This likely is the start of another lengthy series of postings. I fear that my sermon like "lecturing" isn't exactly working at times.
I felt it prudent to let the scriptures speak for themselves-and am unaware of anyone who has searched the scriptures both O.T. and N.T. for a comprehensive study of all times that prayer occurred and repeated themes and patterns that could be established.
Praying "in the Spirit" ( Ephesians 6:18 and 2 other references) is hard to precisely define. There are many theological discussions on what is "proper" or improper things to pray about; but I am unaware of any doctrinal statements that nail it down like there are on other church ordinances; and ceremonies. Interestingly as I have brought up several times on this forum there is no scripture that invokes a saint to pray for a SPECIFIC person to come to Christ. It seems the majority of prayers are personal in scripture. With that being said; intercession for the saints is a vital component ( Romans 8:27); and praying for the nation asking for mercy with national sins is another theme; associated with God's covenant promises being affirmed in the long run despite the disobedience as we see in the case of Daniel chapter 9.
As I may have mentioned in the past; a friend of mine a few years back started an early morning prayer group which I briefly attended before moving back home with my parents and stated that he was "desperate" for prayer. I know of at least one person in my current church who is in his 60s but gets up at 4 or so each day to pray and listen to a Bible study before working his full time job. I have known a couple others in the past who have done the same sort of thing. I'd like to be that way myself; rather than the "ZOMBIE" like state that I am in the early morning. My prayer is fairly consistent but later in the morning although traffic to work has cut that short recently.
Did Jesus exist before creation? Did the Holy Spirit exist before creation?
Jesus existed in God's plan, Jesus is the beginning of creation Rev. 3:14 and by Him were all things created Col. 1:16 my understanding is Jesus, was the first in God's plan of creation and everything was created by God, in and through the plan and purpose of Jesus. My understanding Jesus did not physically exist until the fullness of time. Ephesians 1:10 He was born of Mary the Son of God. the seed of woman. Genesis 3:15Matthew 1:20
My understanding is the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, not a person, Genesis 1:2. We see all the greetings are from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:71 Corinthians 1:32 Corinthians 1:2Galatians 1:3Ephesians 1:2Ephesians 6:23Philippians 1:2Colossians 1:2 and 6 more. The Holy Spirit not being included is a good clue the Holy Spirit was not considered a person by Paul and others at that time.
If so, who were they in relation to the Father?
I believe the above answers this.
How did the Father, the Son, and the Spirit all create all that is, seen or unseen?
My understanding is God the Father created all, Genesis 1:1Genesis 1:31Proverbs 16:4Isaiah 45:18Nehemiah 9:6.
Does Scripture teach that God is only one person who manifests in three forms, but all these manifestations are only one person?
Scripture does not support Modalism I have never considered this and do not know anything about it.
Thank you again, from my heart, the truth is my search not to offend. It all goes back to one verse when I read it, it stood out in my heart, Corinthians 11:4. I know I am alone here on this, but saying Jesus is part of the Triune God, who eternally exists and expresses himself as three distinct persons with one essence all three co-equal. One God in three persons-the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This to me denies the Son, 1 John 2:23
What I see in the Bible is the relationship between the Father and the Son, the Son is obedient to the Father. Jesus said His Father is greater than Him, John 14:28. Jesus has said the Father is His God, John 20:17Revelation 3:12.
The Bible defines God's nature as eternal and unchanging; there is only one throne of God and through the Bible, only the Father is on the throne until the Father raised His Son from the dead and placed Him on His right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, there is nothing about the Holy Spirit.
As we see in Revelation Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple and the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof, Rev. 21:22-23 no Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God is the Holy Spirit, not another person.
Jesus confirmed there is only one true God, Mark 12:28-34, in Jesus's prayer to His Father said in John 17:3. All the greetings in the New Testament are from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, Galatians 1:3Ephesians 6:231 Thessalonians 1:12 Timothy 1:2Titus 1:42 John 1:3 and more but no Holy Spirit.
If the Trinity true and is so important, why is it not once taught in Scripture? God cannot change and God cannot die, so how do we understand John 3:16 if God the Father did not send his actual begotten Son to die for our sins? We see Jesus also had His own will, Luke 22:42.
Thank you, you are correct I believe in one God the Father and one Lord Jesus Christ as most of the greetings in the epistles Ephesians 6:231 Thessalonians 1:1 and more, and nowhere is this doctrine taught in the New Testament that we must believe for salvation.
It is like Matthew 28:19 the baptizing in the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit but nowhere do we see it in the New Testament all were baptized in the name of Jesus and only in the name of Jesus are we saved. My study of 1 John 5:7 is that it was added from the Latin Vulgate and was not in the original text, but that can be debated.
I understand I am in the minority and have discussed this before. We can find Scripture to fit a doctrine, but can we find Scripture where the doctrine was taught? I have not found where the Trinity doctrine is taught. Like Genesis 1:26 there are many beings in heaven and the word us does not say God was speaking to Jesus, that is an assumption.
Thank you again for discussing this in a loving and respectful manor, this subject is deep and as long as we have love for each other, and truth is what we are in search of.
What matters and prevails is the Word of GOD. The Word is GOD.
Philippians 3
1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.
2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.
3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
17Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES of the cross of Christ:
19Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind EARTHLY things.)
20For our conversation is in heaven( Ephesians 1:3); from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Ephesians 6:11-18
11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12For 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.
13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God,that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,and having done all,to stand.
14Stand therefore,having your loins girt about with truth,and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16Above all, taking the shield of faith,wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17And take the helmet of salvation,and the sword of the Spirit,which is the word of God:
18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
GOD is praised in us when we are set to glorify HIM as HE directs us. In the things we do in HIM and how we direct our material wealth and use it to worship the LORD CHRIST.
May our walk in HIM be precious as the tabernacle is shown to be. The outer covering not much to look at; but the inside is beautiful beyond compare. Our life be as Philip in Acts 8: 26 able to tell others of the gospel of the LORD JESUS.
Thank YOU FATHER for this day of worship and time of celebration
Luke 2:10 - 18
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Many are saying we as believers should not be involved in this "pagan" ritual; however, we should use this as an opening to declare our SAVIOR GOD JESUS CHRIST who is no longer a babe.
Titus 2:
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
Praying for the peace in Jerusalem and the Godly wisdom needed in DC and all levels and areas of our nation.
Ephesians 6:10-18 may we recognize..
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Merry Christmas everyone, and a prosperous New Year in 2024.
I have much to work on in my life before my SAVIOR comes. I am saved by the blood of the LAMB by grace through faith it is a gift I received from my CHRIST. Ephesians 2: 8, 9. I must remember to daily put on my armor of GOD Ephesians 6:10-18; and that I am a new creature. 2 Corinthians 5:17
I will daily pray for those in authority, for the lost, back slidden, and for the brethren in the field planting and watering the seed, waiting for the increase from the LORD.
I will give; as I have been blessed and praise HIS name.
Thank YOU FATHER for this wonderful time we have to serve, and glorify YOU. Bless the peace needed in Jerusalem; thank YOU for YOUR word never returning void when we go out declaring YOUR truth.
Merry Christmas all!
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Isaiah 9:
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Commitment to GOD'S way will bring us closer to being the type of person HE desires us to be. 2 Timothy 3:16, 17
Titus 2:11-14
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
We will be able to conduct ourselves in accordance to the mind of CHRIST, heeding the leadership before us. Romans 13:1-5
Being crucified in CHRIST, and knowledgeable in HIS word we are able to go forward and carry out HIS word and make disciples, Matthew 28:18-20; being encouraged, we will go out to reach the lost, 2 Peter 3:9.
May we be faithful in our prayers for the peace in Jerusalem, and for the authority before us,
Isaiah 55:
11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
1 Timothy 2:1-6
GOD to shine HIS blessed face upon us as we put on the new man in CHRIST name, and put off the old man. For if any man be in CHRIST, he is a new creature. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Thank YOU FATHER for the faithfulness of the brethren here on this forum. Help us to be prayed up, and be reminded to wear the armor of GOD daily. Ephesians 6:11-18
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. December 21, 2023
Our LORD JESUS CHRIST is always in charge, so we need not fret or worry for the the things we are facing in our country now. All true saints are blessed; however, we pray for the lost and harden hearts to find CHRIST before they go into eternity.
We are encouraged to trust in HIS word and lift up our leadership in prayer. Our duty is to stand in the gap and make a hedge for all as we take the battle to the spiritual wicked in high places. Armour up saints, "...taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." Ephesians 6:16
Let us all be prayed up as we go before the LORD'S throne of grace on the behalf of the peace in Jerusalem, the saints in Armenia, the need for spiritual wisdom in DC, courage in our pulpits to preach the whole counsel of the LORD GOD. Thank YOU FATHER for CHRIST'S salvation and our place in heaven.
Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year unto all on this platform. December 20, 2023
I have prayed for you. The Lord told us in His word (both OT and NT) to honor our father and mother. Its the fifth commandment, Paul reiterates it in Ephesians 6:2 and most importantly Jesus points to it when rebuking the Pharisees in Matthew 15:4. Maybe you can have your husband read these Scriptures again?
If we compare Revelation 7:3 with the mark of the Beast in Revelation 13:16-17 we see a mark of ownership; in reality representing either God in the first instance; and Satan in the second. The exact appearance of God's mark is not given while that of the Beast is identified in the original language as "chargma" if I have the spelling right. That is something on or just beneath the skin; whether it is a sort of tattoo or computer chip it allows the world to visibly give allegiance to Antichrist.
God knows the hearts of men; and all those He foreknew to be called and chosen; as well as those who are reprobate or unbelievers. Satan is well aware of who we are as believers; as it is the only threat to his kingdom on earth at present.
Tne mark of Cain gave him the ability to avenge sevenfold anything done against him. ( Gen. 4:15). This was something identifiable which avoided his immediate demise; perhaps showing the future fulfillment of the mark of the Beast for temporary protection from the executioners and the wrath of men under Satan's pogrom. Following the god of this world always leads to death and destruction of self as well as others. Dying to self to follow Christ brings eternal life.
Of course it is no fun having a target on our back; even now that the enemy is constantly attempting to fling fiery darts at us ( Ephesians 6:16). We should take heart; as he has no time to waste attacking those who are already in his camp and under his control whose unregenerate hearts are blinded to the glorious gospel of truth ( 2 Cor. 4:4). Absent from the body we are present with the Lord ( 2 Cor. 5:8). God is in charge of the day of our death; the enemy can only be permitted to do anything against us. The final conflagration in Revelation 19 when we return in the armies of heaven with Christ who destroys the Beast and his armies is inevitable; the war is won we just fight battles and skirmishes leading up to His victory.
Looks like you have it all backwards. Obey my parents only in the Lord in the new testament. Honour is the old testament.
Ephesians 6:1] Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
[2] Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)
[3] That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
The law Moses' commandments were weak laws, thry could not make people free from sin, they can not make people holy. God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinfulflesh. The law can not make you the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. The law of righteousness the ten commandments Jesus is now the end of all that as he is the head of the Ten commandments for righteousness sake. The old laws were not good enough.
Hebrews 10:[1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
[3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.
[4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
Hebrews 7:11] If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
[12] For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.
[13] For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.
[14] For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
[15] And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,
You came to my mind while I was on my way home from errands an hour or so ago. And then the thought "Encourage" came into my mind.
I do pray daily for those on this site, but this prompting is not a common experience for me. So, I will encourage you and others on here with these words from Scripture.
The Aaronic Blessing in Numbers 6:24-26
"The Lord bless thee and keep thee; The Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious to thee; The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."
AND
Paul's Blessing in Ephesians 6:23-24
"Peace be to the brethren, and the love of faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity."
AND to close,
Paul's Blessing in 2 Corinthians 13:14
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen"
You wrote: "Until we draw the last breath , we must battle. And, the battle is ourselves!"
But the battle is not ourselves only, "but 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, wherefore take unto you the whole armour of GOD, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand- Ephesians 6:11-13".
Revelation 16:13-15
13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs(why frogs?) come out of the MOUTH of the dragon, and out of the MOUTH of the Beast(Beast of sea- Revelation 13:1-10), and out of the MOUTH of the false prophet (the false messiah, FALSE LAMB- Revelation 13:11- AN IMPOSTOR- John 5:43-47. Take a look.)
14 For they are the spirits of devils (a saatanic trinity), working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great Day of GOD Almighty (that is the Lord's Day, the seventh nd last Day or seventh and last millennium, the current millennium).
15 Behold, I come as a thief.
Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
Daniel 12:12 - Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.
Daniel 12:10 - Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.
Hello Bmccaugh58. The answers to your questions are actually found throughout the Bible (from Genesis to Revelation), because the Bible essentially shows us how far mankind has fallen away from his Creator (because of sin), the repercussions we face from living in such a sinful state, & what God has done to offer correction & help, or else, judgement. So, one merely has to read through the Bible (even in your daily devotions/readings) & will see how people, yes all of us, have done wrong towards God & man & what subsequently entails from that. Some will learn & be corrected & then restored - others will persist in their evil ways & face God's Judgement.
So, here are some passages to start you off, but in your reading of the Bible, God's Spirit will alert you to what you seek or even where some action needs to be taken in your own life.
These are just a very few Scriptures, reminding us that there will always be consequences for our actions, not just in our dealings with each other, but more importantly, as we stand before God. But this God of Love always gives sinful wayward man an escape route, from a life of sin to a life of holiness & love - and His Name is Jesus.
Thank you for your words of encouragement. It is easy for me to admit because it is truth and I feel that If I speak of a lie then I am not in Christ if that makes sense. John 8:44
Put on the whole armour of God belt of truth. Ephesians 6:14
As I explained to S Spencer I take everything to heart and often I take it literal which I know not everything is to be taken literal.
However, I do apply it to me nonetheless.
I am like Solomon where I have tasted everything from this world and it has left me with nothing but emptiness. Now I just want to lead others to the grace, glory and salvation but to do that I need to get my own house back in order and make sure I have sound doctrine.
I thank you for your thoughts, prayers, encouragement and help. I will also pray that the love, grace and mercy of God be with you always.
In response to Patrick Golding, Every baptism thar took place in the book of Acts was done so I. The name of Jesus Christ or in the name of Jesus. Please reread Acts this is what Jesus taught them to do as he walked and taught them for 40 days on earth after the resesurrection.
As humans He created, we cannot attain to His infinite and boundless Holiness, but in Christ we will become perfected in the life to come to have perfect holy humanity without sin any longer. The angels are also holy and without sin, but they are creatures and thus not holy in the sense of being separate.
Genesis 1:27
Leviticus 20:26, the word holy is the same for both mankind, angels & God,
H6918--holy One, saint
Or qadosh {kaw-doshe'}; from qadash; sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) God (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary -- holy (One), saint.
1Pet 1:16 holy here refers to the same holiness---
Matt 5:48 perfect refers to God & mankind, there's not a different standard reveal here or the above.
5046 complete, perfect, mature
From telos; complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with ho) completeness -- of full age, man, perfect.
Matt 6:10 my Friend, its here & now !
you're speaking as one who has been seasoned in the discernment between good & evil & yet teaching things contrary to Scriptures, you started out good, but from this statement on, you degenerated, which make it all the more deceptive: giving an appearance or impression different from the true one; misleading
Gal 5:9
you're putting a stumbling block before the young & tender one's ''babes" in Christ, whom God is leading in the Way of Holiness
God doesn't take kindly to this.
It would be wise of you not to teach such thing directly contrary to Holy Spirit of Scriptures
Friend; Ephesians 6:12 who seek to rule & reign in the hearts & minds of the children of men.
That isn't a very beneficial attitude to take regarding these very serious spiritual matters. As for women not being impressionable, the retail sector bears women out on how impressionable they are for new fashions, hair styles, makeup, and the rest. Women also tend to lend an ear to other "friends" who might or might not give them all the best advice. These spiritual matters are of no laughing matter I can assure you of that.
Ephesians 6:12-13 (KJV)
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."
, that we must pickup, teaching us to deny these ungodly & worldly lust, & pleasures of this world, which spring up within us & also instructs us in works of righteousness unto holiness this is Christ Spirit / Grace / Light appearance in us to combat the spirits of darkness that appears. Ephesians 6:12 it not without only, Jesus says it's within our hearts Matt 15:192Cor 10:5,6
Friends
Awake to Righteousness & in time through the exercising of Him, the Grace of God, you'll sin not & be conformed to His Image
For He only become Hebrews 5:9
Are have you been deceived by those Paul warned us about in
2 Timothy 4:3,4Jude 1:4 Believing against Scriptural Truth, that turn the Grace of God into wantonness, that you can live a life of sin & iniquity & have a faith that never overcome satan, & still be born again, Spirit baptized, & a light that set upon a hill, if this be true of you, your in the Apostasy, the deceitfulness of sin/satan has ensnare you. 2 Thess 2:10-12 is fulfilling upon you, your faith is a lie, John 3:18-20Rom 1:25
Friends,
The working out of our salvation, the sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience, washing of regeneration & renewing of the Holy Ghost is on this side of the grave. What spiritual state we're in when we die, is the state we will be judge in! & if the 1Pet 4:18 be not decieived, 1John 3:7,8,11
I've spoken this to many people, their response is 'that God is loving, gracious & merciful" very true, that why He sent His only begotten Son to provide a Way, through His Grace & Mercy to overcome the devil & become more than conquerors, through Him that loves us,. This is the whole revelation of the better Covenant, build on better promises, Grace & Mercy takes us out of sin, it's the Rom 8:2 it doesn't leave us in our sins, to pacifying us, saying Oh it's ok we know you can't be perfect, the lie.
Friends
For the sake of God's great love wherewith He has demonstrated in sending His Son, consider your state 2Cor 13:5
Colossae was a city of Phrygia, in the Roman province of Asia. It was about 90 miles east of Ephesus. Colossae was in the Lycus Valley along with Laodicea and Hierapolis. The population of Colossae was mostly Gentile but had a large number of Jewish population.
The church at Colossae began during Paul's three-year ministry at Ephesus (Acts Chapter 19). Paul didn't start the church in Colossae, but he spent three years in Ephesus. And you can see why. There was a tremendous amount of ministry going on there. During this three-year period, a man by the name of Epaphras was saved while visiting Ephesus.
The Church at Colossae was established by Epaphras, not Paul ( Colossians 1:5-7). So Epaphras came from Colossae into Ephesus, met Paul, heard him preach, and received Christ. Epaphras goes back to Colossae, and he establishes the church there, not Paul.
Several years after the Colossians church was founded, dangerous heresies began to circulate in it. Epaphras was so concerned about these heresies that he made the long journey from Colossae to Rome were Paul was a prisoner ( Colossians 4:12-13).
IV. THE THEME OF PHILEMON:
The portrayal of the Gospel expressed between Paul and Philemon over Philemon's slave Onesimus.
V. DELIVERED BY:
Philemon was delivered with Colossians and Ephesians by Tychicus who was accompanied by Onesimus ( Ephesians 6:21-22; Colossians 4:7-8). Epaphras remained behind in Rome ( Philemon 23). So Epaphras was there with Paul. He didn't go back with the letters. He stayed with Paul. Very interesting!
It was written around 63 A.D. while Paul was in prison in Rome ( Acts 28:16-31). Paul was in house arrest for two years. This was his first imprisonment. His second imprisonment is when he was in the Mamertine prison. But this first time, he was under house arrest for about two years.
Ephesians is one of the prison letters. That is, one of the four written by Paul while he was imprisoned at this time. The others were Philippians, Colossians and Philemon. So, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon are known as the prison epistles or prison letters because they were written by Paul while he was under house arrest in Rome.
VI. DELIVERED BY:
It was delivered by Tychicus. Ephesians 6:21-22 and Colossians 4:7-8 tell us that Tychicus brought both letters. So, it is believed that Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon, because Philemon is a man that lived in Colosse, so his letter accompanied the letter to Colosse, and Tychicus took all three and delivered them.
VII. SECTION OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF EPHESIANS:
CHAPTERS 1-3 - The Doctrine of the New Life in Christ.
CHAPTERS 4-6 - The Details of the New Life in Christ.
In other words, he takes the doctrine of the first three chapters, and he goes into detail and in depth of those doctrines, the function and performance of the church. He's going to present to us the armor of God all in those last three chapters.
That covers the introduction to Ephesians. Lord willing, I will share my introduction to Philippians soon.
Allow me to add a few more elements for analysis. JESUS was talking about the fulfillment of the Scriptures about Himself -JESUS is GOD-, when Peter rebuked Him, so He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of GOD, but merely HUMAN concerns." Matthew 16:23NIV
When Peter rebuked JESUS, an unexpected spiritual environment emerged out of the darkness and the Enemy spirit took a clincher/hook in the literal sense, and articulated the pseudo human goodness in Peter's mouth to put a stumble in the way of JESUS, as happened in temptation.
The lesson I draw for myself from the spiritual environment that emerged out in that moment involving Peter in his weakness before the Master, it is that as a human we must have much care to fall not in the same error of Peter Apostle, using our human conceptions and going against the Scriptures, even if our words seems be good and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom.
We need a lot of discernment, no? Ephesians 4:26-27KJV - Sin not ...:
Neither give place to the Devil.
Furthermore, Ephesians 6:10 to 18 in very important for us the lasts, mainly now at midnight, a hour of great danger, according the Word of GOD, and more a TURN of a Day in our GOD's watch as in Genesis 3:8-11 and NOW in Revelation 16:13-15.
The face value of the statement you quoted does not imply additions or subtraction to the words of God as I previously stated to you, so it was not for face value that you responsed.
in your apology, you state "if" you misrepresented their beliefs, there's no 'if" to it.
David your apology is evasive & shifty, then you reinforce your statement of your beliefs, in all this, it makes this attempted apology void. its the same tactics you colored over your erroneous statement of "visions & dream" with GiGi.
Psalms 15:1-4
Friend, I been here, God would not let me near Him, the intimacy & closeness that I intensely craved, to really know Him. as a Father knows a son, & son knows his father was shut to me, His all discerning eyes penetrate my thickest covering, I had to come clean every wit, before His wrath was remove & remission of the transgression of granted & fellowship was restored. Hebrews 12:11
Then came I to a more enlightened understanding of King David prayer, Psalms 51:6 & I rejoice in His judgments for they were meant for my cleansing to bring me back to the intimate fellowship & only became my condemnation when I reject them.
I learnt by experience that the difference between "all that are call & the few that are chosen", is how we respond to Him in these crucial moments in our relationship with Him & our fellow human beings.
I pray that this helps in making a clean break, remember who we war against Ephesians 6:12 who seek to rule & reign in the hearts & minds of mankind, they have been doing this for a long time, & to be honest, if we look at the condition of the world & church today, they're pretty good at it, so we must not remain ignorant of their devices.
A love for the Truth in the inward parts alone defeats them, who is Christ, the Armor, Wisdom & Power of God.
I'm not sure if this is what you are asking or not, but the Bible pictures the Word of God as water in Ephesians 5:26. Also I agree that the Bible is signified as a sword and that God does this for a reason. He says that His word is the Sword of the Spirit in Ephesians 6:17 and Hebrews 4:12. I think this is also found in Revelation 1:16. Out of Jesus's mouth is the Word of God so out of His mouth comes a sword in Revelation. I truly believe that it is symbolic. Also Jesus gives us the example of fighting the Devil with quoting the Word of God. The only offensive weapon. It is not a coincidence. God's word is a sword because it is not only used to be shared, but also used as the weapon against Satan, his demons, and his followers.
He further open me, I began practicing being still & quiet before the Lord & waiting upon Him, during one of these exercises, He opened my understanding concerning these 2 seeds within me, You remember the cartoon where there would be an angel on the right shoulder & a devil represent on the left shoulder of the cartoonist, the angel would encourage him to do what is right & good, & the devil influence him to what was evil & bad. Well this is what actually goes on within our hearts & who we obey is whom we serve & who temple we are, I always thought it was me, myself thinking these thoughts whether good or bad, I did not comprehend that I was just a vessel to be move & animated by these two great powers of the universe. There's no me, myself & I, it either Light or darkness animating us.
After this revelation I was convinced & start exercising this Word of Righteousness in the discerning between good & evil within. The heart is the birthing room of thoughts, as they are birth & brought forth we become conscious & aware of them. Thus Paul says 2Cor 10:3-6Ephesians 6:12
Here is where God works out our salvation. Hebrews 12:6-11
For 27 yrs I attend church, Assembly of God, Baptist, Full Gospel, Church of Faith, etc; not one of them spoke specifically concerning these things
I searched, fasted, studied the letter, all that was available thru man in this present day Christianity. Nothing could satisfy me, set me free or remove the veil from the eyes of my heart. God is our Father, in my heart thinking I should know Him like I know my natural father, this didn't become a reality until God lead me to the writing of these Quakers of the 17th Century & as time pass & I continue to grow in Grace, the possession of this reality becomes more clearer & precious in my eyes, Blessed Him for His tender mercies & longsuffering love toward me.
God has & continues to fulfill His word to me, Isa 42:16 all by the grace & truth that came by Jesus Christ. John 1:16John 1:9
Pay attention to v25, "AND THIS WORD WHICH BY THE GOSPEL IS PREACHED TO YOU." so it means literally the Word of God, not Christ, etc"
Isa 49:8 "for a covenant to the people"
1 Pet 1:23, says 'LIVETH & ABIDED FOR EVER" the Scriptures are the words of God that became the letter from what the apostles lived, wrote & preach from under the inspiration of the Spirit. 2Cor 3:4-6 The letter of any dispensation kills, it the Spirit along that gives Life, 1Cor 15:45
Paul says, Gal 1:12, but came by Rom 10:17 that was in his Rom 10:8 this is Word of Faith, the gospel that he preached.
He received it by the Grace of God that appears in his heart, bringing him & the rest the Word of Salvation.
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ in every heart, Christ preaching the Gospel to them diffusing the fragrance of His knowledge, to those who believe it becomes an aroma unto life, to the unbelieving an aroma unto death.
The incorruptible Seed by which we maybe born again, if received & no one is born again until they received Him in this manner of His spiritual appearances within their heart.
Jesus takes personal responsibility of us, to teach us Himself in the way that He, Himself live, walk & overcame all the temptations of the devil,. It's the Good News that the angel proclaim to the Sheppard's. Hebrews 1:2 Spoken unto us through His Son, the 1John 2:27
1Pet 1:24 is man preaching the incorruptible words of God, which in his human wisdom, learning & knowledge he contradicts, for he neither knows them because he doesn't obey them, although he professes them 1John 2:3-6
Friend, I understand were your coming from, this way of believing & living, at one time turn my world upside down.
Acts 17:6 I've had always been dull of hearing & slow of heart to believe all the Holy Spirit ever spoke to me. Now I am paying attention, as for as offenses, I'm dead to that part within me. 2Cor 10:3 . Ephesians 6:12 who seek to rule in the hearts & minds of mankind.
What they declared in their writing awaken the Witness within me, bearing witness to the truth of their writing with the proof, in their exercises of the Truth that God was please to bring them through for His eternal glory.
One of God's minister among them was William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania; He wrote a book, No Cross, No Crown, the first 8 chap gave me valuable spiritual insight in what it means to pick up the Cross, & following Jesus. I've started exercising this knowledge by practicing it in everyday ordinary life circumstances & found experientially that it is Truth, the teaching are witness by the Scriptures & sound reasoning. I learned that once light/knowledge is reveal, its not possessed, but is an invitation, to be exercised & possess, mental consent to Truth is not possession, but it must be an operational faith in the Word, Abraham the father of faith clear reveals this. this is engraftment, James 1:21-24 & becomes our inheritance, this is increasing our talent, His Spirit within us.
I have come to a state where I rarely read there writings, & dare not pick up a concordance, which in this transition from one state to present, God literally rebuke me for during so. He is my Teacher etc; an increasing becoming my all in all, I'm free from my sins that so easily captivated me to Satan will & now on my way to receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, that will thoroughly purge the threshing floor of my heart, discarding what chaff is remaining & to be gather to the Gardner, by abiding in the Vine. For I have learned from years of personal experience that without Him I can do nothing. Meaning being led by His precious Spirit, which is the foundation of their teaching. John 3:27
Seek Him who is within you, No Cross No Crown is a revelation on this very important endeavor in our freedom from sin & to truly know God, the way He desires to be known.
ps; its important to remember in these conversations, that 2 Cor 10:3-5Ephesians 6:12
Christ has already come & that in Spirit, He told His disciples; Mark 9:1; Matt 16:28; over 2000 yrs ago, which came in full power at Pentecost.
I will not leave you comfortless, but you will see me again, that your joy maybe full, & Christ doesn't come alone, He brings His Father within Him, They became Ephesians 2:22; John 17:21-23; & they Micah 4:3;
Hebrews 9:28; is Titus 2:11; diffusing the fragrance of His knowledge in every heart. 2Cor 4:6 This is Titus 2:13; describing His 2nd appearance in Spirit. Who continually gives of Himself that Titus 2:14;
As for this son of perdition; it's the old Adamic nature that is rule by Ephesians 6:12; who's coming 2Thessalonians 2:9; this spirit works even deceive the very elect, who, we all must engage with within 2 Cor 10:3-5; Jesus says; Matt 15:18,19; for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks, so their within us. Think about this, we all have these thoughts spring up within us, 1 Pet 4:3; thus Jesus commands; Luke 14:27; The ones, Satan does deceive is explain, 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12; they refuse to believe the Witness, whom God has place within conscience. John 16:8; John 12:47-50; Jesus says, 8:24; Therefore were He has gone one cannot go.
Both seeds are spiritual, both kingdoms are within mankind.
This rapture theory John 17:11:15 "not to take them out of the world". But describes receiving 1Pet 1:5-9;The cumulation is the Baptism of the Holy Spirt, describing 2 Cor 10:6; resulting from Titus 3:5; by 1Pet 1:23; unto John 3:3; the chaff, ( old man sin nature is thoroughly purges out without a trace, Daniel 2:34,35; these earthen vessels, 1Cor 15:48,49; ) the wheat (new man created in the image of Him that created him) is gather unto the Gardener, we're His & He's ours, Acts 1:9-11; Daniel 7:13;
It's a spiritual encounter & habitation with the One true God, John 17:24; here & now, Acts 4:32,33;
Do you perceive the wonderous honor & glory of God's Great Salvation, on earth as it is in heaven.
This likely is the start of another lengthy series of postings. I fear that my sermon like "lecturing" isn't exactly working at times.
I felt it prudent to let the scriptures speak for themselves-and am unaware of anyone who has searched the scriptures both O.T. and N.T. for a comprehensive study of all times that prayer occurred and repeated themes and patterns that could be established.
Praying "in the Spirit" ( Ephesians 6:18 and 2 other references) is hard to precisely define. There are many theological discussions on what is "proper" or improper things to pray about; but I am unaware of any doctrinal statements that nail it down like there are on other church ordinances; and ceremonies. Interestingly as I have brought up several times on this forum there is no scripture that invokes a saint to pray for a SPECIFIC person to come to Christ. It seems the majority of prayers are personal in scripture. With that being said; intercession for the saints is a vital component ( Romans 8:27); and praying for the nation asking for mercy with national sins is another theme; associated with God's covenant promises being affirmed in the long run despite the disobedience as we see in the case of Daniel chapter 9.
As I may have mentioned in the past; a friend of mine a few years back started an early morning prayer group which I briefly attended before moving back home with my parents and stated that he was "desperate" for prayer. I know of at least one person in my current church who is in his 60s but gets up at 4 or so each day to pray and listen to a Bible study before working his full time job. I have known a couple others in the past who have done the same sort of thing. I'd like to be that way myself; rather than the "ZOMBIE" like state that I am in the early morning. My prayer is fairly consistent but later in the morning although traffic to work has cut that short recently.
Part 2 Trinity discussion
Did Jesus exist before creation? Did the Holy Spirit exist before creation?
Jesus existed in God's plan, Jesus is the beginning of creation Rev. 3:14 and by Him were all things created Col. 1:16 my understanding is Jesus, was the first in God's plan of creation and everything was created by God, in and through the plan and purpose of Jesus. My understanding Jesus did not physically exist until the fullness of time. Ephesians 1:10 He was born of Mary the Son of God. the seed of woman. Genesis 3:15 Matthew 1:20
My understanding is the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, not a person, Genesis 1:2. We see all the greetings are from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:7 1 Corinthians 1:3 2 Corinthians 1:2 Galatians 1:3 Ephesians 1:2 Ephesians 6:23 Philippians 1:2 Colossians 1:2 and 6 more. The Holy Spirit not being included is a good clue the Holy Spirit was not considered a person by Paul and others at that time.
If so, who were they in relation to the Father?
I believe the above answers this.
How did the Father, the Son, and the Spirit all create all that is, seen or unseen?
My understanding is God the Father created all, Genesis 1:1 Genesis 1:31 Proverbs 16:4 Isaiah 45:18 Nehemiah 9:6.
Does Scripture teach that God is only one person who manifests in three forms, but all these manifestations are only one person?
Scripture does not support Modalism I have never considered this and do not know anything about it.
See part 3.
Thank you again, from my heart, the truth is my search not to offend. It all goes back to one verse when I read it, it stood out in my heart, Corinthians 11:4. I know I am alone here on this, but saying Jesus is part of the Triune God, who eternally exists and expresses himself as three distinct persons with one essence all three co-equal. One God in three persons-the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This to me denies the Son, 1 John 2:23
What I see in the Bible is the relationship between the Father and the Son, the Son is obedient to the Father. Jesus said His Father is greater than Him, John 14:28. Jesus has said the Father is His God, John 20:17 Revelation 3:12.
The Bible defines God's nature as eternal and unchanging; there is only one throne of God and through the Bible, only the Father is on the throne until the Father raised His Son from the dead and placed Him on His right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, there is nothing about the Holy Spirit.
As we see in Revelation Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple and the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof, Rev. 21:22-23 no Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God is the Holy Spirit, not another person.
Jesus confirmed there is only one true God, Mark 12:28-34, in Jesus's prayer to His Father said in John 17:3. All the greetings in the New Testament are from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, Galatians 1:3 Ephesians 6:23 1 Thessalonians 1:1 2 Timothy 1:2 Titus 1:4 2 John 1:3 and more but no Holy Spirit.
If the Trinity true and is so important, why is it not once taught in Scripture? God cannot change and God cannot die, so how do we understand John 3:16 if God the Father did not send his actual begotten Son to die for our sins? We see Jesus also had His own will, Luke 22:42.
God bless,
RLW
Thank you, you are correct I believe in one God the Father and one Lord Jesus Christ as most of the greetings in the epistles Ephesians 6:23 1 Thessalonians 1:1 and more, and nowhere is this doctrine taught in the New Testament that we must believe for salvation.
It is like Matthew 28:19 the baptizing in the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit but nowhere do we see it in the New Testament all were baptized in the name of Jesus and only in the name of Jesus are we saved. My study of 1 John 5:7 is that it was added from the Latin Vulgate and was not in the original text, but that can be debated.
I understand I am in the minority and have discussed this before. We can find Scripture to fit a doctrine, but can we find Scripture where the doctrine was taught? I have not found where the Trinity doctrine is taught. Like Genesis 1:26 there are many beings in heaven and the word us does not say God was speaking to Jesus, that is an assumption.
Thank you again for discussing this in a loving and respectful manor, this subject is deep and as long as we have love for each other, and truth is what we are in search of.
God bless,
RLW
Philippians 3
1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.
2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.
3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
17Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
18(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES of the cross of Christ:
19Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind EARTHLY things.)
20For our conversation is in heaven( Ephesians 1:3); from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
21Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Ephesians 6:11-18
11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12For 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.
13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God,that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,and having done all,to stand.
14Stand therefore,having your loins girt about with truth,and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16Above all, taking the shield of faith,wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17And take the helmet of salvation,and the sword of the Spirit,which is the word of God:
18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
May our walk in HIM be precious as the tabernacle is shown to be. The outer covering not much to look at; but the inside is beautiful beyond compare. Our life be as Philip in Acts 8: 26 able to tell others of the gospel of the LORD JESUS.
Thank YOU FATHER for this day of worship and time of celebration
Luke 2:10 - 18
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Isaiah 9
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Many are saying we as believers should not be involved in this "pagan" ritual; however, we should use this as an opening to declare our SAVIOR GOD JESUS CHRIST who is no longer a babe.
Titus 2:
13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
Praying for the peace in Jerusalem and the Godly wisdom needed in DC and all levels and areas of our nation.
Ephesians 6:10-18 may we recognize..
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Merry Christmas everyone, and a prosperous New Year in 2024.
December 25, 2023
I will daily pray for those in authority, for the lost, back slidden, and for the brethren in the field planting and watering the seed, waiting for the increase from the LORD.
I will give; as I have been blessed and praise HIS name.
Thank YOU FATHER for this wonderful time we have to serve, and glorify YOU. Bless the peace needed in Jerusalem; thank YOU for YOUR word never returning void when we go out declaring YOUR truth.
Merry Christmas all!
Numbers 6:
26 The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
Isaiah 9:
6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
December 23, 2023
Titus 2:11-14
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
We will be able to conduct ourselves in accordance to the mind of CHRIST, heeding the leadership before us. Romans 13:1-5
Being crucified in CHRIST, and knowledgeable in HIS word we are able to go forward and carry out HIS word and make disciples, Matthew 28:18-20; being encouraged, we will go out to reach the lost, 2 Peter 3:9.
May we be faithful in our prayers for the peace in Jerusalem, and for the authority before us,
Isaiah 55:
11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
1 Timothy 2:1-6
GOD to shine HIS blessed face upon us as we put on the new man in CHRIST name, and put off the old man. For if any man be in CHRIST, he is a new creature. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Thank YOU FATHER for the faithfulness of the brethren here on this forum. Help us to be prayed up, and be reminded to wear the armor of GOD daily. Ephesians 6:11-18
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. December 21, 2023
We are encouraged to trust in HIS word and lift up our leadership in prayer. Our duty is to stand in the gap and make a hedge for all as we take the battle to the spiritual wicked in high places. Armour up saints, "...taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." Ephesians 6:16
Let us all be prayed up as we go before the LORD'S throne of grace on the behalf of the peace in Jerusalem, the saints in Armenia, the need for spiritual wisdom in DC, courage in our pulpits to preach the whole counsel of the LORD GOD. Thank YOU FATHER for CHRIST'S salvation and our place in heaven.
Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year unto all on this platform. December 20, 2023
If we compare Revelation 7:3 with the mark of the Beast in Revelation 13:16-17 we see a mark of ownership; in reality representing either God in the first instance; and Satan in the second. The exact appearance of God's mark is not given while that of the Beast is identified in the original language as "chargma" if I have the spelling right. That is something on or just beneath the skin; whether it is a sort of tattoo or computer chip it allows the world to visibly give allegiance to Antichrist.
God knows the hearts of men; and all those He foreknew to be called and chosen; as well as those who are reprobate or unbelievers. Satan is well aware of who we are as believers; as it is the only threat to his kingdom on earth at present.
Tne mark of Cain gave him the ability to avenge sevenfold anything done against him. ( Gen. 4:15). This was something identifiable which avoided his immediate demise; perhaps showing the future fulfillment of the mark of the Beast for temporary protection from the executioners and the wrath of men under Satan's pogrom. Following the god of this world always leads to death and destruction of self as well as others. Dying to self to follow Christ brings eternal life.
Of course it is no fun having a target on our back; even now that the enemy is constantly attempting to fling fiery darts at us ( Ephesians 6:16). We should take heart; as he has no time to waste attacking those who are already in his camp and under his control whose unregenerate hearts are blinded to the glorious gospel of truth ( 2 Cor. 4:4). Absent from the body we are present with the Lord ( 2 Cor. 5:8). God is in charge of the day of our death; the enemy can only be permitted to do anything against us. The final conflagration in Revelation 19 when we return in the armies of heaven with Christ who destroys the Beast and his armies is inevitable; the war is won we just fight battles and skirmishes leading up to His victory.
Ephesians 6:1] Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
[2] Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)
[3] That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
The law Moses' commandments were weak laws, thry could not make people free from sin, they can not make people holy. God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinfulflesh. The law can not make you the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. The law of righteousness the ten commandments Jesus is now the end of all that as he is the head of the Ten commandments for righteousness sake. The old laws were not good enough.
Hebrews 10:[1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
[3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.
[4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
Hebrews 7:11] If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?
[12] For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.
[13] For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.
[14] For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
[15] And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,
You came to my mind while I was on my way home from errands an hour or so ago. And then the thought "Encourage" came into my mind.
I do pray daily for those on this site, but this prompting is not a common experience for me. So, I will encourage you and others on here with these words from Scripture.
The Aaronic Blessing in Numbers 6:24-26
"The Lord bless thee and keep thee; The Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious to thee; The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."
AND
Paul's Blessing in Ephesians 6:23-24
"Peace be to the brethren, and the love of faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity."
AND to close,
Paul's Blessing in 2 Corinthians 13:14
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen"
You wrote: "Until we draw the last breath , we must battle. And, the battle is ourselves!"
But the battle is not ourselves only, "but 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, wherefore take unto you the whole armour of GOD, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand- Ephesians 6:11-13".
Revelation 16:13-15
13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs(why frogs?) come out of the MOUTH of the dragon, and out of the MOUTH of the Beast(Beast of sea- Revelation 13:1-10), and out of the MOUTH of the false prophet (the false messiah, FALSE LAMB- Revelation 13:11- AN IMPOSTOR- John 5:43-47. Take a look.)
14 For they are the spirits of devils (a saatanic trinity), working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great Day of GOD Almighty (that is the Lord's Day, the seventh nd last Day or seventh and last millennium, the current millennium).
15 Behold, I come as a thief.
Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.
Daniel 12:12 - Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.
Daniel 12:10 - Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.
So, here are some passages to start you off, but in your reading of the Bible, God's Spirit will alert you to what you seek or even where some action needs to be taken in your own life.
For "Consequences", see: Genesis 2:15-17; Genesis 3:16-19; Deuteronomy 28:1,2,15; 1 Kings 11:9-11; Job 4:8,9; Isaiah 59:2; Jeremiah 17:9,10; Matthew 27:3-5; Romans 6:23; Romans 13:4; Galatians 6:7,8; 1 Timothy 5:8; James 2:10; Revelation 20:12-15.
For "Correction", see: Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 29:15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Galatians 6:1; Ephesians 6:4; 2 Timothy 4:2; Hebrews 12:5-11; Revelation 3:19.
These are just a very few Scriptures, reminding us that there will always be consequences for our actions, not just in our dealings with each other, but more importantly, as we stand before God. But this God of Love always gives sinful wayward man an escape route, from a life of sin to a life of holiness & love - and His Name is Jesus.
Thank you for your words of encouragement. It is easy for me to admit because it is truth and I feel that If I speak of a lie then I am not in Christ if that makes sense. John 8:44
Put on the whole armour of God belt of truth. Ephesians 6:14
As I explained to S Spencer I take everything to heart and often I take it literal which I know not everything is to be taken literal.
However, I do apply it to me nonetheless.
I am like Solomon where I have tasted everything from this world and it has left me with nothing but emptiness. Now I just want to lead others to the grace, glory and salvation but to do that I need to get my own house back in order and make sure I have sound doctrine.
I thank you for your thoughts, prayers, encouragement and help. I will also pray that the love, grace and mercy of God be with you always.
God bless you. Amen
Quote
As humans He created, we cannot attain to His infinite and boundless Holiness, but in Christ we will become perfected in the life to come to have perfect holy humanity without sin any longer. The angels are also holy and without sin, but they are creatures and thus not holy in the sense of being separate.
Genesis 1:27
Leviticus 20:26, the word holy is the same for both mankind, angels & God,
H6918--holy One, saint
Or qadosh {kaw-doshe'}; from qadash; sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) God (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary -- holy (One), saint.
1Pet 1:16 holy here refers to the same holiness---
G40 sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated) -- (most) holy (one, thing), saint.
Matt 5:48 perfect refers to God & mankind, there's not a different standard reveal here or the above.
5046 complete, perfect, mature
From telos; complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with ho) completeness -- of full age, man, perfect.
Matt 6:10 my Friend, its here & now !
you're speaking as one who has been seasoned in the discernment between good & evil & yet teaching things contrary to Scriptures, you started out good, but from this statement on, you degenerated, which make it all the more deceptive: giving an appearance or impression different from the true one; misleading
Gal 5:9
you're putting a stumbling block before the young & tender one's ''babes" in Christ, whom God is leading in the Way of Holiness
God doesn't take kindly to this.
It would be wise of you not to teach such thing directly contrary to Holy Spirit of Scriptures
Friend; Ephesians 6:12 who seek to rule & reign in the hearts & minds of the children of men.
in love & truth
Ephesians 6:12-13 (KJV)
12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."
, that we must pickup, teaching us to deny these ungodly & worldly lust, & pleasures of this world, which spring up within us & also instructs us in works of righteousness unto holiness this is Christ Spirit / Grace / Light appearance in us to combat the spirits of darkness that appears. Ephesians 6:12 it not without only, Jesus says it's within our hearts Matt 15:19 2Cor 10:5,6
Friends
Awake to Righteousness & in time through the exercising of Him, the Grace of God, you'll sin not & be conformed to His Image
For He only become Hebrews 5:9
Are have you been deceived by those Paul warned us about in
2 Timothy 4:3,4 Jude 1:4 Believing against Scriptural Truth, that turn the Grace of God into wantonness, that you can live a life of sin & iniquity & have a faith that never overcome satan, & still be born again, Spirit baptized, & a light that set upon a hill, if this be true of you, your in the Apostasy, the deceitfulness of sin/satan has ensnare you. 2 Thess 2:10-12 is fulfilling upon you, your faith is a lie, John 3:18-20 Rom 1:25
Friends,
The working out of our salvation, the sanctification of the Spirit unto obedience, washing of regeneration & renewing of the Holy Ghost is on this side of the grave. What spiritual state we're in when we die, is the state we will be judge in! & if the 1Pet 4:18 be not decieived, 1John 3:7,8,11
I've spoken this to many people, their response is 'that God is loving, gracious & merciful" very true, that why He sent His only begotten Son to provide a Way, through His Grace & Mercy to overcome the devil & become more than conquerors, through Him that loves us,. This is the whole revelation of the better Covenant, build on better promises, Grace & Mercy takes us out of sin, it's the Rom 8:2 it doesn't leave us in our sins, to pacifying us, saying Oh it's ok we know you can't be perfect, the lie.
Friends
For the sake of God's great love wherewith He has demonstrated in sending His Son, consider your state 2Cor 13:5
III. THE HISTORY OF COLOSSAE:
Colossae was a city of Phrygia, in the Roman province of Asia. It was about 90 miles east of Ephesus. Colossae was in the Lycus Valley along with Laodicea and Hierapolis. The population of Colossae was mostly Gentile but had a large number of Jewish population.
The church at Colossae began during Paul's three-year ministry at Ephesus (Acts Chapter 19). Paul didn't start the church in Colossae, but he spent three years in Ephesus. And you can see why. There was a tremendous amount of ministry going on there. During this three-year period, a man by the name of Epaphras was saved while visiting Ephesus.
The Church at Colossae was established by Epaphras, not Paul ( Colossians 1:5-7). So Epaphras came from Colossae into Ephesus, met Paul, heard him preach, and received Christ. Epaphras goes back to Colossae, and he establishes the church there, not Paul.
Several years after the Colossians church was founded, dangerous heresies began to circulate in it. Epaphras was so concerned about these heresies that he made the long journey from Colossae to Rome were Paul was a prisoner ( Colossians 4:12-13).
IV. THE THEME OF PHILEMON:
The portrayal of the Gospel expressed between Paul and Philemon over Philemon's slave Onesimus.
V. DELIVERED BY:
Philemon was delivered with Colossians and Ephesians by Tychicus who was accompanied by Onesimus ( Ephesians 6:21-22; Colossians 4:7-8). Epaphras remained behind in Rome ( Philemon 23). So Epaphras was there with Paul. He didn't go back with the letters. He stayed with Paul. Very interesting!
IV. THE THEME OF COLOSSIANS:
The Believer's Perfection in Christ. The focus of the book is the completeness of a person who is in Christ.
Colossians was written to combat the many heresies of Jewish Gnosticism.
GNOSTICISM BELIEVED:
God is good.
Physical matter is evil.
Jesus Christ is less than God because He was one of many emanations coming out from God.
A certain secret knowledge beyond Scripture was necessary for enlightenment and salvation.
In the worship of angels.
THE JEWISH LEGALISTS BELIEVED:
The necessity of circumcision for salvation.
Jews and Gentiles must observe the dietary laws of the Old Testament as well as festivals and the Sabbath.
V. DATE/BACKGROUND:
Written around 63 A.D. while Paul was under house arrest in Rome for two years ( Acts 28:16-31).
One of four prison epistles or letters: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.
VI. DELIVERED BY:
Colossians was delivered with Ephesians and Philemon by Tychicus who was accompanied by Onesimus ( Ephesians 6:21-22; Colossians 4:7-8).
Epaphras remained behind in Rome ( Philemon 23).
VII. SECTION OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF COLOSSIANS:
CHAPTERS 1-2: The Doctrine of Completeness in Christ
CHAPTERS 3-4: The Duty of Those Complete in Christ
I will share my introduction to 1 Thessalonians soon.
God Bless!!!
V. DATE / BACKGROUND:
It was written around 63 A.D. while Paul was in prison in Rome ( Acts 28:16-31). Paul was in house arrest for two years. This was his first imprisonment. His second imprisonment is when he was in the Mamertine prison. But this first time, he was under house arrest for about two years.
Ephesians is one of the prison letters. That is, one of the four written by Paul while he was imprisoned at this time. The others were Philippians, Colossians and Philemon. So, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon are known as the prison epistles or prison letters because they were written by Paul while he was under house arrest in Rome.
VI. DELIVERED BY:
It was delivered by Tychicus. Ephesians 6:21-22 and Colossians 4:7-8 tell us that Tychicus brought both letters. So, it is believed that Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon, because Philemon is a man that lived in Colosse, so his letter accompanied the letter to Colosse, and Tychicus took all three and delivered them.
VII. SECTION OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF EPHESIANS:
CHAPTERS 1-3 - The Doctrine of the New Life in Christ.
CHAPTERS 4-6 - The Details of the New Life in Christ.
In other words, he takes the doctrine of the first three chapters, and he goes into detail and in depth of those doctrines, the function and performance of the church. He's going to present to us the armor of God all in those last three chapters.
That covers the introduction to Ephesians. Lord willing, I will share my introduction to Philippians soon.
God Bless!!!
Thank you for your reply
Allow me to add a few more elements for analysis. JESUS was talking about the fulfillment of the Scriptures about Himself -JESUS is GOD-, when Peter rebuked Him, so He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of GOD, but merely HUMAN concerns." Matthew 16:23NIV
When Peter rebuked JESUS, an unexpected spiritual environment emerged out of the darkness and the Enemy spirit took a clincher/hook in the literal sense, and articulated the pseudo human goodness in Peter's mouth to put a stumble in the way of JESUS, as happened in temptation.
The lesson I draw for myself from the spiritual environment that emerged out in that moment involving Peter in his weakness before the Master, it is that as a human we must have much care to fall not in the same error of Peter Apostle, using our human conceptions and going against the Scriptures, even if our words seems be good and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom.
We need a lot of discernment, no? Ephesians 4:26-27KJV - Sin not ...:
Neither give place to the Devil.
Furthermore, Ephesians 6:10 to 18 in very important for us the lasts, mainly now at midnight, a hour of great danger, according the Word of GOD, and more a TURN of a Day in our GOD's watch as in Genesis 3:8-11 and NOW in Revelation 16:13-15.
GOD BLESS
The face value of the statement you quoted does not imply additions or subtraction to the words of God as I previously stated to you, so it was not for face value that you responsed.
in your apology, you state "if" you misrepresented their beliefs, there's no 'if" to it.
David your apology is evasive & shifty, then you reinforce your statement of your beliefs, in all this, it makes this attempted apology void. its the same tactics you colored over your erroneous statement of "visions & dream" with GiGi.
Psalms 15:1-4
Friend, I been here, God would not let me near Him, the intimacy & closeness that I intensely craved, to really know Him. as a Father knows a son, & son knows his father was shut to me, His all discerning eyes penetrate my thickest covering, I had to come clean every wit, before His wrath was remove & remission of the transgression of granted & fellowship was restored. Hebrews 12:11
Then came I to a more enlightened understanding of King David prayer, Psalms 51:6 & I rejoice in His judgments for they were meant for my cleansing to bring me back to the intimate fellowship & only became my condemnation when I reject them.
I learnt by experience that the difference between "all that are call & the few that are chosen", is how we respond to Him in these crucial moments in our relationship with Him & our fellow human beings.
I pray that this helps in making a clean break, remember who we war against Ephesians 6:12 who seek to rule & reign in the hearts & minds of mankind, they have been doing this for a long time, & to be honest, if we look at the condition of the world & church today, they're pretty good at it, so we must not remain ignorant of their devices.
A love for the Truth in the inward parts alone defeats them, who is Christ, the Armor, Wisdom & Power of God.
Proverbs 18:12
In love & Truth
He further open me, I began practicing being still & quiet before the Lord & waiting upon Him, during one of these exercises, He opened my understanding concerning these 2 seeds within me, You remember the cartoon where there would be an angel on the right shoulder & a devil represent on the left shoulder of the cartoonist, the angel would encourage him to do what is right & good, & the devil influence him to what was evil & bad. Well this is what actually goes on within our hearts & who we obey is whom we serve & who temple we are, I always thought it was me, myself thinking these thoughts whether good or bad, I did not comprehend that I was just a vessel to be move & animated by these two great powers of the universe. There's no me, myself & I, it either Light or darkness animating us.
After this revelation I was convinced & start exercising this Word of Righteousness in the discerning between good & evil within. The heart is the birthing room of thoughts, as they are birth & brought forth we become conscious & aware of them. Thus Paul says 2Cor 10:3-6 Ephesians 6:12
Here is where God works out our salvation. Hebrews 12:6-11
For 27 yrs I attend church, Assembly of God, Baptist, Full Gospel, Church of Faith, etc; not one of them spoke specifically concerning these things
I searched, fasted, studied the letter, all that was available thru man in this present day Christianity. Nothing could satisfy me, set me free or remove the veil from the eyes of my heart. God is our Father, in my heart thinking I should know Him like I know my natural father, this didn't become a reality until God lead me to the writing of these Quakers of the 17th Century & as time pass & I continue to grow in Grace, the possession of this reality becomes more clearer & precious in my eyes, Blessed Him for His tender mercies & longsuffering love toward me.
God has & continues to fulfill His word to me, Isa 42:16 all by the grace & truth that came by Jesus Christ. John 1:16 John 1:9
Quoting you;
Pay attention to v25, "AND THIS WORD WHICH BY THE GOSPEL IS PREACHED TO YOU." so it means literally the Word of God, not Christ, etc"
Isa 49:8 "for a covenant to the people"
1 Pet 1:23, says 'LIVETH & ABIDED FOR EVER" the Scriptures are the words of God that became the letter from what the apostles lived, wrote & preach from under the inspiration of the Spirit. 2Cor 3:4-6 The letter of any dispensation kills, it the Spirit along that gives Life, 1Cor 15:45
Paul says, Gal 1:12, but came by Rom 10:17 that was in his Rom 10:8 this is Word of Faith, the gospel that he preached.
He received it by the Grace of God that appears in his heart, bringing him & the rest the Word of Salvation.
This is the revelation of Jesus Christ in every heart, Christ preaching the Gospel to them diffusing the fragrance of His knowledge, to those who believe it becomes an aroma unto life, to the unbelieving an aroma unto death.
The incorruptible Seed by which we maybe born again, if received & no one is born again until they received Him in this manner of His spiritual appearances within their heart.
Jesus takes personal responsibility of us, to teach us Himself in the way that He, Himself live, walk & overcame all the temptations of the devil,. It's the Good News that the angel proclaim to the Sheppard's. Hebrews 1:2 Spoken unto us through His Son, the 1John 2:27
1Pet 1:24 is man preaching the incorruptible words of God, which in his human wisdom, learning & knowledge he contradicts, for he neither knows them because he doesn't obey them, although he professes them 1John 2:3-6
Friend, I understand were your coming from, this way of believing & living, at one time turn my world upside down.
Acts 17:6 I've had always been dull of hearing & slow of heart to believe all the Holy Spirit ever spoke to me. Now I am paying attention, as for as offenses, I'm dead to that part within me. 2Cor 10:3 . Ephesians 6:12 who seek to rule in the hearts & minds of mankind.
What they declared in their writing awaken the Witness within me, bearing witness to the truth of their writing with the proof, in their exercises of the Truth that God was please to bring them through for His eternal glory.
One of God's minister among them was William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania; He wrote a book, No Cross, No Crown, the first 8 chap gave me valuable spiritual insight in what it means to pick up the Cross, & following Jesus. I've started exercising this knowledge by practicing it in everyday ordinary life circumstances & found experientially that it is Truth, the teaching are witness by the Scriptures & sound reasoning. I learned that once light/knowledge is reveal, its not possessed, but is an invitation, to be exercised & possess, mental consent to Truth is not possession, but it must be an operational faith in the Word, Abraham the father of faith clear reveals this. this is engraftment, James 1:21-24 & becomes our inheritance, this is increasing our talent, His Spirit within us.
I have come to a state where I rarely read there writings, & dare not pick up a concordance, which in this transition from one state to present, God literally rebuke me for during so. He is my Teacher etc; an increasing becoming my all in all, I'm free from my sins that so easily captivated me to Satan will & now on my way to receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, that will thoroughly purge the threshing floor of my heart, discarding what chaff is remaining & to be gather to the Gardner, by abiding in the Vine. For I have learned from years of personal experience that without Him I can do nothing. Meaning being led by His precious Spirit, which is the foundation of their teaching. John 3:27
Seek Him who is within you, No Cross No Crown is a revelation on this very important endeavor in our freedom from sin & to truly know God, the way He desires to be known.
ps; its important to remember in these conversations, that 2 Cor 10:3-5 Ephesians 6:12
Christ has already come & that in Spirit, He told His disciples; Mark 9:1; Matt 16:28; over 2000 yrs ago, which came in full power at Pentecost.
I will not leave you comfortless, but you will see me again, that your joy maybe full, & Christ doesn't come alone, He brings His Father within Him, They became Ephesians 2:22; John 17:21-23; & they Micah 4:3;
Hebrews 9:28; is Titus 2:11; diffusing the fragrance of His knowledge in every heart. 2Cor 4:6 This is Titus 2:13; describing His 2nd appearance in Spirit. Who continually gives of Himself that Titus 2:14;
As for this son of perdition; it's the old Adamic nature that is rule by Ephesians 6:12; who's coming 2Thessalonians 2:9; this spirit works even deceive the very elect, who, we all must engage with within 2 Cor 10:3-5; Jesus says; Matt 15:18,19; for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks, so their within us. Think about this, we all have these thoughts spring up within us, 1 Pet 4:3; thus Jesus commands; Luke 14:27; The ones, Satan does deceive is explain, 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12; they refuse to believe the Witness, whom God has place within conscience. John 16:8; John 12:47-50; Jesus says, 8:24; Therefore were He has gone one cannot go.
Both seeds are spiritual, both kingdoms are within mankind.
This rapture theory John 17:11:15 "not to take them out of the world". But describes receiving 1Pet 1:5-9;The cumulation is the Baptism of the Holy Spirt, describing 2 Cor 10:6; resulting from Titus 3:5; by 1Pet 1:23; unto John 3:3; the chaff, ( old man sin nature is thoroughly purges out without a trace, Daniel 2:34,35; these earthen vessels, 1Cor 15:48,49; ) the wheat (new man created in the image of Him that created him) is gather unto the Gardener, we're His & He's ours, Acts 1:9-11; Daniel 7:13;
It's a spiritual encounter & habitation with the One true God, John 17:24; here & now, Acts 4:32,33;
Do you perceive the wonderous honor & glory of God's Great Salvation, on earth as it is in heaven.