Matthew 19:21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.
Luke 18:22 22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
Luke 12:33 Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
The first two passages apply to a rich man who claimed to have followed the law; no doubt not at God's standards but nonetheless the main issue was his covetous heart related to possessions. The last passage was Jesus talking with His Disciples about His providing basic food and clothing needs (again; as I have emphasized before shelter even for Christ was a nomadic transient thing given His type of ministry).
Considering the meaning here we have to observe the whole pattern of valuing God over family; as Jesus Himself demonstrated when stating "who is my mother and brother ( Matt. 12:58); and then in the next two verses explains that the Disciples are such.
What we can't say is that Jesus wants us to forego all sources of work or financial plans. Jesus Himself worked for most of His adult life before the last few years of ministry; and Paul would provide for himself making tents; and also commended some wealthy women who were beneficial in the ministry. Money was to be set aside the first day of the week; etc.
I can also look in my own life to the house I own; legally I can't sell it even if I wanted to as it is in my Dad's name even though it goes to me when he passes.
What is clear to me is that all of our money should in the present and future plans be planned to support the Lord; in my case I don't have any children to support. Once we "retire" all our time should focus on ministry as health allows.
An elder brother in Christ once told us that in all his christian life when he sees something he doesn't like inside his heart then he spends two to three days in fasting and praying and it goes away.
Luke 18:27, "...The things which are impossible with men are possible with God."
The Law is little preached these days so there is little conviction of sin .
In another gospel it is what must I do to inherit eternal life ( Luke 18:18 ) but thanks for drawing attention to that account for we need all 4 gospels fora full picture . But here it is what good thing must I do . Very interesting .
There is a way of salvation and to lead people to,Christ a person has to be led along that way . It's not riches alone that was a hinderance but fir him it was his riches.
It says that " Jesus loved him" The terrible thing is that the fact that God lives you does not save yiu .
It is that love expressed in and through Jesus Christ . The great tragedy was that when he turned away sorrowful he turned his back on the love of God and with each step away from the Lord was a step away from theLight and from the truth into darkness .
The Lord did not chase after him . Some; very few get another opportunity but no man should count on it . We never hear of the man again .
"Let us then put aside every weight and the sin that so easily besets us.."
Paul was talking to people already saved ,but we can lose much by not so doing .
"For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit."
Luke 18:17
"Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
Good question, and thank you for the respectful tone. From a Mid-Acts dispensational view, the tension dissolves once we keep Israel's kingdom program distinct from the Body of Christ. In the Lord's earthly ministry and early Acts, the Twelve were sent to Israel with a priestly commission: preach the kingdom, call the nation to repent, and baptize the believing remnant ( Matt 28:19; Mark 16:15-18; Acts 2:38; 3:19-21). Water baptism there was covenantal identification and preparation for a promised priestly nation ( Exod 19:5-6), accompanied by signs ( Mark 16:17-18) seen functioning in Acts ( Acts 5:12-16).
But when Israel continued in unbelief, Christ revealed to Paul "the dispensation of the grace of God" and the previously hidden "mystery" ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). In this present dispensation, we are now saved by the gospel of Christ's cross and resurrection alone ( 1 Cor 15:1-4; Rom 3:24-28; 4:5; Eph 2:8-9). Entrance is by one Spirit baptizing us into one Body ( 1 Cor 12:13), hence Paul can say there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) and also, strikingly "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17).
What of the Lord's commands in Matthew and John? They stand true for the audience addressed. Matthew 5:18 affirms the Law's authority until all is fulfilled; Christ is its end for righteousness to everyone that believes ( Rom 10:4) and the Body is not under the Law ( Rom 6:14). John 14-15 speaks to kingdom disciples under the New Covenant promises to Israel ( Jer 31:31-34), about abiding in the Vine and keeping His commandments in that program.
Luke 18:17 highlights the posture of faith, not a ritual that secures salvation. Therefore, today water baptism is a good testimony, but it does not add to the finished cross-work nor effect salvation. The saving baptism in this age is the Spirit's, placing us in Christ the moment we believe.
May you see this: your reply is already gone. I will keep it short in respect of others.
Much of Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 focuses on the end times. If we look closer, some of what Jesus told the four was specifically for their time. First, back then, they didn't even understand that Jesus was going to be executed, as shown in Luke 9:44-45 and Luke 18:31-34. We also see how they reacted after Jesus was crucified; they did not believe Mary and the other women who had seen Jesus.
When Jesus spoke about the temple, he said that not one stone would be left on top of another, which describes what happened in AD 70. There was a church in Jerusalem led by James and other Christians in Judea during this period. History records that they escaped to a city called Pella. Many link the phrase "abomination of desolation" to the end times, the antichrist, and the false teaching of the rapture. However, Jesus isn't referring to Daniel 9:27 but to the prophecy in Daniel 11:31 and Daniel 12:11.
Wording in Daniel 9:27, "for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate," Daniel 11:31, "the abomination that maketh desolate." Daniel 12:11 "the abomination that maketh desolate set up,"
Antiochus IV Epiphanes carried out this act in 167 BC; this is the abomination of desolation Jesus is talking about. Jesus is warning them that the same event will happen before the temple's destruction in AD 70. History records this; it did happen, the warning Luke gave in Luke 21:20. If we look at Daniel 9:27, it says that for the abominations, He, who is Jesus, will make it desolate, referring to Matthew 23:36-38.
Just something you may study, I feel you and I try to study in prayer without preconceived assumptions.
Hello Richard, thank you for your discussions, they cause me to search out things again in my bible. However date setting is not one of them. I am sure the verse Matthew 24:44 is the mind set we are admonished to have concerning Christ return, this is what the Lord will be looking for Luke 18:8. I do understand it is his second coming and not what we call the "rapture" but never the less it is sound doctrine. Concerning Erika Kirk's ring it is the initials of her two children. God bless you sir.
Hi Debby. In Greek, the word, 'ptochos', means 'one in poverty, destitute'. But in the sense that Jesus speaks in Matthew 5:3, He qualifies this poverty as being experienced, not of a lack in money or goods, but in one's spirit. So, as a beggar has nothing of worth in his possession, the one who is poor in spirit, is one whose spirit has been completely broken & impoverished; he has nothing to live for. Such a one, Jesus says, 'though he is broken and worthless through no fault of his own, he can look forward with joy to being blessed in God's future Kingdom.'
And this poverty also aligns with the account Jesus gave in Luke 16:19-31, where the (physically) poor man Lazarus who probably died a miserable, lonely death, enjoyed the comforts of Paradise, whereas the rich man who gave no thought for others, suffered in excruciating pain. How do these two accounts compare to what Jesus also speaks about: to the New Birth ( John 3:3), of the repenting broken publican and the self-righteous Pharisee ( Luke 18:10-14), or even the publican Zaccheus who under conviction, changed his sinful behavior ( Luke 19:1-10)? All these accounts, including Matthew 5:3, were given by Jesus to those of Israel still under the Old Covenant of the Law. And the Law required that people dealt righteously with one another, looking out for his brother in need ( Deuteronomy 15:7,8) and not to steal from another ( Leviticus 19:11). Jesus not only reminded them of the Law but that (in the case of Nicodemus, John 3:3), that man would need to be born again by the Holy Spirit. This could only happen after Jesus' Death and Resurrection and the giving of His Spirit to all who would believe on Him. Nicodemus should have known about this ( John 3:9,10, cf Ezekiel 11:19,20, Ezekiel 36:26,27).
So the 'poor in spirit' (as the other Beatitudes) are a reflection of this new nature, bringing out the qualities in a believer, that come from a new revived spirit in him, given by God's Spirit under the New Covenant.
Luke 18:8 states I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth? This shows in the context of the surrounding passages the Lord answering prayers for justice and perhaps has a tie in to the martyrs prayers for vengeance in Revelation where He says to wait a little season until the rest of the martyrs (fellowservants) are likewise killed (see Revelation 6:11).
Our day of redemption will arrive; at last. This earth is not our home. I see here tonight especially many with ongoing struggles.
Those who know the Lord will see if they indeed are called home at the Rapture things from an eternal perspective. The earth is seething with demons around every corner; although men's wickedness allows them to be empowered. Anyone truly saved and who possesses the Spirit has the authority to hold these forces at bay; although sadly many don't bother exercising (or should I say exorcizing) these God given rights.
Dead churches are doing more harm than good; because they encourage people to be comfortable in not proclaiming the Gospel and challenging individuals to grow in their walk; hence people are spiritually sick in various stages of dying. These were words my ex wife actually used before she went full force into adultery. When we get the first signs of realization that the enemy is getting a stronghold especially in marriages we need to be on the offensive in prayer mode. I wasn't even thinking this when I started but that is something a few tonight I believe need to hear. There are women present who appear to have a proper perspective on proper behavior in terms of submission but need to be offensively praying against the tactics of the enemy attempting to control them and their partner. We should encourage prayer with our husbands or wives especially if they claim authority in the church. In secret prayer women or men can wield tremendous power; and I pray that for those in need.
Matthew 11:25 "At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes."
Luke 18:17 "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
Thanks. We just had an evening service where brother Steve discussed the balance of the love of Christ and preaching about judgment and he mentioned how sitting at the foot of the cross whittles us all down to size realizing how great a love He had for us when we were yet sinners.
It seems a lot of folks only look at the cross and not at all the other things Christ went through before that. Some look to the 40 days and 40 nights in the wilderness in the fast; although Moses actually had to do this TWICE because of Israel's rebellion through supernatural strength. Whether he ate in between no man knows.
There is sort of a discontinuity here; or an unknown place where we can separate suffering from persecution. We can say dogmatically that Christ never sinned hence nothing of his own doing contributed to his miseries; we see that He only said what the Father told Him to say hence knew when not to say things and taught others that as well in regard to not broadcasting certain miracles especially at the onset of His ministry. I won't elaborate but mostly it was to draw away attention from being a great teacher and focusing on forgiveness of sins and of course that could only happen if He was indeed a member of the Godhead.
I am reminded as I write this the verse that says "when I come will there be faith on the earth?" ( Luke 18:18). This looks to when He returns and the justice finally brought to the world's ills in general but addressing those things which we haven't seen answered during our earthly sojourn. That also reminds me of Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
But we have a heavenly place to go to; the alternative being; sadly hell. Having spiritual discernment isn't easy; perhaps you can also pray I learn to use that gift for His glory as many don't want to hear.
"Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican."
Luke 18:11
"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."
Luke 18:12
"I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess."
Luke 18:13
"And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner."
Luke 18:14
"I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Correction to part 13. I meant Luke 18:8. Also, in Part 15, I misquoted 1 Peter 2:2. However, the word of God is without duplicity or double meaning. My apologies!
2 Timothy 3:5 - Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Having a form of godliness. They can have any one, if not all of these characteristics. Denying the power thereof: To deny doesn't mean that they deny that God has power. Everybody that believes in God believes He has power. It doesn't mean that somebody denies that. It means to reject.
We're seeing this right now more and more amongst the church, having a form of godliness (outward form and system), but rejecting God's power, and instead doing it ourselves. Jesus said ( Luke 18:1) that when the Son of man comes, will He find the faith upon the earth? The apostasy of the last days will be a challenge to faith.
It has nothing to do with our performance. It's denying the power of God if it's my performance. God promises to do His work through us, not for us to take His work into our hands and run it for Him. It's gotten worse over the years. There seems to be a philosophy in the church that Jesus ascended up into heaven to the right hand of the Father, and He has left us to do His work for Him until He gets back. It's like He's not here, like He's not the head of the church, like He doesn't run things.
When Jesus comes, will He find the faith on the earth? Will He find people saying "Lord, we have been waiting for your coming according to your word, because we believe you can fulfil your word?" That's faith!
The command at the end of Verse 5 says from such turn away, disassociate yourself with such people. That's hard and stern advice. In 1 Corinthians, Paul says that corrupt morals affect good morals. It's not the other way around.
If I decide to hang out with people that are not of good morals so that I can influence them, the bible says that these people with their corrupt morals will influence me, not me influencing them. Paul says to disassociate with such people because they will affect you. You'll get caught up in it.
The most dangerous thing in the Bible is being deceived by false prophets, false apostles, false accusers, false witness and false Christs . Satan will use anyone to do his work in deception.
Jesus warns his Twelve Disiples of people that will say bad things against them.
Matthew 5:11
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against youfalsely, for my sake.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false prophets.
Matthew 7:15
Beware offalseprophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
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Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false witness.
Matthew 15:19
For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts,falsewitness,
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false prophets.
Matthew 24:11
And manyfalseprophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false Christs.
Matthew 24:24
For there shall arisefalseChrists, andfalseprophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false witness.
Mark 10:19
Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bearfalsewitness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false Christs and false prophets.
Mark 13:22
ForfalseChrists andfalseprophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false witness.
Luke 18:20
Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bearfalsewitness, Honour thy father and thy mother.
Here is another time when Jesus was explaining his death and resurrection and they understood nothing.
Matthew 16:21-22
21From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.
22Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.
23But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
John 20:6-10
6Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,
7And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.
8Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.
9For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.
10Then the disciples went away again unto their own home
The Disciples couldn't understand the future resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Luke 18:31-34
31Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.
32For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on:
33And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again.
34And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.
"O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker."
Luke 18:1
"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;"
Psalms 19:14
"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer."
Psalms 66:16-20
"16. Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.
17I cried unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue. 18If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: 19But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer.
20Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me."
Let's see the verse in Mark 16:9, "Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week ..."
The greek reads, "Anastas(was risen) de proi(morning) prote(first) Savvatou(of the Sabbath) ..."
But here a question comes in. Why did the KJV translate "of the Sabbath" as "the first day of the week"?. The answer is because the Jews, apart from the day of Sabbath, also called the 7 day week as a Sabbath. Example: Luke 18:12, (it is the incident with the Pharisee and the publican), it says in grk "nesteuo (I fast) dis(twice) Savvatou(of the Sabbath) ...." It is obvious that the Pharisee doesn't mean that he fasts twice on the day of Sabbath, but twice in a week.
Another example is also in Luke, verse 24:1, "te de mia(in the first) ton Savvaton(of the Sabbaths) orthou batheos(very early in the morning) ..", it obviously means in the first day of the week very early in the morning.
Actually it is known from history books that the Jews at that time fasted on Tuesdays and Wednesdays every week. So the first day of the Sabbath here is the first day of the week. The Sabbath was the last day of the Jewish week and the next day (the christian Sunday) was the first.
But the verse in Luke 23:54 clarifies the day of the week that Jesus was buried. It says "Kai (and) hemera(day) en(was) paraskeue(preparation), Savvatou (of the Sabbath) epephoske (was coming close)." What does it mean "the day was preparation"? Here we have to look at the names of the week days in Hebrew. The are called: the first, the second, the third, the fourth, the fifth, the preparation (because the were making all the preparation need for resting on the Sabbaths since they were not allowed to do anything on the Sabbaths) and last of all was the Sabbath. So the right interpretation of that verse (in mod. English) is "and it was Friday and Saturday(Sabbath) was closing in (since the day for Hebrews starts in the evening of the previous day)".
John's disciples were Jews. They were still following the rules of Judaism and living under the obligations of the Old Covenant, with its ceremonial rituals and religious regulations, including fasting on certain days
Leviticus 16:29-31
Leviticus 23:32
Luke 18:12.
Jesus came to usher in the New and fulfillment of the Law and do away with the ( rituals and Foreshadowing ) ministry that veiled their Hearts.
There also is a Change in Priesthood!
Hebrews 7:11. If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein. ( Luke 18:17, KJV)
One day, I walked into the living room and saw my granddaughter sitting at a child's table, pretending she was a teacher. As I walked by her, I picked up the D volume of the Britannica Junior Encyclopedia she had on her table/desk and sat on the couch. As I thumbed through its pages, I heard her getting onto one of her imaginary students when the heading DEAM caught my eye, and I started to read. One paragraph really stood out that read: "There are two kinds of daydreams which children have but adults do not: the daydream of the imaginary playmate, and the daydream of the adopted child. A child, if he has few friends to play with, may daydream that he has a playmate. Such a child may find his imaginary friend so interesting that he spends long hours in this daydream play. Another child likes to imagine that he is "special"--that he is really a prince or princess and that his parents are king and queen. Such a child then daydreams that he has been adopted, and that his real parents are royalty."
Paul said, "For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." ( Romans 8:15, KJV) The daydream of the adopted child?
Jesus said, "If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. ( John 14:15, KJV) The daydream of the imaginary playmate?
"And they (the disciples) understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken."
There was certainly a problem between Jesus and his disciples. He knew them but they believed in him yet they did not understood his miracles neither their significance. After the marriage at Cana we have this passage. " But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,/And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man."( John 2:24-25). He knew where he came from and where he was going. As the true Light he walked in the light of his Father,- the Father of lights. So there was no shades or subtle difference in the tints that his earthly ministry presented. "When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone." ( John 6:15) Was it not in the Bible spoken? The angel was not joking, he said,"and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:/And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." ( Luke 1:33-34) Jesus would not fool himself and he had come to destroy the wicked world and save those few that believed as well as understood him. Merely because Satan "shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time" it was a trick. His kingdom was 'forever' and not the kind David had inherited.
The disciples believed in Jesus but their understanding had to come in patience. So Isaiah referring to the sure foundation states,"he that believeth shall not make haste". Jesus also explained and it was to happen in their generation ('wicked and adulterous') "In your patience possess ye your souls." It is in the quiet sanctuary the miracle takes place."And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground."
Luke 18:34 - And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.
The word "hid" shows a condition or state in the Greek text. They were constantly in this situation of not understanding what Jesus meant as he said several times now that he must go into Jerusalem and die. But they did not understand it.
Luke 18:35 - And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging:
So, He was on the outside of Jericho, and there was a certain blind man sitting. Please notice the literal translation, by the side of road begging. That means this is his normal position every day. And he is begging. Now you can't get worse than that. You are blind and you are sitting alongside of the road, and you are begging every day. That is your life.
Luke 18:43 - And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.
And immediately he received his sight and followed him. And again, this is an Imperfect Tense meaning he was continually following Jesus, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.
Luke 19:13 - And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.
He delivered them ten pounds, or literally the Greek word is MNA and is pronounced "Muh-Nah." A MNA is 100 days wages, equivalent to100 denarius. So, he gives unto them 10 MNA and said unto them, Occupy, or do business till I come.
Luke 18:13 - And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
And the publican, notice the publican standing afar off, he doesn't even feel worthy to come close, and he would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but was beating his breast.
And this is an Imperfect Tense verb, meaning he was continually beating upon his breast or his chest saying, God be merciful to me, notice the literal translation, God be merciful to me the sinner, not a sinner, the sinner.
So here you have one saying look how good I am compared to all these sinners. And then you have got a sinner saying I'm not even worthy to look up to heaven, I'm not even worthy to come in the temple, and he was continually beating his chest in lamentation and mourning over his condition and the only thing he could ask for was for mercy, God be merciful to me the sinner.
Luke 18:17 - Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
Truly I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall never, (double negative), enter in.
He's not saying be childish. Again, childlike, totally dependent on the Father of spirits in heaven who gave us our life and has brought us into the family of God.
Luke 18:19 - And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? None is good, save one, that is, God.
And Jesus said unto him, first of all before I answer your question, "Why did you call me AGATHOS?" Why did you call me good? There is none that is good, except one, and that is, God. You just called me God. Why did you call me God?
Luke 18:3 - And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
She is asking the court to come to her aid. The word adversary is a legal term which means the opponent in a court of law.
Luke 18:5 - Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
The word weary in Greek means to give somebody a black eye. He's not worried about the woman attacking him. In fact, the word is a very special word.
In our vocabulary in English, we probably say the jab, the boxer that jabs, continuously throwing the jab, wearing his opponent down so that he can throw the knockout punch.
And he says she is continually coming. She is not going to give up. And she had three things going against her. Number one, she was a woman, and a woman did not have any leverage in court whatsoever.
Secondly, she was a widow. She had no husband to represent her in court. And thirdly she was poor, so she didn't have enough to give a bribe. So, she just came and continued to come and wearied the judge.
Luke 17:20 - And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
This Greek word is used in two different senses. One is observation as an astronomer would observe the stars and the planets in outer space. Secondly, it is a medical term. If someone has been admitted into the hospital for observation, and that is what this word means. It means we are going to watch you, watch your vital signs, and take tests. So, He says the Kingdom of God does not come with observation: Again the outward appearance.
Luke 17:34 - I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed;
The word "men" is not in any manuscripts. It is just two people, because there are people that use this for justification for homosexuality. In that night there shall be two men (two people) in one bed; one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
Luke 18:1 - And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
The premise of this parable is in Verse 1, that men ought always to pray and not to faint. The word "ought" is the word necessary. It comes from the word DEO that means to bind. It is necessary for men always to pray and to not faint.
The word faint in the Greek text means to give in, to give up, or to give in to your circumstances. And as the Lord is explaining the difficulties that God's people will experience, He is now focusing on the main activity that the believer has with his or her Lord, and that is prayer, that when difficulties happen through circumstances, it's necessary for the believer to always pray and never to give in, never to give up.
"Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Mark 9:23 KJV
"And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." Luke 18:27 KJV
As a believer, I, believe God concerning your prayer petition before God, and that,
"... he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:5 KJV
"O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah." Psalms 84:8 KJV
As a believer, I stand in agreement that God hears and answers prayers, Amen.
Luke 18:22 22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
Luke 12:33 Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
The first two passages apply to a rich man who claimed to have followed the law; no doubt not at God's standards but nonetheless the main issue was his covetous heart related to possessions. The last passage was Jesus talking with His Disciples about His providing basic food and clothing needs (again; as I have emphasized before shelter even for Christ was a nomadic transient thing given His type of ministry).
Considering the meaning here we have to observe the whole pattern of valuing God over family; as Jesus Himself demonstrated when stating "who is my mother and brother ( Matt. 12:58); and then in the next two verses explains that the Disciples are such.
What we can't say is that Jesus wants us to forego all sources of work or financial plans. Jesus Himself worked for most of His adult life before the last few years of ministry; and Paul would provide for himself making tents; and also commended some wealthy women who were beneficial in the ministry. Money was to be set aside the first day of the week; etc.
I can also look in my own life to the house I own; legally I can't sell it even if I wanted to as it is in my Dad's name even though it goes to me when he passes.
What is clear to me is that all of our money should in the present and future plans be planned to support the Lord; in my case I don't have any children to support. Once we "retire" all our time should focus on ministry as health allows.
An elder brother in Christ once told us that in all his christian life when he sees something he doesn't like inside his heart then he spends two to three days in fasting and praying and it goes away.
Luke 18:27, "...The things which are impossible with men are possible with God."
In another gospel it is what must I do to inherit eternal life ( Luke 18:18 ) but thanks for drawing attention to that account for we need all 4 gospels fora full picture . But here it is what good thing must I do . Very interesting .
There is a way of salvation and to lead people to,Christ a person has to be led along that way . It's not riches alone that was a hinderance but fir him it was his riches.
It says that " Jesus loved him" The terrible thing is that the fact that God lives you does not save yiu .
It is that love expressed in and through Jesus Christ . The great tragedy was that when he turned away sorrowful he turned his back on the love of God and with each step away from the Lord was a step away from theLight and from the truth into darkness .
The Lord did not chase after him . Some; very few get another opportunity but no man should count on it . We never hear of the man again .
"Let us then put aside every weight and the sin that so easily besets us.."
Paul was talking to people already saved ,but we can lose much by not so doing .
Greetings,
1 Corinthians 12:13
"For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit."
Luke 18:17
"Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
Blessings
Luke 18:17
"Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
John 14:15
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Luke 6:46
"And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"
Blessings
But when Israel continued in unbelief, Christ revealed to Paul "the dispensation of the grace of God" and the previously hidden "mystery" ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). In this present dispensation, we are now saved by the gospel of Christ's cross and resurrection alone ( 1 Cor 15:1-4; Rom 3:24-28; 4:5; Eph 2:8-9). Entrance is by one Spirit baptizing us into one Body ( 1 Cor 12:13), hence Paul can say there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) and also, strikingly "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17).
What of the Lord's commands in Matthew and John? They stand true for the audience addressed. Matthew 5:18 affirms the Law's authority until all is fulfilled; Christ is its end for righteousness to everyone that believes ( Rom 10:4) and the Body is not under the Law ( Rom 6:14). John 14-15 speaks to kingdom disciples under the New Covenant promises to Israel ( Jer 31:31-34), about abiding in the Vine and keeping His commandments in that program.
Luke 18:17 highlights the posture of faith, not a ritual that secures salvation. Therefore, today water baptism is a good testimony, but it does not add to the finished cross-work nor effect salvation. The saving baptism in this age is the Spirit's, placing us in Christ the moment we believe.
Grace and Peace.
May you see this: your reply is already gone. I will keep it short in respect of others.
Much of Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 focuses on the end times. If we look closer, some of what Jesus told the four was specifically for their time. First, back then, they didn't even understand that Jesus was going to be executed, as shown in Luke 9:44-45 and Luke 18:31-34. We also see how they reacted after Jesus was crucified; they did not believe Mary and the other women who had seen Jesus.
When Jesus spoke about the temple, he said that not one stone would be left on top of another, which describes what happened in AD 70. There was a church in Jerusalem led by James and other Christians in Judea during this period. History records that they escaped to a city called Pella. Many link the phrase "abomination of desolation" to the end times, the antichrist, and the false teaching of the rapture. However, Jesus isn't referring to Daniel 9:27 but to the prophecy in Daniel 11:31 and Daniel 12:11.
Wording in Daniel 9:27, "for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate," Daniel 11:31, "the abomination that maketh desolate." Daniel 12:11 "the abomination that maketh desolate set up,"
Antiochus IV Epiphanes carried out this act in 167 BC; this is the abomination of desolation Jesus is talking about. Jesus is warning them that the same event will happen before the temple's destruction in AD 70. History records this; it did happen, the warning Luke gave in Luke 21:20. If we look at Daniel 9:27, it says that for the abominations, He, who is Jesus, will make it desolate, referring to Matthew 23:36-38.
Just something you may study, I feel you and I try to study in prayer without preconceived assumptions.
God bless,
RLW
And this poverty also aligns with the account Jesus gave in Luke 16:19-31, where the (physically) poor man Lazarus who probably died a miserable, lonely death, enjoyed the comforts of Paradise, whereas the rich man who gave no thought for others, suffered in excruciating pain. How do these two accounts compare to what Jesus also speaks about: to the New Birth ( John 3:3), of the repenting broken publican and the self-righteous Pharisee ( Luke 18:10-14), or even the publican Zaccheus who under conviction, changed his sinful behavior ( Luke 19:1-10)? All these accounts, including Matthew 5:3, were given by Jesus to those of Israel still under the Old Covenant of the Law. And the Law required that people dealt righteously with one another, looking out for his brother in need ( Deuteronomy 15:7,8) and not to steal from another ( Leviticus 19:11). Jesus not only reminded them of the Law but that (in the case of Nicodemus, John 3:3), that man would need to be born again by the Holy Spirit. This could only happen after Jesus' Death and Resurrection and the giving of His Spirit to all who would believe on Him. Nicodemus should have known about this ( John 3:9,10, cf Ezekiel 11:19,20, Ezekiel 36:26,27).
So the 'poor in spirit' (as the other Beatitudes) are a reflection of this new nature, bringing out the qualities in a believer, that come from a new revived spirit in him, given by God's Spirit under the New Covenant.
Our day of redemption will arrive; at last. This earth is not our home. I see here tonight especially many with ongoing struggles.
Those who know the Lord will see if they indeed are called home at the Rapture things from an eternal perspective. The earth is seething with demons around every corner; although men's wickedness allows them to be empowered. Anyone truly saved and who possesses the Spirit has the authority to hold these forces at bay; although sadly many don't bother exercising (or should I say exorcizing) these God given rights.
Dead churches are doing more harm than good; because they encourage people to be comfortable in not proclaiming the Gospel and challenging individuals to grow in their walk; hence people are spiritually sick in various stages of dying. These were words my ex wife actually used before she went full force into adultery. When we get the first signs of realization that the enemy is getting a stronghold especially in marriages we need to be on the offensive in prayer mode. I wasn't even thinking this when I started but that is something a few tonight I believe need to hear. There are women present who appear to have a proper perspective on proper behavior in terms of submission but need to be offensively praying against the tactics of the enemy attempting to control them and their partner. We should encourage prayer with our husbands or wives especially if they claim authority in the church. In secret prayer women or men can wield tremendous power; and I pray that for those in need.
Luke 18:17 "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
Blessings
It seems a lot of folks only look at the cross and not at all the other things Christ went through before that. Some look to the 40 days and 40 nights in the wilderness in the fast; although Moses actually had to do this TWICE because of Israel's rebellion through supernatural strength. Whether he ate in between no man knows.
There is sort of a discontinuity here; or an unknown place where we can separate suffering from persecution. We can say dogmatically that Christ never sinned hence nothing of his own doing contributed to his miseries; we see that He only said what the Father told Him to say hence knew when not to say things and taught others that as well in regard to not broadcasting certain miracles especially at the onset of His ministry. I won't elaborate but mostly it was to draw away attention from being a great teacher and focusing on forgiveness of sins and of course that could only happen if He was indeed a member of the Godhead.
I am reminded as I write this the verse that says "when I come will there be faith on the earth?" ( Luke 18:18). This looks to when He returns and the justice finally brought to the world's ills in general but addressing those things which we haven't seen answered during our earthly sojourn. That also reminds me of Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
But we have a heavenly place to go to; the alternative being; sadly hell. Having spiritual discernment isn't easy; perhaps you can also pray I learn to use that gift for His glory as many don't want to hear.
All things are possible with GOD, but with man it's impossible... right?
Matthew 19:26
But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
Mark 10:27
And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
Luke 18:27
And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.
MARANTHA...
Revelation 22:20-21
He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
THANK YOU ***JESUS CHRIST***!!!
***YOUR CROSS & BLOOD***!!!
OUR ETERNAL SALVATION!!!
TO ***GOD ALMIGHTY*** BE ALL THE GLORY NOW AND FOREVER FOR ETERNITY!!!
AMEN!!!
"Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican."
Luke 18:11
"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."
Luke 18:12
"I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess."
Luke 18:13
"And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner."
Luke 18:14
"I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Blessings
2 Timothy 3:5 - Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
Having a form of godliness. They can have any one, if not all of these characteristics. Denying the power thereof: To deny doesn't mean that they deny that God has power. Everybody that believes in God believes He has power. It doesn't mean that somebody denies that. It means to reject.
We're seeing this right now more and more amongst the church, having a form of godliness (outward form and system), but rejecting God's power, and instead doing it ourselves. Jesus said ( Luke 18:1) that when the Son of man comes, will He find the faith upon the earth? The apostasy of the last days will be a challenge to faith.
It has nothing to do with our performance. It's denying the power of God if it's my performance. God promises to do His work through us, not for us to take His work into our hands and run it for Him. It's gotten worse over the years. There seems to be a philosophy in the church that Jesus ascended up into heaven to the right hand of the Father, and He has left us to do His work for Him until He gets back. It's like He's not here, like He's not the head of the church, like He doesn't run things.
When Jesus comes, will He find the faith on the earth? Will He find people saying "Lord, we have been waiting for your coming according to your word, because we believe you can fulfil your word?" That's faith!
The command at the end of Verse 5 says from such turn away, disassociate yourself with such people. That's hard and stern advice. In 1 Corinthians, Paul says that corrupt morals affect good morals. It's not the other way around.
If I decide to hang out with people that are not of good morals so that I can influence them, the bible says that these people with their corrupt morals will influence me, not me influencing them. Paul says to disassociate with such people because they will affect you. You'll get caught up in it.
The most dangerous thing in the Bible is being deceived by false prophets, false apostles, false accusers, false witness and false Christs . Satan will use anyone to do his work in deception.
Jesus warns his Twelve Disiples of people that will say bad things against them.
Matthew 5:11
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against youfalsely, for my sake.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false prophets.
Matthew 7:15
Beware offalseprophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false witness.
Matthew 15:19
For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts,falsewitness,
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false prophets.
Matthew 24:11
And manyfalseprophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false Christs.
Matthew 24:24
For there shall arisefalseChrists, andfalseprophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false witness.
Mark 10:19
Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bearfalsewitness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false Christs and false prophets.
Mark 13:22
ForfalseChrists andfalseprophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.
Jesus warns the Twelve Disiples of false witness.
Luke 18:20
Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bearfalsewitness, Honour thy father and thy mother.
Ray, in Christ Jesus
Here is another time when Jesus was explaining his death and resurrection and they understood nothing.
Matthew 16:21-22
21From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.
22Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.
23But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
John 20:6-10
6Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,
7And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.
8Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.
9For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.
10Then the disciples went away again unto their own home
The Disciples couldn't understand the future resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Luke 18:31-34
31Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.
32For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on:
33And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again.
34And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.
Ray , in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
Let us not
forget to pray daily.
"O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker."
Luke 18:1
"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;"
Psalms 19:14
"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer."
Psalms 66:16-20
"16. Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.
17I cried unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue. 18If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: 19But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer.
20Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me."
In Jesus name we pray. Amen!
Let's see the verse in Mark 16:9, "Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week ..."
The greek reads, "Anastas(was risen) de proi(morning) prote(first) Savvatou(of the Sabbath) ..."
But here a question comes in. Why did the KJV translate "of the Sabbath" as "the first day of the week"?. The answer is because the Jews, apart from the day of Sabbath, also called the 7 day week as a Sabbath. Example: Luke 18:12, (it is the incident with the Pharisee and the publican), it says in grk "nesteuo (I fast) dis(twice) Savvatou(of the Sabbath) ...." It is obvious that the Pharisee doesn't mean that he fasts twice on the day of Sabbath, but twice in a week.
Another example is also in Luke, verse 24:1, "te de mia(in the first) ton Savvaton(of the Sabbaths) orthou batheos(very early in the morning) ..", it obviously means in the first day of the week very early in the morning.
Actually it is known from history books that the Jews at that time fasted on Tuesdays and Wednesdays every week. So the first day of the Sabbath here is the first day of the week. The Sabbath was the last day of the Jewish week and the next day (the christian Sunday) was the first.
But the verse in Luke 23:54 clarifies the day of the week that Jesus was buried. It says "Kai (and) hemera(day) en(was) paraskeue(preparation), Savvatou (of the Sabbath) epephoske (was coming close)." What does it mean "the day was preparation"? Here we have to look at the names of the week days in Hebrew. The are called: the first, the second, the third, the fourth, the fifth, the preparation (because the were making all the preparation need for resting on the Sabbaths since they were not allowed to do anything on the Sabbaths) and last of all was the Sabbath. So the right interpretation of that verse (in mod. English) is "and it was Friday and Saturday(Sabbath) was closing in (since the day for Hebrews starts in the evening of the previous day)".
Two covenants cannot run together!
This reminds me of Matthew 9:14-17.
John's disciples were Jews. They were still following the rules of Judaism and living under the obligations of the Old Covenant, with its ceremonial rituals and religious regulations, including fasting on certain days
Leviticus 16:29-31
Leviticus 23:32
Luke 18:12.
Jesus came to usher in the New and fulfillment of the Law and do away with the ( rituals and Foreshadowing ) ministry that veiled their Hearts.
There also is a Change in Priesthood!
Hebrews 7:11. If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
Blessings.
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein. ( Luke 18:17, KJV)
One day, I walked into the living room and saw my granddaughter sitting at a child's table, pretending she was a teacher. As I walked by her, I picked up the D volume of the Britannica Junior Encyclopedia she had on her table/desk and sat on the couch. As I thumbed through its pages, I heard her getting onto one of her imaginary students when the heading DEAM caught my eye, and I started to read. One paragraph really stood out that read: "There are two kinds of daydreams which children have but adults do not: the daydream of the imaginary playmate, and the daydream of the adopted child. A child, if he has few friends to play with, may daydream that he has a playmate. Such a child may find his imaginary friend so interesting that he spends long hours in this daydream play. Another child likes to imagine that he is "special"--that he is really a prince or princess and that his parents are king and queen. Such a child then daydreams that he has been adopted, and that his real parents are royalty."
Paul said, "For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." ( Romans 8:15, KJV) The daydream of the adopted child?
Jesus said, "If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. ( John 14:15, KJV) The daydream of the imaginary playmate?
"And they (the disciples) understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken."
There was certainly a problem between Jesus and his disciples. He knew them but they believed in him yet they did not understood his miracles neither their significance. After the marriage at Cana we have this passage. " But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,/And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man."( John 2:24-25). He knew where he came from and where he was going. As the true Light he walked in the light of his Father,- the Father of lights. So there was no shades or subtle difference in the tints that his earthly ministry presented. "When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone." ( John 6:15) Was it not in the Bible spoken? The angel was not joking, he said,"and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:/And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." ( Luke 1:33-34) Jesus would not fool himself and he had come to destroy the wicked world and save those few that believed as well as understood him. Merely because Satan "shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time" it was a trick. His kingdom was 'forever' and not the kind David had inherited.
The disciples believed in Jesus but their understanding had to come in patience. So Isaiah referring to the sure foundation states,"he that believeth shall not make haste". Jesus also explained and it was to happen in their generation ('wicked and adulterous') "In your patience possess ye your souls." It is in the quiet sanctuary the miracle takes place."And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground."
Luke 18:34 - And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.
The word "hid" shows a condition or state in the Greek text. They were constantly in this situation of not understanding what Jesus meant as he said several times now that he must go into Jerusalem and die. But they did not understand it.
Luke 18:35 - And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging:
So, He was on the outside of Jericho, and there was a certain blind man sitting. Please notice the literal translation, by the side of road begging. That means this is his normal position every day. And he is begging. Now you can't get worse than that. You are blind and you are sitting alongside of the road, and you are begging every day. That is your life.
Luke 18:43 - And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.
And immediately he received his sight and followed him. And again, this is an Imperfect Tense meaning he was continually following Jesus, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.
Luke 19:13 - And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.
He delivered them ten pounds, or literally the Greek word is MNA and is pronounced "Muh-Nah." A MNA is 100 days wages, equivalent to100 denarius. So, he gives unto them 10 MNA and said unto them, Occupy, or do business till I come.
Luke 18:13 - And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
And the publican, notice the publican standing afar off, he doesn't even feel worthy to come close, and he would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but was beating his breast.
And this is an Imperfect Tense verb, meaning he was continually beating upon his breast or his chest saying, God be merciful to me, notice the literal translation, God be merciful to me the sinner, not a sinner, the sinner.
So here you have one saying look how good I am compared to all these sinners. And then you have got a sinner saying I'm not even worthy to look up to heaven, I'm not even worthy to come in the temple, and he was continually beating his chest in lamentation and mourning over his condition and the only thing he could ask for was for mercy, God be merciful to me the sinner.
Luke 18:17 - Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
Truly I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall never, (double negative), enter in.
He's not saying be childish. Again, childlike, totally dependent on the Father of spirits in heaven who gave us our life and has brought us into the family of God.
Luke 18:19 - And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? None is good, save one, that is, God.
And Jesus said unto him, first of all before I answer your question, "Why did you call me AGATHOS?" Why did you call me good? There is none that is good, except one, and that is, God. You just called me God. Why did you call me God?
Luke 18:3 - And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
She is asking the court to come to her aid. The word adversary is a legal term which means the opponent in a court of law.
Luke 18:5 - Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
The word weary in Greek means to give somebody a black eye. He's not worried about the woman attacking him. In fact, the word is a very special word.
In our vocabulary in English, we probably say the jab, the boxer that jabs, continuously throwing the jab, wearing his opponent down so that he can throw the knockout punch.
And he says she is continually coming. She is not going to give up. And she had three things going against her. Number one, she was a woman, and a woman did not have any leverage in court whatsoever.
Secondly, she was a widow. She had no husband to represent her in court. And thirdly she was poor, so she didn't have enough to give a bribe. So, she just came and continued to come and wearied the judge.
Luke 17:20 - And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
This Greek word is used in two different senses. One is observation as an astronomer would observe the stars and the planets in outer space. Secondly, it is a medical term. If someone has been admitted into the hospital for observation, and that is what this word means. It means we are going to watch you, watch your vital signs, and take tests. So, He says the Kingdom of God does not come with observation: Again the outward appearance.
Luke 17:34 - I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed;
The word "men" is not in any manuscripts. It is just two people, because there are people that use this for justification for homosexuality. In that night there shall be two men (two people) in one bed; one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
Luke 18:1 - And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
The premise of this parable is in Verse 1, that men ought always to pray and not to faint. The word "ought" is the word necessary. It comes from the word DEO that means to bind. It is necessary for men always to pray and to not faint.
The word faint in the Greek text means to give in, to give up, or to give in to your circumstances. And as the Lord is explaining the difficulties that God's people will experience, He is now focusing on the main activity that the believer has with his or her Lord, and that is prayer, that when difficulties happen through circumstances, it's necessary for the believer to always pray and never to give in, never to give up.
"And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." Luke 18:27 KJV
"Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Mark 9:23 KJV
I pray you receive and accept God's word concerning your request. Amen.
"And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." Luke 18:27 KJV
As a believer, I, believe God concerning your prayer petition before God, and that,
"... he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:5 KJV
"O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah." Psalms 84:8 KJV
As a believer, I stand in agreement that God hears and answers prayers, Amen.