We are at Rev. 1:4, which begins the formal introduction and greetings to the seven churches. In fact, this is the first verse in a series of three verses (4, 5, and 6).
Let's say that a chiasmus has three main parts. The first part is the leg that reads from left to right to the center, and I call this leg the thesis. The second part is the center. And the third part is the leg that goes from the center, reading from right to left to the end, and I call this leg the antithesis. Thus, Verse 1:4 is the thesis, Verse 1:5 is the center, and Verse 1:6 is the antithesis, as follows:
Rev. 1:4, the thesis of this three-verse series
..... Rev. 1:5, the center of the three-verse series
Rev. 1:6, the antithesis of the three-verse series
Next, we look at Rev. 1:4 in chiasmus form.
a) John to the seven churches which are in Asia:
.....b) Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come;
a) and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;
This verse is complex, and rather than explaining it, let's just say that it continues from Rev. 1:3 and comes from Rev. 4:5.
The most obvious logic error made in regard to the season celebrating Christ's birth of course is the fact that He ever more lives in heaven and is coming again to judge the earth. This fact is acknowledged by some but certainly not embraced-as we see in regard to attitudes about Him coming (especially if that were to wreck our holiday plans).
We can read passages like Psalm 8:2 describing children having great power in the Kingdom and certainly the Lord Himself shows victory over His enemies.
Should we take a frank investigation of the narrative of the Gospels regarding Christ's appearance on earth we see the persecution prophesied of ( Matthew 2:18 referring to Jeremiah 31 on the persecution of Herod). This shows the extermination of all the males under two in a fanatical attempt inspired no doubt from Satan to eliminate the One who would bring defeat to the enemy of our souls. We can extend this further to the event when Christ was 12 and "talked back" to his parents; as well as other things that rock our world with someone we assume came to bring peace without a price. Indeed He IS the Prince of Peace but also warned that He didn't come specifically and only for that reason ( Matt. 10:34).
Of course in terms of rife materialism we see that Christ chose to live as what we would call a nomadic existence and called for the same of His Disciples. We CAN say that the wise men sent expensive gifts and this no doubt was due to the worship due to the King which His own people by and large failed to grasp.
In general things are rapidly accelerating on the world scene to the stage set in Daniel and Revelation for the final 10 Kings in the Beast system. The earth trembles in ever increasing earthquakes and violence of war and other disputes. May our hearts not be divided between love for this world and treasures in heaven we are to seek above anything else.
Let us redeem the time because the days are evil; and testify the reason for the season.
....nor do I look down on people who have not studied or seek to gain deeper knowledge and understanding of the faith we share together. There is no prohibition against gaining knowledge or seeking understanding nor being somewhat not interested in becoming more involved in such type of learning.
5) I refuse to criticize or gossip about those who are deeply involved with church activities nor those who are minimally involved. Everyone is not the same or at the same "place" in any given time. People's private responsibilities, energy levels, and struggles affect how involved one can be within the local congregation they attend or in other para-church work.
6) Instead, I show gratitude to them for their service, Thank the Lord for these people and their faithfulness and eagerness to serve others. I let people know that they can choose the amount of service they give at church when serving in the home or in one's own career for the good of the family needs to be prioritized. I just pray for them and also encourage them to place this area of how and how much time and service they involve themselves in and how long to do it before the Lord and ask for the Spirit's lead and peace concerning this matter. I let them know that I support whatever choice they come to as I cannot know their lives or hearts as the Lord does, so I will not judge.
7) I hope to live up to these approaches I listed here. I fail to do so at times, but I aim to live by them because I believe that the Lord would have me interact this way within the body of Christ.
8) I stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit in all areas of my life, being open to His conviction, correction, teaching, and lead.
9) I stay grounded in God's Word, reading it throughout my life so the Spirit can write it on my heart and incorporate it in my way of living among believers and non believers. I want to honor God, bring Him glory, and extol His worthiness to all
Thank you, Spencer. This response is to part 3 of your series.
The evidence that we have salvation in Christ is that we do the works of the Father. These works are the natural consequence of following Jesus. Works that are not seen by man, as in the case of casting out demons, speaking in tongues, etc., but works of love, peace, and friendship, which naturally flow from a Christlike life.
These works are not on display to be seen by men, but are seen by the Father.
It is how we conduct ourselves in our daily walk with Christ.
Joseph, that is kind of you to say. I have tried to write about The Book of Revelation, but the multiple levels of interpretations make it near-impossible for me to do. It may be the case that it can not be done.
For example, the seals in Chapter Six reference the six millennia of man upon the earth. They also reference the saints to be resurrected. And the power transfers from God to Jesus, to the angel, to John, then to the beast and his false prophet, and lastly to the 144,000.
There are other things the Chapter Six seals reference to a lesser degree, one of which is the three judgments that are primarily stated in Verse 6:4 and set to the following chiasmus:
"And there went out another horse that was red:
...and power was given to him that sat thereon
.....to take peace from the earth,
...and that they should kill one another:
and there was given unto him a great sword."
An interesting thing about chiasmi in scripture is that the Savior is often the center. Not always, but perhaps fifty percent of the time. Thus, the center is saying "to take the Savior from the earth." This is the harvest of saints. The result is that the people of the world will "kill one another" because the followers of Christ are gone. In consequence of this killing, the Lord will give the angel, who is the rider of the red horse, a great sword. This sword was the bow in Rev. 6:2. The Savior had this bow in his hand when he was given authority over the book and the seals in Rev. 5:7. Although the bow is called by a series of names in Rev. 5:6.
Thus, the Savior gives the angel the bow now called the sword. Then the angel gives power and authority to the next in line, which is John ( Rev. 1:1). Therefore, John is the rider of the black horse. Rev. 6:5-6 explains how John will conduct himself with this power and authority. We see this entire chain of events unfolding in Rev. 10. It shows that the seals and trumpets contain much of the same information.
A Faith you think you have that will not save you.
C H Spurgeon
Part 4
It is when, for the first time in our lives, we see our own righteousness, our morality, and our religiosity as filthy rags before the perfect holiness of God.
It is the moment when all our theology, our goodness and our service in the church become trash and we see ourselves as we really are, bankrupt sinners, totally dependent on a mercy we do not deserve.
This encounter with our own rottenness is the prerequisite for the miracle. What then is the 1st and most undeniable fruit that springs from the soil of a heart broken by the conviction of sin? The answer is not immediate joy. It is not a feeling of instant peace.
The first evidence of God's life in a dead soul is one thing alone, and it is brutally honest, genuine repentance. And here Spurgeon implores us not to be deceived by the satanic imitation of repentance which he called remorse.
Remorse is man's sorrow for the consequences of his sin. It is the fear of hell. It is the shame of being discovered. It is the pain of Judas, who lamented the result of his betrayal but never turned to Christ for forgiveness.
Remorse is the cry of the prisoner who hates the cell but still loves the crime. But repentance that comes from regeneration is of a completely different nature.
It is not sadness over the consequences; it is horror at the sin itself because it is an offense against a holy and loving God. It is the soul that looks at the cross and does not feel sorry for itself for being in trouble but feels a deep and real pain for having been the cause of those nails. Spurgeon would say that the truly repentant person does not just say I made a mistake but declares total and relentless war against the self that loves the mistake.
A Faith you think you have that will not save you.
C H Spurgeon
Part 3
This faith uses the Bible as an instruction manual, not as a mirror that reveals its own misery and the desperate glory of Christ. It is, in the end, a faith centered on the eye, the eye that understands, the eye that agrees.
The eye that behaves, and that eye has never truly been crucified. So, what is the line that separates the soul that is merely informed from the soul that has been truly transformed if knowledge, emotion and morality can be misleading? Where is the dividing line?
Spurgeon's answer is violent, absolute, and deeply uncomfortable for the modern religious mind. The difference is not a human decision. It is a divine invasion. It is not about man finding a new way. It is about God creating a new man.
The word for this is regeneration, the new birth. It is not an improvement in character; it is a resurrection of the soul.
It is not an outward cleansing; it is the creation of a life that did not exist before. For Charles Spurgeon, saving faith does not begin with man climbing a step toward God, but with God descending into the tomb of the soul dead in sin, and crying out. Lazarus, come forth. It is an act of sovereign power and exclusive and irresistible work of the Holy Spirit that man cannot initiate, imitate or deserve.
False faith prides itself on its decision for Christ.
True faith trembles before the reality that it was chosen in Christ even before the foundation of the world.
The former is a renovation of the old house, a new coat of paint on rotten walls.
The latter is the complete demolition of the condemned building and the construction of a holy temple where God himself decides to dwell, and this divine work, this regeneration, is not a peaceful and comfortable process. It begins with the Holy Spirit convicting us of our sin in an overwhelming way.
How Does Trust in God Translate into Daily Life? pt2
5. "In Material Provision"
Trust in God shapes our attitude toward money and possessions.
Practical Translation: You work hard, but you do not depend solely on wealth for your happiness. You are generous because you trust that God will provide for your needs.
Inner State: You recognize that God is the great Provider and that He cares for you as He cares for the birds of the air ( Matthew 6:26).
Trust, then, in daily life is the active choice to surrender control and our worries to God, living with peace and certainty, regardless of external circumstances.
Would you like to suggest some other practical ways to cultivate this trust (e.g., through prayer or study)?
How Does Trust in God Translate into Daily Life? pt1
Hello to all, I have read somewhere the following:
Trust in God is not an abstract concept. It translates into specific practical behaviors and inner states that affect the way we live, think, and face challenges.
1. In Dealing with Anxiety and Fear
"Trust turns fear into peace"
Practical Translation: Instead of being paralyzed by worry about the future (job, health, finances), you do what you can and then leave the outcome in God's hands.
Inner State: You adopt the mindset: "I have done what is humanly possible. Now, I trust that God, who sees the big picture, will provide the best for me, according to His will." This brings inner peace ( Psalm 46:1).
2. In Decision Making
"Trust provides guidance and removes uncertainty"
Practical Translation: Before making a big decision (career change, moving), you pray for guidance and wisdom, rather than relying solely on your own logical abilities.
Inner State: You recognize that God's wisdom surpasses your own. You trust that if you commit the decision to God, He will "He shall direct thy paths." ( Proverbs 3:5-6), even if the path seems unclear at first.
3. In Interpersonal Relationships
"Trust in God affects how we view others and ourselves".
Practical Translation: When you feel wronged or hurt, instead of holding a grudge or seeking revenge, you trust God to bring justice or comfort. You focus on forgiveness.
Inner State: You rely on God's Love for your worth, rather than seeking constant validation from people. This makes you freer and less demanding in your relationships.
4. In Trials and Difficulties
"Trust turns pain into opportunity"
Practical Translation: When you face an illness or loss, you don't see the situation as a dead end, but as part of a larger plan.
Inner State: You believe that "all things work together for good to those who love God" ( Romans 8:28). This faith allows you to look for the lesson or empowerment hidden within the trial, keeping hope alive.
Those are important reminders you have shared bro Giannis. As our Lord even said, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Unfortunately, most of Christendom have been caught up with the world, where having the latest technologies and keeping up with the Jones', is equally, even more important. And yet, we are reminded by the apostle, "But godliness with contentment is great gain." ( 1 Timothy 6:6).
It is true that in old times, most people had very little, especially concerning food, clothing, shelter, and jobs. Were they content?They had to be content because there was very little they could do to improve their lot, given the sparsity of offerings. But they still lived on 'struggle street' and were very likely anxious, despondent, and driven to desperate actions. But as you wrote, that we have so much more than they, and we live relatively comfortable healthy lives, yet still many today are no better mentally or emotionally than those others, facing pressures from various sources. What they feel will bring them happiness and contentment, is only found to be temporal, ever lusting for more & more to sustain those satisfied feelings. And again, as you wrote, "they are searching for happiness in the wrong places".
But when you think of it, what else does the unbelieving world have in this life? Or, of any hope of eternity? Absolutely nothing. Their lives consist of what they know, have, and feel in the present, for tomorrow we die & are no more. But if they heed Jesus' Words ( Luke 12:15), "..(that) a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth" and they could have greater eternal treasures from Heaven (of full salvation, real joy, inner peace, and power to live righteously), their whole perspective of life & its real worth will be changed for their eternal good. If the Church at large can get out their stagnation & be a living witness to the world, the world might understand their true poverty. Blessings.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27.
"And Abraham planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the Lord, the everlasting God./ And Abraham sojourned in the Philistines' land many days."
Abraham made piece with the king of Gerrar and sojourned there many days, and believed that his time of life shall be as appointed, "And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age." (15.15) The Spirit gives us his inner growth and we read of an altar set up 'in the plain of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the Lord."(13.4, 18).
The well of water was a sign for him. Here he planted a grove and called on the name of the everlasting God. This revelation did not come by itself but the Father who as with Simon Peter instilled or fortified his heart to the everlasting Covenant. The tamarisk tree works as the pillar at Bethel in the case of Jacob. "(28.17)The river of God opened up his eye with awe,"Surely the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not.". Hagar the bond-maid had sensed it herself. (16.13) Now he could get a clear picture as to why heas called out. He had to make his election sure.. Here onwards we see Abraham settling down his life as a pilgrim and sojourner. "And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you." He enters into the God's rest from this point onwards.(Isa.46.4)
Out of the belly shall flow living waters, streams of which connect believers to the holy city of God. "There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High."(Ps.46.4) Sons of Belial confuse it for Jerusalem destined to be cast into outer darkness.
"Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?"(Isa.66.1)
Your wisdom and insight are as usual appreciated (although I'm a bit envious as you have a much better way of writing and organizing thoughts that are more complex than mine).
That being said, I have a couple matters I'm dealing with right now. First there is a friend of mine who I have been helping increasingly in a financial way who has had his bathroom in a state of disarray after a couple repairs to stop a leak. Financially he would be better off if he lived in my house where I could charge a manageable rate; although for now he has pneumonia and the house isn't clean enough for him to be here and stay healthy and I certainly don't want to get sick either. He; as you probably are aware has amassed debt; he gets some military benefits but it is a bottomless pit essentially between his credit card issues and other things well over 50k indebt. I told him that some sort of credit consolidation was in order to continue to assist him at the rate I have at least say 6 months from now. As for now; with my Dad technically owning the house I am NOT legally permitted to have anyone live here as more than a guest beyond 30 days. if it IS God's will then I need to get beyond this point of feeling like I am being swallowed up in the issue and out of control and am asking for His peace and strength to do it; letting him in at all at this point with any stipulation could likely mean he wouldn't be able to leave. For now; I have had to say no. For now it is a constant concern; and the immediate thing is that if his meds don't work he will be hospitalized; so prayer is appreciated. When I feel overwhelmed it is very hard to pray on my end.
I have also finally broken membership ties with my local church but still involved in peripheral events in evenings. I went the over hour drive to a church that I researched who believes as I do on the whole hotbed of the divorce remarriage issue.
It was even better than I could have expected but too far to go every week.
Many have argued about whether God has a sense of humor; I would venture to say that it is very helpful in terms of ourselves when we can laugh at our own foolishness. Pride is a major barrier to growth; and learning our own weaknesses is never enjoyable.
Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
I have commented before on the prayer I am afraid to say; namely asking God to do His job to chastise and correct. It is pretty foolproof; you can count on Him answering it and probably means people will be involved in correction; some of which are in church; others in the world and no doubt the enemy will be allowed to target a few choice arrows your way. Having a bullseye on your back ain't fun but we have to get over having special status; our Lord and Master suffered and surely His servants likewise.
Not this concept certainly isn't going to win any converts who are just interested in lip service; unless they have a self destructive bent. The world can't be expected to get it; no doubt they default to wanting to be left alone to do their thing.
Knowing Christ rather than about Him is key. Our transformation in the mind and soul is revolutionary. To truly be saved IS to be dead to sin; yet we still have that capacity as we can't say we are without sin. The regenerate heart is truly born again and a new creature. The scripture is opened up as our soul testifies to the truth ( Romans 8:16); and of course we are "all taught by God" ( John 6:45). This love is transformative; or Agape. One HUGE fallacy today is that we somehow are taught to believe that being loving enough somehow aids to such a transformation. That is a partial truth; IF the Spirit is working on someone that is the case; and we certainly have no business not being loving; but even grumpy people He can use.
Abram believed God and God's promise to hm was 'forever' " For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever."(13.15), How appropriate was this tag when God tells him of his mortality? "And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age." (15.15) The Spirit presents Abram and blesses him in his Son. Jesus Christ the same forever. (Heb.13.8). For instance Abram does not take even a shoe-latchet from the king of Sodom because Jesus testifies," for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me."( Jn 14.30). This foreknowledge ought to warn every believer to walk before God perfect where His grace is there to fill in the shortfall. It is to which the Spirit prepares by this Covenant. Hagar episode is a study in the life of walking with God. God assures him not to fear of such a momentous step. " Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward." He repeats even after his indiscretion "The Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect."(17.1) Perfection is where God makes good of your lapses as a man, and it for his sake' so your faith touches the perfect sacrifice his Son shall make for him as well. In order to illustrate how man's best is woefull inadequate we have this verse,"and, lo, an horror of great darkness fell upon him." (15.12). His sacrifice just as demanded of him but the horror of darkness was in his own inadequateness.
This foreknowledge was in his Son so God sets directions "after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward:{ and it touched the world of the Spirit.) The book of life in which we are co-heirs with the first begotten our faith sets the third space as 'forever' and it is the rest you enter abiding in Christ Jesus.
This is Babylon one of the greatest if not greatest cities of the ancient world it's king. Nebuchadnezzar possibly it's greatest .
Who had a dream none couid either say wgat it was or what it meant . When everyone had given up and confessed that only thec" gods of heaven' couid do it , Daniel came to the fore.
It foretold the future . It told of a head of gold then of silver etc each replacing the other but more base than the one before. Finishing up with iron and it's two legs and then it's feet with 10; toes made up of iron and clay .
It is interesting that though it starts in the distant past with Babylon it finishes with Rome of iron. It does not start with the feet but with the head and finishes with the feet which are unable to mix being "iron and clay " making the whole ecificev unstable .
The Roman empure split into two . One based in Rome thevither Constantinople . When the political power came to an end it morphed into a religious power this too was split in two . With the western orthodoxy based in Rome and the Eastern in Constantinople primarily . But as the eastern did not acknowledge the supremacy of Rome there has been a ' war" ever since which is ehy the Balkans have always been unstable for it is there the borders between them both is found .
But the rock that was hewn out of the mountain without hands is Christ who brings the whole rotten edifice down and grinds it to powder which is then blown away like the wind .
That has already happened for Christ came during the Roman Empire .
All the others. Before it are they not principalities and powers? A unified kingdom but with feet of clay and iron?
The so called Eu is but the 10 toes part clay part iron that do not mix.
Who still wish to revive the unification of Europe under Romes. Not now by force of arms but by a deceitful peace and a corrupt idea of 'democracy'.
Now is the Prince if this world fallen said Jesus .
It has been tried tested and proved in the fires of great trials and tests and proved to be strong enough to withstand all the forces of hell bent on destroying it and flexible enough to rule and govern an empires covering a 1/3 of the globe .
Therevis but one part still needed to ' perfect it" or make it completed . Parliament needs to learn what Kings of zEngland had to learn that european rulers never learnt teligious and political . That she cannot do what Kings of a England cannot do nor hope to achieve what they fought a Kingnof over.
She can learn it in peace at the point of a sword or in bloodshed . But learn she must and learn she will . For a Parliament is less than a King and if a King of England was not able nor tyen a Parliament .
For the truth is not democratic nor is it a tyrant but it does have fits own imperative .
Democracy has a fatal flaw in it and a hidden snar to the unwary . It's the idea that if you can get a majority by any means fair or foul get a good grip on the legislative process and keep it . You can delude yourself into thinking the truth is whatever your ' majority' says it is and you can impise yiyr very subjective opinions on everybody else by your corriot and perverted laws .
You cannot establish a lie you can on,y impisebit .First by corrupt and perverted law and when that does not work by tyranny and oppression .
I can see God working in this nations Constitution for "He can take those things that are not and bring to nought those things that are "
Thanks bro S. Spencer for sharing further on the Christian life that others ought to see. Even as you stated in your first part, the world cannot discern or understand what is "Christ inspired". What the Spirit imparts as humility, meekness, patience, forgiveness, love, etc. is often interpreted by the world as one 'lacking strength of character, weak hearted/mindedness, gullible'. But if they should look deeper and longer, they should soon find that we have been blessed from an heavenly source, enjoying the peace, confidence and hope for present and future, that they sorely lack. Oh, that this would cause many to be drawn to the Savior Who alone Who awaits to give them full Salvation and Peace. Every blessing brother and may your witness & life continue to reveal the Love & Peace of God to all with whom you come in contact.
If one comes to me and asks me to give them something, anything I would like, then I will give them what I have got. I cannot give them what I haven't got. Right?
God gives us what He has got. And what is this? It is "Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance" Gal 3:22-23.
The devil gives people what he has got.
Mark 9:25, "When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him."
That devil was dump and deaf so it gave those to that poor guy.
Mark 5:5, "And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones."
The world has got " adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, dolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like"
When I read the Bible I am given what God has got in His possesion.
When I watch the TV or the tablet or the mobile I am given what the world have got in their possesion. It is not logical to expect to be given peace and love and joy. The world haven't got those so they can't give you those. Is it me that after I read or watch the news I feel down, feel depression? Why am I not expecting feeling those? The world haven't got anything else to give me.
So I you want to feel high go to God. He's got many good things to give you.
Point 1-Clearly the Jesus' 12 apostles were under the New Covenant as Jesus spoke to them at the Last Supper ( Mt. 16:28) just as all in Christ partake of this same New Covenant made with His blood for all who believe-both Jew and Gentile.
Point 2-Romans chapter 11 refutes what you claim about the body of Christ-the "one new man" not being Israel enlarged. Lbooth, the opposite is true-the mystery that Paul preached was that the believing Gentiles are included in believing Israel. Eph. 1:7-14 speaks of the saints (all who believe in Jesus) having redemption through His blood and forgiveness of our sins, having revealed to believers the secret of His will that He set forth IN CHRIST now in the fullness of times, for Christ to head up all things-both heaven and earth. Us, (faithful Gentile saints),TOO, have been claimed as God's own possession.
And in Eph. 2 Paul addresses the Gentiles, termed the "uncircumcision" by those of the "circumcision (Jews) were alienated from the citizenship of Israel, being far away from God, but because of the blood of Christ, are brought near (as the Jews are near) in order to make the two groups one in Christ, creating "one new man". reconciling both (Jew and Gentile) in Christ's body on the cross, preaching peace to those who were far off (Gentiles) and to those who were near (Jews) that through Jesus' blood and by the Spirit both groups have equal access to the Father. Gentiles are no longer foreigners and noncitizens of God's household (His one possession, one people) but have become fellow citizens (with the Jewish saints), members of God's household (body)
Eph.3 is where Paul explains the "divine secret" revealed to that generation to and through His apostles and prophets by the Spirit. This divine secret is NAMELY that through the gospel, Gentiles are brought into the same New Covenant that the apostles and Jewish believers were brought into by Jesus Christ.
Objection: Eph 2:20 says the church is built on "apostles and prophets," so the Twelve must be in the BoC.
Reply: Eph 3:5 clarifies these are the "now-revealed" NT apostles/prophets of the mystery economy (including Paul; see Acts 13:1; Eph 4:11). Rev 21:14 assigns the Twelve to New Jerusalem's foundations-a kingdom symbol distinct from the BoC.
Objection: 1 Cor 12:13 says all are baptized into one body-doesn't that include the Twelve?
Reply: It explains the BoC's present-age placement by the Spirit, not a retroactive relocation of Israel's kingdom apostles from their promised thrones ( Matt 19:28).
Objection: 2 Pet 3:15-16 shows Peter aligning with Paul.
Reply: Peter endorses Paul's wisdom but keeps his circumcision apostleship ( Gal 2:7-9).
Bottom line: The Twelve remain Israel's kingdom apostles with earthly governmental roles ( Matt 19:28; Acts 3:19-21). The BoC is the mystery entity revealed through Paul, comprising Jew and Gentile in one new man with heavenly citizenship ( Rom 16:25; Eph 2:15-16; 3:1-9; 1 Cor 12:13; Phil 3:20). Therefore the Twelve are not members of the BoC.
I pray in Jesus name, for Unity in this community that I work at BOI, I pray for addictions to be broken, generational curses to be broken and people set free from any and all bondages of the enemy;. I pray for Holy Spirit to move all around this building.. Fill people with love,peace and joy. Give them ALL a desire to want to know who you are. In the mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen
Good question, and thank you for the respectful tone. From a Mid-Acts dispensational view, the tension dissolves once we keep Israel's kingdom program distinct from the Body of Christ. In the Lord's earthly ministry and early Acts, the Twelve were sent to Israel with a priestly commission: preach the kingdom, call the nation to repent, and baptize the believing remnant ( Matt 28:19; Mark 16:15-18; Acts 2:38; 3:19-21). Water baptism there was covenantal identification and preparation for a promised priestly nation ( Exod 19:5-6), accompanied by signs ( Mark 16:17-18) seen functioning in Acts ( Acts 5:12-16).
But when Israel continued in unbelief, Christ revealed to Paul "the dispensation of the grace of God" and the previously hidden "mystery" ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). In this present dispensation, we are now saved by the gospel of Christ's cross and resurrection alone ( 1 Cor 15:1-4; Rom 3:24-28; 4:5; Eph 2:8-9). Entrance is by one Spirit baptizing us into one Body ( 1 Cor 12:13), hence Paul can say there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) and also, strikingly "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17).
What of the Lord's commands in Matthew and John? They stand true for the audience addressed. Matthew 5:18 affirms the Law's authority until all is fulfilled; Christ is its end for righteousness to everyone that believes ( Rom 10:4) and the Body is not under the Law ( Rom 6:14). John 14-15 speaks to kingdom disciples under the New Covenant promises to Israel ( Jer 31:31-34), about abiding in the Vine and keeping His commandments in that program.
Luke 18:17 highlights the posture of faith, not a ritual that secures salvation. Therefore, today water baptism is a good testimony, but it does not add to the finished cross-work nor effect salvation. The saving baptism in this age is the Spirit's, placing us in Christ the moment we believe.
Cain and his offering is the root of all false religion and in effect the fruitful the " seed of the serpent" .
In offering the fruit of the field he was offering the work of his own hands and by the " sweat of his brow" the fruit of the field and something God had already cursed .
By his offering he was trying to establish his own righteousness and thus denied Gods and sought then his own glory .
Abel offered a sacrificed lamb thus followed the pattern God had laid down in the garden for a " covering" .
Is it not written " Love covers a multitude of sins"? And foreshadowed the animal sacrifices laid down by God through Moses .
Abel by his offering was confessing his sin acknowledging the righteousness of God and showed that his faith was not in his own 'good' works but in the promised "Lamb of God who would take away the Sin of the world " and would bruise "the sevenths head " who would be born of a woman thus fully man but not of Adams seed .
No wonder his offering was respected .
And throughout history it has always been Cain that has risen up and slew Abel while in a deceitful dialogue ( peace talks?)
Canines rejecting of the blood sacrifice also is why he found no place of repentance for if you reject the blood how can you be forgiven?
If we say we have no sin the truth is not in us ,but if we confess our sin then God is faithful and JUST to forgive us our sin and the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all unrighteousness "
Footnote: Is it not written we come to the blood that speaks of better things than the blood of Abel"?
For his blood spoke of the law broken and recompense and judgement .
The blood of Christ speaks of sin already judged , reconciliation and peace with God .
"The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace."
Revelation 21:8
"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."
Continuing with Chapter One.
We are at Rev. 1:4, which begins the formal introduction and greetings to the seven churches. In fact, this is the first verse in a series of three verses (4, 5, and 6).
Let's say that a chiasmus has three main parts. The first part is the leg that reads from left to right to the center, and I call this leg the thesis. The second part is the center. And the third part is the leg that goes from the center, reading from right to left to the end, and I call this leg the antithesis. Thus, Verse 1:4 is the thesis, Verse 1:5 is the center, and Verse 1:6 is the antithesis, as follows:
Rev. 1:4, the thesis of this three-verse series
..... Rev. 1:5, the center of the three-verse series
Rev. 1:6, the antithesis of the three-verse series
Next, we look at Rev. 1:4 in chiasmus form.
a) John to the seven churches which are in Asia:
.....b) Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come;
a) and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;
This verse is complex, and rather than explaining it, let's just say that it continues from Rev. 1:3 and comes from Rev. 4:5.
We can read passages like Psalm 8:2 describing children having great power in the Kingdom and certainly the Lord Himself shows victory over His enemies.
Should we take a frank investigation of the narrative of the Gospels regarding Christ's appearance on earth we see the persecution prophesied of ( Matthew 2:18 referring to Jeremiah 31 on the persecution of Herod). This shows the extermination of all the males under two in a fanatical attempt inspired no doubt from Satan to eliminate the One who would bring defeat to the enemy of our souls. We can extend this further to the event when Christ was 12 and "talked back" to his parents; as well as other things that rock our world with someone we assume came to bring peace without a price. Indeed He IS the Prince of Peace but also warned that He didn't come specifically and only for that reason ( Matt. 10:34).
Of course in terms of rife materialism we see that Christ chose to live as what we would call a nomadic existence and called for the same of His Disciples. We CAN say that the wise men sent expensive gifts and this no doubt was due to the worship due to the King which His own people by and large failed to grasp.
In general things are rapidly accelerating on the world scene to the stage set in Daniel and Revelation for the final 10 Kings in the Beast system. The earth trembles in ever increasing earthquakes and violence of war and other disputes. May our hearts not be divided between love for this world and treasures in heaven we are to seek above anything else.
Let us redeem the time because the days are evil; and testify the reason for the season.
Pt. 4 continued and then I am done for tonight.
....nor do I look down on people who have not studied or seek to gain deeper knowledge and understanding of the faith we share together. There is no prohibition against gaining knowledge or seeking understanding nor being somewhat not interested in becoming more involved in such type of learning.
5) I refuse to criticize or gossip about those who are deeply involved with church activities nor those who are minimally involved. Everyone is not the same or at the same "place" in any given time. People's private responsibilities, energy levels, and struggles affect how involved one can be within the local congregation they attend or in other para-church work.
6) Instead, I show gratitude to them for their service, Thank the Lord for these people and their faithfulness and eagerness to serve others. I let people know that they can choose the amount of service they give at church when serving in the home or in one's own career for the good of the family needs to be prioritized. I just pray for them and also encourage them to place this area of how and how much time and service they involve themselves in and how long to do it before the Lord and ask for the Spirit's lead and peace concerning this matter. I let them know that I support whatever choice they come to as I cannot know their lives or hearts as the Lord does, so I will not judge.
7) I hope to live up to these approaches I listed here. I fail to do so at times, but I aim to live by them because I believe that the Lord would have me interact this way within the body of Christ.
8) I stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit in all areas of my life, being open to His conviction, correction, teaching, and lead.
9) I stay grounded in God's Word, reading it throughout my life so the Spirit can write it on my heart and incorporate it in my way of living among believers and non believers. I want to honor God, bring Him glory, and extol His worthiness to all
The evidence that we have salvation in Christ is that we do the works of the Father. These works are the natural consequence of following Jesus. Works that are not seen by man, as in the case of casting out demons, speaking in tongues, etc., but works of love, peace, and friendship, which naturally flow from a Christlike life.
These works are not on display to be seen by men, but are seen by the Father.
It is how we conduct ourselves in our daily walk with Christ.
shared. There will be a great change,
in the days ahead. The days of hell and
high water are rapidly approaching.
The Church has remained
a spiritual force
for peace and
good will and shall continue to stand firm.
The gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
My prayer is that my faith fail not. Lord,
help me to endure until the end. Amen!
For example, the seals in Chapter Six reference the six millennia of man upon the earth. They also reference the saints to be resurrected. And the power transfers from God to Jesus, to the angel, to John, then to the beast and his false prophet, and lastly to the 144,000.
There are other things the Chapter Six seals reference to a lesser degree, one of which is the three judgments that are primarily stated in Verse 6:4 and set to the following chiasmus:
"And there went out another horse that was red:
...and power was given to him that sat thereon
.....to take peace from the earth,
...and that they should kill one another:
and there was given unto him a great sword."
An interesting thing about chiasmi in scripture is that the Savior is often the center. Not always, but perhaps fifty percent of the time. Thus, the center is saying "to take the Savior from the earth." This is the harvest of saints. The result is that the people of the world will "kill one another" because the followers of Christ are gone. In consequence of this killing, the Lord will give the angel, who is the rider of the red horse, a great sword. This sword was the bow in Rev. 6:2. The Savior had this bow in his hand when he was given authority over the book and the seals in Rev. 5:7. Although the bow is called by a series of names in Rev. 5:6.
Thus, the Savior gives the angel the bow now called the sword. Then the angel gives power and authority to the next in line, which is John ( Rev. 1:1). Therefore, John is the rider of the black horse. Rev. 6:5-6 explains how John will conduct himself with this power and authority. We see this entire chain of events unfolding in Rev. 10. It shows that the seals and trumpets contain much of the same information.
C H Spurgeon
Part 4
It is when, for the first time in our lives, we see our own righteousness, our morality, and our religiosity as filthy rags before the perfect holiness of God.
It is the moment when all our theology, our goodness and our service in the church become trash and we see ourselves as we really are, bankrupt sinners, totally dependent on a mercy we do not deserve.
This encounter with our own rottenness is the prerequisite for the miracle. What then is the 1st and most undeniable fruit that springs from the soil of a heart broken by the conviction of sin? The answer is not immediate joy. It is not a feeling of instant peace.
The first evidence of God's life in a dead soul is one thing alone, and it is brutally honest, genuine repentance. And here Spurgeon implores us not to be deceived by the satanic imitation of repentance which he called remorse.
Remorse is man's sorrow for the consequences of his sin. It is the fear of hell. It is the shame of being discovered. It is the pain of Judas, who lamented the result of his betrayal but never turned to Christ for forgiveness.
Remorse is the cry of the prisoner who hates the cell but still loves the crime. But repentance that comes from regeneration is of a completely different nature.
It is not sadness over the consequences; it is horror at the sin itself because it is an offense against a holy and loving God. It is the soul that looks at the cross and does not feel sorry for itself for being in trouble but feels a deep and real pain for having been the cause of those nails. Spurgeon would say that the truly repentant person does not just say I made a mistake but declares total and relentless war against the self that loves the mistake.
See Part 5
C H Spurgeon
Part 3
This faith uses the Bible as an instruction manual, not as a mirror that reveals its own misery and the desperate glory of Christ. It is, in the end, a faith centered on the eye, the eye that understands, the eye that agrees.
The eye that behaves, and that eye has never truly been crucified. So, what is the line that separates the soul that is merely informed from the soul that has been truly transformed if knowledge, emotion and morality can be misleading? Where is the dividing line?
Spurgeon's answer is violent, absolute, and deeply uncomfortable for the modern religious mind. The difference is not a human decision. It is a divine invasion. It is not about man finding a new way. It is about God creating a new man.
The word for this is regeneration, the new birth. It is not an improvement in character; it is a resurrection of the soul.
It is not an outward cleansing; it is the creation of a life that did not exist before. For Charles Spurgeon, saving faith does not begin with man climbing a step toward God, but with God descending into the tomb of the soul dead in sin, and crying out. Lazarus, come forth. It is an act of sovereign power and exclusive and irresistible work of the Holy Spirit that man cannot initiate, imitate or deserve.
False faith prides itself on its decision for Christ.
True faith trembles before the reality that it was chosen in Christ even before the foundation of the world.
The former is a renovation of the old house, a new coat of paint on rotten walls.
The latter is the complete demolition of the condemned building and the construction of a holy temple where God himself decides to dwell, and this divine work, this regeneration, is not a peaceful and comfortable process. It begins with the Holy Spirit convicting us of our sin in an overwhelming way.
See Part 4
Romans 8:18 KJV
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us
Allows the Christian be at peace with all others allowing nothing to stop you or burned away to prosper.
5. "In Material Provision"
Trust in God shapes our attitude toward money and possessions.
Practical Translation: You work hard, but you do not depend solely on wealth for your happiness. You are generous because you trust that God will provide for your needs.
Inner State: You recognize that God is the great Provider and that He cares for you as He cares for the birds of the air ( Matthew 6:26).
Trust, then, in daily life is the active choice to surrender control and our worries to God, living with peace and certainty, regardless of external circumstances.
Would you like to suggest some other practical ways to cultivate this trust (e.g., through prayer or study)?
Have a Blessed Week.
Hello to all, I have read somewhere the following:
Trust in God is not an abstract concept. It translates into specific practical behaviors and inner states that affect the way we live, think, and face challenges.
1. In Dealing with Anxiety and Fear
"Trust turns fear into peace"
Practical Translation: Instead of being paralyzed by worry about the future (job, health, finances), you do what you can and then leave the outcome in God's hands.
Inner State: You adopt the mindset: "I have done what is humanly possible. Now, I trust that God, who sees the big picture, will provide the best for me, according to His will." This brings inner peace ( Psalm 46:1).
2. In Decision Making
"Trust provides guidance and removes uncertainty"
Practical Translation: Before making a big decision (career change, moving), you pray for guidance and wisdom, rather than relying solely on your own logical abilities.
Inner State: You recognize that God's wisdom surpasses your own. You trust that if you commit the decision to God, He will "He shall direct thy paths." ( Proverbs 3:5-6), even if the path seems unclear at first.
3. In Interpersonal Relationships
"Trust in God affects how we view others and ourselves".
Practical Translation: When you feel wronged or hurt, instead of holding a grudge or seeking revenge, you trust God to bring justice or comfort. You focus on forgiveness.
Inner State: You rely on God's Love for your worth, rather than seeking constant validation from people. This makes you freer and less demanding in your relationships.
4. In Trials and Difficulties
"Trust turns pain into opportunity"
Practical Translation: When you face an illness or loss, you don't see the situation as a dead end, but as part of a larger plan.
Inner State: You believe that "all things work together for good to those who love God" ( Romans 8:28). This faith allows you to look for the lesson or empowerment hidden within the trial, keeping hope alive.
It is true that in old times, most people had very little, especially concerning food, clothing, shelter, and jobs. Were they content?They had to be content because there was very little they could do to improve their lot, given the sparsity of offerings. But they still lived on 'struggle street' and were very likely anxious, despondent, and driven to desperate actions. But as you wrote, that we have so much more than they, and we live relatively comfortable healthy lives, yet still many today are no better mentally or emotionally than those others, facing pressures from various sources. What they feel will bring them happiness and contentment, is only found to be temporal, ever lusting for more & more to sustain those satisfied feelings. And again, as you wrote, "they are searching for happiness in the wrong places".
But when you think of it, what else does the unbelieving world have in this life? Or, of any hope of eternity? Absolutely nothing. Their lives consist of what they know, have, and feel in the present, for tomorrow we die & are no more. But if they heed Jesus' Words ( Luke 12:15), "..(that) a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth" and they could have greater eternal treasures from Heaven (of full salvation, real joy, inner peace, and power to live righteously), their whole perspective of life & its real worth will be changed for their eternal good. If the Church at large can get out their stagnation & be a living witness to the world, the world might understand their true poverty. Blessings.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27.
GBU.
"And Abraham planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the Lord, the everlasting God./ And Abraham sojourned in the Philistines' land many days."
Abraham made piece with the king of Gerrar and sojourned there many days, and believed that his time of life shall be as appointed, "And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age." (15.15) The Spirit gives us his inner growth and we read of an altar set up 'in the plain of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the Lord."(13.4, 18).
The well of water was a sign for him. Here he planted a grove and called on the name of the everlasting God. This revelation did not come by itself but the Father who as with Simon Peter instilled or fortified his heart to the everlasting Covenant. The tamarisk tree works as the pillar at Bethel in the case of Jacob. "(28.17)The river of God opened up his eye with awe,"Surely the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not.". Hagar the bond-maid had sensed it herself. (16.13) Now he could get a clear picture as to why heas called out. He had to make his election sure.. Here onwards we see Abraham settling down his life as a pilgrim and sojourner. "And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you." He enters into the God's rest from this point onwards.(Isa.46.4)
Out of the belly shall flow living waters, streams of which connect believers to the holy city of God. "There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High."(Ps.46.4) Sons of Belial confuse it for Jerusalem destined to be cast into outer darkness.
"Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest?"(Isa.66.1)
That being said, I have a couple matters I'm dealing with right now. First there is a friend of mine who I have been helping increasingly in a financial way who has had his bathroom in a state of disarray after a couple repairs to stop a leak. Financially he would be better off if he lived in my house where I could charge a manageable rate; although for now he has pneumonia and the house isn't clean enough for him to be here and stay healthy and I certainly don't want to get sick either. He; as you probably are aware has amassed debt; he gets some military benefits but it is a bottomless pit essentially between his credit card issues and other things well over 50k indebt. I told him that some sort of credit consolidation was in order to continue to assist him at the rate I have at least say 6 months from now. As for now; with my Dad technically owning the house I am NOT legally permitted to have anyone live here as more than a guest beyond 30 days. if it IS God's will then I need to get beyond this point of feeling like I am being swallowed up in the issue and out of control and am asking for His peace and strength to do it; letting him in at all at this point with any stipulation could likely mean he wouldn't be able to leave. For now; I have had to say no. For now it is a constant concern; and the immediate thing is that if his meds don't work he will be hospitalized; so prayer is appreciated. When I feel overwhelmed it is very hard to pray on my end.
I have also finally broken membership ties with my local church but still involved in peripheral events in evenings. I went the over hour drive to a church that I researched who believes as I do on the whole hotbed of the divorce remarriage issue.
It was even better than I could have expected but too far to go every week.
Many have argued about whether God has a sense of humor; I would venture to say that it is very helpful in terms of ourselves when we can laugh at our own foolishness. Pride is a major barrier to growth; and learning our own weaknesses is never enjoyable.
Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
I have commented before on the prayer I am afraid to say; namely asking God to do His job to chastise and correct. It is pretty foolproof; you can count on Him answering it and probably means people will be involved in correction; some of which are in church; others in the world and no doubt the enemy will be allowed to target a few choice arrows your way. Having a bullseye on your back ain't fun but we have to get over having special status; our Lord and Master suffered and surely His servants likewise.
Not this concept certainly isn't going to win any converts who are just interested in lip service; unless they have a self destructive bent. The world can't be expected to get it; no doubt they default to wanting to be left alone to do their thing.
Knowing Christ rather than about Him is key. Our transformation in the mind and soul is revolutionary. To truly be saved IS to be dead to sin; yet we still have that capacity as we can't say we are without sin. The regenerate heart is truly born again and a new creature. The scripture is opened up as our soul testifies to the truth ( Romans 8:16); and of course we are "all taught by God" ( John 6:45). This love is transformative; or Agape. One HUGE fallacy today is that we somehow are taught to believe that being loving enough somehow aids to such a transformation. That is a partial truth; IF the Spirit is working on someone that is the case; and we certainly have no business not being loving; but even grumpy people He can use.
Abram believed God and God's promise to hm was 'forever' " For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever."(13.15), How appropriate was this tag when God tells him of his mortality? "And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age." (15.15) The Spirit presents Abram and blesses him in his Son. Jesus Christ the same forever. (Heb.13.8). For instance Abram does not take even a shoe-latchet from the king of Sodom because Jesus testifies," for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me."( Jn 14.30). This foreknowledge ought to warn every believer to walk before God perfect where His grace is there to fill in the shortfall. It is to which the Spirit prepares by this Covenant. Hagar episode is a study in the life of walking with God. God assures him not to fear of such a momentous step. " Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward." He repeats even after his indiscretion "The Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect."(17.1) Perfection is where God makes good of your lapses as a man, and it for his sake' so your faith touches the perfect sacrifice his Son shall make for him as well. In order to illustrate how man's best is woefull inadequate we have this verse,"and, lo, an horror of great darkness fell upon him." (15.12). His sacrifice just as demanded of him but the horror of darkness was in his own inadequateness.
This foreknowledge was in his Son so God sets directions "after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward:{ and it touched the world of the Spirit.) The book of life in which we are co-heirs with the first begotten our faith sets the third space as 'forever' and it is the rest you enter abiding in Christ Jesus.
This is Babylon one of the greatest if not greatest cities of the ancient world it's king. Nebuchadnezzar possibly it's greatest .
Who had a dream none couid either say wgat it was or what it meant . When everyone had given up and confessed that only thec" gods of heaven' couid do it , Daniel came to the fore.
It foretold the future . It told of a head of gold then of silver etc each replacing the other but more base than the one before. Finishing up with iron and it's two legs and then it's feet with 10; toes made up of iron and clay .
It is interesting that though it starts in the distant past with Babylon it finishes with Rome of iron. It does not start with the feet but with the head and finishes with the feet which are unable to mix being "iron and clay " making the whole ecificev unstable .
The Roman empure split into two . One based in Rome thevither Constantinople . When the political power came to an end it morphed into a religious power this too was split in two . With the western orthodoxy based in Rome and the Eastern in Constantinople primarily . But as the eastern did not acknowledge the supremacy of Rome there has been a ' war" ever since which is ehy the Balkans have always been unstable for it is there the borders between them both is found .
But the rock that was hewn out of the mountain without hands is Christ who brings the whole rotten edifice down and grinds it to powder which is then blown away like the wind .
That has already happened for Christ came during the Roman Empire .
All the others. Before it are they not principalities and powers? A unified kingdom but with feet of clay and iron?
The so called Eu is but the 10 toes part clay part iron that do not mix.
Who still wish to revive the unification of Europe under Romes. Not now by force of arms but by a deceitful peace and a corrupt idea of 'democracy'.
Now is the Prince if this world fallen said Jesus .
It has been tried tested and proved in the fires of great trials and tests and proved to be strong enough to withstand all the forces of hell bent on destroying it and flexible enough to rule and govern an empires covering a 1/3 of the globe .
Therevis but one part still needed to ' perfect it" or make it completed . Parliament needs to learn what Kings of zEngland had to learn that european rulers never learnt teligious and political . That she cannot do what Kings of a England cannot do nor hope to achieve what they fought a Kingnof over.
She can learn it in peace at the point of a sword or in bloodshed . But learn she must and learn she will . For a Parliament is less than a King and if a King of England was not able nor tyen a Parliament .
For the truth is not democratic nor is it a tyrant but it does have fits own imperative .
Democracy has a fatal flaw in it and a hidden snar to the unwary . It's the idea that if you can get a majority by any means fair or foul get a good grip on the legislative process and keep it . You can delude yourself into thinking the truth is whatever your ' majority' says it is and you can impise yiyr very subjective opinions on everybody else by your corriot and perverted laws .
You cannot establish a lie you can on,y impisebit .First by corrupt and perverted law and when that does not work by tyranny and oppression .
I can see God working in this nations Constitution for "He can take those things that are not and bring to nought those things that are "
God gives us what He has got. And what is this? It is "Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance" Gal 3:22-23.
The devil gives people what he has got.
Mark 9:25, "When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him."
That devil was dump and deaf so it gave those to that poor guy.
Mark 5:5, "And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones."
The world has got " adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, dolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like"
When I read the Bible I am given what God has got in His possesion.
When I watch the TV or the tablet or the mobile I am given what the world have got in their possesion. It is not logical to expect to be given peace and love and joy. The world haven't got those so they can't give you those. Is it me that after I read or watch the news I feel down, feel depression? Why am I not expecting feeling those? The world haven't got anything else to give me.
So I you want to feel high go to God. He's got many good things to give you.
Point 1-Clearly the Jesus' 12 apostles were under the New Covenant as Jesus spoke to them at the Last Supper ( Mt. 16:28) just as all in Christ partake of this same New Covenant made with His blood for all who believe-both Jew and Gentile.
Point 2-Romans chapter 11 refutes what you claim about the body of Christ-the "one new man" not being Israel enlarged. Lbooth, the opposite is true-the mystery that Paul preached was that the believing Gentiles are included in believing Israel. Eph. 1:7-14 speaks of the saints (all who believe in Jesus) having redemption through His blood and forgiveness of our sins, having revealed to believers the secret of His will that He set forth IN CHRIST now in the fullness of times, for Christ to head up all things-both heaven and earth. Us, (faithful Gentile saints),TOO, have been claimed as God's own possession.
And in Eph. 2 Paul addresses the Gentiles, termed the "uncircumcision" by those of the "circumcision (Jews) were alienated from the citizenship of Israel, being far away from God, but because of the blood of Christ, are brought near (as the Jews are near) in order to make the two groups one in Christ, creating "one new man". reconciling both (Jew and Gentile) in Christ's body on the cross, preaching peace to those who were far off (Gentiles) and to those who were near (Jews) that through Jesus' blood and by the Spirit both groups have equal access to the Father. Gentiles are no longer foreigners and noncitizens of God's household (His one possession, one people) but have become fellow citizens (with the Jewish saints), members of God's household (body)
Eph.3 is where Paul explains the "divine secret" revealed to that generation to and through His apostles and prophets by the Spirit. This divine secret is NAMELY that through the gospel, Gentiles are brought into the same New Covenant that the apostles and Jewish believers were brought into by Jesus Christ.
see Pt. 3
Objection: Eph 2:20 says the church is built on "apostles and prophets," so the Twelve must be in the BoC.
Reply: Eph 3:5 clarifies these are the "now-revealed" NT apostles/prophets of the mystery economy (including Paul; see Acts 13:1; Eph 4:11). Rev 21:14 assigns the Twelve to New Jerusalem's foundations-a kingdom symbol distinct from the BoC.
Objection: 1 Cor 12:13 says all are baptized into one body-doesn't that include the Twelve?
Reply: It explains the BoC's present-age placement by the Spirit, not a retroactive relocation of Israel's kingdom apostles from their promised thrones ( Matt 19:28).
Objection: 2 Pet 3:15-16 shows Peter aligning with Paul.
Reply: Peter endorses Paul's wisdom but keeps his circumcision apostleship ( Gal 2:7-9).
Bottom line: The Twelve remain Israel's kingdom apostles with earthly governmental roles ( Matt 19:28; Acts 3:19-21). The BoC is the mystery entity revealed through Paul, comprising Jew and Gentile in one new man with heavenly citizenship ( Rom 16:25; Eph 2:15-16; 3:1-9; 1 Cor 12:13; Phil 3:20). Therefore the Twelve are not members of the BoC.
Grace and Peace.
[Comment Removed]
But when Israel continued in unbelief, Christ revealed to Paul "the dispensation of the grace of God" and the previously hidden "mystery" ( Eph 3:1-9; Col 1:25-27). In this present dispensation, we are now saved by the gospel of Christ's cross and resurrection alone ( 1 Cor 15:1-4; Rom 3:24-28; 4:5; Eph 2:8-9). Entrance is by one Spirit baptizing us into one Body ( 1 Cor 12:13), hence Paul can say there is "one baptism" ( Eph 4:5) and also, strikingly "Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel" ( 1 Cor 1:17).
What of the Lord's commands in Matthew and John? They stand true for the audience addressed. Matthew 5:18 affirms the Law's authority until all is fulfilled; Christ is its end for righteousness to everyone that believes ( Rom 10:4) and the Body is not under the Law ( Rom 6:14). John 14-15 speaks to kingdom disciples under the New Covenant promises to Israel ( Jer 31:31-34), about abiding in the Vine and keeping His commandments in that program.
Luke 18:17 highlights the posture of faith, not a ritual that secures salvation. Therefore, today water baptism is a good testimony, but it does not add to the finished cross-work nor effect salvation. The saving baptism in this age is the Spirit's, placing us in Christ the moment we believe.
Grace and Peace.
In offering the fruit of the field he was offering the work of his own hands and by the " sweat of his brow" the fruit of the field and something God had already cursed .
By his offering he was trying to establish his own righteousness and thus denied Gods and sought then his own glory .
Abel offered a sacrificed lamb thus followed the pattern God had laid down in the garden for a " covering" .
Is it not written " Love covers a multitude of sins"? And foreshadowed the animal sacrifices laid down by God through Moses .
Abel by his offering was confessing his sin acknowledging the righteousness of God and showed that his faith was not in his own 'good' works but in the promised "Lamb of God who would take away the Sin of the world " and would bruise "the sevenths head " who would be born of a woman thus fully man but not of Adams seed .
No wonder his offering was respected .
And throughout history it has always been Cain that has risen up and slew Abel while in a deceitful dialogue ( peace talks?)
Canines rejecting of the blood sacrifice also is why he found no place of repentance for if you reject the blood how can you be forgiven?
If we say we have no sin the truth is not in us ,but if we confess our sin then God is faithful and JUST to forgive us our sin and the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all unrighteousness "
Footnote: Is it not written we come to the blood that speaks of better things than the blood of Abel"?
For his blood spoke of the law broken and recompense and judgement .
The blood of Christ speaks of sin already judged , reconciliation and peace with God .
Psalms 29:11
"The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace."
Revelation 21:8
"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."
Blessings
James 3:18
"And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."
Jeremiah 8:11
"For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace."
1 Thessalonians 5:3
"For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape."
Matthew 10:34
"Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword."
Blessings
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