I have changed my profile slightly as I don't see a need for my last name on this site.
Seeing the latest postings regarding Christmas; and figuring this could be the last season we celebrate this before the return of Christ at the Rapture (if He doesn't come beforehand) I thought I would expound on some thoughts related to this time of year.
It has been mentioned the Christmas that society tolerates; which involves songs that are familiar to some that are at times related to the birth of our Savior such as Silent Night (and all the modern newfangled renditions). Now as to proper beliefs no doubt the concept of a tender child born in humble circumstances appeals to the humanist and those of other "faith traditions" as well. As to being God in the flesh which is clearly indicated in the Gospel in Luke 2:11 and stemming back to prophecy from the book of Isaiah it ain't so much embraced (not sure how many professing believers themselves believe that these days).
Perhaps a more subtle but most prescient issue related to all the decorations and holiday "cheer" is the materialism that has pervaded our culture in particular really for the last century. As bad as the bratty kids we have trained to expect "things" to magically appear by delivery from some questionable fat bearded old man down the chimney or some other innovate technique we have the lingering faux image of the whole period of time of family gathering together where women get a power trip from their kitchen creations and endless "bargains" where they can save a few bucks and family often sees other members who they don't deal with the rest of the year; etc. Men of course can get into grandiose descriptions of the latest power tool they bought or whatever sports teams are on TV.
When "good deeds" are done of course it can assuage a guilty conscience temporarily with this sort of Santa Claus mentality for adults; such as volunteering in a soup kitchen.
That's a great question. I searched the internet and found this answer, which opened my eyes to this matter (taken from that source).
First, a clarifying question: What "heaven" is being referred to? When we hear the word, we often think of the dwelling place of God and believers in the "new heaven and new earth" described in Revelation 21. In Scripture, though, the word "heaven" means different things in different contexts. It can mean the sky above, as in Genesis 1:1. Heaven can mean the spiritual realm where angels dwell, as in Luke 2:15. Heaven can also mean the throne room of God, as in Psalm 11:4.
Satan rebelled in what we might call the heavenly realm, the spiritual dimension where angelic beings operate.
It's important not to confuse the future "new heaven and new earth" with the angelic realm that existed before the fall of Satan. To understand how sin could have entered that realm, we need to look closer at the nature of angels themselves-who they are, how they were created, and what kind of freedom they were given.
The Bible teaches that Satan was once a glorious angelic being. One key passage often cited is Ezekiel 28:12-15, which, while addressed to the king of Tyre, is understood by many scholars to also contain a reference to Satan himself. The figure described is "blameless in [his] ways from the day [he was] created until unrighteousness was found in [him]." This suggests that even in the heavenly realm, angels could choose between right and wrong, just as we can.
Angelic freedom should not be given more weight than Scripture allows. God's purpose is not beholden to creaturely choices. He doesn't take risks. In the end, Satan's fall served God's greater purposes. The devil's rebellion was not outside of God's sovereign plan, but part of it. Without the fall, no cross, no redemption, no ultimate display of God's justice, mercy, and grace.
I think the problem I would have with changing the word virgin to virginity in 1 Corinthians 7:36-37 is that the Greek text does not support changing it. The Greek text specifically says virgin in both Verses 36 and 37. We simply cannot change the word from virgin to virginity in order for it to make better sense. I read it as virgin, and I don't see it as being confusing at all.
We see the word "virginity" in Luke 2:36 (among other places), and it's a different Greek word than what we see in 1 Corinthians. So, if it is supposed to say virginity instead of virgin in 1 Corinthians, the same word would have been used that was used in Luke. Also, if we were to change the word virgin to virginity in Verses 36 and 37, why wouldn't we also change virgin to virginity in Verse 34? Changing words in the bible causes confusion, not clear up confusion. There are words that can be changed, but only if the original text supports the change.
I don't think there is any confusion as to what Paul is saying. He is using the word virgin, not virginity. True, virginity can apply to both male and female, but the Greek text uses the word virgin (PARTHENON) which is a feminine noun. This may be why many (including myself) see this as Paul speaking of an unmarried (virgin) daughter.
Something else to take into consideration is what Strong's Concordance gives us on the word virgin (PARTHENON): Of unknown origin; a maiden; by implication, an unmarried daughter -- virgin.
Another word that's used for virgin, which is found in 1 Corinthians 7:34, is PARTHENOS, which is defined as: properly, a virgin; a woman who has never had sexual relations; a female (virgin), beyond puberty but not yet married.
Again, this is why many see this as Paul referring to a virgin daughter. I am interested in hearing how you justify changing the word virgin to virginity when the Greek text does not support the change, and I do thank you ahead of time if you choose to reply.
I am so grateful for this site. I thank God for all of you . Thank you for your prayers.
It helps me to grow. It inspires me to appreciate all the blessings and benefits God provides for me everyday. I believe in prayer. Many days I read the name of each commenter and say a prayer for All.
"Peters words. "His eyes are over the righteous and his ears open to their prayers."
Psalms 66:16-20
16Come 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.
Luke 2:14
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."King James Version (KJV)
There are many verses explaining Christ's perfect; sinless life. Hebrews 4:15 says For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. A casual search will find lists of dozens to 100 or more verses on this subject. These are fine studies and I will try to incorporate many more into this series. My main focus is on how He lived this way in varying situations whether with His inner circle of Disciples; the larger public; the Pharisees and Sadducees or private prayer.
As I brought up briefly in an earlier post; Jesus lived His first 30 years with scanty details written about it. Although there are spurious extrabiblical writings that mention outrageous miracles; signs and wonders ascribed to this period of His life; the fact that the Spirit came down on Him and even John didn't know who He was should tell us otherwise. John was born to Elizabeth; Mary's cousin (according to the way most understand the text). If anything extraordinary occurred you would expect John would have been aware of it before this time. Mary knew certainly that all that Christ said should be paid attention to; we see this with the miracle of the water turned to wine in the Cana wedding in John 2:1-11. We will start there and leave the general conclusion that Jesus served His parents well and with the family business; which some have said is more representing general labor of construction work rather than just a carpenter. He did with the incident when He was 12 years old briefly "disobey" His parents in appearance doing work in "His Father's house" ( Luke 2:49); which shows how God was His true Father hence it could trump Joseph His earthly father; nonethless this was a one time incident; perhaps I'll surmise being a rite of passage like a BarMitzvah although I could be wrong about that; just a thought.
"And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us." Luke 2:15 KJV
God came to earth and presented unto us the knowledge of His Son from Heaven in Bethlehem town.
COGIC WORSHIP 1 Corinthians 15:3-4:Jesus Christ is God, I worship a God of the Universe. A God of good tidings.God that saves and to believe. A God that is the Anoited one. A God that is leader of your life. A God of Salvation. A God that has never willed otherwise. A God that is good and well being.
Thus, there are 1,290 years from Jacob's affliction in 1877 B.C. to the tribulation of Daniel's day in 587 B.C., and 2 x 1,290 = 2,580 years from Daniel's tribulation to the year 1994 A.D., which brings us to the heart of what the prophecy of Simeon is referring to. The year 1994 A.D. marked the official end of the church age, when there is a famine of hearing the words of the LORD in all the churches, and the beginning of the latter rain, that is, the final harvest of those that are becoming saved outside the churches.
Outside the churches, God is empowering the true believers to understand the things concerning the end and God is blessing his word to the hearts of those who are God's elect, which are typified by the men of Nineveh, of whom God declares:
Jonah 3:5,8-9 5So the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them. 8---let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn every one from his evil way, and from the violence that is in their hands. 9Who can tell if God will turn and repent, and turn away from his fierce anger, that we perish not?
Daniel 11:35 declares: 35And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.
To purge and make white is the language of salvation. Thus, we see a literal fulfillment of Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:34 "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel", that is, the Israel of God consisting of all those who name the name of Christ and are chosen in Christ. What a marvelous Savior we have, whose birth we observe during this Christmas time.
May all of us cry mightily to God that God might have mercy on ourselves and our loved ones. It is still the day of salvation!
But now return to the prophecy of Luke 2:34, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel," rising again has to do the resurrection, that is, the resurrection of our soul when we become born from above by the power of God, which is called the first resurrection. When Christ crucified and his body placed in the tomb, he arose on the third day. Even so, those who become saved have experienced the resurrection of their soul to spiritual life.
The fall and rising again of many in Israel can be viewed from at least two perspectives: the fall and rising again of the elect as a consequence of the fall of national Israel, and the fall and rising again of the elect resulting from the fall of the churches and congregations in our day. First, let's look at the fall of national Israel.
Romans 10:1-4 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. 2For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. 4For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
SCHOOL BOOK November 24, 2024Isaiah 52:1-2,7-12 KJV
COGIC WORSHIP1 Corinthians 15:3-4: I worship a God that is holy and truth ,A God of distinction. A God of obedience & through the bible. A God of holiness..A God that reveals Luke 2:26 KJV. A God that allows you to accept him. A God of honour and majesty.A God of strength and beauty is his sanctuary. A God of prosperity and keeps me safe.
Brother in the highest respect I know we disagree on this you understand that the Son of God is a title. You said about huios; quote "doesn't have anything to do with somebody who is born from a woman. This is somebody who's been placed in a position of inheritance." end quote. To me that would be saying Jesus was figuratively the son of God.
The two Greek words you use huios and teknon. Huios means properly, a son by birth or adoption; Jesus was Son by birth and we as believers become figuratively a son/huios of God being adopted and heirs of the promise through the only begotten Son of God Jesus, 1 John 3:2Romans 8:23.
Jesus was born of Mary by the Spirit of God and as Jesus grew, he knew who He was as he said in Luke 2:49 I must be about my Father's business.
We see in Luke 15:24 the prodigal son, his father told the servants his son/huios had returned, a son who was born of him and a mother. In this parable told by Jesus, the man called his other son/teknon who was born of the same father and mother. The word teknon means a child, a son, or a daughter.
In John 19:7 this is what the Jews said, they said he made himself the Son of God by saying Jesus just claimed to be the Son of God but was not, they rejected Jesus and did not believe Jesus was truly the Son of God, the Messiah, even after He was resurrected. I feel if we say Son of God is His title we also are saying Jesus is not the only begotten Son of God conceived in Mary by the Spirit of God.
1 John 2:23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. In my understanding of this verse, if we do not acknowledge that Jesus was and is the Son of God conceived in Mary, born of the tribe of Judah a descendant of David, we denieth the Son. We must believe and confess that Jesus is the Son of God, we must believe on the name of the Son of God.
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord".
Here we have heaven witnessing to the shepherds in the field and they are given a sign to round off his service. As with the angel giving John the revelation of Jesus Christ which are several signs all relating to the deity of Jesus Christ. He is Alpha and Omega and he is the Word of God and several other attributes, all of which are under the tag, "This day". The angels in heaven take joy over one sinner coming to salvation. So what does connect man and angels or with heaven? It is the word of God. Our worlds what is made to appear and what is unseen have only one sigle measure which is the fulness of Christ. (Re.21:17). "And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."
Naturally the shepherds were sore afraid, "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people." This joy which is 'to all people' can have only one meaning: Jesus Christ is the saviour of the whole world.
In the Book of the Revelation the angel that served as his guide reveal himself "for I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book"(Re.22:9) What is common between man and angel is the word. Faith is in their worship whether one or multitudes of them as in v.13 "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God." So the fellow servant ends his saying "Worship God."
St Paul warns of angels which are inimical to salvation so war in heaven is waged between fallen angels and of light. "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed."(Gal.1:8). If we keep the word we abide in Christ we cannot be stranger to angels. We are a single measurement in the kingdom.
among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth. Joh_1:14.
Jesus is not known to the princes of the world. He is the "Lord of Glory."
None of the princes of this world knew, for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory. 1Co 2:8.
Jesus is the light of the world and a glory to the people.
A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Luk_2:32
The Lord of Hosts and the King of Glory are the Father in the Old Testament and Jesus in the New Testament. He is the "Lord of Hosts" in Revelation 19:11- 20.
Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of Glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah. Psa 24:9- 10 (done)
Jesus Presented at the Temple
And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. ( Luke 2:25-33 KJV)
Luke 2:28 - Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
So, Simeon takes Jesus up in his arms, and blessed God. Again, here is the word EULOGEO, for eulogy, speaking well of God, giving God praise and thanks for this baby.
Luke 2:47 - And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
Now the word astonished in the Greek text means to be struck out of your mind, to be mad, to be beside yourself. They were so astonished they were beside themselves. They couldn't contain themselves. They were saying I don't believe this. This is a 12-year-old kid.
And then it says, "Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing." The word sorrow in the Greek means to grieve with pain. They were frantic!
Where is their son, 12 years old? And he is wandering all over, and there were millions of people in Jerusalem. Who knows who might have kidnapped Him?
Luke 4:1 - And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,
It tells us that Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit when he returned from the Jordan. After He was baptized, He returned from the Jordan, and he was full of the Holy Spirit. This word "full" in Greek doesn't mean full as in opposite of empty, but full as in the influence.
For instance, the Greek word in the book of Acts when the various disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit at various times, it means the Holy Spirit took over their human faculties. He filled their human faculties. There are times when the Holy Spirit is there. He is always in us, and He is always active, but he is not always using our human faculties to minister to others.
Luke 1:52 - He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
The words "low degree" comes from the word TAPEINOS which means humbleness. This is something else we don't get from our English text. The humble will be exalted!
Luke 1:54 - He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;
Holpen is the word helped or supported.
Luke 1:68 - Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,
He says in Verse 68, blessed be, and again this is the word EULOGEO, to speak well of. I point this out because we see the word "blessed" used several times in our English text, but we are not going to get the true meaning of the word unless we know that there are different words in the Greek for our word blessed.
Luke 2:7 - And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
That is a title, firstborn, the one who inherits. It also tells us, as the other Gospel writers have, that she had more children after Jesus.
And then it says, "wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger. Here it is literally: "wrapped him in linen cloth and laid him in a feeding trough."
Luke 2:13 - And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Now right here in the original language, there was an angel speaking and then all of a sudden, the entire sky was filled with angels that accompanied this angel.
Luke 2:14 - Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Here is the literal translation from the Greek. "And upon the earth, peace towards men of goodwill. That is to say those who have a good response to God. It is telling us that God's peace will be on those who have a good heart and a good response to Him.
While studying the volume we have in Jesus, is that we are a new creation. We have a birth according to time and place. As a proof Apostle Peter testifies David for an example. "Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day." (Ac.2:29) Evangelist Matthew begins his Gospel by stating the generation of Jesus, that he is the son of David. In the Psalm David refers to him as the Lord, and 'my king'. "Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion./I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee." This knowledge of God and Man is what defines the generation of Jesus Christ. He is the man component co-eternal with God. The Word supplied and David declares it as true. It is called 'this day' which is established as 'Amen' and the Spirit while organizing the God document gives it with a tag,"unto this day".
Accordingly the host of angel appearing to the shepherds announces, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord./ And this shall be a sign unto you." ( Luke 2:11-12) The word concerning his birth as cited in the Psalm was fulfilled. The sign refers to its fulfilment.
In the context of the generation let us define the day from the life of David, his city and his grave are physical markers and it is part Israel as a nation. Jesus as his son also testified, "For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end."( Luke 22:37-39). This 'day' is where the things that are written by the Word before the worlds began are accomplished. When Jesus declares, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me,"( John 14:4) He is the way for the day of Regeneration. The same day, one is tagged day of salvation
Luke 2:51-52 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
"And the name of the city from that day shall be, The Lord is there."
The city that Ezekiel refers is to Zion ,"Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.
"(Ps.50:2). This is with particular reference to the day which the the Spirit has freely made use to give context to the fullness of God in Jesus Christ. Unto this day is one example with which heaven declares the birth of Jesus. "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." ( Luke 2:11). Of the city of David angels testify as in the case of Ezekiel, "The Lord is there." We shall consider another example, and it relates to the servants of Isaac finding water. "We have found water./And he called it Shebah: therefore the name of the city is Beersheba unto this day." (Ge.26:32-33). These cities from where God hath shined are another name for Zion, with the restricted sense of blessings. Zion is the holy habitation of God "Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth,ismount Zion,onthe sides of the north, the city of the great King." This is set in heaven.(Ps.48:2)
From that day refers to the day decreed for the Son. Decree is concerning the everlasting covenant the Psalm speaks "I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee." Begotten in the sense the Word which was God endows among his inheritance, "and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession."(2.6-8). What we read in the last line of the Book of Ezekiel is to that day signifying Jesus Christ has two aspects of beginning and the ending. Blessings of man in his Son sets him beyond his body formed of dust from the ground to the heavenly places to which Zion is pre-eminent.
These two days of Salvation and of Regeneration are set apart by two measurements for the world of the Spirit and for the world of the flesh respectively.
Jesus was conceived of the Holy Ghost, Matthew 1:20 of the seed of a woman/Mary, Genesis 3:15, and born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God, John 1:13. Jesus grew up the same way that we do, Luke 2:40.
He was subject to the pulls of the flesh. He was tempted and influenced by Satan, Luke 4:1-2. He had a will and human desires, Luke 22:41-42. Although Jesus was filled without measure with the power of the Holy Ghost, and gave all things into his hand, John 3:34-35 Jesus humbled Himself and was obedient unto death, Philippians 2:5-11.
To be the payment for sins of man and to be the Savior of mankind and destroy the works of the devil, Jesus had to be a human, Hebrews 2:14-18, the promise God made was to Abraham and his seed, that was Jesus the Messiah/Christ, Galatians 3:16.
Jesus the last Adam came into this world sinless as the first Adam and had to be laden with what we are as humans. The man Jesus, Romans 5:15, had to endure and overcome sin and rise above the influences of Satan to become the payment for the sins and this atonement made way for our deliverance from Satan's bondage, Romans 3:21-26.
He also was prepared to be a merciful and faithful High Priest, Hebrews 4:14-16. God sent His own Son to condemn sin in the flesh that the law could not do that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled, Romans 8:3-4.
Jesus the Son of God a human being had to deal with life as we do. He lived in the same time, space, and constraints as we do. He was born under the law, He became tired, He became hungry, He was subject to persecution, subject to pain, subject to the Roman rulers, He had to deal with all the things the same way we do, and all was the for the will of the Father, not His, Matthew 26:42.
Only in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth do we have hope, and are saved, Acts 4:12.
The question is all the more striking since Jesus does not include his father. Jesus never had doubt as to where he came from or was going to. St Luke informs us, "And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?"( Luke 2:49). His Father was in heaven and he knew his deity was still entwined in his Father's bosom. So the words that he spoke as he heard while in heaven and what he put in his mouth. So the conclusion? Man can only be part of their relationship by acknowledging that he has to fulfill the will of the Father which art in heaven while in flesh and blood. No other shortcuts.
"For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother."
God breathed in the nostrils of man so everyone of us is represented in Adam. The spirit of God breathed into us must be for entering into the rest of God. The kingdom of God rules over all so His sovereignty is what makes His creation bask in his power and glory.(Ps.103:19). We shall understand the power of the Spirit in controlling movements. Murmuring of starling is fascinating to watch. As they sway en masse and form clouds no one can be identified in the multitude. One may be any where and yet nowhere. They flit and float without any mishap. How do they do it? There is a skill the spirit of God has given them, the wherewithal so they prosper.
The same power of God and glory and the fall of man shows where he differs from the birds of the air. Instead of being sustained by the grace from the throne of God he speaks of culture as Jews would wave 'the traditions of their fathers' that brought condemnation from Jesus. Without acknowledging God as the Father and doing his will perfectly no nations shall survive.
Jesus formally chose the twelve "And they went into an house." Here we a curious passage,"And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread./And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is beside himself."(vv.20-21).
Fame of the new prophet we read earlier in the Gospel of Mark was no different than of John the Baptist. "And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee."(1:28) Jesus having seen the masses who were as sheep without a shepherd.(Matt.9:36) began to preach of the gospel while his cousin before him aroused much speculation and curiosity. "Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan." to hear his message.(Matt.3:5) " And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?"( John 1:19). His testimony was received and they saw him as well. "The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." Here we have an unvarnished look at fame or celebrity status. The ear hears so much as eye sees so often yet Jesus was an unknown quantity to his friends. "He is possessed!" summed up their report. The Spirit gives us the instance of his mother, "But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart."( Luke 2:19).
Hearing without faith is a dumb thing to do and it is how Jesus became so many things to so many. She heard with her ear of faith and digested over it. What many have witnessed or heard are good seed sown into the heard but it poves to be no man's land."When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side."(Matt.13:19). Is it strange to hear that some believers do not believe in trinity?
Do you believe that the will of the Father and the will of the Son are always the same or different?
Jesus was obedient to the Father, Jesus said many times it is not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him, the same as we are to do, John 4:34John 5:30Mark 3:35.
Do you believe that a human being can truly save all men from sin and death by a perfect life in their own will?
First, I will have to say it was the will of the Father, Jesus at the end even asked His father if there was another way but not Jesus's will but the will of His Father, Matthew 26:39Luke 22:42. We are told this is the foundation of our faith, Jesus' sacrificial death. God cannot die God is Spirit He has no blood to shed for sin it had to be a man, His Son, born of a woman.
John 3:16 God gave His Son not Himself 1 John 2:221 John 4:32 John 1:7Romans 5:82 Corinthians 5:21, God cannot be made sin, 1 Corinthians 15:17 Jesus died, and God raised Him from the dead, the first man to live a perfect life, the first fruits of those who sleep in death. 1 Corinthians 15:14 as said if Jesus was not a man who lived a perfect life and died and was raised from the dead all is vain.
The first Adam was the first man Jesus was the last Adam and the second man, 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. The law had to be fulfilled by a man.
How would a human being know that they are the Messiah from birth and thus know not to ever sin?
As we see Luke 2:51-52 Jesus grew up increasing in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man. Jesus was twelve years old and He knew His father was God, but it doesn't say Jesus knew then He was to be the Messiah. God also said He would raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 11:1-5Isaiah 61:1-2 confirmed in Luke 4:18-21. Romans 1:1-42 Timothy 2:8.
"When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
Jesus as the Son of God knew what was in the mind of man. But he did not make it a point to separate man according to his profession or morals before he condescended to sit with him or sup in any convivial company. But when he say faith among them he responded. It was thus at the house he came to heal the man with palsy what struck him was the faith of four who took trouble to bring him to the fore. "When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee."(2:5).He understood man was sinful so how sinful the matter of degrees did not interest him. The word of his Father was sent out calling all unto repentance. It was potent enough to enthuse the good to hear the call and make peace with God. For example St Luke speaks of Simeon of Jerusalem who was just and devout,"waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him./And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ./ And he came by the Spirit into the temple."( Luke 2:25-27). God let him see his heart's desire before he died. Then there was Anna the prophetess. It is of them Jesus meant when he referred the righteous. They were led by the Spirit of Christ and the anointing of the Holy Ghost would come only after hid resurrection.
But sinners whom came as in the case of Levi or the man with palsy did not came across him by coincidence,- but the call had gone forth before the worlds began and went to the ends of the world; it was their faith in exercising completed the calling and election sure. vv.15-16 The house of Levi was a microcosm of the world. So many were saved as there were many who went away as they came in because of their disbelief.
"To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it."
We shall try to understand the significance of the name which is the basis for the new heaven and the new earth.
Mary's testimony "Holy is his name" ( Luke 2:48) came from 'the angel Gabriel was sent from God' so we are looking at the name from the standpoint of God. He named the heaven, the earth and so on. So holiness of God as testified by his Son forms on the name he acquired above every other name. His humility and the power of God raising him the dead creates a new insight into the name His humility and the power of God raising him the dead creates a new insight into the name. We have this verse, "And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross./Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name." (Ph..2:8-9).
This explains the will of the Father."For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;/And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."(Co.1:19-20). As the inheritor who is worthy to give a name but Jesus Christ. So he promises the overcomer from the church in Pergamos a new name which is as personal as the man on the white horse carried. "And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war./2His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself./And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God."(Re.19:11-13)
Jesus Christ is the Word become flesh and he overcame the world.
GOD is praised in us when we are set to glorify HIM as HE directs us. In the things we do in HIM and how we direct our material wealth and use it to worship the LORD CHRIST.
May our walk in HIM be precious as the tabernacle is shown to be. The outer covering not much to look at; but the inside is beautiful beyond compare. Our life be as Philip in Acts 8: 26 able to tell others of the gospel of the LORD JESUS.
Thank YOU FATHER for this day of worship and time of celebration
Luke 2:10 - 18
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Many are saying we as believers should not be involved in this "pagan" ritual; however, we should use this as an opening to declare our SAVIOR GOD JESUS CHRIST who is no longer a babe.
Titus 2:
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
Praying for the peace in Jerusalem and the Godly wisdom needed in DC and all levels and areas of our nation.
Ephesians 6:10-18 may we recognize..
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Merry Christmas everyone, and a prosperous New Year in 2024.
GOD bless all on this forum. May we improve daily in our walk in CHRIST name as we read and apply HIS precepts and commandments.
Merry Christmas everyone! Have a wonderful and prosperous time with family and friends.
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Luke 2:
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9:
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Let us praise and glory our KING and SAVIOR by telling others of HIS free gift of SALVATION before it is too late.
GOD'S commitment to us is evidenced in the level of HIS relationship HE desires with us. HE continually guides and directs us for HIS glory and our benefit. My LORD is ever blessing and caring for us. HIS commitment is shown in sending HIS SON to be born and crucified for me and all sinners. HIS proof is HIS resurrection out of the grave, as so will I be in the future.
GOD bless everyone on this Christmas day, and to remember that we are called to know HIM not just a babe in the manger, but more so as the SAVIOR of sinful man.
May we read and follow the scriptures in order to fashion and allow ourselves to become useful tools or implements in GOD'S ministry.
LORD bless the peace in Jerusalem and the saints there, as we worship YOU in truth and in spirit.
Merry Christmas everyone. Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2: 11-14
The LORD to shine HIS face on you and bless you gloriously.
I have so much to do in the name of my SAVIOR. Time is running out to reach the lost and dying. Israel is fighting for their lives, their country and their sovereignty as a nation. Most in our country as a nation has left its moral foundation in CHRIST and embraced false teachings and an evil life style. May each of us, who claim CHRIST as their LORD and SAVIOR, be diligent and faithful in carrying out our service to the LORD as is given in scripture.
Luke 2:
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Merry Christmas to all on this platform, and have a prosperous New Year.
John the Baptist was anointed from birth for his ministry. Meeting Jesus by the river Jordan was no mere coincidence any more than Simeon coming to the temple to meet infant Jesus. " And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ./ And he came by the Spirit into the temple. "( Luke 2:25-27). It is thus the eternal word forever settled in heaven has administered the upkeep of the kingdom of God.
By the same token the voice in the wilderness administering baptism by water was to meet the body in which it pleased the Father that his fulness should dwell. Moses Elijah and John are all associates with Christ the Head. Transfiguration of Jesus at the holy mount was a preview of the glory that was to be made manifest. So the River Jordan is a symbol for the river of time, holding them all as having labored to declare the eternal word of God.
After his transfiguration he reveals its significance of restoration 'of all things' by which what Jesus signified is that "that God may be all in all."(1 Co.15:28). "Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist." The glorious body of Jesus awaited his death and resurrection for which the river symbolized life eternal. As forerunner of the Son Elijah parted the river and the glory was "behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven."(2 Ki.2:11) It foreshadows the Ascension of Jesus Christ. "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight."(Ac.1:9) Such events occurring in the Bible narrative is to instruct us we are all associates chosen before the worlds began and Moses, Elijah and John are many members of the same body. From the fulness of the head which is Christ we are preserved. "Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ."
Seeing the latest postings regarding Christmas; and figuring this could be the last season we celebrate this before the return of Christ at the Rapture (if He doesn't come beforehand) I thought I would expound on some thoughts related to this time of year.
It has been mentioned the Christmas that society tolerates; which involves songs that are familiar to some that are at times related to the birth of our Savior such as Silent Night (and all the modern newfangled renditions). Now as to proper beliefs no doubt the concept of a tender child born in humble circumstances appeals to the humanist and those of other "faith traditions" as well. As to being God in the flesh which is clearly indicated in the Gospel in Luke 2:11 and stemming back to prophecy from the book of Isaiah it ain't so much embraced (not sure how many professing believers themselves believe that these days).
Perhaps a more subtle but most prescient issue related to all the decorations and holiday "cheer" is the materialism that has pervaded our culture in particular really for the last century. As bad as the bratty kids we have trained to expect "things" to magically appear by delivery from some questionable fat bearded old man down the chimney or some other innovate technique we have the lingering faux image of the whole period of time of family gathering together where women get a power trip from their kitchen creations and endless "bargains" where they can save a few bucks and family often sees other members who they don't deal with the rest of the year; etc. Men of course can get into grandiose descriptions of the latest power tool they bought or whatever sports teams are on TV.
When "good deeds" are done of course it can assuage a guilty conscience temporarily with this sort of Santa Claus mentality for adults; such as volunteering in a soup kitchen.
With this backdrop I'll begin part 2.
First, a clarifying question: What "heaven" is being referred to? When we hear the word, we often think of the dwelling place of God and believers in the "new heaven and new earth" described in Revelation 21. In Scripture, though, the word "heaven" means different things in different contexts. It can mean the sky above, as in Genesis 1:1. Heaven can mean the spiritual realm where angels dwell, as in Luke 2:15. Heaven can also mean the throne room of God, as in Psalm 11:4.
Satan rebelled in what we might call the heavenly realm, the spiritual dimension where angelic beings operate.
It's important not to confuse the future "new heaven and new earth" with the angelic realm that existed before the fall of Satan. To understand how sin could have entered that realm, we need to look closer at the nature of angels themselves-who they are, how they were created, and what kind of freedom they were given.
The Bible teaches that Satan was once a glorious angelic being. One key passage often cited is Ezekiel 28:12-15, which, while addressed to the king of Tyre, is understood by many scholars to also contain a reference to Satan himself. The figure described is "blameless in [his] ways from the day [he was] created until unrighteousness was found in [him]." This suggests that even in the heavenly realm, angels could choose between right and wrong, just as we can.
Angelic freedom should not be given more weight than Scripture allows. God's purpose is not beholden to creaturely choices. He doesn't take risks. In the end, Satan's fall served God's greater purposes. The devil's rebellion was not outside of God's sovereign plan, but part of it. Without the fall, no cross, no redemption, no ultimate display of God's justice, mercy, and grace.
I think the problem I would have with changing the word virgin to virginity in 1 Corinthians 7:36-37 is that the Greek text does not support changing it. The Greek text specifically says virgin in both Verses 36 and 37. We simply cannot change the word from virgin to virginity in order for it to make better sense. I read it as virgin, and I don't see it as being confusing at all.
We see the word "virginity" in Luke 2:36 (among other places), and it's a different Greek word than what we see in 1 Corinthians. So, if it is supposed to say virginity instead of virgin in 1 Corinthians, the same word would have been used that was used in Luke. Also, if we were to change the word virgin to virginity in Verses 36 and 37, why wouldn't we also change virgin to virginity in Verse 34? Changing words in the bible causes confusion, not clear up confusion. There are words that can be changed, but only if the original text supports the change.
I don't think there is any confusion as to what Paul is saying. He is using the word virgin, not virginity. True, virginity can apply to both male and female, but the Greek text uses the word virgin (PARTHENON) which is a feminine noun. This may be why many (including myself) see this as Paul speaking of an unmarried (virgin) daughter.
Something else to take into consideration is what Strong's Concordance gives us on the word virgin (PARTHENON): Of unknown origin; a maiden; by implication, an unmarried daughter -- virgin.
Another word that's used for virgin, which is found in 1 Corinthians 7:34, is PARTHENOS, which is defined as: properly, a virgin; a woman who has never had sexual relations; a female (virgin), beyond puberty but not yet married.
Again, this is why many see this as Paul referring to a virgin daughter. I am interested in hearing how you justify changing the word virgin to virginity when the Greek text does not support the change, and I do thank you ahead of time if you choose to reply.
Blessings!
Testimony :..:
I am so grateful for this site. I thank God for all of you . Thank you for your prayers.
It helps me to grow. It inspires me to appreciate all the blessings and benefits God provides for me everyday. I believe in prayer. Many days I read the name of each commenter and say a prayer for All.
"Peters words. "His eyes are over the righteous and his ears open to their prayers."
Psalms 66:16-20
16Come 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.
Luke 2:14
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."King James Version (KJV)
There are many verses explaining Christ's perfect; sinless life. Hebrews 4:15 says For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. A casual search will find lists of dozens to 100 or more verses on this subject. These are fine studies and I will try to incorporate many more into this series. My main focus is on how He lived this way in varying situations whether with His inner circle of Disciples; the larger public; the Pharisees and Sadducees or private prayer.
As I brought up briefly in an earlier post; Jesus lived His first 30 years with scanty details written about it. Although there are spurious extrabiblical writings that mention outrageous miracles; signs and wonders ascribed to this period of His life; the fact that the Spirit came down on Him and even John didn't know who He was should tell us otherwise. John was born to Elizabeth; Mary's cousin (according to the way most understand the text). If anything extraordinary occurred you would expect John would have been aware of it before this time. Mary knew certainly that all that Christ said should be paid attention to; we see this with the miracle of the water turned to wine in the Cana wedding in John 2:1-11. We will start there and leave the general conclusion that Jesus served His parents well and with the family business; which some have said is more representing general labor of construction work rather than just a carpenter. He did with the incident when He was 12 years old briefly "disobey" His parents in appearance doing work in "His Father's house" ( Luke 2:49); which shows how God was His true Father hence it could trump Joseph His earthly father; nonethless this was a one time incident; perhaps I'll surmise being a rite of passage like a BarMitzvah although I could be wrong about that; just a thought.
More on the Cana miracle in part 2
"And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us." Luke 2:15 KJV
God came to earth and presented unto us the knowledge of His Son from Heaven in Bethlehem town.
COGIC WORSHIP 1 Corinthians 15:3-4:Jesus Christ is God, I worship a God of the Universe. A God of good tidings.God that saves and to believe. A God that is the Anoited one. A God that is leader of your life. A God of Salvation. A God that has never willed otherwise. A God that is good and well being.
Thus, there are 1,290 years from Jacob's affliction in 1877 B.C. to the tribulation of Daniel's day in 587 B.C., and 2 x 1,290 = 2,580 years from Daniel's tribulation to the year 1994 A.D., which brings us to the heart of what the prophecy of Simeon is referring to. The year 1994 A.D. marked the official end of the church age, when there is a famine of hearing the words of the LORD in all the churches, and the beginning of the latter rain, that is, the final harvest of those that are becoming saved outside the churches.
Outside the churches, God is empowering the true believers to understand the things concerning the end and God is blessing his word to the hearts of those who are God's elect, which are typified by the men of Nineveh, of whom God declares:
Jonah 3:5,8-9 5So the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them. 8---let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn every one from his evil way, and from the violence that is in their hands. 9Who can tell if God will turn and repent, and turn away from his fierce anger, that we perish not?
Daniel 11:35 declares: 35And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.
To purge and make white is the language of salvation. Thus, we see a literal fulfillment of Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:34 "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel", that is, the Israel of God consisting of all those who name the name of Christ and are chosen in Christ. What a marvelous Savior we have, whose birth we observe during this Christmas time.
May all of us cry mightily to God that God might have mercy on ourselves and our loved ones. It is still the day of salvation!
The End
But now return to the prophecy of Luke 2:34, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel," rising again has to do the resurrection, that is, the resurrection of our soul when we become born from above by the power of God, which is called the first resurrection. When Christ crucified and his body placed in the tomb, he arose on the third day. Even so, those who become saved have experienced the resurrection of their soul to spiritual life.
The fall and rising again of many in Israel can be viewed from at least two perspectives: the fall and rising again of the elect as a consequence of the fall of national Israel, and the fall and rising again of the elect resulting from the fall of the churches and congregations in our day. First, let's look at the fall of national Israel.
Romans 10:1-4 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. 2For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. 4For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
Cont. in Part 4
SCHOOL BOOK November 24, 2024Isaiah 52:1-2,7-12 KJV
COGIC WORSHIP1 Corinthians 15:3-4: I worship a God that is holy and truth ,A God of distinction. A God of obedience & through the bible. A God of holiness..A God that reveals Luke 2:26 KJV. A God that allows you to accept him. A God of honour and majesty.A God of strength and beauty is his sanctuary. A God of prosperity and keeps me safe.
Brother in the highest respect I know we disagree on this you understand that the Son of God is a title. You said about huios; quote "doesn't have anything to do with somebody who is born from a woman. This is somebody who's been placed in a position of inheritance." end quote. To me that would be saying Jesus was figuratively the son of God.
The two Greek words you use huios and teknon. Huios means properly, a son by birth or adoption; Jesus was Son by birth and we as believers become figuratively a son/huios of God being adopted and heirs of the promise through the only begotten Son of God Jesus, 1 John 3:2 Romans 8:23.
Jesus was born of Mary by the Spirit of God and as Jesus grew, he knew who He was as he said in Luke 2:49 I must be about my Father's business.
We see in Luke 15:24 the prodigal son, his father told the servants his son/huios had returned, a son who was born of him and a mother. In this parable told by Jesus, the man called his other son/teknon who was born of the same father and mother. The word teknon means a child, a son, or a daughter.
In John 19:7 this is what the Jews said, they said he made himself the Son of God by saying Jesus just claimed to be the Son of God but was not, they rejected Jesus and did not believe Jesus was truly the Son of God, the Messiah, even after He was resurrected. I feel if we say Son of God is His title we also are saying Jesus is not the only begotten Son of God conceived in Mary by the Spirit of God.
1 John 2:23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. In my understanding of this verse, if we do not acknowledge that Jesus was and is the Son of God conceived in Mary, born of the tribe of Judah a descendant of David, we denieth the Son. We must believe and confess that Jesus is the Son of God, we must believe on the name of the Son of God.
In love, God bless,
RLW
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord".
Here we have heaven witnessing to the shepherds in the field and they are given a sign to round off his service. As with the angel giving John the revelation of Jesus Christ which are several signs all relating to the deity of Jesus Christ. He is Alpha and Omega and he is the Word of God and several other attributes, all of which are under the tag, "This day". The angels in heaven take joy over one sinner coming to salvation. So what does connect man and angels or with heaven? It is the word of God. Our worlds what is made to appear and what is unseen have only one sigle measure which is the fulness of Christ. (Re.21:17). "And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."
Naturally the shepherds were sore afraid, "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people." This joy which is 'to all people' can have only one meaning: Jesus Christ is the saviour of the whole world.
In the Book of the Revelation the angel that served as his guide reveal himself "for I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book"(Re.22:9) What is common between man and angel is the word. Faith is in their worship whether one or multitudes of them as in v.13 "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God." So the fellow servant ends his saying "Worship God."
St Paul warns of angels which are inimical to salvation so war in heaven is waged between fallen angels and of light. "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed."(Gal.1:8). If we keep the word we abide in Christ we cannot be stranger to angels. We are a single measurement in the kingdom.
among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth. Joh_1:14.
Jesus is not known to the princes of the world. He is the "Lord of Glory."
None of the princes of this world knew, for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory. 1Co 2:8.
Jesus is the light of the world and a glory to the people.
A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Luk_2:32
The Lord of Hosts and the King of Glory are the Father in the Old Testament and Jesus in the New Testament. He is the "Lord of Hosts" in Revelation 19:11- 20.
Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of Glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah. Psa 24:9- 10 (done)
Jesus Presented at the Temple
And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. ( Luke 2:25-33 KJV)
Luke 2:28 - Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
So, Simeon takes Jesus up in his arms, and blessed God. Again, here is the word EULOGEO, for eulogy, speaking well of God, giving God praise and thanks for this baby.
Luke 2:47 - And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
Now the word astonished in the Greek text means to be struck out of your mind, to be mad, to be beside yourself. They were so astonished they were beside themselves. They couldn't contain themselves. They were saying I don't believe this. This is a 12-year-old kid.
And then it says, "Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing." The word sorrow in the Greek means to grieve with pain. They were frantic!
Where is their son, 12 years old? And he is wandering all over, and there were millions of people in Jerusalem. Who knows who might have kidnapped Him?
Luke 4:1 - And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,
It tells us that Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit when he returned from the Jordan. After He was baptized, He returned from the Jordan, and he was full of the Holy Spirit. This word "full" in Greek doesn't mean full as in opposite of empty, but full as in the influence.
For instance, the Greek word in the book of Acts when the various disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit at various times, it means the Holy Spirit took over their human faculties. He filled their human faculties. There are times when the Holy Spirit is there. He is always in us, and He is always active, but he is not always using our human faculties to minister to others.
Luke 1:52 - He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
The words "low degree" comes from the word TAPEINOS which means humbleness. This is something else we don't get from our English text. The humble will be exalted!
Luke 1:54 - He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;
Holpen is the word helped or supported.
Luke 1:68 - Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,
He says in Verse 68, blessed be, and again this is the word EULOGEO, to speak well of. I point this out because we see the word "blessed" used several times in our English text, but we are not going to get the true meaning of the word unless we know that there are different words in the Greek for our word blessed.
Luke 2:7 - And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
That is a title, firstborn, the one who inherits. It also tells us, as the other Gospel writers have, that she had more children after Jesus.
And then it says, "wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger. Here it is literally: "wrapped him in linen cloth and laid him in a feeding trough."
Luke 2:13 - And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Now right here in the original language, there was an angel speaking and then all of a sudden, the entire sky was filled with angels that accompanied this angel.
Luke 2:14 - Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Here is the literal translation from the Greek. "And upon the earth, peace towards men of goodwill. That is to say those who have a good response to God. It is telling us that God's peace will be on those who have a good heart and a good response to Him.
While studying the volume we have in Jesus, is that we are a new creation. We have a birth according to time and place. As a proof Apostle Peter testifies David for an example. "Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day." (Ac.2:29) Evangelist Matthew begins his Gospel by stating the generation of Jesus, that he is the son of David. In the Psalm David refers to him as the Lord, and 'my king'. "Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion./I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee." This knowledge of God and Man is what defines the generation of Jesus Christ. He is the man component co-eternal with God. The Word supplied and David declares it as true. It is called 'this day' which is established as 'Amen' and the Spirit while organizing the God document gives it with a tag,"unto this day".
Accordingly the host of angel appearing to the shepherds announces, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord./ And this shall be a sign unto you." ( Luke 2:11-12) The word concerning his birth as cited in the Psalm was fulfilled. The sign refers to its fulfilment.
In the context of the generation let us define the day from the life of David, his city and his grave are physical markers and it is part Israel as a nation. Jesus as his son also testified, "For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end."( Luke 22:37-39). This 'day' is where the things that are written by the Word before the worlds began are accomplished. When Jesus declares, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me,"( John 14:4) He is the way for the day of Regeneration. The same day, one is tagged day of salvation
Luke 2:51-52 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
God bless,
RLW
"And the name of the city from that day shall be, The Lord is there."
The city that Ezekiel refers is to Zion ,"Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined.
"(Ps.50:2). This is with particular reference to the day which the the Spirit has freely made use to give context to the fullness of God in Jesus Christ. Unto this day is one example with which heaven declares the birth of Jesus. "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." ( Luke 2:11). Of the city of David angels testify as in the case of Ezekiel, "The Lord is there." We shall consider another example, and it relates to the servants of Isaac finding water. "We have found water./And he called it Shebah: therefore the name of the city is Beersheba unto this day." (Ge.26:32-33). These cities from where God hath shined are another name for Zion, with the restricted sense of blessings. Zion is the holy habitation of God "Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth,ismount Zion,onthe sides of the north, the city of the great King." This is set in heaven.(Ps.48:2)
From that day refers to the day decreed for the Son. Decree is concerning the everlasting covenant the Psalm speaks "I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee." Begotten in the sense the Word which was God endows among his inheritance, "and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession."(2.6-8). What we read in the last line of the Book of Ezekiel is to that day signifying Jesus Christ has two aspects of beginning and the ending. Blessings of man in his Son sets him beyond his body formed of dust from the ground to the heavenly places to which Zion is pre-eminent.
These two days of Salvation and of Regeneration are set apart by two measurements for the world of the Spirit and for the world of the flesh respectively.
Jesus was conceived of the Holy Ghost, Matthew 1:20 of the seed of a woman/Mary, Genesis 3:15, and born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God, John 1:13. Jesus grew up the same way that we do, Luke 2:40.
He was subject to the pulls of the flesh. He was tempted and influenced by Satan, Luke 4:1-2. He had a will and human desires, Luke 22:41-42. Although Jesus was filled without measure with the power of the Holy Ghost, and gave all things into his hand, John 3:34-35 Jesus humbled Himself and was obedient unto death, Philippians 2:5-11.
To be the payment for sins of man and to be the Savior of mankind and destroy the works of the devil, Jesus had to be a human, Hebrews 2:14-18, the promise God made was to Abraham and his seed, that was Jesus the Messiah/Christ, Galatians 3:16.
Jesus the last Adam came into this world sinless as the first Adam and had to be laden with what we are as humans. The man Jesus, Romans 5:15, had to endure and overcome sin and rise above the influences of Satan to become the payment for the sins and this atonement made way for our deliverance from Satan's bondage, Romans 3:21-26.
He also was prepared to be a merciful and faithful High Priest, Hebrews 4:14-16. God sent His own Son to condemn sin in the flesh that the law could not do that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled, Romans 8:3-4.
Jesus the Son of God a human being had to deal with life as we do. He lived in the same time, space, and constraints as we do. He was born under the law, He became tired, He became hungry, He was subject to persecution, subject to pain, subject to the Roman rulers, He had to deal with all the things the same way we do, and all was the for the will of the Father, not His, Matthew 26:42.
Only in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth do we have hope, and are saved, Acts 4:12.
We are to hold fast in our faith to the end.
God bless,
RLW
"Who is my mother, or my brethren?"
The question is all the more striking since Jesus does not include his father. Jesus never had doubt as to where he came from or was going to. St Luke informs us, "And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?"( Luke 2:49). His Father was in heaven and he knew his deity was still entwined in his Father's bosom. So the words that he spoke as he heard while in heaven and what he put in his mouth. So the conclusion? Man can only be part of their relationship by acknowledging that he has to fulfill the will of the Father which art in heaven while in flesh and blood. No other shortcuts.
"For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother."
God breathed in the nostrils of man so everyone of us is represented in Adam. The spirit of God breathed into us must be for entering into the rest of God. The kingdom of God rules over all so His sovereignty is what makes His creation bask in his power and glory.(Ps.103:19). We shall understand the power of the Spirit in controlling movements. Murmuring of starling is fascinating to watch. As they sway en masse and form clouds no one can be identified in the multitude. One may be any where and yet nowhere. They flit and float without any mishap. How do they do it? There is a skill the spirit of God has given them, the wherewithal so they prosper.
The same power of God and glory and the fall of man shows where he differs from the birds of the air. Instead of being sustained by the grace from the throne of God he speaks of culture as Jews would wave 'the traditions of their fathers' that brought condemnation from Jesus. Without acknowledging God as the Father and doing his will perfectly no nations shall survive.
Jesus formally chose the twelve "And they went into an house." Here we a curious passage,"And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread./And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is beside himself."(vv.20-21).
Fame of the new prophet we read earlier in the Gospel of Mark was no different than of John the Baptist. "And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee."(1:28) Jesus having seen the masses who were as sheep without a shepherd.(Matt.9:36) began to preach of the gospel while his cousin before him aroused much speculation and curiosity. "Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan." to hear his message.(Matt.3:5) " And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?"( John 1:19). His testimony was received and they saw him as well. "The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." Here we have an unvarnished look at fame or celebrity status. The ear hears so much as eye sees so often yet Jesus was an unknown quantity to his friends. "He is possessed!" summed up their report. The Spirit gives us the instance of his mother, "But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart."( Luke 2:19).
Hearing without faith is a dumb thing to do and it is how Jesus became so many things to so many. She heard with her ear of faith and digested over it. What many have witnessed or heard are good seed sown into the heard but it poves to be no man's land."When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side."(Matt.13:19). Is it strange to hear that some believers do not believe in trinity?
Part 4 Trinity discussion.
Do you believe that the will of the Father and the will of the Son are always the same or different?
Jesus was obedient to the Father, Jesus said many times it is not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him, the same as we are to do, John 4:34 John 5:30 Mark 3:35.
Do you believe that a human being can truly save all men from sin and death by a perfect life in their own will?
First, I will have to say it was the will of the Father, Jesus at the end even asked His father if there was another way but not Jesus's will but the will of His Father, Matthew 26:39 Luke 22:42. We are told this is the foundation of our faith, Jesus' sacrificial death. God cannot die God is Spirit He has no blood to shed for sin it had to be a man, His Son, born of a woman.
John 3:16 God gave His Son not Himself 1 John 2:22 1 John 4:3 2 John 1:7 Romans 5:8 2 Corinthians 5:21, God cannot be made sin, 1 Corinthians 15:17 Jesus died, and God raised Him from the dead, the first man to live a perfect life, the first fruits of those who sleep in death. 1 Corinthians 15:14 as said if Jesus was not a man who lived a perfect life and died and was raised from the dead all is vain.
The first Adam was the first man Jesus was the last Adam and the second man, 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. The law had to be fulfilled by a man.
How would a human being know that they are the Messiah from birth and thus know not to ever sin?
As we see Luke 2:51-52 Jesus grew up increasing in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man. Jesus was twelve years old and He knew His father was God, but it doesn't say Jesus knew then He was to be the Messiah. God also said He would raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 11:1-5 Isaiah 61:1-2 confirmed in Luke 4:18-21. Romans 1:1-4 2 Timothy 2:8.
See part 5
"When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
Jesus as the Son of God knew what was in the mind of man. But he did not make it a point to separate man according to his profession or morals before he condescended to sit with him or sup in any convivial company. But when he say faith among them he responded. It was thus at the house he came to heal the man with palsy what struck him was the faith of four who took trouble to bring him to the fore. "When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee."(2:5).He understood man was sinful so how sinful the matter of degrees did not interest him. The word of his Father was sent out calling all unto repentance. It was potent enough to enthuse the good to hear the call and make peace with God. For example St Luke speaks of Simeon of Jerusalem who was just and devout,"waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him./And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ./ And he came by the Spirit into the temple."( Luke 2:25-27). God let him see his heart's desire before he died. Then there was Anna the prophetess. It is of them Jesus meant when he referred the righteous. They were led by the Spirit of Christ and the anointing of the Holy Ghost would come only after hid resurrection.
But sinners whom came as in the case of Levi or the man with palsy did not came across him by coincidence,- but the call had gone forth before the worlds began and went to the ends of the world; it was their faith in exercising completed the calling and election sure. vv.15-16 The house of Levi was a microcosm of the world. So many were saved as there were many who went away as they came in because of their disbelief.
"To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it."
We shall try to understand the significance of the name which is the basis for the new heaven and the new earth.
Mary's testimony "Holy is his name" ( Luke 2:48) came from 'the angel Gabriel was sent from God' so we are looking at the name from the standpoint of God. He named the heaven, the earth and so on. So holiness of God as testified by his Son forms on the name he acquired above every other name. His humility and the power of God raising him the dead creates a new insight into the name His humility and the power of God raising him the dead creates a new insight into the name. We have this verse, "And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross./Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name." (Ph..2:8-9).
This explains the will of the Father."For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;/And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."(Co.1:19-20). As the inheritor who is worthy to give a name but Jesus Christ. So he promises the overcomer from the church in Pergamos a new name which is as personal as the man on the white horse carried. "And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war./2His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself./And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God."(Re.19:11-13)
Jesus Christ is the Word become flesh and he overcame the world.
May our walk in HIM be precious as the tabernacle is shown to be. The outer covering not much to look at; but the inside is beautiful beyond compare. Our life be as Philip in Acts 8: 26 able to tell others of the gospel of the LORD JESUS.
Thank YOU FATHER for this day of worship and time of celebration
Luke 2:10 - 18
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Many are saying we as believers should not be involved in this "pagan" ritual; however, we should use this as an opening to declare our SAVIOR GOD JESUS CHRIST who is no longer a babe.
Titus 2:
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
Praying for the peace in Jerusalem and the Godly wisdom needed in DC and all levels and areas of our nation.
Ephesians 6:10-18 may we recognize..
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Merry Christmas everyone, and a prosperous New Year in 2024.
December 25, 2023
Merry Christmas everyone! Have a wonderful and prosperous time with family and friends.
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Luke 2:
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9:
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Let us praise and glory our KING and SAVIOR by telling others of HIS free gift of SALVATION before it is too late.
December 24, 2023
GOD bless everyone on this Christmas day, and to remember that we are called to know HIM not just a babe in the manger, but more so as the SAVIOR of sinful man.
May we read and follow the scriptures in order to fashion and allow ourselves to become useful tools or implements in GOD'S ministry.
LORD bless the peace in Jerusalem and the saints there, as we worship YOU in truth and in spirit.
Merry Christmas everyone. Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2: 11-14
The LORD to shine HIS face on you and bless you gloriously.
December 24, 2023
Luke 2:
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Merry Christmas to all on this platform, and have a prosperous New Year.
GOD to shine HIS face on all who love HIM.
December 19, 2023
John the Baptist was anointed from birth for his ministry. Meeting Jesus by the river Jordan was no mere coincidence any more than Simeon coming to the temple to meet infant Jesus. " And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ./ And he came by the Spirit into the temple. "( Luke 2:25-27). It is thus the eternal word forever settled in heaven has administered the upkeep of the kingdom of God.
By the same token the voice in the wilderness administering baptism by water was to meet the body in which it pleased the Father that his fulness should dwell. Moses Elijah and John are all associates with Christ the Head. Transfiguration of Jesus at the holy mount was a preview of the glory that was to be made manifest. So the River Jordan is a symbol for the river of time, holding them all as having labored to declare the eternal word of God.
After his transfiguration he reveals its significance of restoration 'of all things' by which what Jesus signified is that "that God may be all in all."(1 Co.15:28). "Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist." The glorious body of Jesus awaited his death and resurrection for which the river symbolized life eternal. As forerunner of the Son Elijah parted the river and the glory was "behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven."(2 Ki.2:11) It foreshadows the Ascension of Jesus Christ. "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight."(Ac.1:9) Such events occurring in the Bible narrative is to instruct us we are all associates chosen before the worlds began and Moses, Elijah and John are many members of the same body. From the fulness of the head which is Christ we are preserved. "Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ."
The KJB says in ( Luke 2:33) "And Joseph and his mother marvelled at the things which were spoken of him".
The Nasb says "And his father and his mother were amazed at the things which were being said about him".
The Niv says "The child's father and mother marvelled at what was said about him".
The Esv says "And his father and his mother marvelled at wat was said"...
The Nlt says "Jesus' parents were amazed at what was beng said"...
The Csb says "His father and mother were amazed"...
The Gnt says "The child's father and mother were amazed"...
All these modern version bibles claim that Joseph was the father of Jesus.
Was Joseph the father of Jesus?
That could be considered Blasphemy! Who would trust such a bible as these?
The KJB is the Inspired Word of God!
modern version bibles are NOT Inspired by God?