all things created Col. 1:16 my understanding is Jesus, was the first in God's plan of creation and everything was created by God, in and through the plan and purpose of Jesus. My understanding Jesus did not physically exist until the fullness of time. Ephesians 1:10 He was born of Mary the Son of God. the seed of woman. Genesis 3:15 Matthew 1:20
My understanding is the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, not a person, Genesis 1:2. We see all the greetings are from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:7 1 Corinthians 1:3 2 Corinthians 1:2 Galatians 1:3 Ephesians 1:2 Ephesians 6:23 Philippians 1:2 Colossians 1:2 and 6 more. The Holy Spirit not being included is a good clue the Holy Spirit was not considered a person by Paul and others at that time.
If so, who were they in relation to the Father?
I believe the above answers this.
How did the Father, the Son, and the Spirit all create all that is, seen or unseen?
My understanding is God the Father created all, Genesis 1:1 Genesis 1:31 Proverbs 16:4 Isaiah 45:18 Nehemiah 9:6.
Does Scripture teach that God is only one person who manifests in three forms, but all these manifestations are only one person?
Scripture does not support Modalism I have never considered this and do not know anything about it.
See part 3.
Thank you again, from my heart, the truth is my search not to offend. It all goes back to one verse when I read it, it stood out in my heart, Corinthians 11:4. I know I am alone here on this, but saying Jesus is part of the Triune God, who eternally exists and expresses himself as three distinct persons with one essence all three co-equal. One God in three persons-the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This to me denies the Son, 1 John 2:23
What I see in the Bible is the relationship between the Father and the Son, the Son is obedient to the Father. Jesus said His Father is greater than Him, John 14:28. Jesus has said the Father is His God, John 20:17 Revelation 3:12.
The Bible defines God's nature as eternal and unchanging; there is only one throne of God and through the Bible, only the Father is on the throne until the Father raised His Son from the dead and placed Him on His right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, there is nothing about the Holy Spirit.
As we see in Revelation Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple and the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof, Rev. 21:22-23 no Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God is the Holy Spirit, not another person.
Jesus confirmed there is only one true God, Mark 12:28-34, in Jesus's prayer to His Father said in John 17:3. All the greetings in the New Testament are from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, Galatians 1:3 Ephesians 6:23 1 Thessalonians 1:1 2 Timothy 1:2 Titus 1:4 2 John 1:3 and more but no Holy Spirit.
If the Trinity true and is so important, why is it not once taught in Scripture? God cannot change and God cannot die, so how do we understand John 3:16 if God the Father did not send his actual begotten Son to die for our sins? We see Jesus also had His own will, Luke 22:42.
God bless,
RLW