Discuss Matthew 7 Page 7

when is the Rapture?

Discussion on God's love.

Much of today's talk is of "falling in love" with Christ. We need to carefully examine the character and nature of the Godhead before attaching human; emotional or seemingly romantic sentiments on the Creator and Judge; Lord; Savior and Master.

There is no root in human nature; i.e. the flesh which desires God; in fact we are at enmity with Him in our carnal state and in fact enemies of God ( Romans 5:10). The fact that there is contention between the flesh and Spirit ( Galatians 5:17); and vice versa.

It is only in dying to self where we can submit to His authority; and the source of the life within us comes from heavenly places ( Galatians 2:20). The closest we could say about a human relationship is that we submit to each other; or sacrifice our lives.

Apart from Christ; we have two sinners that are by the grace of God involved (if married) in a covenant with God where if allowed in a best case scenario the individuals will finally be broken enough to realize that the Lord is the only thing that can change their selfish interest and natures. Any human sentiment is based on self satisfaction and or gratification which at best is a skewed shadow of God's love. This is also illustrated in Christ's story of how even us "being evil" bring good gifts to our kids. ( Matthew 7:11). We are also "unworthy servants" if we do what is expected ( Luke 17:10).

There are those who would at least put on a show of outward appearance of kindness; generousity; and self sacrifice. Apart from Christ; we can only say that the Lord is using these individuals to meet earthly needs as well as those of believers in His Providence. It is only by His grace that we would want to take on the nature of Christ; a "man of sorrows' ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as dying to self daily; carrying our cross and truly being a disciple and counting the cost. And today's Christian industries of entertainment often appeal the flesh; and have weak at best doctrines to live by.

Isaiah 24 is about the Great Tribulation.

The only way out is via the pretribulation imminent rapture of the church.

Tod be rapture ready is basically to be born again/saved by grace alone, through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone plus nothing ever forever. Matthew 7:21 onwards is about all those who reject this and attempt to enter Heaven via their works. They are Lordship Salvationists and hence false teachers, false prophets and basically, unsaved sinners.

I love you god is a good god i love you god

Amen Phil.

Well Stated! I think you covered it all, there's not much to add to what you have said. Perhaps I can dig up a few scriptures that goes well with what you have stated.

I agree with that we can't judge the heart of man to be able to judge/condemn him. Romans 14:4.

Also Matthew 7:1-5 possibly is speaking of condemning as well.

Some of these would probably help being read in the Greek.

FRUIT INSPECTORS.

There's several scriptures that say we should correct one in their error, here's one and the mindset we should have while doing it.

Galatians 6:1-5. Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, YE WHICH ARE SPIRITUAL, RESTORE SUCH AN ONE IN THE SPIRIT OF MEEKNESS; CONSIDERING THYSELF, LEST THOU ALSO BE TEMPTED.

Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

For every man shall bear his own burden.

In doing this I believe we should use the word of God. ( Hebrews 4:12-13)

This can be troublesome! How well this person takes this rebuke depends on their spiritual condition as well.

Paul says this kind of judgment is to be kept in house.

1 Corinthians 6:1-6.

Today some judge from a carnal mind. "One look at him and we think we got him figured out."

Also culture gets in the way. We compromise TRUTH for politeness. This also can be difficult.

We compliment someone's dead works "Efforts to glorify self" and we ignore their fruitlessnes or incorrect doctrine.

NOTE: If there's incorrect doctrine they believe in, that would certainly affect their fruitfulness.

We are to build one another up with the truth not flattery.

We should handle God's word cautiously and be open for improvement.

Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 1 Corinthians 5:6.

God bless you.

I wonder if there's a difference between discerning, judging, and condemning.

Matthew 7:1-5 - says not to judge, then elaborates that if you are a hypocrite. But what if you're following Jesus, not a hypocrite and you're genuinely trying to help a loved one avoid ruining their life to sin? Are we to still keep our mouths shut and stay out of their business altogether, and how does that benefit your loved one?

I can say from personal experience that those who risked offending me to speak truth to help me I have been most appreciative of in the long run. Those who kept their mouth shut while I was hurting or embarrassing myself showed the relationship was weak.

John 7:24 - says to judge, then elaborates on righteous judgment.

1 Corinthians 15:33 - says bad company corrupts and we should avoid. But if we don't evaluate their moral condition then how would we even know if they're good company or bad company?

I remember Joel Osteen caved on national TV when asked about hell and judgment- and suggested that everyone is good or something. What about those living in sin who will never escape unless they hear the reality that, yes, they will burn in hell if they continue their ways. Is truth and tough love always bad?

Romans 14:10-13, Hebrews 10:30 suggests not judging their salvation in the way I'm reading it. But some suggest someone trying to seek vengeance too, which is of course bad.

The reality is everyone judges. You judge if a babysitter will harm your child or not, you wouldn't hire an atheist for a job as Christian pastor, you would illegally ask them about their beliefs. Yes, this is illegal in the US, even though its understood and common sense that everyone does this.

Street evangelists commonly ask if the person believes they're going to heaven or not. Are they not to do that?

If anyone has more clarification on this topic for when is appropriate for each type of judgment / evaluation of others then that might be useful. God bless.

Hi Merrilly.

I see you have received many nice answers. Please do not rely on people, we are all the same. Rely on God's Love. GOD IS LOVE. Build your life on the rock whose name is Jesus Christ. Build on His Love for you. Stay close to Him, so that He can guide your life. He will always be there for you to support and provide for you. He loves you and wants you to live with Him in Heaven happily for ever. You don't have to do anything for Him to love you or to approve you, because He loves you, because He is Love Himself. He loves us not because for who we are but because we are His bros/sisters, His friends, His mates. He sees your struggles, He sees how much you try to please him and I think He is very very pleased with you. You don't need any approval by people, they are useless. The criteria for someone to be successful in life according to people is someone to be famous and rich and powerful like that rich man in the Bible, who by the way is now tortured in Hell. The criteria for us to be successful in life is to answer back His love for us and build our lives on Him. Don't be afraid, your life is in His hands. Relax and keep going hapilly your way.

But have you ever considered that God can heal you? The gospels are full of people who went to Jesus with faith in their heart and they ALL received what they needed. Those were written as examples for us what to do and what to expect from God. So if I were in your shoes I would have thought to keep going to Him persistently (like that widow to the unrighteous judge) until I get the solution to my problem. I think this is what God wants us to do when we are in any need. So just get with you as much faith as you have in your heart and keep asking. And I believe God will answer back.

Matthew 7:7-8. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall it shall be opened"

GBY

Hi Adam.

That's all true Adam, we've redefining holiness and worship, and excused disobedience.

This will cause many to be deceived. Matthew 7:22-23. says "MANY".

That should cause us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith.

I like the way Paul put it in

2 Corinthians 13:5. You notice whereit says "how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?"

( He's saying IF Christ is in you you WILL perform a certain way.)

2 Corinthians 3:3-5 Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, BUT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD;

( not in tables of stone,) BUT IN FLESHY TABLES OF THE HEART.

And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; BUT OUR SUFFICIENCY IS OF GOD;

God Lords over our hearts. Him IN us is manifested in our walk.

I believe that is what the Lord is saying in this rhetorical question in Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"

If he is your Lord he put his spirit inside you to perform his will!

We've been sanctified Positionally.

( Given an atonement).

We are being sanctified practically.

(Growing in grace and quickened by the Spirit. ) This is our walk.

Worship is in truth and in spirit. It's not a hobby!

When we're passing out God's word we're not going to be correct all the time but we should hold it dear to our heart and be cautious to not treat it like a conversation at a round table.

Neither will we find our walk perfect but the desire to be perfect should be there.

There has to be conviction in your heart. Not pride or glory seeking. There has to be a denial of self! Not man pleasers.

It's joy being redeemed but it's not a game!

It's not doing our best. Our best isn't good enough.

It's accepting God's best. His son Jesus Christ.

It's his ability to sanctify us is where we stand.

God bless.

I believe these may be what you're looking for: 1John 3:22,23 in context 1John 3, Philippians 4:19, John 15, John 16:23-27, Matthew 6, Matthew 7:7-12, Matthew 18:19, Matthew 21:21-22, Luke 11:2-13,

Hopefully these are encouraging

Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."

Matthew 7:21-23

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."

Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"

James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."

James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."

1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"

John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."

Jude 1:4 "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."

Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."

"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." James 1:12

"Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory." 2 Timothy 2:10

Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"

2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." Matthew 10:22

"But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Matthew 24:13

"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Mark 13:13 KJV

Hi Mark,

My comment is that salvation is conditional whether people believe it or not, because its what the Bible says. It's full of calls to action and challenging us to change our behavior. Most people will not be saved Matthew 7:13. Salvation is with grace but is only for believers/followers- a choice that each person must make. One way to summarize this action appears to be genuine belief and faith in Jesus Christ. John 3:16. That is an action and choice.

So, if someone does not believe, one can presume the unbeliever will not be saved. This already "offends" a lot of people, because some want to justify themselves in their own mind while doing the bare minimum they assume God wants. Some have been deceived into believing obeying God is "bad." But believing is only one of many action verbs the Bible challenges us to do. Other actions fall under this category of genuine active belief and following Jesus too. All these verses in the Bible are true and are equally important. Some like to cherry pick one, but ignore others and assume they don't apply, but they all apply and are true and are God's word.

believe:

John 3:16

follow Jesus:

John 8:12

deny himself:

Luke 9:23

confess:

Romans 10:9

faith:

Ephesians 2:8

hearing:

Romans 10:17

repent and be baptized:

Acts 2:38

keep commandments:

John 15:10

love:

Matthew 22:37-40

There are many more. Some falsely assume by obeying God they are doing 'works' and that is 'bad', therefore, obeying God is 'bad'. No, that's not what the Bible says, and obeying doesn't mean you're saved by works or that people who obey believe that.

My last comment is that James and Paul are consistent. Some assume Paul was anti-works, but only if you cherry pick a few verses and ignore large parts of his book can that conclusion be drawn. Paul was very much pro-obedience as the following verses demonstrate:

Romans 2:9-10

1 Peter 1:5

1 Cor 9:24-27

Hebrews 6:4-6

Galatians 5:1-4

2 Timothy 2:10

Hebrews 10:26

2 Corinthians 5:10

Please note these scriptures all seem to include treatment of people : James 2, note James 2:1-6, James 2:8, * James 2:14,15,16,17,

Matthew 25:31-46, Isaiah 58, John 13:34, Romans 12:10, Romans 13:8, 1Peter 3:8, Hebrews 10:24,

Romans 4, notice in those 'works' it's speaking of circumcision Romans 4:1, Romans 4:9-13, not acts of compassion

They don't contradict each other they're completely separate issues, Deuteronomy 10:16-20,

Malachi 3:5,10 = Deuteronomy 26:10-13 , Exodus 22:22, Deuteronomy 14:22-29, Deuteronomy 24:14-15, Deuteronomy 24:19-21,

Matthew 5:16-20, Matthew 7:12-27 = Mark 12:38-40, Mark 23, Luke 20:46,47, Isaiah 9:17,

Hopefully helpful

I'm sure some would be happier without animals especially if they were killed by one. Many have been terrorized by pets and animals and I doubt God is going to inconvenience the majority to please a minority. The Bible doesn't say one way or the other so assuming how it will be is mere speculation, but we know it will be an absolutely amazing place for all who go there. Of course most won't go there, including those who assume they are, as Jesus said in Matthew 7:21, but its not too late for everyone to get right with the Lord. God bless.

Hi everyone.

I've been unable to keep up with the site over the last few days. However I just read a few comments and replies, It's one thing to disagree and rebuke and then there's is those who expose themselves.

We all understand that all of us is not brothern and this brotherhood is not defined on how well we teach or preach or agreeing with someone.

WE SHALL KNOW THEM BY THEIR FRUITS!! Matthew 7:15-16.

You can be well doctrined and be as fruitless as a broom stick.

When someone holds the truth and share it, if your ears have been opened you will RECEIVE it! This is a work of the Holyspirit.

But if someone of the world who happens to be amongst us hears that same truth and don't have the spirit don't be surprised if they hate you. John 15:18-19.

They're not hating you because they disagree with you. They're hating you because they have a different spirit than you.

HOWEVER!! Agreeing on doctrine doesn't confirm anything but truth should produce fruit and that fruit should be displayed in our lives.

1 John 4:8. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

1 John 4:13. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.

1 John 4:7. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

1 John 4:12. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.

1 John 4:16-17. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.

Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

1 John 4:21. And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.

This is for one to examine himself!

1 John 4:13.

This is uniquely written to and for the brethren.

God bless.

Hi Ed,

Matthew 12:31 says all sin can be forgiven (for those genuinely following Jesus), but someone who commits blasphemy against the Holy Ghost will not be forgiven. I believe this includes absolutely everyone, including Christians. Matthew 7:21.

Hi Dere.

Here is the conclusion.

John 3:17-19. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

HE THAT BELIEVETH ON HIM IS NOT CONDEMNED: ""BUT" HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT IS CONDEMNED ALREADY, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

There is many that won't be saved because they seek another way.

Matthew 7:13-14. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

Matthew 7:21-23. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Anyone that says otherwise beware of them.

Matthew 7:15. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

God bless.

Nelson:

Your not understanding the truth of God's word.

The blood of Christ COVERS ALL SIN.



John 16:8 And when he (the Holy Spirit) is COME (he came at Pentecost) he will reprove the world of sin ....

John 16:9 Of SIN; because they BELIEVE NOT ON ME (truth);

No knowledge of God's word.

Zechariah 3:1 And he shewed me Joshua (Christ in you) the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD; and SATAN (unbelief, deception) standing at his (Christ's) right hand TO RESIST HIM (TRUTH).

Christ is now THE LIFE in you.

You; Nelson (sinful flesh), died on the cross of Christ.

The LIFE now IN YOU is the LIFE OF CHRIST.

Christ cannot sin: your his body, the body ONLY DOES what the LIFE causes it TO DO.

Philippians 2:13 For it is God (Christ in you) that worketh IN YOU both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.

1 John 3:9 Whosoever is BORN of GOD doth not commit sin (because the new birth in you is CHRIST); for HIS SEED (the Holy Spirit) remaineth in HIM (the new creation in Christ Jesus): he CANNOT SIN, because he is born of God.

Ezekiel 36:27 And I will put MY SPIRIT (GOD) within you, and CAUSE you to walk in my statutes, and you shall keep my JUDGEMENTS, and DO THEM.

Few find the WAY:

Matthew 7:14 ...narrow is the WAY, which leadeth unto LIFE, and Few there be that find it.

Nelson; walk in the TRUTH and FREEDOM of Christ's words.

God Bless YOU, his (Christ's) BODY.

Continued from previous.

What should be asked and a great concern is what should salvation look like in a believer because many shall be deceived.

First of all shall you continue in sin?

Paul answers that here in

Romans 6:1-4.

We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through us. Titus 3:4-6.

We have eternal life now that can bare fruit such as faith ect...

This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18.

What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in him by his works. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.

When you are saved, you are baptized into Christ. It is he that works in you. Philippians 2:13.

Also;

Philippians 1:6. Being confident of this very thing, THAT HE WHICH HATH BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL PERFORM IT UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST:

If you can loose your salvation all these scriptures means nothing.

Here's another scripture often used.

John 14:15. "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

Well look at the next verse.

Vs 16. "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, THAT HE MAY ABIDE WITH YOU FOR EVER; This Love is a fruit, so who is causing you to Love Christ? CHRIST SPIRIT, The HG.

Most people say you can loose your salvation also believes you can earn salvation which you can't do. And if they hold to that it's sad to say but the scripture says they have fallen from Grace. Galatians 5:4.

I believe this means comes up short.

Now if you come up short you will hear this. "And then will I profess unto them, I NEVER KNEW YOU: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Matthew 7:23.

I never knew you can never be told to a believer because of this verse. "My sheep hear my voice,.... AND I KNOW THEM,.... and they follow me: John 10:27.

Now if a person have habitual sin in their life, Chances are you're not saved. And you can't loose what you don't have.

I hope this helps.

God bless.

Hi Renee,

This is a common question and that's even one of the FAQs: Link

My question is if it was impossible for Christians to lose salvation, then why did Jesus warn His followers so many times to avoid sin? They were literal Christians in that they literally followed Christ around and remember all the challenges and parables He spoke? Most involved being separate from those thrown into the fire. Jesus never said to relax and don't worry, and enjoy the world, including sin, because there's no consequences anymore. One would think that satan would say that. That doesn't mean people earn heaven by works, as it's only grace, but being allowed into heaven is conditional on being a legit follower of Christ, meaning actually doing what He says! James 1:22. And sadly most people won't make it, and probably many of them think they're 'good' and entitled to get in, and some may even call themselves Christians. Matthew 7:21-23

Also, if all you have to do to get to heaven is just believe, then why does the Bible say this? James 2:19. The fact is that satan is roaming to deceive people, even among Christians. Is he deceiving people into being 'gooder' than they need to be or is it more likely he is deceiving people into assuming rationalizing evil and assuming they're saved when they are actually disrespecting and spitting on Jesus? Hebrews 10:26. This should deeply scare some people and they should feel it in their heart if this applies to them.

Instead Jesus kept warning Christians and everyone over and over and challenging them. Paul also was frustrated with some of the Christians who were going astray and read what he wrote in his letters to them. Paul said to run the race to get the prize. He didn't say the race is already won, so go sin as much as you want. There's lots of scripture echoing this, but these are easy to find and there's lists in that page above too. Also the idea of being able to commit horrible sins as a Christian and still go to heaven contradicts scripture in blasphemy of the holy ghost, because it clearly says no one will be forgiven of that.

Revelation 2:10 "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."

2 Corinthians 5:10 - all will be judged, including Christians. Some like to assume they get to skip that as if they have a free pass . It clearly says ALL, not some, and not just non-Christians.

Hebrews 10:26

Predestination: Concluding thoughts

Lord willing; this commentary will be helpful for those who really haven't seen the repeated themes of the unity of the Godhead; and the predetermined "elect" group who are chosen for Christ to be revealed; and who therefore will respond to show saving faith. A major point that I tried to bring up in earlier chapters was that there is always a corresponding interaction going both ways; so that confession of faith and all of man's actions prompted by the Spirit are simultaneous actions. KNOWING us according to Matthew 7:23 is part of saving faith; hence the absence indicates we are tares. Our soul testifies with His Spirit ( Romans 8:16) that we are God's children.

None of the contradicts the necessity of confessing with our mouths and believing in our hearts that Christ is Lord ( Romans 10:9). We are asked to repent; but it is He who grants the gift of repentance ( Romans 2:4) and this also has a group of people in mind (the Jews as a whole who come to faith) in Acts 5:31 and the Gentiles in Acts 11:18. We still our to test ourselves to see if we are in the faith ( 2 Cor. 13:5-6). All good fruits therefore come from the source of God; and are evidences of saving faith ( Matt. 7:17). We need to remember that God chastises all He loves ( Hebrews 12:6 etal); and therefore He prunes back so even more fruit is produced ( John 15:1-2). He is doing the work therefore; our WORKS are merely the external evidence that indeed He is working from the inside out. These have been prepared for us from before the foundation of the world ( Eph. 2:10).

The other doctrines such as God's sovereignty; our totally depraved nature; and perseverance of the saints are covered in many scriptures and can be covered in other studies. As far as free will is concerned; God accomplishes His purposes through the vicissitudes of man; and the wiles of Satan and all his minions. To not submit to our Creator is folly ( Psalm 14:1; Psalm 2:2; Rev. 19)

Hi Amanda, I don't believe God necessarily chooses to know what we're going to do. He's powerful enough that He can choose to be in our timeframe if He wants. God can also change His mind, based on human input, like on destroying Sodom and Gomorrah. We have free will to choose and its totally up to us, we're not robots. So, the purpose of life is in our choices- to follow God and obey, or to follow evil and satan. To love or hate. Life is one big test in my opinion. God isn't going to just let everyone into heaven to disrupt and cause chaos. Satan apparently had freewill in heaven to do that and defy God. Fortunately we have grace and can stumble and have many chances. Sadly, most people will reject Jesus and go to hell, but there's a chance we can help those who are lost to share the truth. Matthew 7:13

Matthew 7:23-29 does not answer your question directly

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.

And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:

For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes."

John 14 also deals with the same subject. I seldom use single verses, and when doing a study usually the chapters into either word or publisher without verse numbers. The next step is to outline the chapter. Then begin the study.

A phrase I use a lot is, I once was, but now I am." Yes, that comes from Amazing Grace, I consider this to be one of the best sermons ever presented. The study I am doing now is defining Discipleship.

I'd like to share 2 thoughts on predestination:

1. Regarding John 10:36 "neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand" if you look at the context Jesus is talking only about his sheep. The sheep are His followers, or, Christians. Not everyone is a sheep. They are choosing to follow Jesus and choosing to believe and choosing be sheep by their own freewill and decisions. We know this because of what it says just prior to that. John 10:25-27. In v26 he says they are NOT His sheep because they don't believe. So, if we combine this verse with Matthew 7:13-14 one can presume that most are NOT sheep. Many most are wolves and some are wolves in sheep's clothing. Matthew 7:15.

2. Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the thoughts" or "plans" and hope for a "future" some translations say. Just because an all-knowing God can know this doesn't automatically mean its robbing you of freewill. You are not an automatic robot following a specific script. God is big and powerful enough to know everything and also let us have freewill at the same time, even if little human brains have a hard time comprehending it. God is much bigger than our assumed limitations. God is also big enough to change His mind, as happened relating to Sodom and Gomorrah.

Maybe God's plan is just a broad overview of what would be best for you, maybe like a map, but its up to you whether you follow it or not. Maybe you take a few detours along the way, maybe you get confused and even go the wrong way at times. This doesn't automatically mean you are following God's plan. Maybe you're not following Him at all. I think if you ask most people who believe in predestination, they generally admit that when they ordered a chicken sandwich for lunch and held the pickles that it was mostly their choice and not necessarily God's plan. Or when a Christian sins 1 John 1:8, I don't think most people actually believe that God causes people to sin. God forbids us to tempt or lead others to stumble in sin: Luke 17:1-4.

God bless.

S Spencer

Is the Gospel necessary? Absolutely!

However some that feast with us don't think so.

Passages in Romans 10 shows great importance in preaching it.

vs 8) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, WHICH WE PREACH;

vs 14) How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and HOW SHALL THEY HEAR WITHOUT A PREACHER?

vs 15) AND HOW SHALL THEY PREACH, EXCEPT THEY BE SENT? as it is written, HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THEM THAT PREACH THE GOSPEL OF PEACE, AND BRING GLAD TIDINGS OF GOOD THINGS!

Jesus said Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15.

This same group false theology suggests there's no hell or Satan and everyone goes to heaven so even the word salvation is pointless because there is nothing to be saved from. So the death of Christ doesn't display the love of God.

John 3:16 would have to be an error!

The wide gate in Matthew 7:13 doesn't exist.

There's no consequences to sin, no reward for righteous living by the Spirit.

Those who denied Christ, Hate God, murderer ect... And those who love God will sit down with judas, Paul, Peter, Putin, Hitler and sit down at the marriage supper. So our preaching is in vain.

So why do they earnestly stand in our way? They pretend to be beside you when talking about the trinity but when you mention Faith, Believe, ect.. in regards to salvation they come unglued! Why do they bother if whether you believe or not according to them it doesn't matter? That they won't answer.

They stand in the way when it shouldn't matter to them unless the spirit in them is to deceive!

And This doctrine "Salvation by works is by that same Spirit. As seen in Galatians 3:1 and many other verses.

Hi Mark.

Part 1.

I Agree with Brother Chris "God knowing beforehand the choices that we make & the way our lives will unfold" and the Gospel goes out to all, the invitation is for all, but not all will respond!!

1 John 2:2. And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for our's only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

Matthew 7:13-14. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, AND FEW THERE BE THAT FIND IT.

Galatians 3:22. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given TO THEM THAT BELIEVE.

Ephesians 1:12-13. That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also AFTER THAT YE BELIEVED, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

So let's make it clear

Romans 10:8-15 is what's relevant.

But look at verse 16. "But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

Here's my thought on this that I'm sure can be improved on.

Romans 9:11. (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, THAT THE PURPOSE OF GOD ACCORDING TO ELECTION might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) Here we have God's way that He Elected..

Next we have "WHEN" God's way was Elected.

Ephesians 1:4. According as he hath chosen us ( IN ) him BEFORE THE FOUNDATION of THE WORLD...

You may find it easier to understand if we look at it as the church or the body of Christ instead of Individuals.

See part 2.

Brothern.

1 Peter 5:8.

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

When a lion roars he's seeking to divide the prey.

They're also amongst us as seen here in

Matthew 7:15. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

2 Corinthians 11:14-15. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

CONCLUSION.

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

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. Eph 6:11-12.

Be visual.

God bless.

Brothers and Sisters.

The clarity of scripture.

Matthew 7:15-20.

They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, "THAT THEY MIGHT BE MADE MANIFEST" that they were not all of us. 1 John 2:19.

These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:

A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,

An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,

A FALSE WITNESS THAT SPEAKETH LIES, AND HE THAT SOWETH DISCORD AMONG BRETHREN. Proverbs 6:16-19.

Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. Romans 16:17-18.

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. Titus 3:8-9.

These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.

But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;

How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.

These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. Jude 1:16-19.

Matthew 7:15-20 !!

1 Peter 5:9-11.

Amen and God bless.

Matthew 7:13-14

"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."

Part 2.

Titus 3:4-6. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of REGENERATION, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Which he shed on us abundantly THROUGH Jesus Christ our Saviour;

Let's look at this word regeneration. Greek:

Transliteration: paliggenesia

Pronunciation: pal-ing-ghen-es-ee'-ah

Definition: From G3825 and G1078; (spiritual) rebirth (the state or the act) that is (figuratively) spiritual renovation; specifically Messianic restoration: - regeneration.

We have been REGENERATED, REBORN, Given a new heart and ready to present Christ work through you.

So we have the words Quickening.

Greek:

Transliteration: zopoie

Pronunciation: dzo-op-oy-eh'-o

Definition: From the same as G2226 and G4160; to (re-) vitalize (literally or figuratively): - make alive give life quicken.

KJV Usage: quicken(9x), give life(2x), make alive(1x).

It means to make alive or give life.

Here in

1 Corinthians 15:45.

We know Jesus is that Quickening spirit which is also the Holyspirit that gives life in Romans 8:11-14.

( If you notice verse 14 you have to be led by the Spirit.)

A life now that can bare fruit such as faith.

This is what James is saying in James 2:17-18. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

What James is saying is he's going to show that this gift is in me by his work. You see a Christian is saved UNTO good works. Ephesians 2:10.

This is why the Lord says you shall know them by their fruits. It doesn't say you shall know them by their works! You see your fruits is something only God can produce such as Love/Agape, Faith, ect.. and fruit determines what type of works it is. "OF God/Spirit. or of Self/flesh. Matthew 7:15-20.

God bless.

Being saved by grace: Genesis 6:8, Genesis 19:12,13,15,16, Exodus 33:12,17,

By The law: Romans 3:10-31,

Faith : Romans 4, Romans 5,

Obedience, yeilding to GOD: Psalms 84:11, Romans 6, Romans 12, 1Corinthians 3:9-15, 2Corinthians 9:8, Ephesians 2:1-10, Titus 3:7,8, 1Peter 4:10, 1Peter 5:1-11,

Romans 11:16-22, Matthew 25:31-46, Matthew 7: , Hebrews 10, James 2,

Watch out for: Jude 1:4,

Hopefully these are helpful in your walk, with GOD