I believe the level of fruitfulness behind the works of a believer is important. The purpose behind the action, Is it inward or an outward performance of self glory or righteousness. As the Lord said to the Pharisees.
" Matthew 23:26. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also."
As well as obedience to the will of God.
Luke 12:47-48. And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.
But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
I believe a non believer will be judged by their deeds APART from the atonement of the provided sacrificial Lamb of God.
Possibly divided by what by what they heard or seen.
Luke 10:13-16. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.
But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you.
And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell.
He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.
The final casting out did not occur until after the birth of Christ ( Rev. 12:1-5) and during the days of John the Baptist ( Matt. 11:12). It was then that the adversary began a civil war in heaven, and following his defeat there was a final casting out along with his followers ( Luke 10:18; Rev. 12:7-9); and he is in a state of rage because he knows he will be shortly bound in the bottomless pit ( Rev. 20:1). The restraints upon him during the Old Testament are no longer in place. However, the elect are protected because of the specific prayer request of Christ in John 17:18.
I just have a few questions for you. First of all, in Luke 10:19, the word hurt is the word injustice, not hurt as in physical harm. In Luke 9:1-2, we see that Jesus called His twelve disciples and gave (them) power and authority, and power to heal the sick. Does it say anywhere else that He gave the same power to all believers?
In Mark 16:17, are the "them" and "they" not the twelve? Because we are told in Hebrews 2:2 that when the apostles went out and preached, that there were signs that followed in order to establish the apostles preaching as the gospel of God. Isn't that what he is saying in Mark 16:17?
Last question is where you say that this power and authority only works if we believe in faith. Are you saying that if a believer commands in faith through Christ, and something does not happen, that the believer is the blame because he/she lacks faith? If so, that is not biblical. There is no such thing as a believer who is born of God's Spirit lacking faith when we fully understand the true definition of faith. No such thing!
We must learn this to protect others and pray for them - 3 years ago
Knowing our authority
To pray for our loved ones we need to come against the enemy and pray that they would receive the truth. To come against the enemy, we need to first know what our power and authority is in Jesus.
Behold, I give unto you authority to tread over ALL the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you ( Luke 10:19). Authority is delegated power.
Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick ( Luke 9:1, 2).
For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants ( Mark 13:34).
In my name shall they cast out devils ( Mark 16:17).
What power and authority do these four verses say that Christ gave us? He gave us "All power and authority" over the enemy. Christ has given us His power and authority over Satan and his kingdom. However, it only works if we believe in faith and command in faith through Christ. When we come against Satan in faith, in the name of Jesus, Satan must obey. If you do not believe, if you have little faith, Satan knows, and will not listen to you. While Satan may not obey us, he must obey the authority of Jesus that we have been given and that we are operating in.
And who are we that Christ should give us such authority? you are a son (daughter); and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir ( Gal 4:7).
Comment: it is the authority Christ imparted to us, that we use to subdue enemies and cast their invisible selves into dry places of outer darkness. Never to return! Ephesians 6.
Building Up The Body of Jesus Christ - In Reply - 3 years ago
Hi Carolyn. If we have needs, we're to stop by the Church office and make known our needs. I worked in 'benevolence' in a church for 3 yrs.
If you read through gifts, Ministries, helps; God has called people to help others. To be the body of Christ on this earth.
Someday we'll be in heaven and all Christians will attend the Bema Seat Judgment handled by Jesus. No one goes to hell. They lose rewards.
1 Corinthians 3:9-15
2 Corinthians 4:13
According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for THE DAY shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a REWARD. (Search: 5 Crowns)
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself SHALL BE SAVED, yet so as by fire.
COMMENT:
Question we ask ourselves honestly: what are we building with?
Are we building up the Body of Christ?
Jesus: we are to be imitating; doing. If we can't Go Ye, then maybe equip those that are? Commit to pray for the laborers to be sent into the Harvest? Luke 10:2
Isaiah 61:1-3, Psalm 147:1-3, Luke 4:18-21
* Matthew 25: 31-46*
I don't know anyone who gets it right all of the time. I don't. There are many great needs these days, and it's going to get worse. We elected leadership that does not know what a budget is for. Step 1: Make your requests known to God.
I'll post the 4 Horsemen of Revelation tomorrow. Book of Revelation will commence whether we believe it or not. Google Lists. Lots of people really work hard on making scripture easier to read.
Sister Nancy, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and His understanding.
2 Peter 1:20 Knowing this FIRST, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
This says you can't take one verse and come to truth, you have to combine verses from other parts of scripture to know the message.
I suppose you are making reference to Revelation 12 where Satan was cast from heaven. Let's put other verses with this and see if truth appears.
Matthew 12:28 But if I CAST OUT DEVILS by the Spirit of GOD, then the kingdom of God is COME UNTO YOU.
Christ is casting out Satan so he can dwell IN YOU (THE NEW HEAVEN).
Revelation 21:1 And I saw a new heaven... Colossians 1:27 ...this MYSTERY, Christ in you....
Revelation 12:7 And there was WAR IN HEAVEN (Spirit vs. flesh) (in you) Michael (Spirit) and his angels fought against the dragon (flesh); and the dragon fought and his angels.
Revelation 12:8 And (flesh, dragon and his angels) prevailed not; neither was their (dragon and his angels) place found ANY MORE IN HEAVEN (in you where Christ dwells).
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was CAST OUT (if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God), that old serpent (that deceived Eve), called the devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the WHOLE WORLD; he was CAST OUT....
Revelation 12:10 And I heard a loud voice (truth) saying in heaven (in you), Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of HIS CHRIST....
Luke 10:17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.
Luke 10:18 And he said to them, I beheld SATAN as lightning falling from heaven (those that Satan was CAST OUT OF).
As I am looking forward to a reply from Earl I want to make another post. No rush Earl you have stated your situation.
As Adam has stated in another post I cannot see ALL being saved in the end as how many Scriptures there are about people going to eternal damnation or "Hell". Some can't see a loving God be like this to people for say only sinning in the span of their physical life. Though I don't think anyone can perceive how serious sin is to a Perfect, Pure, Almighty God. Also in that it is not the pleasure of God that any should perish. The Lord will not turn away any that truly come to Him. Then on the day of Judgement when the books are opened. People may be shown how many times in their lives God has tried to lead them to Salvation in Jesus Christ and repentance of sins. Maybe just repentance before the Lord came to earth. All up to Him as He is fair.
So here are a couple more Scriptures I find that solidify this. Even at the end of Isaiah 66:23-24. Speaking of all flesh coming to worship Him though just the next verse it speaks of how bad it will be for those who are against Him. Daniel 12:2, Psalms 9:17, 2 Timothy 2:12, Hebrews 6:8, 1 Peter 4:17-19, 2 Peter 3:7. Our names written in Heaven which does not seem to be for all Luke 10:20.
How Jesus Christ spake of a "Hell" and tried to warn people of it a lot. A place of "wailing and gnashing of teeth". Eternal punishment as those who are saved eternal life. The same Greek word used "aionios" for "everlasting or without beginning or end".
The story of Lazarus and there being two places separate from each other after death. Luke 16:20-31.
Weather it be sheol, hades, gehenna, tartarus, or just hell I want nothing to do with any of those places. I believe God loves us so much He sent us these warnings in that we do not have to go there. Though if any reject Him He will not force anyone to be with Him.
A good saying. "If you are born twice(born again in the Spirit) you die once, born once die twice".
Dear Carol, If I may expand on Jesse's comment. Jesus warned the Jews that if they rejected (blasphemed) the Holy Ghost they would not be forgiven. He prayed for their rejection of himself on the cross, interceding for them, with the Father because they did not understand what they were doing. Israel later rejected the Holy Ghost's witness through Stephen (see Acts 7) and committed blasphemy against the Holy Ghost through Stephen. God then set them aside for judgment and raised another Apostle of for this age until the time of the Gentiles be full. God will then fulfill his promises to Israel for the future Kingdom. It is the Holy Ghost that witnesses to us today through His word. If we reject His word we condemn ourselves. Jesse is right about what it means for us today. We commit blasphemy of the Holy Ghost by rejection of Christ alone for our salvation. There is no other sin that has not already been, is or will be not covered by the faith of Christ for us today.
Blasphemy is a word that is used to expresses rejection. This would be a person who refuses to gather with Christ in the whole process of the testimony of God's Spirit. If they reject God's Spirit, and His persuasion, and His conviction over their life, they cannot be forgiven for that. A person can be forgiven for everything else.
But if a person rejects the testimony of God's Spirit that is convicting them of their need for Christ, and their need to be saved, if they reject that, there is no forgiveness.
The sin problem has been dealt with. It's been paid for. Jesus Christ died for the sins of the world. So salvation has been paid for. Christ paid the penalty for sin by shedding His blood for the remission of sin. But if a person rejects that salvation, they are rejecting Christ. Salvation is a gift from God. He died for the sins of the whole world. If a person rejects that, they are rejecting the conviction of God's Spirit showing them their need for Christ. That is what it means to blaspheme the Holy Spirit.
Hi Jesse, I'd like to offer a different perspective on your comment:
>"So a doer of the word in my understanding doesn't mean that I take my bible and go out and do it"
If the good Samaritan followed this advice he would not have stopped to help the injured man. Luke 10:25-37 Maybe he would have walked on by because he already knew who he was in his own mind, and didn't want to risk being 'legalistic' or obedient, as if that's a bad thing. Reminds me of a Pharisee- who felt self-righteous but didn't have good deeds as fruit that show their faith in action.
Matt 25:40 comes to mind: "...as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
The push to not be obedient or do good works seems contradictory to this verse: James 1:22 and so many others throughout the Bible - would God tell us we don't need to obey Him and to not do what He says, or would someone else be behind this? Who is the most likely source that tells us that being good is bad and doing bad is good?
Matthew 25 and basically most of Jesus' parables were about the same thing: being prepared, because a day will come and we will be separated and judged and accountable for our actions. The foolish virgins were unprepared and did nothing. The bag of gold parable Jesus called the one who did nothing but hid the gold "wicked and slothful." Jesus said about the ones who did nothing (no works) to help others sent them to hell: Matt 25:44-46
Jesus also said about obedience: John 14:15.
To anyone claiming good deeds and works is 'bad' notice that the Bible is full of instruction to do good deeds and works. One would have to ignore nearly the entire Bible in order to come to such a conclusion. If our actions didn't' matter then the Bible wouldn't have continually said it DOES matter and we will literally be judged for it. We are saved by grace, we don't earn heaven, but Christianity is a verb = action.
2 Corinthians 5:10, Revelation 20:12, Gal 5:13, Matthew 10:42
Karen, may the SPIRIT grace you with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.
The BIG QUESTION? If you don't accept Christ in your physical life time are you cut off forever? Or go to hell?
Most BELIEVE in this assumption.
If the scriptures are studied as a whole and verses are not picked and apply in direct opposition to other verses we see a different truth than the above.
The scriptures assert that THE WORKS OF GOD are divided into different ages or generations.
So what's taking place in the age we are presently living in.
Scripture says that God through Christ is CHOOSING a few to rule and judge in HIS KINGDOM and they with HIM will bring all creation INTO CHRIST.
Ephesians 1:10 That in the dispensations of the fullness of TIMES he might gather together in one ALL THINGS in CHRIST........
Romans 8:19 For the earnest expectation of the creature WAITETH for the manifestation of THE SONS OF GOD.
Romans 8:21 Because the creature itself ALSO SHALL BE DELIVERED (by Christ and his elect).......
Romans 11:30-31 For as ye in times past HAVE NOT BELIEVED GOD, yet have obtained mercy through THEIR UNBELIEF:
(vs 31) Even so have these also NOT NOW believed, that through YOUR MERCY they also MAY OBTAIN MERCY.
1 Corinthians 15:28 And when ALL THINGS shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, THAT GOD MAY BE ALL IN ALL.
Luke 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great; but the labourers (OF GOD'S WORKS) are FEW.....
Matthew 20:16 many are called, FEW are chosen....
Why are they called and not chosen; because they didn't BELIEVE WHAT GOD SAID.
Yes they are saved; but want be a judge in the kingdom.
satan was/is an angel who (because of pride) was cast out of his place as the worship leader of heaven. He still travels to and fro on the earth and even up to heaven to accuse the brethren before God. He is referred to as the dragon/that old serpent in the revelation. During the time of Jacob's trouble/ the Great Tribulation, he will be cast out permanently from heaven ( Luke 10:18/ Revelation 12:9). He is also spoken of in Ezekiel as the King of Tyre.
Lucifer, however, is (will be) a man; the antichrist, in whom satan will dwell. There are passages in Isaiah 14 about him, as well as in Ezekiel; where he is spoken of as the prince of Tyre. Also, in the Revelation, he is referred to as the beast.
Adam, its the same old world, likely evil has increased though. The world is against the Christian yet many Christians still love the world. For me it sad if there is loss amongst those once saved whether in the Kingdom or visible Church to losing focus on the purpose of salvation of souls. As time possibly nears its end more Christians are focused on their own survival in the remaining world. The race is not over until it is over. We must run to the finish with the peace of God in our hearts and without fear of our fellow men. Detailed end time doctrines are a distraction, not that a runner does not know that his surroundings may have changed and a possible correction in speed or less wind resistance or temperature related changes may be needed. Born again Christians have the Holy Ghost leading them in these times. There are many children and young adults that need an living example of carrying this peace in this race and that this immediate benefit is worth the whole race, yet it is only the beginning of the eternal purpose in Jesus Christ. Satan tempts the Christian in many ways but a favorite way is in the area of patience, the patience of the saints ne wants to take that away. Satan hates non- resistance and this is in no wise the same as complacency.
He fell hard. In an age where we see society openly flirting with satan, sometimes clueless that they're flirting with eternal death, acting like wild animals, and acting entitled as little gods, people will one day see the true darkness of evil from this despicable deceiver they've followed and will scream in horror and regret for what they've done.
OnlytruthintheworldKJV - In Reply on Luke 1 - 4 years ago
Luke 10:21
In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.
It's the same spirit of the pharisees, the mystery of iniquity, that rejects truth and cleaves to the teachings of men. This is why Jesus said:
Mark 4:9
And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Praise the Lord for ears to hear and eyes to see o/!
I have a brother who often says: if someone grew up on a deserted island and all they had was a kjv bible, they would never come up with the heretical idea of a "trinity" of gods.
Be encouraged Sacha, and pay no mind to the gainsayers/theologians. They must be born again of the seed (the word of God- 1 Peter 1:23) to see the truth, and only God can do that.
I pray that you are well this day, in Jesus' name.
P.S. I'd love to hear from you concerning your baptism in 1996 (as to how it was administered) if you care to email me, my address is just my screenname on here @ gmail (this app won't let you post addresses on here)
William, may the Spirit grace you with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.
Revelation 12:7 And there was WAR IN HEAVEN.......
Revelation 1:1 .....and sent and signified (or symbolic of) it by his angel....
Revelation 1:3 ....for the time is at hand....
Revelation is difficult at best to understand because most want believe the above two verses. The words were just as true for readers in Johns time as they are to us in our time and will be to those in the future who read them. The war in heaven (which began after Christ was crucified) was happening in Johns time just as it it happening today and will continue happening as long as there is a tomorrow.
Now, with the working of the Spirit let's see if by using other verses as the KEYS TO THE KINGDOM we can come to the truth about the WAR IN HEAVEN.
Luke 17:21 .....the kingdom of heaven is in YOU.....
2 Corinthians 12:2 ....such an one caught up to the THIRD HEAVEN.
1 Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and the Spirit of God DWELLETH IN
YOU?
There is a natural heaven, but an a symbol it represent us (WHERE GOD DWELLS)
Matthew 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the SPIRIT OF GOD, then the KINGDOM OF GOD IS COME UNTO YOU.
Revelation 12:7 ....and there was war in heaven (in you)...
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out..
Revelation 12:10 And I heard a loud voice (the Holy Spirit) saying in heaven (in you), now is salvation, and strength, and the KINGDOM OF OUR GOD..
Luke 10:17-18 And he said unto them (the seventy he sent out to cast out devils), I beheld SATAN as lighting fall FROM HEAVEN (from those that Satan was cast out of).
2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God (Spirit) to the pulling down strong holds (traditions of man).
Isaiah 9:5 For every battle of the (natural) warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this (spiritual battle) shall be with (spiritual) burning and FUEL of (spiritual) FIRE.
Paul, you made a comment stating: that in the gospel of Matthew they were still under the old testament because Christ had not yet gone to the cross.
Matthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN suffereth violence, and the violent shall take it by force. (Jesus suffered the violence)
Matthew 11:13 For all the prophets (old testament) and the law (old testament) prophesied UNTIL John.
Hebrews 1-2 .......Hath in these last days spoken by his Son....
Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of THE KINGDOM ....
Luke 10:9 And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS NIGH UNTO YOU.
JESUS IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN
John 17:21 That they ALL may be ONE; as thou, Father, art in ME, and I in THEE, that they also may be ONE in US......
Ephesians 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ORDINANCES; for to make in HIMSELF of TWAIN ONE NEW MAN, so making peace.
1 Timothy 6:16 Who only hath immortality (LIFE) dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto, whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power, everlasting. Amen.
There were those that BELIEVED before Christ died on the cross they just didn't receive the Holy Spirit until pentecost.
We all read over thing in the scriptures or have been taught by others that have read over things in the scriptures. We all learn from each other; but always being taught by the SPIRIT.
When you say we are told not to change the bible, I'm happy that we agree on something, when you talk of the many different bible versions, I'm also aware that there is, but chose to only read the KJV, I'm sure they're meant to be more relevant to today's english but as in 2 Corinthians 11:12-15 Satan can transform himself into an angel of light and deceive many, just by changing a few words. Fornication is most certainly a terrible sin throughout society today and also in biblical times, and is mentioned 35 times in the KJV but when you look at Romans 1:20-32 and Galations 5:14-26 it is only one of many sins of the flesh. "Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents," to name just a few. John 8:3-11 Jesus forgive a woman caught in adultery, John 4:6-43 the Samaritan woman at the well living in fornication was one of the first women evangelist. Luke 18:10-14 "The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican." he was not justified, Luke 23:43 the first person Jesus took to paradise was a thief on the cross. Sin in whatever form is evil in God's eyes, but I'm sure your well aware of that. Just as God judged the people in Sodom and Gomorrah and in Noah's day, I try (sometimes I fail) to let God judge the transgressors of today, and focus on the narrow road to the cross for my Salvation. Because as in Luke 17:32 "Remember Lot's wife." we don't want to turn into that pillar of salt.
Some of my favorite scripture to help me keep things in perspective is the Beatitudes and sermon on the mount, and also Luke 10:27-37 the story of the good Samaritan.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:
I don't think that Bible teachers avoid such passages; maybe those passages just don't come up in their course of studies or preaching. If you look at a commentaries, I'm sure you will find detailed comments about such issues.
When I consider them (such as 1 Samuel 15:3), or when God commands that the heathen be driven out of their lands, or to kill the males & save the women & children, I understand that God is exercising His Authority & right to do what He wants with His creation. Do we feel the same way when only 8 souls were saved in the Great Flood & many thousands of men, women, children & animals were destroyed? Or, when tragedy strikes us today (e.g. a Tsunami, earthquake, virus) & again an innumerable number destroyed?
Jeremiah 18:1-10 teaches us that God, the Potter, has the full right to do as He pleases with His creation. If God decides to strike me down today, does anyone have the right to ask Him, 'Why'. The problem then arises, when referring to those OT Scriptures, is in regards to whether any of God's appointed leaders, such as Joshua, Saul, etc., did actually receive God's Commands or were prompted by their own lust for war & destruction. I'm in no way suggesting this as I believe that God did speak & directed His servants in how they should deal with the heathen, but I only suggest this because people will query the authenticity of the Divine Command & therefore the issue needs to be dealt with them.
In this vein, I think of the Islamic prophet, Muhammed, who too claimed to be called by God to destroy the heathen idolators living in the cities of Mecca & Medina. Did He call him to do so, or was it done of his own volition? In the NT, we're never told to go out & slaughter anyone, but sadly it has been done in the name of Christianity (e.g. the Crusades, etc.). Ours is always the Gospel of love to all people. Yet, God hasn't finished with the World: millions more will yet be struck down by God through various means for their sins.
Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, that is, acknowledge that, especially the ones who labor in the word and doctrine, or teaching. For the scripture says, and there are two pieces of scripture here that Paul uses to back it up.
First of all, Deuteronomy Chapter 25 Verse 4: He says thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn.
In 1 Corinthians Chapter 9, Paul says, "You don't think that God was talking about oxen do you?" If you have oxen treading the corn, you got to feed the oxen too, or else he's not going to be around to tread the corn for you.
The second scripture is Luke 10:7. The words of Jesus, The laborer is worthy of his reward, or hire.
So acknowledge those who labor in the word, and in doctrine, and make sure that they're taken care of.
And again, Luke 10:16 "He that HEARETH YOU HEARETH ME; and HE THAT DESPISETH YOU DESPISETH ME; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me."
What about witnessing to our family members? Family are perhaps the hardest people to preach to. Because they know us. "Oh that's just Joshua, I've known him since I was a kid. He used to pull my hair! What does he know?"
It's as Jesus said, "No prophet is accepted in his own country." Or by their own family! God tells us this: "And of some HAVE COMPASSION, MAKING A DISTINCTION: And others SAVE WITH FEAR, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." Jude 22-23
But God even gave us the example of our own wives/husbands if they reject and leave us BECAUSE of the Gospel:
1 Corinthians 7:15 'But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. 16 For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?'
If an unbelieving husband or wife leaves us, we are not under bondage to go after them. If we are not REQUIRED to go after our own spouses, why would we go after the dogs/swine? Recall again Matthew 7:6.
Every believer starts the journey of Repentance as a baby ( Matthew 11:25; Luke 10:21; Romans 2:20; 1 Cor. 3:1; 1 Peter2:2). Then they grow into a child of God ( Mark 10: 10:15) and eventually into an adult. Trust us, that does not happen during a 'truck' ride.
Matthew 18:3. Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
1 Peter 2:2. As newborn babies, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.
Matthew 7:13,14. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the road, that leadeth to destruction (e.g. wildfires, pandemic, hurricanes, etc.) and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
In case you are wondering what Satan's strongholds are in his kingdom ( 2 Cor. 10:4).
- Religion. Consider the history of the Mystery Babylon and the Mother of Harlots ( Rev. 17:5). Do not forget the hundreds of years of the Inquisition during which time the Vatican ordered millions killed under their direction in the most cruel way anyone can imagine ( worse than the methods used by Al-Qaeda).
- Political Authorities.
- The Medical Profession.
- The Media Industry.
- The Legal Profession and Business Community.
- Sports and Entertainment.
Please remember: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith ( 1 John 5:4).
The little children you referred to are the 'believers' that start their journey of repentance as babies ( Matthew 11:25; Luke 10:21; Romans 2:20; 1 Cor. 3:1; 1 Peter 2:2).
The word of God is spiritually discerned and not understood by the natural man ( 1 Cor. 2:14).
On the contrary: He that is spiritual judgeth all things ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
Hello, perhaps your comments are more for Mishael, yet they came to me as well.
These verses in Luke Chapter 10 speak to my heart.
Luke 10:38-42
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received them into her house.
And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
But one thing is needful, and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
I am too much like Martha, while it was and is, and will always be, that Jesus justified Mary in her faith and by her faith.
Scriptures That Define the use of Repent - In Reply on Matthew 4:7 - 4 years ago
Mark 6:12
And they went out, and preached that men should repent.
Luke 3:3
And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;
Luke 3:8
Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
Luke 5:32
I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Luke 10:13
Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.
Luke 11:32
The men of Nineveh shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. (Jesus)
Luke 13:3
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Luke 13:5
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Luke 15:7
I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
Luke 15:10
Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
Luke 16:30
And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
I believe everything you just said.
I believe the level of fruitfulness behind the works of a believer is important. The purpose behind the action, Is it inward or an outward performance of self glory or righteousness. As the Lord said to the Pharisees.
" Matthew 23:26. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also."
As well as obedience to the will of God.
Luke 12:47-48. And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.
But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
I believe a non believer will be judged by their deeds APART from the atonement of the provided sacrificial Lamb of God.
Possibly divided by what by what they heard or seen.
Luke 10:13-16. Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.
But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you.
And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell.
He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.
God bless.
May GOD bless!
I just have a few questions for you. First of all, in Luke 10:19, the word hurt is the word injustice, not hurt as in physical harm. In Luke 9:1-2, we see that Jesus called His twelve disciples and gave (them) power and authority, and power to heal the sick. Does it say anywhere else that He gave the same power to all believers?
In Mark 16:17, are the "them" and "they" not the twelve? Because we are told in Hebrews 2:2 that when the apostles went out and preached, that there were signs that followed in order to establish the apostles preaching as the gospel of God. Isn't that what he is saying in Mark 16:17?
Last question is where you say that this power and authority only works if we believe in faith. Are you saying that if a believer commands in faith through Christ, and something does not happen, that the believer is the blame because he/she lacks faith? If so, that is not biblical. There is no such thing as a believer who is born of God's Spirit lacking faith when we fully understand the true definition of faith. No such thing!
To pray for our loved ones we need to come against the enemy and pray that they would receive the truth. To come against the enemy, we need to first know what our power and authority is in Jesus.
Behold, I give unto you authority to tread over ALL the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you ( Luke 10:19). Authority is delegated power.
Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick ( Luke 9:1, 2).
For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants ( Mark 13:34).
In my name shall they cast out devils ( Mark 16:17).
What power and authority do these four verses say that Christ gave us? He gave us "All power and authority" over the enemy. Christ has given us His power and authority over Satan and his kingdom. However, it only works if we believe in faith and command in faith through Christ. When we come against Satan in faith, in the name of Jesus, Satan must obey. If you do not believe, if you have little faith, Satan knows, and will not listen to you. While Satan may not obey us, he must obey the authority of Jesus that we have been given and that we are operating in.
And who are we that Christ should give us such authority? you are a son (daughter); and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir ( Gal 4:7).
Comment: it is the authority Christ imparted to us, that we use to subdue enemies and cast their invisible selves into dry places of outer darkness. Never to return! Ephesians 6.
If you read through gifts, Ministries, helps; God has called people to help others. To be the body of Christ on this earth.
Someday we'll be in heaven and all Christians will attend the Bema Seat Judgment handled by Jesus. No one goes to hell. They lose rewards.
1 Corinthians 3:9-15
2 Corinthians 4:13
According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for THE DAY shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a REWARD. (Search: 5 Crowns)
If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself SHALL BE SAVED, yet so as by fire.
COMMENT:
Question we ask ourselves honestly: what are we building with?
Are we building up the Body of Christ?
Jesus: we are to be imitating; doing. If we can't Go Ye, then maybe equip those that are? Commit to pray for the laborers to be sent into the Harvest? Luke 10:2
Isaiah 61:1-3, Psalm 147:1-3, Luke 4:18-21
* Matthew 25: 31-46*
I don't know anyone who gets it right all of the time. I don't. There are many great needs these days, and it's going to get worse. We elected leadership that does not know what a budget is for. Step 1: Make your requests known to God.
I'll post the 4 Horsemen of Revelation tomorrow. Book of Revelation will commence whether we believe it or not. Google Lists. Lots of people really work hard on making scripture easier to read.
2 Peter 1:20 Knowing this FIRST, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
This says you can't take one verse and come to truth, you have to combine verses from other parts of scripture to know the message.
I suppose you are making reference to Revelation 12 where Satan was cast from heaven. Let's put other verses with this and see if truth appears.
Matthew 12:28 But if I CAST OUT DEVILS by the Spirit of GOD, then the kingdom of God is COME UNTO YOU.
Christ is casting out Satan so he can dwell IN YOU (THE NEW HEAVEN).
Revelation 21:1 And I saw a new heaven... Colossians 1:27 ...this MYSTERY, Christ in you....
Revelation 12:7 And there was WAR IN HEAVEN (Spirit vs. flesh) (in you) Michael (Spirit) and his angels fought against the dragon (flesh); and the dragon fought and his angels.
Revelation 12:8 And (flesh, dragon and his angels) prevailed not; neither was their (dragon and his angels) place found ANY MORE IN HEAVEN (in you where Christ dwells).
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was CAST OUT (if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God), that old serpent (that deceived Eve), called the devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the WHOLE WORLD; he was CAST OUT....
Revelation 12:10 And I heard a loud voice (truth) saying in heaven (in you), Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of HIS CHRIST....
Luke 10:17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.
Luke 10:18 And he said to them, I beheld SATAN as lightning falling from heaven (those that Satan was CAST OUT OF).
God bless!
As Adam has stated in another post I cannot see ALL being saved in the end as how many Scriptures there are about people going to eternal damnation or "Hell". Some can't see a loving God be like this to people for say only sinning in the span of their physical life. Though I don't think anyone can perceive how serious sin is to a Perfect, Pure, Almighty God. Also in that it is not the pleasure of God that any should perish. The Lord will not turn away any that truly come to Him. Then on the day of Judgement when the books are opened. People may be shown how many times in their lives God has tried to lead them to Salvation in Jesus Christ and repentance of sins. Maybe just repentance before the Lord came to earth. All up to Him as He is fair.
So here are a couple more Scriptures I find that solidify this. Even at the end of Isaiah 66:23-24. Speaking of all flesh coming to worship Him though just the next verse it speaks of how bad it will be for those who are against Him. Daniel 12:2, Psalms 9:17, 2 Timothy 2:12, Hebrews 6:8, 1 Peter 4:17-19, 2 Peter 3:7. Our names written in Heaven which does not seem to be for all Luke 10:20.
How Jesus Christ spake of a "Hell" and tried to warn people of it a lot. A place of "wailing and gnashing of teeth". Eternal punishment as those who are saved eternal life. The same Greek word used "aionios" for "everlasting or without beginning or end".
The story of Lazarus and there being two places separate from each other after death. Luke 16:20-31.
Weather it be sheol, hades, gehenna, tartarus, or just hell I want nothing to do with any of those places. I believe God loves us so much He sent us these warnings in that we do not have to go there. Though if any reject Him He will not force anyone to be with Him.
A good saying. "If you are born twice(born again in the Spirit) you die once, born once die twice".
Blasphemy is a word that is used to expresses rejection. This would be a person who refuses to gather with Christ in the whole process of the testimony of God's Spirit. If they reject God's Spirit, and His persuasion, and His conviction over their life, they cannot be forgiven for that. A person can be forgiven for everything else.
But if a person rejects the testimony of God's Spirit that is convicting them of their need for Christ, and their need to be saved, if they reject that, there is no forgiveness.
The sin problem has been dealt with. It's been paid for. Jesus Christ died for the sins of the world. So salvation has been paid for. Christ paid the penalty for sin by shedding His blood for the remission of sin. But if a person rejects that salvation, they are rejecting Christ. Salvation is a gift from God. He died for the sins of the whole world. If a person rejects that, they are rejecting the conviction of God's Spirit showing them their need for Christ. That is what it means to blaspheme the Holy Spirit.
I hope this helps!
>"So a doer of the word in my understanding doesn't mean that I take my bible and go out and do it"
If the good Samaritan followed this advice he would not have stopped to help the injured man. Luke 10:25-37 Maybe he would have walked on by because he already knew who he was in his own mind, and didn't want to risk being 'legalistic' or obedient, as if that's a bad thing. Reminds me of a Pharisee- who felt self-righteous but didn't have good deeds as fruit that show their faith in action.
Matt 25:40 comes to mind: "...as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
The push to not be obedient or do good works seems contradictory to this verse: James 1:22 and so many others throughout the Bible - would God tell us we don't need to obey Him and to not do what He says, or would someone else be behind this? Who is the most likely source that tells us that being good is bad and doing bad is good?
Matthew 25 and basically most of Jesus' parables were about the same thing: being prepared, because a day will come and we will be separated and judged and accountable for our actions. The foolish virgins were unprepared and did nothing. The bag of gold parable Jesus called the one who did nothing but hid the gold "wicked and slothful." Jesus said about the ones who did nothing (no works) to help others sent them to hell: Matt 25:44-46
Jesus also said about obedience: John 14:15.
To anyone claiming good deeds and works is 'bad' notice that the Bible is full of instruction to do good deeds and works. One would have to ignore nearly the entire Bible in order to come to such a conclusion. If our actions didn't' matter then the Bible wouldn't have continually said it DOES matter and we will literally be judged for it. We are saved by grace, we don't earn heaven, but Christianity is a verb = action.
2 Corinthians 5:10, Revelation 20:12, Gal 5:13, Matthew 10:42
The BIG QUESTION? If you don't accept Christ in your physical life time are you cut off forever? Or go to hell?
Most BELIEVE in this assumption.
If the scriptures are studied as a whole and verses are not picked and apply in direct opposition to other verses we see a different truth than the above.
The scriptures assert that THE WORKS OF GOD are divided into different ages or generations.
So what's taking place in the age we are presently living in.
Scripture says that God through Christ is CHOOSING a few to rule and judge in HIS KINGDOM and they with HIM will bring all creation INTO CHRIST.
Ephesians 1:10 That in the dispensations of the fullness of TIMES he might gather together in one ALL THINGS in CHRIST........
Romans 8:19 For the earnest expectation of the creature WAITETH for the manifestation of THE SONS OF GOD.
Romans 8:21 Because the creature itself ALSO SHALL BE DELIVERED (by Christ and his elect).......
Romans 11:30-31 For as ye in times past HAVE NOT BELIEVED GOD, yet have obtained mercy through THEIR UNBELIEF:
(vs 31) Even so have these also NOT NOW believed, that through YOUR MERCY they also MAY OBTAIN MERCY.
1 Corinthians 15:28 And when ALL THINGS shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, THAT GOD MAY BE ALL IN ALL.
Luke 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great; but the labourers (OF GOD'S WORKS) are FEW.....
Matthew 20:16 many are called, FEW are chosen....
Why are they called and not chosen; because they didn't BELIEVE WHAT GOD SAID.
Yes they are saved; but want be a judge in the kingdom.
satan was/is an angel who (because of pride) was cast out of his place as the worship leader of heaven. He still travels to and fro on the earth and even up to heaven to accuse the brethren before God. He is referred to as the dragon/that old serpent in the revelation. During the time of Jacob's trouble/ the Great Tribulation, he will be cast out permanently from heaven ( Luke 10:18/ Revelation 12:9). He is also spoken of in Ezekiel as the King of Tyre.
Lucifer, however, is (will be) a man; the antichrist, in whom satan will dwell. There are passages in Isaiah 14 about him, as well as in Ezekiel; where he is spoken of as the prince of Tyre. Also, in the Revelation, he is referred to as the beast.
Hope this helps as you search the scriptures.
Written in love,
Carleton
In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.
It's the same spirit of the pharisees, the mystery of iniquity, that rejects truth and cleaves to the teachings of men. This is why Jesus said:
Mark 4:9
And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Praise the Lord for ears to hear and eyes to see o/!
I have a brother who often says: if someone grew up on a deserted island and all they had was a kjv bible, they would never come up with the heretical idea of a "trinity" of gods.
Be encouraged Sacha, and pay no mind to the gainsayers/theologians. They must be born again of the seed (the word of God- 1 Peter 1:23) to see the truth, and only God can do that.
I pray that you are well this day, in Jesus' name.
P.S. I'd love to hear from you concerning your baptism in 1996 (as to how it was administered) if you care to email me, my address is just my screenname on here @ gmail (this app won't let you post addresses on here)
30. We are sanctified or set apart as belonging to God. Heb. 10:10
31. We have peace with God. Rom. 5:1
32. We are made a part of the household of God. Eph 2:19
33. As living stones we are built into the spiritual house of God. I
Pet. 2:5; Eph. 2:20-22
34. We are given heavenly citizenship. Phil 3:20; Eph. 2:19
35. We are accepted in the Beloved. Eph 1:6
36. We are seated in the heavenlies in Christ. Eph. 2:6
37. Our life is hid with Christ in God. Col 3:3
38. We become new creatures in Christ. II Cor. 5:17;
Gal. 6:15; Eph. 2:10
39. We are exalted and glorified in Christ. Rom 8:30
40. We are redeemed and delivered from the law. Gal 3:13: Rom.
10:4
41. We become spiritual children of Abraham. Gal. 3:7
42. We become partakers of the blessings promised to Abraham. Gal 3:9, 29
43. All condemnation and judgment is lifted. Rom 8:1; John 3:18
44. We are delivered from the wrath to come. Rom 5:9;
I Thess. 5:
45. We enter in to spiritual rest of God. Heb 4:3, 9-10
46. We become brethren to Christ, our elder brother. Rom 3:29; Heb.2:11-12
47. We become partakers of the new covenant in Christ. Heb. 10:15-17
48. We become joint heirs with Christ. Rom 8:17; I Pet. 1:3-4; Tit
3:7; Col 1:12
49. Our names are recorded in the Lambs book of life. Luke 10:20;
Rev. 21:27
50. We are given by the Father to the Son as His eternal possession!
John 6:27-40
51. Our faith is counted as righteousness. Romans 4 verse 5.
Revelation 12:7 And there was WAR IN HEAVEN.......
Revelation 1:1 .....and sent and signified (or symbolic of) it by his angel....
Revelation 1:3 ....for the time is at hand....
Revelation is difficult at best to understand because most want believe the above two verses. The words were just as true for readers in Johns time as they are to us in our time and will be to those in the future who read them. The war in heaven (which began after Christ was crucified) was happening in Johns time just as it it happening today and will continue happening as long as there is a tomorrow.
Now, with the working of the Spirit let's see if by using other verses as the KEYS TO THE KINGDOM we can come to the truth about the WAR IN HEAVEN.
Luke 17:21 .....the kingdom of heaven is in YOU.....
2 Corinthians 12:2 ....such an one caught up to the THIRD HEAVEN.
1 Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and the Spirit of God DWELLETH IN
YOU?
There is a natural heaven, but an a symbol it represent us (WHERE GOD DWELLS)
Matthew 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the SPIRIT OF GOD, then the KINGDOM OF GOD IS COME UNTO YOU.
Revelation 12:7 ....and there was war in heaven (in you)...
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out..
Revelation 12:10 And I heard a loud voice (the Holy Spirit) saying in heaven (in you), now is salvation, and strength, and the KINGDOM OF OUR GOD..
Luke 10:17-18 And he said unto them (the seventy he sent out to cast out devils), I beheld SATAN as lighting fall FROM HEAVEN (from those that Satan was cast out of).
2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God (Spirit) to the pulling down strong holds (traditions of man).
Isaiah 9:5 For every battle of the (natural) warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this (spiritual battle) shall be with (spiritual) burning and FUEL of (spiritual) FIRE.
Matthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN suffereth violence, and the violent shall take it by force. (Jesus suffered the violence)
Matthew 11:13 For all the prophets (old testament) and the law (old testament) prophesied UNTIL John.
Hebrews 1-2 .......Hath in these last days spoken by his Son....
Matthew 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of THE KINGDOM ....
Luke 10:9 And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS NIGH UNTO YOU.
JESUS IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN
John 17:21 That they ALL may be ONE; as thou, Father, art in ME, and I in THEE, that they also may be ONE in US......
Ephesians 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ORDINANCES; for to make in HIMSELF of TWAIN ONE NEW MAN, so making peace.
1 Timothy 6:16 Who only hath immortality (LIFE) dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto, whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power, everlasting. Amen.
There were those that BELIEVED before Christ died on the cross they just didn't receive the Holy Spirit until pentecost.
We all read over thing in the scriptures or have been taught by others that have read over things in the scriptures. We all learn from each other; but always being taught by the SPIRIT.
The Spirits wisdom and understanding be on you.
Some of my favorite scripture to help me keep things in perspective is the Beatitudes and sermon on the mount, and also Luke 10:27-37 the story of the good Samaritan.
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.
1
When I consider them (such as 1 Samuel 15:3), or when God commands that the heathen be driven out of their lands, or to kill the males & save the women & children, I understand that God is exercising His Authority & right to do what He wants with His creation. Do we feel the same way when only 8 souls were saved in the Great Flood & many thousands of men, women, children & animals were destroyed? Or, when tragedy strikes us today (e.g. a Tsunami, earthquake, virus) & again an innumerable number destroyed?
Jeremiah 18:1-10 teaches us that God, the Potter, has the full right to do as He pleases with His creation. If God decides to strike me down today, does anyone have the right to ask Him, 'Why'. The problem then arises, when referring to those OT Scriptures, is in regards to whether any of God's appointed leaders, such as Joshua, Saul, etc., did actually receive God's Commands or were prompted by their own lust for war & destruction. I'm in no way suggesting this as I believe that God did speak & directed His servants in how they should deal with the heathen, but I only suggest this because people will query the authenticity of the Divine Command & therefore the issue needs to be dealt with them.
In this vein, I think of the Islamic prophet, Muhammed, who too claimed to be called by God to destroy the heathen idolators living in the cities of Mecca & Medina. Did He call him to do so, or was it done of his own volition? In the NT, we're never told to go out & slaughter anyone, but sadly it has been done in the name of Christianity (e.g. the Crusades, etc.). Ours is always the Gospel of love to all people. Yet, God hasn't finished with the World: millions more will yet be struck down by God through various means for their sins.
also James chapter 2 and Matthew chapter 5,6,7, Beatitudes and sermon on the mount,
Luke 10:25
"And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?"
Luke 10:37
"And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise."
James 2:26
"For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."
Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, that is, acknowledge that, especially the ones who labor in the word and doctrine, or teaching. For the scripture says, and there are two pieces of scripture here that Paul uses to back it up.
First of all, Deuteronomy Chapter 25 Verse 4: He says thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn.
In 1 Corinthians Chapter 9, Paul says, "You don't think that God was talking about oxen do you?" If you have oxen treading the corn, you got to feed the oxen too, or else he's not going to be around to tread the corn for you.
The second scripture is Luke 10:7. The words of Jesus, The laborer is worthy of his reward, or hire.
So acknowledge those who labor in the word, and in doctrine, and make sure that they're taken care of.
What about witnessing to our family members? Family are perhaps the hardest people to preach to. Because they know us. "Oh that's just Joshua, I've known him since I was a kid. He used to pull my hair! What does he know?"
It's as Jesus said, "No prophet is accepted in his own country." Or by their own family! God tells us this: "And of some HAVE COMPASSION, MAKING A DISTINCTION: And others SAVE WITH FEAR, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." Jude 22-23
But God even gave us the example of our own wives/husbands if they reject and leave us BECAUSE of the Gospel:
1 Corinthians 7:15 'But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. 16 For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?'
If an unbelieving husband or wife leaves us, we are not under bondage to go after them. If we are not REQUIRED to go after our own spouses, why would we go after the dogs/swine? Recall again Matthew 7:6.
Matthew 18:3. Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
1 Peter 2:2. As newborn babies, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.
Matthew 7:13,14. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the road, that leadeth to destruction (e.g. wildfires, pandemic, hurricanes, etc.) and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
In case you are wondering what Satan's strongholds are in his kingdom ( 2 Cor. 10:4).
- Religion. Consider the history of the Mystery Babylon and the Mother of Harlots ( Rev. 17:5). Do not forget the hundreds of years of the Inquisition during which time the Vatican ordered millions killed under their direction in the most cruel way anyone can imagine ( worse than the methods used by Al-Qaeda).
- Political Authorities.
- The Medical Profession.
- The Media Industry.
- The Legal Profession and Business Community.
- Sports and Entertainment.
Please remember: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith ( 1 John 5:4).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
In His Service.
Andy & Dianne van den Berg - Nova Scotia, Canada
The little children you referred to are the 'believers' that start their journey of repentance as babies ( Matthew 11:25; Luke 10:21; Romans 2:20; 1 Cor. 3:1; 1 Peter 2:2).
The word of God is spiritually discerned and not understood by the natural man ( 1 Cor. 2:14).
On the contrary: He that is spiritual judgeth all things ( 1 Cor. 2:15).
These verses in Luke Chapter 10 speak to my heart.
Luke 10:38-42
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received them into her house.
And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
But one thing is needful, and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
I am too much like Martha, while it was and is, and will always be, that Jesus justified Mary in her faith and by her faith.
I hope this helps answer both of your questions.
Carleton
And they went out, and preached that men should repent.
Luke 3:3
And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;
Luke 3:8
Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
Luke 5:32
I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Luke 10:13
Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.
Luke 11:32
The men of Nineveh shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. (Jesus)
Luke 13:3
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Luke 13:5
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Luke 15:7
I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
Luke 15:10
Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
Luke 16:30
And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.