Shall we continue? Previously, I explained Verse 1:1, and now we go to Verse 1:2.
It is in Rev. 1:2 that John explains that he wrote The Gospel According to John. Here is verse 1:2 in chiasmus form:
Who bare record of the word of God,
.....and of the testimony of Jesus Christ,
and of all things that he saw.
The verse structure reveals:
The Word of God, John 1:1-5
.....The Testimony of Jesus Christ, John 21:21-24
Everything between Verses 1:1-5 and Verses 21:21-24
The "testimony of Jesus Christ" is a phrase which is used metaphorically twice in The Book of Revelation, as I recall; once at Rev. 1:9, and secondly at Rev. 19:10. Also, the Savior's literal testimony for The Book of Revelation is stated in the last chapter at Rev. 22:7-20.
So the phrase has both the metaphorical and literal applications.
Additonally, Rev. 1:2 not only establishes the structure of The Gospel According to John, but also that of The Book of Revelation, as follows:
Chapter One shows The Word of God in the vision of the Savior at Rev. 1:12-17
.....Chapter Twenty-Two shows The Testimony of Jesus Christ in Rev. 22:7-20
And Chapters Two through Twenty-One shows all the things that John saw.
Confessing to the Church is not only not necessary, but a blasphemy. Seeking forgiveness and absolution of sins from the Church rather than God.
There is only one mediation between God and man; the atonement made by the man Jesus Christ.
-- 1 Timothy 2:5 KJV For there is one God, and ONE MEDIATOR BETWEEN GOD AND MEN, THE MAN CHRIST JESUS;
People remain in false religious beliefs as they are fearful of standing alone, of losing family and friends not willing to give all to gain Christ Jesus. They feel safe and secure being in bondage to the laws of the "Church". Christianity is an individual religion, standing alone, hopefully within the brotherhood of others standing alone, steadfast in the faith.
-- 1 Corinthians 16:13 KJV Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
-- 2 Timothy 2:1 KJV Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
It takes great moral strength to remain meek, patient, kind, charitable, in every situation maintaining your trust in the Lord. You only have to contend with one.
-- Hebrews 10:31 KJV It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
--1 John 1:9 KJV If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
I agree with Giannis that ANOTHEN can mean either "from above" or "from the beginning," so we have to decide which meaning to use in each of the 13 places ANOTHEN is found in the NT.
When I look at Luke 1:3 in a Greek Interlinear Bible, it translates as "from the very first," which can also read from the beginning. I see the same in Acts 26:5. Both places can be translated as "from the beginning."
However, when I take John 3:3, ANOTHEN doesn't translate as the very first or from the beginning, but rather anew (again) and up place (above). So yes, in all 13 places that ANOTHEN is found in the NT, we have to find out if it means "from above" or "from the beginning." In John 3:3, I read it as from above.
In any case, we know that Jesus was not talking about a second physical birth. He was talking about a Spiritual birth from above. A person must experience a spiritual birth to be saved. That's what it means receive Christ.
Thank you pointing out that we must receive (not accept) Christ. We hear a lot today about "accepting" the Lord but there is no place in the bible that tells us that we need to accept the Lord to be saved. To "accept" the Lord means to mentally agree with the truth about Him.
The bible does say receive Christ in John 1:12. To receive Christ means literally to receive His Spirit into our spirit to perform a spiritual birth, and we become a new person.
We become a new creation and God's Spirit is with us from that time throughout eternity. We are motivated by His Spirit, ministered to by His Spirit, protected by His Spirit, guided by His Spirit, and we are provided for by His Spirit. From that time forward, we belong to Christ!
So, being born again, there's a physical birth and then a Spiritual birth. The Spiritual birth is what it means to be born again, and that birth can only come from above!
Hello Lana. You are correct to believe that Almighty God cannot be seen by human eyes ( John 1:18); for God is Spirit and altogether Holy. Even if we mortals were able to have a glimpse of Him, we would be consumed instantly ( Exodus 33:20).
So, the only way we could understand this encounter with God that Jacob had (even as Moses, Isaiah & Job did; as also Abraham, Jacob, Gideon & Manoah with the Angel of the LORD), is to believe that God had provided these men a glimpse of His Holiness, yet not actually seeing the 'Face' of God. In the matter with Jacob ( Genesis 32:24-30) wrestling this unknown man (where did he come from and why was he even there wrestling?), we can understand this 'man' to be sent by God and through this event, proclaim to Jacob that he would be called 'Israel' (a prince of power that has prevailed with God and men).
There have been other interpretations of "this man": that he was Jesus before His incarnation on Earth, or he was an angel (whether Michael or Gabriel, or another), even a special angel to represent God on Earth to Jacob and also to those others mentioned earlier. However one understands the person & origin of this man, the fact remains that Jacob, and the others, would not have been able to see the Person of God (even as God only revealed His Glory to Moses as He passed by him - Exodus 33:20-23). I believe that Jacob, not only wrestled with a physical man, but understood that this man was sent from Heaven by God & in some way revealed to him something of the Power & Glory of God. And so Jacob called that place, Peniel, a place where he saw God (at least what God revealed to him of Himself) & Jacob was relieved to have survived that encounter.
I hope that goes some way to help you understand that Jacob, and the others, would not have seen the Person of God, but what God chose to reveal to them of His Glory, Majesty, and Power - and this revelation was to them as if they had encountered God in Person.
I understand your reasoning in what you say "that image has been so lost and marred by the fall of man and of sin it'
I held that view also but Genesis 9:6 bothered me.
I do believe we are born sons of Adam and have to be born again to become sons of God.
John 1:11-13 reads, "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
I don't believe being made in the image and after likeness of God is the same as becoming the sons of God.
Did man have to be redeemed or restored back to the position Adam had before the fall, perhaps to the image and likeness or "perfection" he had before the fall?
Was Adam perfect in a way he couldn't fall? No.
Was Adam covered by the blood of the lamb at birth? No, when Adam sinned, he died!
As sons of God, we cannot fall! We have eternal life NOW!
Adam was given dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
Adam lost that and ALL of creation has been cursed until this day.
We have been justified but have yet to be glorified.
We along with all creation awaits to be fully redeemed. "That's when our body's will be redeemed.
Romans 8:17-23.
Being made in the image and likeness of God was Adam's makeup, not his eternal state.
Christ was projected to come into the world as the Lamb to take away the sins of the whole world before Adam's transgression.
I believe you're right in that we must be born again but I don't believe that's to become "made in the image of God.
I believe that's to become "son's of God"
I believe man being made in the image of God speaks of man made as a triune being.
In Genesis 1:26 God said, Let us make man in our image, AFTER OUR LIKENESS.
Adam and Eve was created in the image of God and I believe Gentiles 9:6 suggests that image and likeness was and is inherited in the Son's of Adam, which we are!
We have to be born again to become son's of God. John 1:12.
Even here the word "son" is not a direct "Son" of God used for Adam and the Angels in the original language.
Yes, you are correct and adding to what you've said.. Acts 2:38 was spoken by Peter to Israel in response to their guilt for crucifying their own Messiah. When they were "pricked in their heart" (v. 37), Peter told them to repent and be baptized-not as a ritual for the Gentiles, but as a national call for Israel to acknowledge Jesus as the Christ they had rejected ( Acts 2:36). Baptism here was a public confession that Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah ( John 1:31). It offered entrance into the kingdom program still being preached to Israel, not the body of Christ later revealed through Paul.
John and the Twelve baptized because God commanded a covenant sign that prepared Israel for the nearness of the promised kingdom. John's mission was prophetic and God-sent: he came to make the Lord's paths straight ( Isa 40:3; Mal 3:1; Matt 3:3), and "He that sent me to baptize with water" defined his work ( John 1:33). His baptism was "of repentance for the remission of sins" ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3), publicly separating a believing remnant and manifesting the Messiah to Israel ( John 1:31). This fit Israel's priestly calling and cleansing types-washings consecrated service ( Exod 29:4; Lev 8:6), and prophets promised national purification ( Ezek 36:25; cf. Heb 9:10). Jesus then authorized the apostles to carry this forward in the kingdom gospel: "make disciplesbaptizing" ( Matt 28:19; Mark 16:15-16). At Pentecost Peter summoned Israel: "Repent, and be baptizedfor the remission of sins," with the gift of the Spirit and the hope of restoration ( Acts 2:38-41; 3:19-21). In Acts, water baptism identified penitents with the crucified and risen Christ, marked them off from unbelieving Israel, and was confirmed by signs, for "the Jews require a sign" ( Acts 8:12-17; 10:47-48; 22:16; 1 Cor 1:22; cf. Mark 16:17-18). With the later revelation of the Body of Christ, the saving baptism is the Spirit's work-placing believers into one Body apart from rites ( Eph 4:5; 1 Cor 12:13; Titus 3:5). Therefore Paul could say, "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17). In sum, John and the apostles baptized in obedience within Israel's kingdom program-repentance, cleansing, identification, and Spirit-attested entry into the remnant-while today the "one baptism" that saves is the Spirit's, not water ( Eph 2:8-9). This preserves Israel's covenant logic with today's grace-salvation rests on Christ's cross-work by faith - not rites, while water witnessed repentance in Israel.
Exactly right. John's baptism was not a man-made ritual borrowed from Jewish tradition but a direct command from God for a specific purpose in His prophetic plan. John 1:33 makes that clear: "He that sent me to baptize with water"-God Himself commissioned John to prepare Israel for their coming Messiah. It was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3), identifying a believing remnant within the nation who would be ready to receive their King.
But that baptism belonged to Israel's prophetic program, not to what is revealed later through Paul. John's ministry called Israel to repentance and national cleansing before the promised kingdom could be established on earth. It was a shadow of the future when the nation will be washed and restored ( Ezekiel 36:25-27). Yet once Christ's death and resurrection were accomplished, God began a new work-offering salvation to all, Jew and Gentile alike, not through water or outward sign, but by faith alone in the finished work of the cross.
Paul declares that there is now "one baptism" ( Ephesians 4:5), not of water, but by the Spirit into the body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:13). This spiritual baptism identifies believers with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection ( Romans 6:3-4). John's commission looked forward to an earthly kingdom; Paul's gospel looks upward to a heavenly calling. Both were from God, but each served its divine purpose in its proper time. I would love to hear your thoughts on the truths laid out before you.
Hello Tanae7852 and welcome to these pages. That's really great that you are keen to start reading and studying God's Holy Word. As you prayerfully read its sacred pages, waiting on Him to open your understanding and applying its Truths, you will truly be enriched in your life and faith - faith in a never-failing God.
To answer your question about the first disciple to follow Jesus, you can read that account in John 1:35-40, the day after Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. And that disciple was Andrew, who in turn searched out his brother Simon, telling him to come with him as he had found the Messiah. Now there is another account in Matthew 4:18-20 which also states that Andrew & Simon were seen by Jesus, as they were mending their fishing nets. In this account, they left everything and followed Jesus.
But in respect of the chronology of events, it seems that the John chap 1 reference is the first meeting, as Jesus had first been baptized by John the Baptist & met Andrew & Simon, then after Jesus' temptation by Satan in the wilderness, He saw Andrew & Simon by the Sea of Galilee with their nets and now they followed Him ( Matthew 4:18-20). It was at this point that Andrew & Simon left all for Jesus. I hope that brings things into perspective.
If, after reading through all the Gospels, you want to re-read them in chronological order (i.e. events according to the order they occurred), then you could get hold of a "Harmony of the Gospels". If your Bible doesn't have one, then do a web search for that phrase and I would recommend the one that Blue Letter Bible produces; a different way of going through the Life and times of Jesus. Blessings.
How do we begin? The 7-year tribulation is taken from the 490-year prophecy in Daniel 9:25-27. The he in Daniel 9:27 is said to be the antichrist, who will make a 3.5-year peace treaty with Israel. Midway through this week, he will cause the abomination that makes desolate, leading to 3.5 years of great tribulation.
In verse 25, it states there will be 69 weeks from the commandment to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Messiah, 483 years. This was fulfilled when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit, as seen in Matthew 3:13-17. Jesus confirms His identity as the Messiah in Luke 3:16-21, and John denies being the Christ but speaks of Jesus in John 1:33-34.
Daniel 9:26 states that after sixty-two weeks, the Messiah will be cut off. The 7 weeks, or 49 years, had already passed, a period during which the temple and part of the wall were rebuilt. Jesus' ministry was 3.5 years, so His crucifixion was 69 weeks plus 3.5 years, totaling 486.5 years of the 490-year prophecy, leaving only 3.5 years of the 490-year prophecy.
The people of the prince who shall come are those who will destroy the city and the sanctuary. This refers to Titus, the prince, and the Roman army, the people, who destroyed Jerusalem and the temple in AD 70 for their abominations and rejection.
In verse 27, it is in the middle of the 70th week, Jesus' crucifixion causes the sacrifice and oblation to cease, Hebrews 9:12. During the remaining 3.5 years, Jesus was confirming the covenant to Israel through His apostles, as seen in Matthew 15:24, to the Jew first, Romans 1:16, which ended when the leaders of Jerusalem stopped their ears, Acts 7:54-60.
It says, "for the overspreading of abominations, he shall make it desolate." The he in verse 27 refers to Jesus, not an antichrist. The leaders of Jerusalem are the ones who spread the abominations, and Jesus made it desolate, as described in Matthew 23:37-38. Read the entire chapter of Matthew 23.
Day 27 January 27,2025 Matthew 5:14-16 KJV Being a Light West Angeles Church Consecration Calendar
I pray for boldness to reflect God's love and truth to others.
Matthew 5:14 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Jesus Christ is life on earth how to live John 8:12 KJV
God's word la has to be done to all the world.
Matthew 5:15 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY :
" To believe in Jesus Christ laws, rule amd rules to get what you want. To believe when you die you will go to heaven and not he'll. 1 Corinthians 15:34 KJV Romans 10:10 KJV
Jesus Christ is power and effectual. Example House of Prayer Luke 19:46 KJV. Candles lighted by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I believe and God has done for me Ephesians 6:15 KJV giving me peace.
Offered your heart to God. God wants you to be married.
Words you say and believe to actions to be and get reality.
Ways you can be and get what you want-reality. are listen to God's voice amd word to obey, follow, "do it" in speaking , actions, attention of communications.
Example liked by God and preferred by Christian Church named titled disciple.
Disciple definition-Showing the holy bible as life.
Matthew 5:16 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Light shine can also be the revelation of Jesus Christ given to youAlways performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, hope, love.". 1 John 1:2 KJV
I have working history of evangelism street outreach , open Leading Pulpit Prayer hour at Christian Church, Open Teaching Sunday School and Mid-Week bible study service showing Jesus Christ Is God written material inviting men Romans 10:9-10 KJV to all religions-Principle holy. Minister - John 1:14 and with accounting.
John 5:14 Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.
1 John 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
Matthew 19:16 "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Hello Cordellwbeesr, just to share with you my understanding of the relationship between God the Father and Jesus His Son. And to state, this is one of those impossible 'concepts' to understand, simply because we can only (and rightly) read and understand such things based on our ability with human limitatons. Many have tried to illustrate this 'strange' relationship using earthly imagery, such as using the three aspects of the sun or an egg, but even these fail to correctly show us the Truth of divine things.
What Jesus Himself declared to us should be strongly regarded; verses such as John 16:27,28 (Jesus came out from God - out from God's Being); John 17:5 (Jesus had all of God's Glory from the beginning); and John 1:1-14 (God took His Word and gave it flesh; and this was for the purpose of God's Love being shown in offering the perfect & only Sacrifice that could atone for our sins). And there are many other Scriptures that others have given you, which should show us that this Jesus was not just an ordinary human being born with human parents in sin, but was indeed the "second man, the Lord from Heaven" ( 1 Corinthians 15:47) and also called the "last Adam, a quickening (life-giving) spirit" ( 1 Corinthians 15:45).
Yes, Jesus came forth from the Person of God and given flesh for the purpose of being the only Sacrifice that could redeem us back to God. So how does Jesus have "free will" or even "prays to God". Remember, God gave His Word to be made human, so as a Human, Jesus encountered everything we have to face in life, and as a Human, the Glory He had ( John 17:5) had to be laid aside so that He could be like us, suffer and die (for God cannot die); see Philippians 2:5-11 (He was God's equal, He emptied Himself (Gk. kenosis) & took on humanity. Jesus now became God's Son in His Humanity, so He had free will and as a Son prayed to His Father. How can God pray to God, is often asked? These verses quoted should help you in knowing this Truth. GBU.
If your "battle" is with believing that Jesus is God, may I suggest the following scriptures for your consideration:
Genesis 1:1 along with John 1:1-3, Revelation 19:13, Colossians 1:15-17, Matthew 1:23, John 10:30, John 14:9, Mark 2:5-7, John 8:58, John 20:28, Isaiah 9:6, Philippians 2:5-7, Colossians 2:9, 1 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 1:8, 2 Peter 1:1, Revelation 1:8, John 5:18, 1 John 5:20, Luke 24:52, John 9:38, Acts 10:25-26, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 1:3, Revelation 22:13, Micah 5:2, John 17:5, John 1:14. There are more, but these should suffice.
You mention that "Christians say that there is no separation between Christ and God," and that the bible shows otherwise. Jesus said I and my Father are one, and He also said that if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father. This may not mean anything to you, but in the book of Hebrews, Jesus is described as the APOUGASMA (the out beam) of God's glory, God projecting Himself through the time/space factor in the person of Christ. Jesus Christ, being God, was never separated from the source. This is why Jesus can say if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father.
The best example I can give would be taking a flashlight in a dark room and shining it on a wall. The flashlight is the source, and the light is projected on the wall from the source. There is no separation unless the flashlight is turned off. Now, imagine the flashlight being God, and the light shining on the wall is Jesus, again, no separation. Jesus is said to be the true light which came down from heaven, the APOUGASMA of God.
If you are sincerely struggling with the deity of Jesus Christ (Him being God), I hope these scriptures I've provided might help. Also, if you would like, I can share my personal understanding on Matthew 26:39 and Luke 22:42 and why Christ would ask this.
If I may ask, are you a Christian? If so, who do you say Jesus is?
Continuing on with scripture and verse you have referenced about John.
John the Baptist's role is to present Christ to Israel within the framework of prophecy, yet his words carry foreshadows that later unfold in Paul's revelation of the mystery. In John 1:7-9, John comes to bear witness of the Light, pointing Israel to their promised Messiah. This ministry is clearly part of Israel's prophetic program ( Isa. 9:2; Mal. 3:1). Yet the phrase "that all men through him might believe" hints at a wider purpose, though not explained in that time. Gentile inclusion would remain unrevealed until Paul received the dispensation of grace ( Eph. 3:2-6).
In John 1:11-13, Christ "came unto his own, and his own received him not." Israel as a nation largely rejected Him, but a believing remnant received Him by faith and were given authority to become sons of God. This aligns with Israel's covenant hope, not yet the "new creation" Paul later describes in 2 Corinthians 5:17. The rejection, however, sets the stage for salvation to be sent to the Gentiles through Paul's distinct apostleship ( Rom. 11:11-12).
In John 1:29, John identifies Jesus as "the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." Israel expected a sacrificial Lamb to cover their sins ( Isa. 53), but the Spirit expands John's words to point beyond Israel. The phrase "of the world" foreshadows the universal reconciliation later made known through Paul: "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses" ( 2 Cor. 5:19).
Dispensationally, John introduces the Messiah to Israel as their long-promised King, while unknowingly echoing truths that would later be fully revealed through Paul-the gospel of grace, Jew and Gentile made one body, and salvation offered freely apart from law.
I believe I understood you correctly other than you calling me Chris.
However your replies came to my inbox so I'm sure I'm the recipient.
I agree on much you have said but I believe Paul in ( Eph. 3:1-9) includes all the Apostles in the knowledge of the mystery of Christ as seen in verse 5
"Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto HIS HOLY APOSTLES and prophets by the Spirit;
Also in Acts 15:7-11 at the counsel in Jerusalem Peter makes that clear.
In verse 11 Peter says something that suggests that stands out to me concerning future salvation requirements preached by the 11 for their audiences. (Jews)
Vs 11. "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they."
I believe what Peter is saying in the same way the gentiles is saved. We shall be saved in that same manner. faith.
The mystery is that God's plan of salvation now includes Gentiles as well as Jews, uniting them into one body, the Church. Yes I believe that is Paul's primary message to disperse but I believe that mystery was eventually revealed to all the Apostles.
John the baptist also introduced Christ to Israel in a way that he brings forth Christ as this mystery unfolding in John 1:7-9. also in John 1:11-13 and John 1:29.
On to James.
In James I believe he's saying faith is being exhibited by works as proof.
I don't believe he's saying works is required to be contributed to salvation.
It appears that the term progressive has ruffled a few feathers, so let me see if I can shed some clarity on it.
In the King James Bible, the term progressive revelation itself does not appear, but the concept is clearly seen throughout Scripture. In the same way the word Trinity is not in the Bible but the concept is there.
Progressive revelation simply means that God did not reveal all of His truth at once, but unfolded it gradually over time. Each stage of the Bible adds more light, building on what came before.
* Old Testament beginnings: God first revealed Himself to Adam and Eve, then expanded His promises to Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Law of Moses gave Israel knowledge of God's holiness and their need for atonement ( Deut. 29:29).
* Prophets and promises: Through the prophets, God progressively revealed details about the coming Messiah, His kingdom, and the new covenant ( Isa. 9:6-7; Jer. 31:31-34). Yet many truths were still hidden.
* Christ's earthly ministry: In the Gospels, Christ revealed the Father more fully ( John 1:18; Heb. 1:1-2). Still, some things were kept from His disciples until later ( John 16:12-13).
* Paul's writings: Paul speaks of "the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God" but was revealed to him for the Body of Christ ( Eph. 3:1-9; Col. 1:25-26). This shows God unfolding truths at the right time.
* So in the King James Bible, progressive revelation is the unfolding of God's plan across the ages-truths hinted at in earlier times, then revealed more fully later, especially concerning Christ and the mystery given to Paul.
Dear God Father in Heaven, we thank You for all things in Your Holy Name Jesus Christ. We pray for strength and power throughout the days and we know that You do not put more on us than we can handle. Yet we are reminded of our inadequacy as we come to You in our need. We pray for "Richard Lee Misner" that You Lord strengthen his back and give strength to the weakness there. That the pain will go away. We trust that he will be strengthened in the spirit through his worship, praise, and Bible reading. Hallelujah Praise be to God Almighty in the Holy Name of Jesus Christ. Thank you for doing it Lord, Amen. love u in Christ Jesus
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
When Jesus was on earth, as He healed and forgave sins He told them to "go and sin no more". Once you surrender your life totally (with heart mind and soul) to God, He will send you the comforter (Holy Spirit) that will work in and through you to help you do what God ask of you. John 14:15,16 says. "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;".
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
1 John 2:1-6
1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
Calvinism relies on telling a few clever lies to convince their followers of their distorted teaching. The Bible itself refutes their ideology in the following examples:
Did Jesus die for all, yes or no?
1 John 2:2 says YES
John 3:16 says YES
1 Timothy 2:4-6 says YES
2 Corinthians 5:14 says YES
Romans 10:13 says YES
1 John 4:14 says YES
But Calvinists say NO
Scripture saying Jesus did NOT die for all:
[none]
The Word of God says Jesus died for "all" and the "whole world" and "everyone" in those verses above. All means all, and the whole world means the whole world, and everyone means everyone. But cult teachings will try to twist this and say all does NOT mean all, and the whole world does NOT mean the whole world, and everyone does NOT mean everyone. It's like the serpent in the Garden of Eden who said you shall NOT surely die. It's obvious who is on what side by how they either affirm or denounce the scripture.
Those who disobey and intentionally deceive others from the truth put themselves in grave danger of God's wrath.
The 2nd big lie told by some is that people don't have freewill to do anything whatsoever. Some contradict themselves by saying they still sin but isn't their fault, while others say they don't sin at all and are perfect like Jesus, an obvious lie that 1 John 1:8 makes clear. Verses like Joshua 24:15 that say for you to choose (Calvinists deny this means you're not choosing) or for you to open the door (Calvinists deny this means you're opening the door) Revelation 3:20 , John 7:17.
The biggest lie I hear many say about others- they claim others are trying to EARN their own salvation. That lie is straight from Satan. They know its a lie but will spread it anyway. They know that 99% of Christians believe in grace and believe it is a gift, not earned. But just because they believe God gave them a gift of choice like Joshua 24:15 says, they suddenly claim their motives are to "earn" heaven. So dishonest. Beware of wolves!
Number 3, referring to those who start their theology with a doctrine they choose. I understand this as preconceived ideas in our minds that block the truth of scripture. We share the same view: the time of Jacob's trouble will not be seven years, but in Revelation 11:2, it will be; they will tread under foot forty-two months. The kingdom will be established on this earth, an unconditional promise from God, and the land of Israel will be restored.
Just like pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation, and post-tribulation doctrines. Regardless of which is believed, these are doctrines of the rapture of the Church, not about the first resurrection, which scripture says there are only two. These seven years are not explicitly in Revelation but are often associated with a doctrine derived from Daniel 9:27, which is part of the 490-year or 70-week prophecy given to Daniel. This prophecy concerns the people of Israel and Jerusalem, with 490 years allotted for six specific events, and the destruction of the city and temple in vs 26 by the prince, Titus, and the people, the Roman army in 70 AD.
Additionally, verse 25 states that from the commandment, it will be 69 weeks until the Messiah. This occurred in Matthew 3:16, Luke 3:21-22, and was confirmed by Peter in John 1:45. The seven years had already passed when verse 26 states, "after threescore and two weeks shall the Messiah be cut off/crucified. 7 + 62 = 69 weeks. Jesus was anointed, and about 3.5 years later, He was crucified, not for Himself but for us. This was in the middle of the 70th week and ended the need for sacrifice and oblations, Scripture, not doctrine.
The prophecy given to Daniel in Chapter 9 has been fulfilled; the 70 weeks ended when Stephen was killed. Blindness is in part, and the gospel went to the Gentiles until their fullness. The 7 years are only part of the doctrine of the rapture of the Church, not in Scripture.
Thank you for your insight into Romans 11. I truly respect your thoughts and opinions on this important passage. However, I believe that scripture must always be interpreted with scripture. When we attempt to understand a passage without looking at supporting verses, it can open the door to missing the true meaning intended by God. For that reason, I am including my Bible Study, which carefully connects Romans 11 with other passages that shed light on its context and meaning. A casual reading of this Bible Study may not provide the clarity needed, but I believe a sincere and patient study-comparing scripture with scripture-makes Romans 11 crystal clear. Please take time to go through it slowly, as I am convinced the Word will speak for itself. Thank you again for sharing your perspective, and may the Lord continue to guide both of us as we seek His truth.
God bless,
1. Partaking of Israel's Promises
a. Romans 11 speaks of Israel's fall, what takes its place, and Israel's fulness.
b. 11:17-24 - pictures this through two olive trees, broken branches, and a wild graft.
c. Since the church exists now, the most popular identification of the graft is you.
d. This is the primary justification for identifying the church as Israel, spiritual Israel, etc.
e. Much doctrinal confusion come from failing to rightly divide Prophecy and Mystery.
f. Romans 11 is where prophecy and mystery touch (see Rom 11:25-26), but
i. Do we partake of Israel's tree? Do we fit the description of the wild graft?
2. Wild and Broken Israel
a. Israel fell because of unbelief, they rejected Christ - Rom 11:20 (9:32, 10:2-3)
b. Peter speaks of unbelieving Israel and a people coming out of darkness - 1 Pet 2:6-10
c. Hebrews speaks to Israel in disbelief, and a people in the wilderness - Heb 3:12-4:2
d. John spoke of Israel not receiving, but some did receive grace/truth - John 1:11-14
These are dangerous waters but now that I've entered into this topic I want to continue to get as much across as deemed necessary to help those out there going through spiritual battles. I am not worthy; O Lord but how can I not exhort others knowing what is out there and what I have gone through in the past?
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9).
The accuser of our souls has a favorite tactic of entrapping us in sins then enveloping us in fear through accusation and other unpleasant thoughts in our minds. I won't go into the whole list of things here but if you study UFO abductions you see just how awful these things can be. The name of Jesus of course properly executed brings an end to such suffering in many of these situations.
In deliverance whether possession or oppression we must be certain repentance is sought after. Jesus warned about a house being cleaned and 7 demons worse then the first coming to roost ( Matt. 12:45). What does this mean exactly?
THe context with the Pharisees cleaning their outer selves (cups; etc) is likely alluded to here as the wickedness of that generation in general was excoriated. They just finished saying that it was Satan that Jesus was using to cast out demons; the unforgiveable sin. We can't exclude the possibility that a demon may leave from time to time even with an unsaved person as we see with Saul when David played the music as a possible example. Trying to clean our own selves apart from God is the idea; further bolstered by those invoking His name (7 sons of Sceva in Acts) and the demon not recognizing Christ in them and the subsequent result.
In terms of casting out a demon something I consider a necessary task for any Spirit filled believer although some no doubt would dispute that at any rate requres a serious walk in the Spirit. This work isn't for amateurs.
John 5:14 Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.
1 John 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
Matthew 19:16 "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Shall we continue? Previously, I explained Verse 1:1, and now we go to Verse 1:2.
It is in Rev. 1:2 that John explains that he wrote The Gospel According to John. Here is verse 1:2 in chiasmus form:
Who bare record of the word of God,
.....and of the testimony of Jesus Christ,
and of all things that he saw.
The verse structure reveals:
The Word of God, John 1:1-5
.....The Testimony of Jesus Christ, John 21:21-24
Everything between Verses 1:1-5 and Verses 21:21-24
The "testimony of Jesus Christ" is a phrase which is used metaphorically twice in The Book of Revelation, as I recall; once at Rev. 1:9, and secondly at Rev. 19:10. Also, the Savior's literal testimony for The Book of Revelation is stated in the last chapter at Rev. 22:7-20.
So the phrase has both the metaphorical and literal applications.
Additonally, Rev. 1:2 not only establishes the structure of The Gospel According to John, but also that of The Book of Revelation, as follows:
Chapter One shows The Word of God in the vision of the Savior at Rev. 1:12-17
.....Chapter Twenty-Two shows The Testimony of Jesus Christ in Rev. 22:7-20
And Chapters Two through Twenty-One shows all the things that John saw.
There is only one mediation between God and man; the atonement made by the man Jesus Christ.
-- 1 Timothy 2:5 KJV For there is one God, and ONE MEDIATOR BETWEEN GOD AND MEN, THE MAN CHRIST JESUS;
People remain in false religious beliefs as they are fearful of standing alone, of losing family and friends not willing to give all to gain Christ Jesus. They feel safe and secure being in bondage to the laws of the "Church". Christianity is an individual religion, standing alone, hopefully within the brotherhood of others standing alone, steadfast in the faith.
-- 1 Corinthians 16:13 KJV Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
-- 2 Timothy 2:1 KJV Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
It takes great moral strength to remain meek, patient, kind, charitable, in every situation maintaining your trust in the Lord. You only have to contend with one.
-- Hebrews 10:31 KJV It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
--1 John 1:9 KJV If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
(Part 2):
I agree with Giannis that ANOTHEN can mean either "from above" or "from the beginning," so we have to decide which meaning to use in each of the 13 places ANOTHEN is found in the NT.
When I look at Luke 1:3 in a Greek Interlinear Bible, it translates as "from the very first," which can also read from the beginning. I see the same in Acts 26:5. Both places can be translated as "from the beginning."
However, when I take John 3:3, ANOTHEN doesn't translate as the very first or from the beginning, but rather anew (again) and up place (above). So yes, in all 13 places that ANOTHEN is found in the NT, we have to find out if it means "from above" or "from the beginning." In John 3:3, I read it as from above.
In any case, we know that Jesus was not talking about a second physical birth. He was talking about a Spiritual birth from above. A person must experience a spiritual birth to be saved. That's what it means receive Christ.
Thank you pointing out that we must receive (not accept) Christ. We hear a lot today about "accepting" the Lord but there is no place in the bible that tells us that we need to accept the Lord to be saved. To "accept" the Lord means to mentally agree with the truth about Him.
The bible does say receive Christ in John 1:12. To receive Christ means literally to receive His Spirit into our spirit to perform a spiritual birth, and we become a new person.
We become a new creation and God's Spirit is with us from that time throughout eternity. We are motivated by His Spirit, ministered to by His Spirit, protected by His Spirit, guided by His Spirit, and we are provided for by His Spirit. From that time forward, we belong to Christ!
So, being born again, there's a physical birth and then a Spiritual birth. The Spiritual birth is what it means to be born again, and that birth can only come from above!
Blessings!
So, the only way we could understand this encounter with God that Jacob had (even as Moses, Isaiah & Job did; as also Abraham, Jacob, Gideon & Manoah with the Angel of the LORD), is to believe that God had provided these men a glimpse of His Holiness, yet not actually seeing the 'Face' of God. In the matter with Jacob ( Genesis 32:24-30) wrestling this unknown man (where did he come from and why was he even there wrestling?), we can understand this 'man' to be sent by God and through this event, proclaim to Jacob that he would be called 'Israel' (a prince of power that has prevailed with God and men).
There have been other interpretations of "this man": that he was Jesus before His incarnation on Earth, or he was an angel (whether Michael or Gabriel, or another), even a special angel to represent God on Earth to Jacob and also to those others mentioned earlier. However one understands the person & origin of this man, the fact remains that Jacob, and the others, would not have been able to see the Person of God (even as God only revealed His Glory to Moses as He passed by him - Exodus 33:20-23). I believe that Jacob, not only wrestled with a physical man, but understood that this man was sent from Heaven by God & in some way revealed to him something of the Power & Glory of God. And so Jacob called that place, Peniel, a place where he saw God (at least what God revealed to him of Himself) & Jacob was relieved to have survived that encounter.
I hope that goes some way to help you understand that Jacob, and the others, would not have seen the Person of God, but what God chose to reveal to them of His Glory, Majesty, and Power - and this revelation was to them as if they had encountered God in Person.
I understand your reasoning in what you say "that image has been so lost and marred by the fall of man and of sin it'
I held that view also but Genesis 9:6 bothered me.
I do believe we are born sons of Adam and have to be born again to become sons of God.
John 1:11-13 reads, "He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
I don't believe being made in the image and after likeness of God is the same as becoming the sons of God.
Did man have to be redeemed or restored back to the position Adam had before the fall, perhaps to the image and likeness or "perfection" he had before the fall?
Was Adam perfect in a way he couldn't fall? No.
Was Adam covered by the blood of the lamb at birth? No, when Adam sinned, he died!
As sons of God, we cannot fall! We have eternal life NOW!
Adam was given dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
Adam lost that and ALL of creation has been cursed until this day.
We have been justified but have yet to be glorified.
We along with all creation awaits to be fully redeemed. "That's when our body's will be redeemed.
Romans 8:17-23.
Being made in the image and likeness of God was Adam's makeup, not his eternal state.
Christ was projected to come into the world as the Lamb to take away the sins of the whole world before Adam's transgression.
Blessings.
I believe you're right in that we must be born again but I don't believe that's to become "made in the image of God.
I believe that's to become "son's of God"
I believe man being made in the image of God speaks of man made as a triune being.
In Genesis 1:26 God said, Let us make man in our image, AFTER OUR LIKENESS.
Adam and Eve was created in the image of God and I believe Gentiles 9:6 suggests that image and likeness was and is inherited in the Son's of Adam, which we are!
We have to be born again to become son's of God. John 1:12.
Even here the word "son" is not a direct "Son" of God used for Adam and the Angels in the original language.
Blessings.
Yes, you are correct and adding to what you've said.. Acts 2:38 was spoken by Peter to Israel in response to their guilt for crucifying their own Messiah. When they were "pricked in their heart" (v. 37), Peter told them to repent and be baptized-not as a ritual for the Gentiles, but as a national call for Israel to acknowledge Jesus as the Christ they had rejected ( Acts 2:36). Baptism here was a public confession that Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah ( John 1:31). It offered entrance into the kingdom program still being preached to Israel, not the body of Christ later revealed through Paul.
G&P
John and the Twelve baptized because God commanded a covenant sign that prepared Israel for the nearness of the promised kingdom. John's mission was prophetic and God-sent: he came to make the Lord's paths straight ( Isa 40:3; Mal 3:1; Matt 3:3), and "He that sent me to baptize with water" defined his work ( John 1:33). His baptism was "of repentance for the remission of sins" ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3), publicly separating a believing remnant and manifesting the Messiah to Israel ( John 1:31). This fit Israel's priestly calling and cleansing types-washings consecrated service ( Exod 29:4; Lev 8:6), and prophets promised national purification ( Ezek 36:25; cf. Heb 9:10). Jesus then authorized the apostles to carry this forward in the kingdom gospel: "make disciplesbaptizing" ( Matt 28:19; Mark 16:15-16). At Pentecost Peter summoned Israel: "Repent, and be baptizedfor the remission of sins," with the gift of the Spirit and the hope of restoration ( Acts 2:38-41; 3:19-21). In Acts, water baptism identified penitents with the crucified and risen Christ, marked them off from unbelieving Israel, and was confirmed by signs, for "the Jews require a sign" ( Acts 8:12-17; 10:47-48; 22:16; 1 Cor 1:22; cf. Mark 16:17-18). With the later revelation of the Body of Christ, the saving baptism is the Spirit's work-placing believers into one Body apart from rites ( Eph 4:5; 1 Cor 12:13; Titus 3:5). Therefore Paul could say, "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17). In sum, John and the apostles baptized in obedience within Israel's kingdom program-repentance, cleansing, identification, and Spirit-attested entry into the remnant-while today the "one baptism" that saves is the Spirit's, not water ( Eph 2:8-9). This preserves Israel's covenant logic with today's grace-salvation rests on Christ's cross-work by faith - not rites, while water witnessed repentance in Israel.
G&P
Exactly right. John's baptism was not a man-made ritual borrowed from Jewish tradition but a direct command from God for a specific purpose in His prophetic plan. John 1:33 makes that clear: "He that sent me to baptize with water"-God Himself commissioned John to prepare Israel for their coming Messiah. It was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3), identifying a believing remnant within the nation who would be ready to receive their King.
But that baptism belonged to Israel's prophetic program, not to what is revealed later through Paul. John's ministry called Israel to repentance and national cleansing before the promised kingdom could be established on earth. It was a shadow of the future when the nation will be washed and restored ( Ezekiel 36:25-27). Yet once Christ's death and resurrection were accomplished, God began a new work-offering salvation to all, Jew and Gentile alike, not through water or outward sign, but by faith alone in the finished work of the cross.
Paul declares that there is now "one baptism" ( Ephesians 4:5), not of water, but by the Spirit into the body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 12:13). This spiritual baptism identifies believers with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection ( Romans 6:3-4). John's commission looked forward to an earthly kingdom; Paul's gospel looks upward to a heavenly calling. Both were from God, but each served its divine purpose in its proper time. I would love to hear your thoughts on the truths laid out before you.
G&P
To answer your question about the first disciple to follow Jesus, you can read that account in John 1:35-40, the day after Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. And that disciple was Andrew, who in turn searched out his brother Simon, telling him to come with him as he had found the Messiah. Now there is another account in Matthew 4:18-20 which also states that Andrew & Simon were seen by Jesus, as they were mending their fishing nets. In this account, they left everything and followed Jesus.
But in respect of the chronology of events, it seems that the John chap 1 reference is the first meeting, as Jesus had first been baptized by John the Baptist & met Andrew & Simon, then after Jesus' temptation by Satan in the wilderness, He saw Andrew & Simon by the Sea of Galilee with their nets and now they followed Him ( Matthew 4:18-20). It was at this point that Andrew & Simon left all for Jesus. I hope that brings things into perspective.
If, after reading through all the Gospels, you want to re-read them in chronological order (i.e. events according to the order they occurred), then you could get hold of a "Harmony of the Gospels". If your Bible doesn't have one, then do a web search for that phrase and I would recommend the one that Blue Letter Bible produces; a different way of going through the Life and times of Jesus. Blessings.
How do we begin? The 7-year tribulation is taken from the 490-year prophecy in Daniel 9:25-27. The he in Daniel 9:27 is said to be the antichrist, who will make a 3.5-year peace treaty with Israel. Midway through this week, he will cause the abomination that makes desolate, leading to 3.5 years of great tribulation.
In verse 25, it states there will be 69 weeks from the commandment to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Messiah, 483 years. This was fulfilled when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit, as seen in Matthew 3:13-17. Jesus confirms His identity as the Messiah in Luke 3:16-21, and John denies being the Christ but speaks of Jesus in John 1:33-34.
Daniel 9:26 states that after sixty-two weeks, the Messiah will be cut off. The 7 weeks, or 49 years, had already passed, a period during which the temple and part of the wall were rebuilt. Jesus' ministry was 3.5 years, so His crucifixion was 69 weeks plus 3.5 years, totaling 486.5 years of the 490-year prophecy, leaving only 3.5 years of the 490-year prophecy.
The people of the prince who shall come are those who will destroy the city and the sanctuary. This refers to Titus, the prince, and the Roman army, the people, who destroyed Jerusalem and the temple in AD 70 for their abominations and rejection.
In verse 27, it is in the middle of the 70th week, Jesus' crucifixion causes the sacrifice and oblation to cease, Hebrews 9:12. During the remaining 3.5 years, Jesus was confirming the covenant to Israel through His apostles, as seen in Matthew 15:24, to the Jew first, Romans 1:16, which ended when the leaders of Jerusalem stopped their ears, Acts 7:54-60.
It says, "for the overspreading of abominations, he shall make it desolate." The he in verse 27 refers to Jesus, not an antichrist. The leaders of Jerusalem are the ones who spread the abominations, and Jesus made it desolate, as described in Matthew 23:37-38. Read the entire chapter of Matthew 23.
See part 2.
Mat I ask what does fall away means to you?
Are you saying this person abandoned or now reject the Christian faith?
You will find different options on someone falling away.
My understanding is if you recieved Christ you can't get rid of him.
If this person has truly received Christ and fell into some sort of sin then 1 John 1:9 would be adequate.
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
You said "for a while is what worries me.
That should cause one to examine themself.
God won't let his children continue in sin.
There's others here that can help but it might take some opening up on your part.
Blessings.
I pray for boldness to reflect God's love and truth to others.
Matthew 5:14 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Jesus Christ is life on earth how to live John 8:12 KJV
God's word la has to be done to all the world.
Matthew 5:15 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY :
" To believe in Jesus Christ laws, rule amd rules to get what you want. To believe when you die you will go to heaven and not he'll. 1 Corinthians 15:34 KJV Romans 10:10 KJV
Jesus Christ is power and effectual. Example House of Prayer Luke 19:46 KJV. Candles lighted by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I believe and God has done for me Ephesians 6:15 KJV giving me peace.
Offered your heart to God. God wants you to be married.
Words you say and believe to actions to be and get reality.
Ways you can be and get what you want-reality. are listen to God's voice amd word to obey, follow, "do it" in speaking , actions, attention of communications.
Example liked by God and preferred by Christian Church named titled disciple.
Disciple definition-Showing the holy bible as life.
Matthew 5:16 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" Light shine can also be the revelation of Jesus Christ given to youAlways performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, hope, love.". 1 John 1:2 KJV
I have working history of evangelism street outreach , open Leading Pulpit Prayer hour at Christian Church, Open Teaching Sunday School and Mid-Week bible study service showing Jesus Christ Is God written material inviting men Romans 10:9-10 KJV to all religions-Principle holy. Minister - John 1:14 and with accounting.
Word Spoken and Written by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
John 5:14 Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.
1 John 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
Matthew 19:16 "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Blessings
What Jesus Himself declared to us should be strongly regarded; verses such as John 16:27,28 (Jesus came out from God - out from God's Being); John 17:5 (Jesus had all of God's Glory from the beginning); and John 1:1-14 (God took His Word and gave it flesh; and this was for the purpose of God's Love being shown in offering the perfect & only Sacrifice that could atone for our sins). And there are many other Scriptures that others have given you, which should show us that this Jesus was not just an ordinary human being born with human parents in sin, but was indeed the "second man, the Lord from Heaven" ( 1 Corinthians 15:47) and also called the "last Adam, a quickening (life-giving) spirit" ( 1 Corinthians 15:45).
Yes, Jesus came forth from the Person of God and given flesh for the purpose of being the only Sacrifice that could redeem us back to God. So how does Jesus have "free will" or even "prays to God". Remember, God gave His Word to be made human, so as a Human, Jesus encountered everything we have to face in life, and as a Human, the Glory He had ( John 17:5) had to be laid aside so that He could be like us, suffer and die (for God cannot die); see Philippians 2:5-11 (He was God's equal, He emptied Himself (Gk. kenosis) & took on humanity. Jesus now became God's Son in His Humanity, so He had free will and as a Son prayed to His Father. How can God pray to God, is often asked? These verses quoted should help you in knowing this Truth. GBU.
a very clear picture can be drawn out of those scriptures!
God said he will not give his glory to another here in Isaiah 42:8
"I am the lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.
However Immanuel! came out of the bosom of the Father and was manifested in the flesh!!
Matthew 1:23.
John 1:18.
1 Timothy 3:16.
He shared that Glory!
John 17:5 "and now, o father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.
Undeniably God!!
Blessings!
If your "battle" is with believing that Jesus is God, may I suggest the following scriptures for your consideration:
Genesis 1:1 along with John 1:1-3, Revelation 19:13, Colossians 1:15-17, Matthew 1:23, John 10:30, John 14:9, Mark 2:5-7, John 8:58, John 20:28, Isaiah 9:6, Philippians 2:5-7, Colossians 2:9, 1 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 1:8, 2 Peter 1:1, Revelation 1:8, John 5:18, 1 John 5:20, Luke 24:52, John 9:38, Acts 10:25-26, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 1:3, Revelation 22:13, Micah 5:2, John 17:5, John 1:14. There are more, but these should suffice.
You mention that "Christians say that there is no separation between Christ and God," and that the bible shows otherwise. Jesus said I and my Father are one, and He also said that if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father. This may not mean anything to you, but in the book of Hebrews, Jesus is described as the APOUGASMA (the out beam) of God's glory, God projecting Himself through the time/space factor in the person of Christ. Jesus Christ, being God, was never separated from the source. This is why Jesus can say if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father.
The best example I can give would be taking a flashlight in a dark room and shining it on a wall. The flashlight is the source, and the light is projected on the wall from the source. There is no separation unless the flashlight is turned off. Now, imagine the flashlight being God, and the light shining on the wall is Jesus, again, no separation. Jesus is said to be the true light which came down from heaven, the APOUGASMA of God.
If you are sincerely struggling with the deity of Jesus Christ (Him being God), I hope these scriptures I've provided might help. Also, if you would like, I can share my personal understanding on Matthew 26:39 and Luke 22:42 and why Christ would ask this.
If I may ask, are you a Christian? If so, who do you say Jesus is?
John the Baptist's role is to present Christ to Israel within the framework of prophecy, yet his words carry foreshadows that later unfold in Paul's revelation of the mystery. In John 1:7-9, John comes to bear witness of the Light, pointing Israel to their promised Messiah. This ministry is clearly part of Israel's prophetic program ( Isa. 9:2; Mal. 3:1). Yet the phrase "that all men through him might believe" hints at a wider purpose, though not explained in that time. Gentile inclusion would remain unrevealed until Paul received the dispensation of grace ( Eph. 3:2-6).
In John 1:11-13, Christ "came unto his own, and his own received him not." Israel as a nation largely rejected Him, but a believing remnant received Him by faith and were given authority to become sons of God. This aligns with Israel's covenant hope, not yet the "new creation" Paul later describes in 2 Corinthians 5:17. The rejection, however, sets the stage for salvation to be sent to the Gentiles through Paul's distinct apostleship ( Rom. 11:11-12).
In John 1:29, John identifies Jesus as "the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." Israel expected a sacrificial Lamb to cover their sins ( Isa. 53), but the Spirit expands John's words to point beyond Israel. The phrase "of the world" foreshadows the universal reconciliation later made known through Paul: "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses" ( 2 Cor. 5:19).
Dispensationally, John introduces the Messiah to Israel as their long-promised King, while unknowingly echoing truths that would later be fully revealed through Paul-the gospel of grace, Jew and Gentile made one body, and salvation offered freely apart from law.
Thanks for responding.
I believe I understood you correctly other than you calling me Chris.
However your replies came to my inbox so I'm sure I'm the recipient.
I agree on much you have said but I believe Paul in ( Eph. 3:1-9) includes all the Apostles in the knowledge of the mystery of Christ as seen in verse 5
"Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto HIS HOLY APOSTLES and prophets by the Spirit;
Also in Acts 15:7-11 at the counsel in Jerusalem Peter makes that clear.
In verse 11 Peter says something that suggests that stands out to me concerning future salvation requirements preached by the 11 for their audiences. (Jews)
Vs 11. "But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they."
I believe what Peter is saying in the same way the gentiles is saved. We shall be saved in that same manner. faith.
The mystery is that God's plan of salvation now includes Gentiles as well as Jews, uniting them into one body, the Church. Yes I believe that is Paul's primary message to disperse but I believe that mystery was eventually revealed to all the Apostles.
John the baptist also introduced Christ to Israel in a way that he brings forth Christ as this mystery unfolding in John 1:7-9. also in John 1:11-13 and John 1:29.
On to James.
In James I believe he's saying faith is being exhibited by works as proof.
I don't believe he's saying works is required to be contributed to salvation.
That is what's meant in James 2:18.
"I will shew thee my faith by my works"
Blessings.
It appears that the term progressive has ruffled a few feathers, so let me see if I can shed some clarity on it.
In the King James Bible, the term progressive revelation itself does not appear, but the concept is clearly seen throughout Scripture. In the same way the word Trinity is not in the Bible but the concept is there.
Progressive revelation simply means that God did not reveal all of His truth at once, but unfolded it gradually over time. Each stage of the Bible adds more light, building on what came before.
* Old Testament beginnings: God first revealed Himself to Adam and Eve, then expanded His promises to Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Law of Moses gave Israel knowledge of God's holiness and their need for atonement ( Deut. 29:29).
* Prophets and promises: Through the prophets, God progressively revealed details about the coming Messiah, His kingdom, and the new covenant ( Isa. 9:6-7; Jer. 31:31-34). Yet many truths were still hidden.
* Christ's earthly ministry: In the Gospels, Christ revealed the Father more fully ( John 1:18; Heb. 1:1-2). Still, some things were kept from His disciples until later ( John 16:12-13).
* Paul's writings: Paul speaks of "the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God" but was revealed to him for the Body of Christ ( Eph. 3:1-9; Col. 1:25-26). This shows God unfolding truths at the right time.
* So in the King James Bible, progressive revelation is the unfolding of God's plan across the ages-truths hinted at in earlier times, then revealed more fully later, especially concerning Christ and the mystery given to Paul.
Please see Pg 2
John 1:29-34
When Jesus was on earth, as He healed and forgave sins He told them to "go and sin no more". Once you surrender your life totally (with heart mind and soul) to God, He will send you the comforter (Holy Spirit) that will work in and through you to help you do what God ask of you. John 14:15,16 says. "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;".
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
1 John 2:1-6
1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
Did Jesus die for all, yes or no?
1 John 2:2 says YES
John 3:16 says YES
1 Timothy 2:4-6 says YES
2 Corinthians 5:14 says YES
Romans 10:13 says YES
1 John 4:14 says YES
But Calvinists say NO
Scripture saying Jesus did NOT die for all:
[none]
The Word of God says Jesus died for "all" and the "whole world" and "everyone" in those verses above. All means all, and the whole world means the whole world, and everyone means everyone. But cult teachings will try to twist this and say all does NOT mean all, and the whole world does NOT mean the whole world, and everyone does NOT mean everyone. It's like the serpent in the Garden of Eden who said you shall NOT surely die. It's obvious who is on what side by how they either affirm or denounce the scripture.
Those who disobey and intentionally deceive others from the truth put themselves in grave danger of God's wrath.
The 2nd big lie told by some is that people don't have freewill to do anything whatsoever. Some contradict themselves by saying they still sin but isn't their fault, while others say they don't sin at all and are perfect like Jesus, an obvious lie that 1 John 1:8 makes clear. Verses like Joshua 24:15 that say for you to choose (Calvinists deny this means you're not choosing) or for you to open the door (Calvinists deny this means you're opening the door) Revelation 3:20 , John 7:17.
The biggest lie I hear many say about others- they claim others are trying to EARN their own salvation. That lie is straight from Satan. They know its a lie but will spread it anyway. They know that 99% of Christians believe in grace and believe it is a gift, not earned. But just because they believe God gave them a gift of choice like Joshua 24:15 says, they suddenly claim their motives are to "earn" heaven. So dishonest. Beware of wolves!
Thank you.
Number 3, referring to those who start their theology with a doctrine they choose. I understand this as preconceived ideas in our minds that block the truth of scripture. We share the same view: the time of Jacob's trouble will not be seven years, but in Revelation 11:2, it will be; they will tread under foot forty-two months. The kingdom will be established on this earth, an unconditional promise from God, and the land of Israel will be restored.
Just like pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation, and post-tribulation doctrines. Regardless of which is believed, these are doctrines of the rapture of the Church, not about the first resurrection, which scripture says there are only two. These seven years are not explicitly in Revelation but are often associated with a doctrine derived from Daniel 9:27, which is part of the 490-year or 70-week prophecy given to Daniel. This prophecy concerns the people of Israel and Jerusalem, with 490 years allotted for six specific events, and the destruction of the city and temple in vs 26 by the prince, Titus, and the people, the Roman army in 70 AD.
Additionally, verse 25 states that from the commandment, it will be 69 weeks until the Messiah. This occurred in Matthew 3:16, Luke 3:21-22, and was confirmed by Peter in John 1:45. The seven years had already passed when verse 26 states, "after threescore and two weeks shall the Messiah be cut off/crucified. 7 + 62 = 69 weeks. Jesus was anointed, and about 3.5 years later, He was crucified, not for Himself but for us. This was in the middle of the 70th week and ended the need for sacrifice and oblations, Scripture, not doctrine.
The prophecy given to Daniel in Chapter 9 has been fulfilled; the 70 weeks ended when Stephen was killed. Blindness is in part, and the gospel went to the Gentiles until their fullness. The 7 years are only part of the doctrine of the rapture of the Church, not in Scripture.
God bless,
RLW
e. Much doctrinal confusion come from failing to rightly divide Prophecy and Mystery.
f. Romans 11 is where prophecy and mystery touch (see Rom 11:25-26), but
i. Do we partake of Israel's tree? Do we fit the description of the wild graft?
2. Wild and Broken Israel
a. Israel fell because of unbelief, they rejected Christ - Rom 11:20 (9:32, 10:2-3)
b. Peter speaks of unbelieving Israel and a people coming out of darkness - 1 Pet 2:6-10
c. Hebrews speaks to Israel in disbelief, and a people in the wilderness - Heb 3:12-4:2
d. John spoke of Israel not receiving, but some did receive grace/truth - John 1:11-14
e. Jesus spoke of being the vine, branches abiding in him, others broken - John 15:1-6
f. Jesus said the kingdom would be removed from blind Israel, given to"IMPORTANT" A NATION... Matt 21:33-43
g. Hosea - Israel becomes 'not my people', then receives mercy - Hos 1:9-10
h. Jeremiah wrote of Judah becoming a degenerate plant - Jer 11:16, 2:21
i. Isaiah spoke of God's fruitful plant becoming wild - Isaiah 5:2-4
j. Isaiah also spoke of a root and light coming to Gentiles - Isa 11:10, 42:6, 49:6
k. Ezekiel spoke of grafting branches of Judah and Israel together - Eze 37:16-20
l. Paul spoke already of Israel's two vessels of wrath & remnant - Rom 9:21-24, 11:5-7
m. If you struggle with the New Covenant, Hebrews, John, 'not my people', Calvinism, two
houses of Israel, MMLJ you will end up thinking we are the grafted in branches.
3. Looking Closer at the Graft
a. To get an understanding of the passage, people tend to summarize or tell stories.
i. Jews had God's blessing, but now Gentiles which leads to Israel's salvation.
b. Summarizing is good, unless it overlooks important details.
i. The roots/trees/branches already existed before the graft (prophesied) 11:18
ii. The graft is personal: "and thou" "if thou boast" " fear" - 11:18-19
iii. The graft stands by faith (the same faith that the broken refused) 11:20
see page 3
Thank you for your insight into Romans 11. I truly respect your thoughts and opinions on this important passage. However, I believe that scripture must always be interpreted with scripture. When we attempt to understand a passage without looking at supporting verses, it can open the door to missing the true meaning intended by God. For that reason, I am including my Bible Study, which carefully connects Romans 11 with other passages that shed light on its context and meaning. A casual reading of this Bible Study may not provide the clarity needed, but I believe a sincere and patient study-comparing scripture with scripture-makes Romans 11 crystal clear. Please take time to go through it slowly, as I am convinced the Word will speak for itself. Thank you again for sharing your perspective, and may the Lord continue to guide both of us as we seek His truth.
God bless,
1. Partaking of Israel's Promises
a. Romans 11 speaks of Israel's fall, what takes its place, and Israel's fulness.
b. 11:17-24 - pictures this through two olive trees, broken branches, and a wild graft.
c. Since the church exists now, the most popular identification of the graft is you.
d. This is the primary justification for identifying the church as Israel, spiritual Israel, etc.
e. Much doctrinal confusion come from failing to rightly divide Prophecy and Mystery.
f. Romans 11 is where prophecy and mystery touch (see Rom 11:25-26), but
i. Do we partake of Israel's tree? Do we fit the description of the wild graft?
2. Wild and Broken Israel
a. Israel fell because of unbelief, they rejected Christ - Rom 11:20 (9:32, 10:2-3)
b. Peter speaks of unbelieving Israel and a people coming out of darkness - 1 Pet 2:6-10
c. Hebrews speaks to Israel in disbelief, and a people in the wilderness - Heb 3:12-4:2
d. John spoke of Israel not receiving, but some did receive grace/truth - John 1:11-14
see page 2
Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof
1 John 1:6 "If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:"
Blessings
These are dangerous waters but now that I've entered into this topic I want to continue to get as much across as deemed necessary to help those out there going through spiritual battles. I am not worthy; O Lord but how can I not exhort others knowing what is out there and what I have gone through in the past?
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9).
The accuser of our souls has a favorite tactic of entrapping us in sins then enveloping us in fear through accusation and other unpleasant thoughts in our minds. I won't go into the whole list of things here but if you study UFO abductions you see just how awful these things can be. The name of Jesus of course properly executed brings an end to such suffering in many of these situations.
In deliverance whether possession or oppression we must be certain repentance is sought after. Jesus warned about a house being cleaned and 7 demons worse then the first coming to roost ( Matt. 12:45). What does this mean exactly?
THe context with the Pharisees cleaning their outer selves (cups; etc) is likely alluded to here as the wickedness of that generation in general was excoriated. They just finished saying that it was Satan that Jesus was using to cast out demons; the unforgiveable sin. We can't exclude the possibility that a demon may leave from time to time even with an unsaved person as we see with Saul when David played the music as a possible example. Trying to clean our own selves apart from God is the idea; further bolstered by those invoking His name (7 sons of Sceva in Acts) and the demon not recognizing Christ in them and the subsequent result.
In terms of casting out a demon something I consider a necessary task for any Spirit filled believer although some no doubt would dispute that at any rate requres a serious walk in the Spirit. This work isn't for amateurs.
1 John 1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
Matthew 19:16 "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"
Matthew 19:17 "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
Blessings