Knowing God, Do You?

Biblical viewpoint on God & The Bible! Basic Bible Doctrine! Follow me on "X" https://x.com/mcemt

[mcemt]

Knowing GOD, DO You

Let us start here ⬇️

Born Again, what is it? ✅️

How do I go to heaven? ✅️

What does the Bible say? ✅️

Let's see if we can answer these questions with the Bible.

   By now you may be wondering about the above questions, How do I become saved... Why & How do I become Born Again? Well actually...It's simple, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved..."(Acts 16:31)...

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the lord shall be saved."(Romans 10:13).

That is the biblical short answer.     When you see "Whosoever", it means just what it says. It means everybody -You - Me - All people! 

   How do I call upon the Lord? "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation."(Romans 10: 9-10) 

   Why do I need to be saved well...The Bible teaches that all humans inherit a sinful nature that began from Adam's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.

   That "sin" nature is passed on to us. This called original sin, and it means humanity inherits a broken or corrupted nature from birth, leading to a natural inclination toward sin and thereby a spiritual separation from God.

   It can be characterized as your flesh rebelling against God!

   The Bible states ...

"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:..." (Romans 5:12) KJV

   Because of this, every human is considered born with a "sin nature /problem" that makes it necessary for us to obtain salvation.

   So now because of sin, man has to pay the penalty for this sin because we inherited this corrupt nature from Adam.

   Your inherited sin nature  is a literal, passed-down trait from Adam.

   The Bible states that the penalty for sin is death!We read in Hebrews...

"And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission". (Hebrews 9:22) KJV

   The definition of remission is a release from a penalty, debt, or obligation. So we would have to die by shedding our blood to pay the penalty for our sin!

   Theologically speaking the shedding of blood is the payment for sin!  The Bible says that Jesus paid this penalty for us through His sinless life & Substitutionary death.

How you might ask, well...

   Because we can't pay for our sin or we will die in our sin, God sent Jesus to pay the price for our sin, for us, because He loves us!

   Jesus, (had to be born a sinless human man) through the virgin birth by Mary (By the way, she also had a sin nature).

   Because Jesus is God, he had to be born human so that he was supernaturally conceived, through the Holy Spirit thereby allowing him to be born sinless.

   He was not conceived naturally though a human father. (If Jesus had been conceived through a human father, he would have inherited the sin nature)!

   This "Sin Nature" that we have requires man to pay for his sin or to be reborn or be born again.    Being "Born Again" must be done in order to avoid the penalty of sin that is in our nature.

   The Bible records this:

"Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." (John 3:3-7) KJV

Note:

   Being "born of water” refers to physical birth. When you are born, as a baby you float in fluid in the amniotic sac. When the amniotic sac bursts, and you are born into this world through water!

   Being “born of the Spirit,” is spoken of here...

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

(2 Corinthians 5:17) KJV

   This occurs within our hearts.

So, a person born once has physical life and a person born twice (born again spiritually)  has Eternal Life! Thereby you are born of water and the spirit!

   Because man is in an unregenerate or sinful state, man needs to be regenerated by receiving a new or renewed spirit.

   Because we can't pay for our sin (we will die by the shedding of our own blood) , God sent His Son to die in our place!

But through the Substitutionary death of Jesus Christ, our Sin debt has been paid!

We Read:

"Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (Substitution / Our Substitute) through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;..."

(Romans 3:22-25) KJV

   We have been justified unto salvation by the grace of God through the redeeming power of Jesus Christ! Jesus died in our place!

*Jesus Died For US!!!

   You must realize after reading this explanation from God's Word that you are in danger of spending eternity in Hell and separated from God but, God has provided a way out!

   We know that we cannot pay for our sin without physically dying (And that [dying] by the shedding our own blood)!

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life."

(Romans 5:8-10) KJV

   God loved us so much that He sent His Son to die in our place, to pay our sin debt, and to reconcile us unto Himself.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." (John 3: 16-17) KJV

   By God doing this, we are saved from the wrath of God and the punishment for our sin. We have been given the gift of Eternal Life!

   As we see in the next Bible verse, there is a payment that must be paid.

We Read:

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

(Romans 6:23) KJV

   God is a Holy God and we cannot come into His presence as a sinner. We must be cleansed from sin.

   When the Sin debt has been paid, we have been made new, we have been born again.

Here then again is the question...

What must I do to be saved? 

   The answer, this important answer from scripture is this...

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13) KJV

   The Bible tells us that God wants to save us...

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) KJV

   The Bible records that Jesus, is God in the flesh!

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made." ; "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."

(John 1:1-3; 14) KJV

   The Bible says that Jesus came to earth physically, lived, took the punishment for our sin, went to the cross to die physically for our sin by shedding His own blood for us, rose again alive physically after three days.

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:..."

(1 Corinthians 15:1-4) KJV

   After His resurrection, Jesus then asseneded to heaven alive to present himself to God the Father as an acceptable sacrifice for our sin.

   He is right now, seated at the right hand of God the Father in heaven alive.

   We see that Jesus has paid that tremendous price to redeem (make payment for) us & now you have a decision to be made.

   Will you believe and accept what Jesus did for you on the cross?

   Do you belive that he shed his blood for us and then paid our sin debt?

   Do you believe that he rose again from the dead, physically alive for evermore?

   Do you believe that Jesus is Lord (That He is God in the flesh)?

   If you have believed these things and confess it then you shall be saved unto life eternal.

We read:

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

(Romans 10: 9-10) KJV

   If you have understood the above Bible facts and believed that Jesus rose from the dead, alive and you have confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord... You Are Saved!

   You have been born again. You are now in a relationship with Jesus. You have become a child of God. The Holy Spirit now dwells inside of you!

We read:

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"

(1 Corinthians 3:16) KJV

   If you have not, what are you waiting for? Tomorrow is not promised to you!

   ETERNITY is a long time to spend in Hell and separated from God!

   Don't fool yourself...YOU WILL PAY THE PENALTY!!! But why would you, when Jesus has already paid the price for us? You can do something about your future right now by turning to Jesus and believing in Him and the finished work for our salvation on the cross!

Jesus is the only way to Heaven!

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."(John 14:6).

   That my friend means that you cannot go to God on your own, but you must go through Jesus Christ.

   Don't trust in your feelings... They change! Trust in God...

He never changes!!!

   If you want to be saved, then trust Jesus; Believe in Jesus, and then bow your head right now! 

   Pray to God with the following prayer or pray in your own words for God to forgive you of your sin and save you through His Son Jesus Christ... 

You may pay this prayer...

God,

   I know that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus was my substitute when He died on the cross. I believe in His shed blood, death, burial and His resurrection alive and that these were sufficient to cleanse me from all my sin.

   I now recieve Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. I trust in Jesus alone for my salvation.  I ask right now to be forgiven of my sin.

   Thank you for the forgiveness of my sin, the gift of salvation and of everlasting life because of your merciful grace. Amen!

If you have prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of God! Would you please let me know so that I may rejoice in your decision. ✝️

You can contact me here:

  [email protected]       Yours in Christ Jesus, Marlon.

PS. Do browse my other articles that are posted here for your enlightenment and education!

Be so very blessed! 🙏🏻

#BornAgain #Saved #JesusOurSaviour #HowToGoToHeaven #HeavenBound #BornOfWater&OfTheSpirt #JesusSaves #EternalLife #KnowingGod

[mcemt]

A New World Order? Let's See... One World Religion: According to Prophecy In Scripture!

*A warning and informational study on the coming End Times according to God's Calender. You need to be ready for such a time as this!

   There is a concept of a "One World Religion" as part of a "New World Order" in end times prophecy within scripture!

   The concept of a unified, global, and false religious system led by the Antichrist during the end times is an importance theme in Bible Prophecy.

   The purpose of the Antichrist is to unite the world politically by creating a "One World Government"(New World Order)!

   The purpose of "The False Prophet" is to usher in the "One World Religion" by uniting the world religiously!

   Biblical texts describe this very situation that takes place during the Seven YearTribulation period in scripture!

Note:

[  ] In (Revelation 17:1-18) We see a description of a "great prostitute" (called "Mystery, Babylon the Great") who commits spiritual adultery with the kings of the earth. This speaks to this false religion’s influence among the world’s rulers and of those leaders of influence over people in the world. In (verse 5), it speaks of a "harlot" which is a term that was used throughout the Old Testament as a metaphor for those who follow a false religion. Biblical scholars say that this is a religious system that encompasses the entire world.  We see also in (verse 6) scripture describes the harlot as being “drunk with the blood of the saints” and the blood of those who testify of Jesus. Tribulation Belivers will be martyred at the hand of the Antichrist or by being systematically starved (because they took not the mark of the best)! These believers during the tribulation will experience the wrath of the harlot & the Antichrist. This one world religion probably combines different beliefs into one religious institution (as debated by biblical scholars) and persecutes and destroys those that have chosen to follow Christ.

[  ] In (Revelation 13:1-18) We see in scripture here that the false prophet comes onto the scene. He has the authority of the the Antichrist. He will be able to deceive the world by performing great signs and wonders. These acts will convince most people on earth to worship the Antichrist. All of this takes place during the "Seven Year Tribulation" period! This worship will usher in the global system of one religion. There will be people that refuse to worship the Antichrist & takes his mark!  Those people will be killed. Most beheaded - (Revelation 20:4)

[  ] We read in (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4) The Apostle Paul tells us about the revealing of the "man of sin"! This "son of perdition" who is the Antichrist will exalt himself over every so-called god! He will sit in the temple of God and proclaiming himself to be God.

[  ] Then we also see in scripture in (Matthew 24:4-5 ;24) Jesus himself warns the disciples about the rise of false christs and false prophets. The false prophet will unite the world religiously! He will perform great signs and wonders to deceive even the very "elect" (tribulation believers) if possible!

All of this leads to Satan to have attained what he has desired from the beginning and that is he will sit on the throne of God, be worshiped like God, and reign over an earthly kingdom.

We see this here:

"How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High." (Isaiah 14:12-14) KJV

   There are opinions that this is what ushers in the "New World Order"! This is where Satan had to unite the world into one world global government! This will not stand! Satan will face the wrath of GOD!

   This then is the fate of Satan. In the end..."Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit."

(Isaiah 14:15) KJV

Here then is the conclusion of the matter... Satan's so called kingdom will only last for a short time period. That being the last 3½ years until the return Jesus Christ!

   And we conclude with the fate of the false prophet the beast (the religious leader) and the Antichrist (Satan), the false unholy trinity...

"And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone."

(Revelation 19:20) KJV

"And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever." (Revelation 20:10) KJV

   Are you prepared for this future time in Biblical & World History?

If not, then you should get ready. You do not want to be here during this time in biblical history! Time is short and the biblical clock is winding down!

   Where will you spend eternity? Do you know? The Bible gives us the answer. You will spend it either in heaven or hell. It will be your choice. Listen...

   God loved us so much that He sent His Son to die in our place, to pay our sin debt, and to reconcile us unto Himself.

We read:

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." (John 3: 16-17) KJV

We Read:

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

(Romans 6:23) KJV

   We must be cleansed from sin. When the Sin debt has been paid, we have been made new, we have been born again.

We read:

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

(2 Corinthians 5:17) KJV

Here then is the question...

What must I do to be saved?  The answer, this answer from scripture is this...

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

(Romans 10:13) KJV

   You should realize that you, in being a sinner, that your sin separates you from God. Know that there is a price to pay for your sin and that it is the shedding of your blood and thereby physical death.

We read:

"And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission." (No Payment)

(Hebrews 9:22) KJV

   We see that Jesus has paid that price for us and now we have before us a decision to be made.

   Will you believe and accept what Jesus did for you and I on the cross through his death, burial and of his resurrection physically alive and He (Jesus) is seated at the right hand of God in heaven?

   Do you belive that he shed his blood for us and then paid our sin debt?

   Do you believe that he rose again from the dead, physically alive for evermore?

   Do you believe that Jesus is Lord (That He is God) ?

If you believe these things then you shall be saved unto life eternal.

We read:

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

(Romans 10: 9-10) KJV

   If you have done the above and believed that Jesus rose from the dead, alive and you have confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord... You Are Saved!

"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him." (John 3:36) KJV

   Eternal Life or Everlasting Life means Forever! That is God's Word and promise to you!  

   Are you going into Life Eternal (To live forever with God in heaven) or are you going into a Life of Damnation to be spent separated from God forever in the Lake of Fire!

   The choice is yours! What will you do? Don't wait because tomorrow is not promised to you.

   Why not choose life with God! Think about it... but not too long!

   You are only saved by trusting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. He is the only way!

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6) KJV

Choose Life!

   If you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior through faith in him and him alone, then from your heart with a spirit of repentance you can say this prayer or use your own words to call upon God to save you...

God,

   I know that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus was my substitute when He died on the cross. I believe in His shed blood, death, burial and His resurrection alive and that these were sufficient to cleanse me from all my sin.

   I now recieve Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. I trust in Jesus alone for my salvation.  I ask right now to be forgiven of my sin.

   Thank you for the forgiveness of my sin, the gift of salvation and of everlasting life because of your merciful grace.

Amen!

   If you have prayed this prayer, the Word of God says that you are saved! Once you have been born again (Saved), you cannot lose your salvation. God did the work, not you.

   The Bible says that you were sealed by the Holy Spirit (He is God) and you cannot break that seal! (The seal of God)

We read:

"In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,..."

(Ephesians 1:13) KJV

   The Seal of the Holy Spirit is  a spiritual mark of God's ownership and a guarantee of a believer's Eternal Salvation.

   It is God in His power that has sealed us...

"Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts."

(2 Corinthians 1:22) KJV

   The "seal"  by the Holy Spirit is an "earnest" (which is a guarantee, or down payment) of your Eternal Inheritance!

   You cannot break this seal nor can you lose your salvation. God has you in His hands and He has placed you into the hands of Jesus. You cannot take your own self out of the hands of God.

   I pray that this short study and forewarning of impending biblical events that will transpire during the end times of human existence has blessed you.

   I pray that you accept the gift of Eternal Life  through Jesus Christ. Amen!

#BiblicalProphecy #EndTimesProphecy #TribulationPeriod #NewWorldOrder #OneWorldReligion #TribulationEvents

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"Biblically dealing with a Fool"

This topic of dealing with a fool is covered a lot in the book of Proverbs. I like to begin this study within the biblical context using scripture.

The book of Proverbs has quite a lot to say about a fool. It will help you identify the characteristics of a foolish person.

So let us see what the Bible has to say about dealing with foolish people!

We can start by dealing with a person that is exhibiting foolish speech, voicing their opinion not backed by scripture.

You will find that a foolish person is emotional. They have a hard time controlling their emotions. They also do not want to learn. They refuse biblical instruction.

Lastly, they do not want correction as they don't think that they have any responsibility for their own behavior or actions.

You should learn to exercise discernment and wisdom when dealing with a fool.

We should use that wisdom to discern when to converse with them and also know when to walk away.

Stop speaking or answering a fool and just walk away from them. This is because they will only continue to argue their nonsense. (Their own opinion)

"A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards."

(Proverbs 29:11) KJV

You walk away from them so as to avoid being pulled down to their level of conversation.

"Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge."

(Proverbs 14:7) KJV

The Bible says:

"Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit."

(Proverbs 26:4-5) KJV

You can offer correction so they don't grow overly prideful. They most likely won't accept it because they are trying to deceive you. This correction is necessary so that others will not be misled by a fool's speech.

At least you have tried to reason with them to correct them. Remember to use self control when dealing with a fool!

The fool has but one purpose:

"The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit. Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour."

(Proverbs 14:8-9) KJV

We see in the above scripture that the fool mocks sin.

You will observe that the fool thinks that they are right and will not budge. But the Bible says that their way leads to death.

"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."

(Proverbs 14:12) KJV

The Bible says that the fool is confident in what they believe...

"A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident."

(Proverbs 14:16) KJV

"The fool's time is but a short period. A fool cannot overcome the truth of scripture. Truth will always come out on top.

"The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment."

(Proverbs 12:19) KJV

The reward for the foolish is nothing but folly:

"The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly."

(Proverbs 14:24) KJV

"The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools."

(Proverbs 3:35) KJV

Sometimes you will see that you are wasting your time on the foolish person.

You can go the route of righteousness with correction and rebuke to try to bring them back into alignment with scripture but they most likely won't recieve or understand what information you are giving them.

We see this here in scripture:

"Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words."

(Proverbs 23:9) KJV

And:

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

(Proverbs 1:7) KJV

Contending with a fool:

We will also see from scripture that contending with a fool is tiresome and leads to you being frustrated.

We read:

"If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest."

(Proverbs 29:9) KJV

A Fool will double down on his own foolishness. He will, no matter what correction (truth) that he has heard, will revisit and stand firm on his own foolish conversation and revel in his conceit.

A Fool will try to wear you down with their foolish thoughts and speech. They allow their mouth to run continuously non stop.

We read:

"As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly. Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him."

(Proverbs 26:11-12) KJV

The anger and destruction of the fool in scripture:

A Fool will anger quickly. This spirit of anger will rest in their bosom.

"Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools."

(Ecclesiastes 7:9) KJV

A Fool will run their mouth, always being contentious and lacking knowledge. This leads to their own destruction.

We read:

"Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction."

(Proverbs 10:14) KJV

"A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul."

(Proverbs 18:7) KJV

In conclusion:

A Fool requires correction to bring them in line with scripture & correct thought & knowledge.

We read:

"A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back."

(Proverbs 26:3) KJV

Meaning and Context:

We see in the above scripture that it uses a metaphor, to bring across the idea that fools need correction. They will require discipline to bring them in line with the Word of God.

Just as animals need guidance to behave properly, we see in this verse that it speaks of a comparison of an animal like a horse that needs a whip to behave correctly and an ass needing a bridle to control them.

The Bible tells us that the folly of fools should not, cannot be left unchecked without the appropriate consequence!Discipline for the Fool:

The "rod" is a symbol of correction or instruction. Just as we see that animals respond to physical guidance, a fool may only learn or be restrained through firm correction using biblical discipline, (scripture), lack of fellowship or other measures.

Sometimes, a foolish person's stubbornness or lack of understanding, require us to establish a firm boundary and stated consequences to prevent further harm to themselves or others.

We should acknowledge that exercising patience with a fool may not be enough. They may require more in depth instruction and correcting within the moral context.

Conclusion:

We have to teach them on their level of understanding according to their capacity to understand what you are trying to get across to them.

We should deal with the foolish person according to their nature. We need to keep in mind that a careless and immoral or self indulgent sinner will never be ruled by reason and persuasion.

We should realize that within a biblical context, that if we impart wisdom through teaching we might bring about righteousness in the foolish person to prevent them from harm in their folly and foolishness.

A reprobate and indifferent sinner will most likely never be regulated or swayed by reason of scripture.

There may be some who will indeed be changed by the grace of God and work of the Holy Spirit.

Let this rest in your understanding:

"The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness."

(Proverbs 15:14) KJV

Don't be foolish, seek wisdom!

"Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."

(Proverbs 4:7) KJV

[mcemt]

GOD-The Author of the Bible!

   The Bible is said to be "The Word of God, by the Spirit of God, by the Pen of man".

   The Bible is the inspired (God Breathed) Word of God! God literally breathed (spoke) the Word and men penned (wrote what God said to the letter) the Word.

   Think about this for a moment... God chose to speak to us in a language that we understand.

   Almighty God, The Creator of the known Universe...

"For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

(Colossians 1:16-17) KJV

...That God is the one I'm speaking of who holds all things together by His Word has spoken to us!

"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;..."

(Hebrews 1:1-2) KJV

   We find that God through out the scriptures, has spoken to us, and emphasized within scripture that this is His Word that He has spoken. For example, we see "thus saith the LORD" 415 times in the "Old Testament" (King James Version).

   This then is a declarative prophecy from LORD”! This tells us what Yahweh Himself has spoken!

   We see throughout scripture phrases such as, “God hath said”, “He said”, “The Lord said” God has emphasized His divine authority throughout scripture to man!

   Our GOD had something to say and he used human writers to write His Word in the Bible!

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."

(2 Timothy 3:16-17) KJV

   The Bible is the plenary, verbally inspired, infallible Word of God.

   The word "Plenary" means all parts of the Scriptures are inspired.

   The word “Inspired” means the Bible came from God and not from man.

   The word “Verbal” means the very words (not just the thoughts) were given by God to the Writers of Scripture.

   The word “Infallible” means the Bible cannot teach error.

   The Bible comes from either God or man. This scripture following says that it comes from GOD!

"Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."

(2 Peter 1:20-21) KJV

   Jesus himself spoke of the fulfilling of scripture...

"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled."

(Matthew 5:17-18) KJV

"...It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."

(Matthew 4:4) KJV

   Jesus told his disciples...

"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."

(John 16:13) KJV

   The Apostle Paul said that this Word came from God and was taught by the Holy Spirit. This is what was recorded in scripture as he wrote this,

"Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual."

(1 Corinthians 2:12-13) KJV

   We should be thankful for the teaching of the Holy Spirit. We have recieved the Word of God!

"For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe."

(1 Thessalonians 2:13) KJV

   We find that God used many men over many years to write (record) His Word to us!

   The Word of God is "inspired”! This word "inspired" literally means God‑breathed. We read this in scripture...

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:..."

(2 Timothy 3:16) KJV

   The phrase “inspiration of God” comes from the Greek word (theopneustos), which is from two words: (theos)=[God] & (pneō)=[to breathe], or to blow!

Together we get“God‑breathed.”

   Theologically speaking we see that the scriptures originated from God to human authors & not scripture from human beings themselves.

   From the phrase : "inspiration of God" we arrive at God “breathed out” His words to human writers.

   The writers then wrote in their own vocabulary and style, the scriptures but what they wrote came from God!

   Approximately 40 different men contributed to writing the 66 books of the Bible over a span of about 1,500 to 1,600 years.

   These contributors came from diverse backgrounds—including Kings, Prophets, Fishermen, and Shepherds—and wrote in three languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) across three continents. 

• Composition: The Old Testament has roughly (30) authors, while the New Testament has about (10).

• Key Contributors: Prominent writers included Moses (the Torah), David (many Psalms), Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Matthew, Paul, and John.

• Timeframe: The writings span from approximately 1400 BC (Genesis) to 90 AD (Revelation).

• Unity: Despite the large number of writers over centuries, the Bible is viewed by Christians as having a unified, divine message. 

   Do not ignore the message from God written in the pages of scripture.

   These scriptures in the Bible will be used to save you and to judge you one day.  As it is written, spoken by Jesus...

"He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day."

(John 12:48) KJV

&

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."

(John 1:1-4 ; 14) KJV

   Jesus is The Word and He is God. God says that He will preserve His Word!

"The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever."

(Psalms 12:6-7) KJV

   So finally, who exactly were the human writers of the Bible? We know that at least ten of the books of the Bible have unknown writers.

   We don't know who wrote Job and Esther in the Old Testament and in the New Testament, we don't know the author of Hebrews as examples of unknown authorship.

   In the Old Testament the writers are as follows: Moses wrote the first (5) books of the Bible and at least (1) of the Psalms (Psalm 90). Ezra - the scribe wrote the books of Ezra and (1–2 Chronicles). Nehemiah wrote the book of Nehemiah.

   The writers of Psalms are David, Asaph (a Levite worship leader),the sons of Korah (from a family line of temple musicians) , Ethan & Heman. Solomon (David's son) wrote (2)  of the Psalms & most of the book of Proverbs also he wrote Ecclesiastes & Song of Solomon, Moses (Psalms 90), Heman the Ezrahite - a musician (wrote Psalms 88, with the sons of Korah), Ethan snd Ezrahite - a wise man during Solomon's era (Psalms 89)

   The book of Proverbs has a couple of authors although Solomon (with the gift of wisdom from God) was the primary author. The Bible records that Solomon spoke 3000 Proverbs (1 Kings 4:32). Agur son of  Jakeh wrote (Proverbs 30). King Lemuel wrote (Proverbs 31). Hezekiah's scribe wrote out (Proverbs 25) which was written out over some time.

   The prophets are named by the books they wrote! They are: Isaiah Jeremiah, who also wrote (Lamentations), Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah & Malachi.

   In the New Testament, the Gospel writers are: Matthew, Mark, Luke, who wrote (Acts) & John!

   The rest of the New Testament writers were: Paul who wrote (13) letters. They was James, the Lord’s brother, wrote one letter. Both Peter & Jude wrote letters. And finally, John (who wrote the 4th. Gospel) wrote the letters that bear his name (1st, 2nd & 3rd John) along with the book of Revelation!

   So we see through God's Word, truth and the glory of God! We give thanks for the written, preserved Word of God! Amen!

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Adamic Nature & Inherited Sin and How it pertains to the unbeliever!

   Christian theology teaches that all humans inherit a sinful nature, or "Adamic nature," from Adam's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.

   This concept, often called original sin, means humanity inherits a broken or corrupted nature from birth, leading to a natural propensity (or inclination) toward sin and spiritual separation from God.

   It can be characterized as your flesh rebelling against God. This therefore affects the entire person encompassing your body, soul & spirit.

   The Bible states in (Romans 5:12) KJV, that through one man (Adam) sin entered the world, and that death spread to all men.

We read:

"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:..."

(Romans 5:12) KJV

   We see this truth in the book of Psalms where David said that he was conceived in sin (at birth)!

We read:

"Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me."

(Psalms 51:5) KJV

Imputation & Inheritance:                  ChristianTheology makes a distinction between (inherited sin) [a corrupt nature] & (imputed guilt) [being held responsible for Adam's act].

   Because of this, every human is considered born with a "sin nature /problem" that makes it necessary for our salvation.

   The "Adamic Nature" is when Adam sinned, his nature became corrupted. So now because of sin, man has to pay the penalty for this sin because we inherited this corrupt nature from Adam. The Bible records for us that the penalty for sin is death!We read in Hebrews...

"And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission".

(Hebrews 9:22) KJV

   The definition of remission is a release from a penalty, debt, or obligation.

   Theologically speaking it is the forgiveness of sins!

   This is why Jesus (had to be born a sinless man) through the virgin birth by Mary (She also had a sin nature), because Jesus was the exception in being born human. This was because he was supernaturally conceived, allowing him to be sinless. He was not conceived though a human father. (If Jesus had been conceived through a human father, he would have inherited the sin nature)

   Your inherited nature  is a literal, passed-down trait from Adam.

We see this in the book of Romans...

"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law."

(Romans 5:12-13) KJV

   So we see that this nature or condition of being born with a sin nature is inherited from birth.

   Our corrupt & sinful nature we see from scripture comes from the disobedience of Adam in the Garden of Eden.

   A term that is commonly used for this condition is called our "Sin Nature" or the "Old Man"!

   This "Sin Nature" is displayed as a person's exhibiting their own desire, rather than being obedient to God's will!

   This "Sin Nature" requires man to be reborn (or be born again) to avoid the penalty of this nature. We read this in the Book of John in the New Testament...

"Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again."

(John 3:3-7) KJV

   Because man is in an unregenerate or sinful state, man needs to be regenerated by receiving a new or renewed spirit.

   Because this condition impacts humans from birth, The Bible tells us that we (man) are in need of a spiritual rebirth through faith in Christ Jesus to overcome our sinful condition.

We Read:

"For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous."

(Romans 5:17-19) KJV

   That statement above of the  "...obedience of one" is in reference to Jesus Christ. Our salvation is found by having a relationship with Jesus the Christ who is referred to as the "Last Adam".

   The "First Adam" caused man to have a sinful nature leading to death and separation from God.      The "Second Adam" (Jesus) redeemed us from the penalty of sin which is death.

We Read:

"And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit."

(1 Corinthians 15:45) KJV

And...

"The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven."

(1 Corinthians 15:47) KJV

   The importance of a first Adam in scripture is that this was what introduced sin into the world and as a consequence, death from sin that leads us to see in Christian Theology the need for belief in Christ for our redemption and eternal life!

   Because of Sin, we see that all men have sinned. There is a penalty to be paid for Sin.

   But through the Substitutionary death of Jesus Christ, our Sin debt has been paid!

We Read:

"Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (Substitution / Our Substitute) through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;..."

(Romans 3:22-25) KJV

The Bible continues:

   We know that we cannot pay for our sin without physically dying (And that [dying] by shedding our own blood), but there is one who died for us and His name is Jesus!

We read:

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life."

(Romans 5:8-10) KJV

   God loved us so much that He sent His Son to die in our place, to pay our sin debt, and to reconcile us unto Himself.

We read:

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."

(John 3: 16-17) KJV

   By doing this, we are saved from the wrath of God and the punishment for our sin. We have been given the gift of Eternal Life!

   As we see in the above Bible verses, there is a payment that must be paid.

We Read:

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

(Romans 6:23) KJV

   God is a Holy God and we cannot come into His presence as a sinner. We must be cleansed from sin.

   When the Sin debt has been paid, we have been made new, we have been born again.

   We now have recieved the gift of Eternal Life through Jesus Christ and His blood atonement on the cross!

   We can now come into the presence of God as a child of God.

We read:

"Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God."

(1 John 4:15) KJV

   God dwells in us and we in Him! We can now as a born again believer, and as a new creation in Christ, come before God!

We Read:

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

(2 Corinthians 5:17) KJV

   Because we have been made new, this allows us to come into the presence of God!

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

(Hebrews 4:16) KJV

   Here then is the question...

What must I do to be saved?  The answer, this answer from scripture is this...

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

(Romans 10:13) KJV

The Bible tells us that God wants to save us...

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."

(2 Peter 3:9) KJV

   You should realize that you, in being a sinner, that your sin separates you from God. Know that there is a price to pay for your sin and that it is the shedding of your blood and thereby physical death.

We read:

"And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission." (No Payment)

(Hebrews 9:22) KJV

   We see that Jesus has paid that price for us and now we have before us a decision to be made.

   Will you believe and accept what Jesus did for you and I on the cross through his death, burial and of his resurrection physically alive and He (Jesus) is seated at the right hand of God in heaven?

   Do you belive that he shed his blood for us and then paid our sin debt?

   Do you believe that he rose again from the dead, physically alive for evermore?

   Do you believe that Jesus is Lord (That He is God) ?

If you believe these things then you shall be saved unto life eternal.

We read:

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

(Romans 10: 9-10) KJV

   If you have done the above and believed that Jesus rose from the dead, alive and you have confessed with your mouth that Jesus is Lord... You Are Saved!

   You have been born again. You are now in a relationship with Jesus. You have become a child of God. The Holy Spirit now dwells inside of you!

We read:

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"

(1 Corinthians 3:16) KJV

Also:

"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness."

(Romans 8: 8-10) KJV

   The Bible records that we can be sure of our salvation. We can know that we have Eternal Life!

We read:

"He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God."

(1 John 5: 10-13) KJV

Also...

"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him."

(John 3:36) KJV

   The assurance of your personal salvation is established on what is promised in the Word of God!

   God has said in His Word over and over that of you belive in His only begotten Son Jesus Christ, that He will give you Eternal Life!

   Eternal Life or Everlasting Life means Forever! That is God's Word and promise to you!

   May you be blessed as you read this post with understanding and action on your part.

   There is life after death. The question becomes of where you are going when you Die!

   Are you going into Life Eternal (To live forever with God in heaven) or are you going into a Life of Damnation to be spent separated from God forever in the Lake of Fire!

   The choice is yours! What will you do? Don't wait because tomorrow is not promised to you. You don't want to die and go into Eternal Fire Forever without asking God to save you through Jesus Christ the Lord!

   This day choose between Life and death. Now is the appointed time...

"(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)"

(2 Corinthians 6:2) KJV

   Why not choose life! Think about it... but not too long!

"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:..."

(Deuteronomy 30:19) KJV

   There are many people in our world who have rejected the Gospel and Jesus Christ and that they have put their trust in other things thinking and believing that they can get to heaven.

   You are only saved by trusting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. He is the only way!

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

(John 14:6) KJV

Choose Life!

   If you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior through faith in him and him alone, then from your heart with a spirit of repentance you can say this prayer or use your own words to call upon God to save you...

God,

   I know that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus was my substitute when He died on the cross. I believe in His shed blood, death, burial and His resurrection alive and that these were sufficient to cleanse me from all my sin.

   I now recieve Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. I trust in Jesus alone for my salvation.  I ask right now to be forgiven of my sin.

   Thank you for the forgiveness of my sin, the gift of salvation and of everlasting life because of your merciful grace. Amen!

** If you have prayed this prayer, the Word of God says that you are saved! Once you have been born again (Saved), you cannot lose your salvation. God did the work, nor you.

   The Bible says that you were sealed by the Holy Spirit (He is God) and you cannot break that seal! (The seal of God)

We read:

"In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,..."

(Ephesians 1:13) KJV

AGAIN:

"And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption."

(Ephesians 4:30) KJV

   The Seal of the Holy Spirit is  a spiritual mark of God's ownership and a guarantee of a believer's Eternal Salvation.

   It is God in His power that has sealed us...

"Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts."

(2 Corinthians 1:22) KJV

   The "seal"  by the Holy Spirit is an "earnest" (which is a guarantee, or down payment) of your Eternal Inheritance!

   In the Scriptures a seal communicates Ownership, Protection, and a Validation of the relationship. You now have a new relationship with God.

   You cannot break this seal nor can you lose your salvation. God has you in His hands and He has placed you into the hands of Jesus. You cannot take your own self out of the hands of God.

We read:

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. I and my Father are one."

(John 10: 27-30) KJV

   Once you are born again, you are saved eternally and there is nothing you can do to change that fact.

   You have God's Word on it. You can believe God because He cannot lie.

"In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;..."

(Titus 1:2) KJV

Again:

"That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:..."

(Hebrews 6:18) KJV

   In conclusion, after you have been saved, there are a few things that a believer in Jesus Christ should do.

They are:

*Pray: You talk to God in Jesus name. (Colossians 4:2)

*Read your Bible: God talks to you. (Acts 17:11)

*Attend Church: To Worship with fellow believers.

(Hebrews 10:25)

*Be Baptized: Belivers baptism as an outward profession of your faith.  (Romans 6:4)

*Participate in the Lord's Super: (1 Corinthians 11: 17-34)

*Obey these two ordinances:

(1 Corinthians 11:2)

My prayer is that whosoever is reading this material be moved by the reading of God's Word and that he or she be saved this day!

In Jesus name I pray, Amen!

[mcemt]

Contemplative Question...

                              Who Controls your Life?

Do you know the answer?

What are the outside influences on your life? Do you know? Do you want to know? If you were to learn what these things are, would you be willing to do something about them? These are all interesting questions that we need to ask ourselves. In life, there are some outside influences that affect our Christian walk. So just what exactly are some of these external forces?

Sometimes, we face peer pressure from our family, friends, neighbors or co-workers that influence the things that you say and do. This outside pressure should not be allowed to manifest itself in your life. If you allow these outside influences to exists, they will affect your walk with the Lord!

The truth is that we do let outside influences take control of our life. How does this happen? Well for one thing, you may be a people pleaser. You may even find yourself compromising your walk by trying to keep the people you care about happy. But here is the crux of the matter. You will find that in doing so, you have failed to be the Christian that God desires you to be.

You may find yourself concerned about what people think about you. You may have over the years developed a certain persona of character. People know you by the way you are. Sometimes people will use this against you in order to manipulate you to act a certain way. Once this happens, and they have taken you out of character, you end up compromising yourself because of your concern about how people are perceiving you.

You are in effect, being controlled by an outside influence!

Sound familiar? Now what do we do about this?

Well the first thing we have to realize is that we do not live by the world’s standards. The only person that we have to measure up to is the Lord Jesus Christ! I want you to keep this one thing in mind. It is Christ who has justified us as believers. We read... “THEREFORE being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:” (Romans 5:1)

We do not need to be justified in man’s eyes. If you believe what the bible says, then you believe that, “justified by faith” means just what it says. It means that God has declared us righteous. We have obtained a standing before Almighty God as if we have never sinned. The bible says that we are free from accusation. We read again from scripture... “Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.” (Romans 8:33) What may be happening in your life is that in seeking acceptance of man, you are really manifesting a fear of man.

As a child of God, you should not fear man. The Word of God speaks on this very thing. “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.” (Proverbs 29:25) We read also... “A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.” (Proverbs 29:5) What this is saying to us is that when you flatter man, and you don’t mean it, you are doing this in order to mislead them. You are doing this in order to get something from them. We have all done this at some point in our lives. These things ought not to be! Here is what you should be doing. You as a child of God, should not put your trust and hope in man, and you should not be looking for acceptance from man. We as Christians are to trust in the Lord and He shall give us the desires of our heart.

The scriptures tell us to...

“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” (Psalm 37:4) God will take care of the desires of your heart if you will only trust Him. Again as we look into the scriptures, the Word tells us to... “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Listen my fellow brethren, stop trusting in man and in looking to man for acceptance. Your number one concern is to be obedient to God and to trust Him for all your needs. Your Heavenly Father desires that you talk with Him and to seek the counsel of the Lord in all things that you do in life. Let me just state emphatically right here that man can not give you what you seek. Only God can fulfill the needs in your life. All else is just an illusion. You know deep down that when you allow things outside of God to control your life, you become unsatisfied. Only through God will your life be truly fulfilled.

Why don’t you this day, stop being influenced by man.

Stop fearing man as in being concerned as to what he may say about you, to you or even about what he may do to you and even for you.

God is in control. Turn your attention to God.

Why not do as the Psalmist says in (Psalm 56:4)... “In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.” Stand strong. Do not rely on man neither lean to your own understanding, but Trust God! “In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me. ” (Psalm 56:11)

I ask the question of you again. Who controls your life? Is it man or is it God?

Search yourselves to see the real answer.

TRUST IN GOD, FOR HE ALONE IS THE RULER OF YOUR LIFE! GOD IS IN CONTROL! AMEN!

“Be Blessed This Week!”

[mcemt]

"Soteriology" - "The Doctrine of Salvation"

                              The Doctrine Of Salvation!

Today we will explore what the Bible has to say about the “Doctrine of Salvation”.

My question to you is, are you going to believe the Word of God, or are you going to believe what some preachers are teaching you, that you must do certain works in order to be saved?

What does God say?

That is the question you should ask yourself! With that in mind, let’s begin our study of God’s Word and see the truth of the matter!

Salvation is first of all...

A. Provision of God 1. Promised before creation (Titus 1:2) 2. Christ became man (John 1:14);(Philippians 2:6-8);(Matthew 20:28);(Galatians 4:4-5);(Hebrews 2:14) 3. Christ had to live a perfect life so He did not yield to temptation in His nature (Hebrews 4:15) nor in His actions(John 8:29);(Matthew 4:1-11)

Neither were His actions sinful in His sufferings (I Peter 2:22-23) Next we see that...

B. Christ died for man (I Corinthians 15:3) 1. His death was substitutionary (Isaiah 53:6);(II Corinthians 5:21);(I Peter 2:24) 2. Cannot be added to (Hebrews 9:12) 3. A one time sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10:12, 14)

Now the Bible tells us that...

C. Christ arose from the dead (I Corinthians 15:4-8) 1. Bodily resurrection (John 20:24-29);(Luke 24:39) **a. Showed Gods approval (Romans 1:4) **b. Must be believed to have true salvation (Romans 10:9) **c. Was followed by His ascension (Acts 1:9-11) **d. Will return in that resurrected body that every eye can see(Revelation 1:7) **e. His resurrected body today is seated at the right hand of God (Hebrews 10-12)

Man must now receive the Word!

D. Reception 1. Man must admit he is a sinner and deserves eternal punishment in hell(Romans 3:10, 23);(Ecclesiastes 7:20);(Romans 6:23a.) 2. Man must repent of his sins (Acts 2:38) 3. God's goodness leads man to repentance (Romans 2:4) 4. Man must believe that Christ died for his sins (Romans 5:6, 8);(Luke 19:10) 5. Man must believe it with the heart (Romans 10:10a) 6. Man must ask Christ to become his saviour and when he does he receives an unconditional guarantee (Romans 10:13) 7. Man must turn away from everything else including works for salvation(Romans 4:5 & 11:6);(Ephesians 2:8-9) 8. Man must turn to Christ alone for salvation (John 14:6) (Acts 4:12); (Romans 6:23b) 9. Man must confess to others that he has accepted Christ (Romans 10:10b.) Let us now look at the details...

E. Elements of Salvation

1. God's calling (Matthew 11:28; 22:9);(John 5:40);(Proverbs 1:24);(Titus 2:11);(II Peter 3:9) **a. Through the Bible but not all will obey (Romans 10:16), but for those who do (Romans 10:17) **b. Through His Holy Spirit (John 16:7-14) **c. Through men (Romans 10:14-15) **d. Through His Providence (Romans 2:14)

2. Conversion- (Repentance and Faith) (II Corinthians 7:9-10);(Ephesians 3:17) **a. Repentance (to change ones mind or purpose and pictures a turning about within the sinners)Preached by the apostle Paul (Acts 26:19-20) **b. Faith (Turning to Christ)

3. Justification (The sins of the believer are forgiven and Christ's righteousness is imputed to him by faith) A legal declaration we are declared righteous a position we are placed in and totally acceptable by God. Something the law could never do(Romans 3:20);(Galatians 2:21)

4. Pardon (God forgives the believers sins through Jesus Christ) (Acts 13:38-39);(Ephesians 1:7)

5. Adoption (God restores the believer to His favor) (Romans 5:1-2);(Galatians 4:4-5)God gives the believer the Righteousness of Christ not by working for it but by faith he is counted righteous (Titus 3:5a);(Romans 4:5-8);(II Corinthians 5:21)

6. Regeneration (God imparts to the believer spiritual life and a new nature)(Ephesians 2:1);(Colossians 1:13)

7. Sanctification (God working through the Holy Spirit, makes the believer holy in heart and behavior) (I Corinthians 6:11);(Hebrews 13:12, 21) **a. Sanctification includes dying to sin and living to righteousness (Romans 8:13);(Colossians 3:5) **b. Sanctification is a process. Initial sanctification takes place at the time of the new birth (I Corinthians 6:11) Progressive sanctification takes place throughout the Christian life (Romans 6:6);(II Corinthians 5:15, 17)Final sanctification takes place at the appearing of Christ or at death (Philippians 3:21);(Hebrews 12:23)

8. Sanctification is the work of God's Spirit which enables Christians more and more to die to sin and to live unto righteousness. In Galatians 5:16, the apostle Paul tells us how. "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed;..."(Acts 17:11-12) The scripture verses listed, have been taken from the King James Version of the Bible. They pertain to the various bible doctrines we will be looking at. They are by no means the only ones. You are encouraged to look up on your own perhaps as part of your private devotions and through a good concordance the many other verses of scripture pertaining to a particular doctrine.

This material is being reprinted with permission from Bensalem Baptist Church.(Credit)

BE BLESSED THIS WEEK!

[mcemt]

"Bibliology" - "The Doctrine of the Bible"

                            “The Doctrine of The Bible”

This is not just any BOOK!

As we begin this study, we should ponder a few things first about this great book we call the Bible. The Bible is the Word of God! It tells you about your history and it tells you about God! The bible that you hold in your hand is a story about redemption. It is about man being reconciled to God. This book tells us of a redeemer named Jesus Christ. This book , if you will read it and study the truths found within it’s pages, will show you the way to eternal life! The bible is made up of sixty-six books. There are thirty-nine books of the Old Testament, and twenty-seven books of the New Testament. The bible which we call the “Word of God” is inspired by God. “ “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (II Timothy 3:16) The word “inspiration” in the Greek is “theopneusto”. This word means, “God breathed out”. God breathed out the scriptures and the human authors penned it under the control of God. We know this because it is written, “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (II Peter 1:21) This phase “moved by the Holy Ghost” has the meaning of the writers being borne along by the Holy Spirt which is God. This was done in such a way that the words that were recorded for us were the “Word of God”.

Let us look at some scripture.

A. The Bible says that it is inspired. (II Timothy 3:16);(II Peter 1:20-21).

B. The Bible has the witness of the Spirit in the hearts of believers. (I Corinthians 2:11-15).

C. The Bible has been shown to be inspired by believers who have found its teachings to work. (Psalms 119:97-104).

D. The Bible is complete. (Revelation 22:18-19);(Deuteronomy 4:2 & 12:32);(Proverbs 30:6);(Ecclesiastes 3:14).

E. The Bible is eternal. (Psalms 119:89, 152, 160);(Isaiah 40:8);(Matthew 24:35);(Mark 13:31).

F. The Bible is the only rule of authority. (II Timothy 3:16-17);(Psalms 138:2).

"These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed;..."(Acts 17:11-12) The scripture verses listed, have been taken from the King James Version of the Bible. They pertain to the various bible doctrines we will be looking at. They are by no means the only ones. You are encouraged to look up on your own perhaps as part of your private devotions and through a good concordance the many other verses of scripture pertaining to a particular doctrine.

This material is being reprinted with permission from Bensalem Baptist Church. (Credit)

BE BLESSED THIS WEEK!

[mcemt]

"Theism" - "The Doctrine of God"

                               “The Doctrine of God”

What we should know about Almighty God!

To begin with, God has shown Himself in nature.

Turn in your bibles to (Romans 1:20) We see here that man has a revealed knowledge of God. This verse of scripture tells us that man has the sufficient amount of knowledge of God to make him responsible to God.

(Psalm 19:1) says, “THE heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” The immense wonder of the universe declares to man that there is a God. 

Next we see that God has revealed Himself in the scriptures. Let’s read (John 5:39). When you search the bible, you will see that it bears witness to Christ.

There are certain “Attributes of God.” Let’s look at them.

1. God is Spirit (John 4:24);(II Timothy 6:16) 2. God is eternal (Psalms 90:2);(I Timothy 1:17);(Deuteronomy 32:40 & 33:27a) (Job 36:26);(2 Peter 3:8) 3. God is everywhere (I Kings 8:27);(Job 23:9);(Psalms 139:7-10); (Proverbs 15:3);(Jeremiah 23:23-24);(Acts 17:27) 4. God is all knowing (Job 42:2);(Psalms 94:11);(Psalms 139:1-6 & 147:5); (Ezekiel 11:5);(I Timothy 1:17) 5. God is all powerful (Genesis 17:1);(Exodus 6:3);(Jeremiah 32:17);(Matthew 19:26) 6. God is unchanging (Malachi 3:6);(James 1:17) 7. God is faithful (I Corinthians 1:9);(II Timothy 2:13) 8. God is holy (Psalms 99:9);(Isaiah 5:16 & 6:3 & 43:15); (Amos 4:2a);(Luke 1:49);(I John 2:20);(Revelation 4:8) 9. God is righteous (Psalms 116:5 & 145:17) 10. God is merciful (Psalms 86:5, 15 & 103:8) 11. God is all sufficient (Philipians 4:19) 12. God is long suffering (Numbers 14:18);(Micah 7:18);(II Peter 3:9) 13. God cannot lie (Titus 1:2)

Next we will look at the “Nature of God.”

1. God’s being is not divided [There is no disunity], (Deuteronomy 6:4) 2. God’s being is not multiplied (Isaiah 45:5a);(I Timothy 2:5) 3. God is three persons. The Father, Son and Spirit are eternally distinct (John 15:26 & 17:22);(Galatians 4:6) 4. The Father, Son, and Spirit are recognized as God (John 6:27);(I Peter 1:2); (Titus 2:13); (Hebrews 1:8);(John 1:1); (Acts 5:3-4);(I Corinthians 3:16) 5. The Holy Spirit is a personality (a) He speaks (Acts 28:25) (b) He teaches (John 14:26) (c) He comforts (Acts 9:31) (d) He helps our infirmities (Romans 8:26)(e) He is grieved (Ephesians 4:30) (f) He is resisted (Acts 7:51) 6. The Father, Son and Spirit posses attributes of Deity. GOD

{Father}***************{Son}*******************{Spirit}

Eternal Ps. 90:2...............Rev. 1:8,17...............Heb. 9:14 Omnipresent Jer. 23:24............Eph. 1:23..................Ps. 139:7-10 Omnipotent I Pet. 1:5..............II Cor. 12:9................Rom. 15:19 Holy Rev. 15:4.............Acts 3:14...................Eph. 4:30 Righteous Rev. 16:7.............I Cor. 1:30.................Rom. 8:4 Loving II Cor. 13:14.........I John 3:16................Rom. 15:30

"These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed;..."(Acts 17:11-12) The scripture verses listed, have been taken from the King James Version of the Bible. They pertain to the various bible doctrines we will be looking at. They are by no means the only ones. You are encouraged to look up on your own perhaps as part of your private devotions and through a good concordance the many other verses of scripture pertaining to a particular doctrine.

This material is being reprinted with permission from Bensalem Baptist Church. (Credit)

BE BLESSED THIS WEEK!

[mcemt]

"Ecclesiology" - The Doctrine of the Church

                           The Doctrine Of The Church!

Today we will explore what the Bible has to say about the “Doctrine of The Church”.

We will begin with the definition of the Church. A. The word "church" Ekklacea (grk) ecclesia (English) meaning called out ones has two meanings in the new testament.

1. First it is used in the literal sense to designate the local church. The self-governing assembly of "Born Again" baptized Christians, meeting together for worship, administration of ordinances, instructions, edification, fellowship, discipline and service. (Acts 2:41, 42; 16:4-5) 2. Secondly it is used to designate the Bride of Christ including all born-again members of the body of Christ in heaven and on earth.

B. The Bride of Christ

1. Who are members? **a. All born-again persons since Pentecost. 2. How are they made members? **a. By the Baptism of the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 12:13) 3. The head of the church is Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23) 4. The foundation of the church is Christ (I Corinthians 3:11) 5. The chief corner stone of the church is Christ (Ephesians 2:19-20) 6. We are living stones a spiritual house; a royal priesthood (I Peter 2:5-6, 9) 7. The church belongs to Christ as His body (Colossians 1:24) **a. Purchased with His Blood (Acts 20:28) **b. United as one body through the Holy Spirit(John 17);(Romans 12:5) **c. The church will be sinless in heaven (Ephesians 5:26-27)

C. The Visible Church

1. Organization of the local church **a. Memberships- Professing Baptized, sanctified believers (Acts 2:47);(I Corinthians 1:2) **b. Officers 1. Apostles served in the establishment of the church. No where in the new testament church is the Apostolic office shown to be passed on. (Acts 20:28);(Ephesians 4:11);(Philippians 1:1) 2. Prophets served to communicate God's Truth **a. Until the Bible was completed (Revelation 22:18-19) The prophetic office involved foretelling and forth-telling(proclaiming) **b. After the Bible was completed (Revelation 22:18-19) the prophetic office involves forth-telling(proclaiming) only 3. The Evangelist serve as traveling preachers (Acts 21:8);(II Timothy 4:5) 4. The teachers serve to instruct the church (I Corinthians 12:28-29);(Ephesians 4:11);(I Timothy 2:7) 5. The pastors, bishops, and elders serve to guide, care for and teach the church (Hebrews 13:17); (I Peter 5:1-4) 6. The deacons care for church routine in order to free the Pastor for the ministry of the Word and prayer (Acts 6:1-6) **a. Qualifications of a deacon (I Timothy 3:8-13)

D. Functions of the local church

1. Officers **a. Preach the Word (II Timothy 4:2) **b. Teach members (Ephesians 4:11-16) **c. Evangelize the lost (Matthew 28:19-20);(Acts 1:8) **d. Discipline members (Matthew 18:15-17);(Romans 16:17); (I Corinthians 5:1-5, 11-13);(II Thessalonians 3:6, 14-15) **e. Defend the Word (I Timothy 1:3-4);(II Timothy 1:13); (Titus 1:9-11);(Jude 3) **f. Not to compromise with sin but to oppose it (Ephesians 5:11) **g. To care for those having special needs (Acts 6:1-6);(James 5:14) **h. To administer the ordinances. The Lords Supper and Baptism (Acts 2:41-42) 2. Members (what are their functions?) **a. Exhort on another (Hebrews 10:25) **b. Pray (Acts 2:42)(we see the power of prayer in the twelfth chapter of Acts) **c. To evangelize the lost (Matthew 22:1-14; 28:19-20) **d. To contribute financially (Romans 15:26);(I Corinthians 16:1-2) **e. Fellowship (Acts 2:46) **f. Partake of the ordinances, The Lords Supper and Baptism (Acts 8:12; 20:7)

E. Tests of a true church

1. Does it believe the Bible to be the inspired Word of God? (II Timothy 3:16) 2. Does it accept the Bible as it's only rule of faith and practice? (II Timothy 3:16-17) 3. Does it build up the Saints conforming them to the image of Christ, does it change them? (II Corinthians 3:18; 5:17);(Romans 8:29) 4. Does it edify, does it exhort? (Hebrews 10:22-25) 5. Does it carry out the great commission? (Matthew 28:19-20) **a. Go (as we are going) **b. Teach (give the Gospel) **c. Baptize (disciple) **d. Teach (the whole council of God)

We know that this is the purpose and commission of this church to go out into the highways and hedges and bring them in (Luke 14:23) Christ and His church is a symbol of marriage.(Ephesians 5:22-33) So you see marriage pictures Christ and His church , and as a man and woman commit adultery when they are not faithful to each other, so do we when we do not remain faithful to the Lord. We commit spiritual adultery.

Marriage is an honorable state in that it is symbolic of Christ and His church. We are members of His body, of His Flesh and of His bones. Therefore we are to love one another and to submit ourselves one to the other. (I John 4:7)

"These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed;..."(Acts 17:11-12)

This is what we are doing ...We are searching the Scriptures...

The scripture verses listed, have been taken from the King James Version of the Bible. They pertain to the various bible doctrines we will be looking at. They are by no means the only ones. You are encouraged to look up on your own perhaps as part of your private devotions and through a good concordance the many other verses of scripture pertaining to a particular doctrine.

This material is being reprinted with permission from Bensalem Baptist Church.(Credit)

BE BLESSED THIS WEEK!

[mcemt]

False Doctrine - Know the Word of God for Yourself!

What and Where does the Bible Talk About False Doctrine?

The Bible says that in the Last days there will be a great deception within the Church and the world. The Word of God Says to Let no man deceive you. (II Timothy 3:13)

The Apostle Peter tells us in (II Peter 2:1) that there were false prophets among the people and there were false teachers bringing in heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them. They denied Him(renounced) and brought on themselves swift destruction.

The Apostle Paul talked about false teachers coming into the flock of believers also from within the flock of believers. (Acts 20: 26-31)

Paul once again deals with false teachers and those teaching the doctrines of devils. (I Timothy 4:1)

God hates false doctrine. (Revelation 2:14-15) Balaam taught Balak how to draw Israel away from their position of separation (Numbers 23:9)

False Doctrines are unprofitable and vain. (Titus 3:9) (II Timothy 2:23) (Hebrews 13:9)

False Doctrine should be avoided by Pastors and Preachers. (I Timothy 1:4) (I Timothy 6: 20-21)

False Doctrine should be avoided by Believers (Ephesians 4:14) (Colossians 2:8)

False Doctrine will pervert the Ministry. (II Timothy 4:3-4)

We are to separate from those that cause division and preach another gospel or teach another doctrine. This is a doctrine of Biblical Separation. The believer is to avoid those whose walk and talk are contrary to the Doctrine of the Bible!

● We are to Mark Them! (Romans 16-17)

● They are to be accursed! (Galatians 1:7-9)

● Make a clean break from them. Do not wish them God speed! (II John 9-11)

● Separate from those that are saved that are walking disorderly!(I Corinthians 5:9-11)

● We are not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers! (II Corinthians 6:14)

● We are to come out from among them!(II Corinthians 6:17)

● We are to have no fellowship with them! (Ephesians 5:11)

● Withdraw yourselves from them! (II Thessalonians 3:6)

● Have no company with them that they may be ashamed! (II Thessalonians 3:14)

● We are to turn away from them! (II Timothy 3:5)

● We are to rebuke them sharply! (Titus 1:13)

● We are to reject them! (Titus 3:10) Heretic= “To chose, prefer, or take for oneself” The idea here is choosing to believe what one wants, in spite of what God says.

● We are to try them! (I John 4:1) Every spirit is not of God!

● We are to be aware of False apostles, and deceitful workers! (II Corinthians 11:13-15)

Beware of pastors and preachers teaching false doctrine, perverse disputings, supposing that gain is godliness. From these men we are to withdraw ourselves. (I Timothy 6: 3-5) “This is in reference to those teachers who advocate riches and material gain for their brand of Christianity.”

We are to warn others about these False Teachers. If the teachers are in our church them we should follow the biblical mandate as set out in scripture in (Matthew 18:15-20) to get them to fall back in line with the Word of God. If they don’t, then if need be, we reveal their names. (I Timothy 1:20) (II Timothy 2: 17-18) (II Timothy 4:14-15) (III John 9-10)

Be in remembrance of what Jude says...

“ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” (Jude 3)

[mcemt]

The Armour of God (Saints, Be Prepared!)

Please Note: All of the Scripture references are taken from the                            King James Version of the Holy Bible.

THE ARMOUR THAT DEFEATS SATAN (EPHESIANS 6:10 - 18)

INTRODUCTION:

A. Girdle of truth Eph.6:14 1.We must be aware of the fact that we are in a battle. 2. We cannot pick and choose the pieces of armour that suit us. 3." Put on the WHOLE armour of God..."

THE GIRDLE:

A. Girdle of truth Eph.6:14

1. Satan is a liar. 2. We must defend ourselves with truth. 3. (III John 4) "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the truth." 4. Loins or hips are the pivotal point for action. 5. Spiritual warfare must be motivated by truth. 6. When we have the "attitude of truth" we can defend and understand the reason for spiritual warfare.

THE BREASTPLATE:

B. Breastplate of righteousness Eph.6:14

1. Protect vital organs. 2. (II Cor. 5:21) "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." 3. Satan is the accuser. a. He reminds us of our sins. b. He reminds us of our unworthiness. 4. We must dress in the righteousness of Christ. 5. The difference between "imputed" and "imparted" righteousness. a. Imputed means that the moment we are born again our sin account is blotted out and God sees the righteousness of Christ in its stead. b. Imparted means that as I walk with God I become more like Him. c. (Eph. 4:24) "And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." (Rom. 8:29) "...predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son,..." d. Imputation is my standing with God for eternity. e. Impartation is my experiential walk with Christ on earth.

ARMOUR OF GOD

THE SHOES:

C. Shoes of Peace Eph.6:15 "...Feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace..."

1. The soldier must have sure footing. 2. Our footing is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. a. (I Cor. 15:3-5) This declares that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day! b. (Rom. 5:1-2) This declares that we are justified by faith! 3. (Eph. 6:13) "...having done all to stand." 4. The word "preparation" means "equipment readiness" a. (II Tim. 2:15)- We are to study: Be able to "...rightly dividing the word of truth." b. (I Pet. 3:15)- "...and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you..." 5. Paradoxical as it may seem, the Christian soldier wages peace, not war.

THE SHIELD:

D. Shield of Faith (Eph. 6:16)- "...to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked."

1. "Above all" 2. This piece of equipment is built upon the knowledge of the Word of God. 3. It is a piece that must be exercised. 4. In laying hold of the promises of this Book and can quench the fiery darts of Satan. 5. The fiery dart must be quenched immediately before its poison spreads.

THE HELMET:

E. The Helmet of Salvation

1. (I Thess. 5:8)- "...and for an helmet, the hope of Salvation." 2. The return of the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. (Titus 2:13)- "...Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;..." 4. It is often easy to get discouraged in the Christian life. 5. We need an ultimate hope which is the rapture. 6. (II Tim. 4:8)- (Crown of Righteousness) we get on that day. THE SWORD

F. The Sword of the Spirit (Eph. 6:17)- "...which is the word of God."

1. The only offensive weapon we have been issued. 2. (Heb. 4:12)- "...For the Word of God is quick, and powerful,and sharper than any two-edged sword..."

HOW TO PUT THE ARMOUR ON.

By means of "...all prayer and supplication in the Spirit..."(Eph. 6:18)

1. We pray on each piece. 2. Remember, we must take on the whole armour of God. 3. "Each piece put on with prayer"

TAKE INVENTORY:

1. Have you taken on the whole armour? 2. Have you deliberately purposed to stay battle- ready? 3. Do you daily exercise your shield of faith? 4. Are you looking forward to the coming of the Lord? 5. Do you keep your sword sharp? 6. Do you daily put on each piece with prayer?

Let’s talk about this armour for a minute. First of all, we know that God has given to us this armor so He expects us to put it on. If you have it, you should use it. Why, we read in verse 11, “that ye may be able to stand”. You are to stand your ground and not retreat. What does the scriptures say? “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) And just what are we standing against? The wiles of the devil. The devil’s wiles are attractive and deceptive. He is very cunning. He knows your weakness and will use it against you. Make no mistake about it. The devil is the enemy. He is your enemy. He is the accuser of the brethren.

There is something else you should know. The devil is not alone. He has help. A lot of help. Read verse 12, again. Who does it say we wrestle against? Principalities and against powers and the rulers of the darkness of this world and also against Spiritual wickedness in high places.

I want you to listen to what I am about to tell very carefully. We are not alone here on this planet. This scripture is not talking about the believer fighting a human battle. It is talking about a spiritual war. 

Principalities refer to the high ranking hierarchy of demonic authority, along with Powers. Then you have the Rulers of the darkness of this world which are world rulers in rebellion against God but limited to this world here on earth. Then you also have Spiritual wickedness in high places which involves the invisible wicked spirits in the heavenlies. If you think that this is far fetched, then I suggest that you read the biblical account of a heavenly host that was protecting a Prophet named Elisha.

You will find this biblical account in (II Kings 6: 8- 23).

Now you should ask yourself those questions that I have listed above under “Take Inventory”. If you can't answer yes to them, then you need to make a change in your Christian life and put on, and use the whole armour of God. May God Bless and strengthen each and every one of you in you Christian walk!

{This study is here for your edification.}

My prayer is that you continue on in your personal study of the Word of God.

[mcemt]

The Fear of the Lord! What it is.

Let’s see what the Bible says!

There is a moment in your life when you come to the realization that there is a God. You begin to understand that one day you will have to answer for your time spent here on earth. This is where the Gospel of Jesus Christ comes in. You have to make a choice either to accept the Gospel, repent and ask God to save you through the finished work on the Cross by His Son Jesus the Christ, or you reject this free gift of salvation and turn your back on God.

This in itself tells us that there will exist a Fear of God for those who reject the Gospel, and there is according to scripture an entirely different Fear of the Lord that exists in the life of a believer. It is the Fear of the Lord for the believer that I am going to show you this day.

If you are going to follow the precepts that are laid down in scripture as it pertains to the life of a believer, then there should be a healthy Fear of God in your life. It should be evidenced by your everyday walk with the Lord. I don’t know about you, but I do not want to disappoint my Father in Heaven or my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I strive to be obedient to His Word and so should you!

The fear that is in the unsaved person’s heart is fearing the Wrath of God. In (Psalm 9:17) we read... "The wicked shall be turned into hell" .

We also read a warning to the unbeliever in (Proverbs 16:25) which states... "There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."

The bible says that... "Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things." (Proverbs 28:5) The unsaved man knows that there is a God. He knows that his ways are not God’s ways. He has fooled himself into thinking that there is no God that he will have to answer to. But what do the scriptures say?

We read... "THE fool hath said in his heart, There is no God." (Psalm 14:1).

Jesus spoke a parable about a rich man that had plenty. In this parable the man is considering what he should do. You will notice that there are many "I’s" in this parable. The rich man gave no thought whatsoever to God’s will. This man was self-centered. But what did God say about this? In (Luke 12:16-21) we find this account of the rich man. In (V.20) we read... "But God said unto him, thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee:"

A man may not acknowledge to you or I that there is a Holy God that he has to answer to, but that does not change the fact that one day he will stand before God and give an account of his life. Now that is one type of fear.

The believer on the other hand has already acknowledged his sinful condition and did something about it. But as a believer, we are to have a fear of God that is a healthy fear.

This fear will cause us to be obedient to God’s Word. We will want to walk right before the Lord. We will not want to do anything that will destroy our testimony. We realize that we represent Christ while we are in this world.

Let us see what the scriptures say about this fear of the Lord. We read.. "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man."(Ecclesiastes 12:13)

This Fear of God is a reverential fear. We stand in awe of a Mighty, Righteous and Holy God. We understand our lack of holiness when compared to a Holy God.

From scripture we have this account of the prophet Isaiah. The following was his concept of a Holy God... "IN the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts." (Isaiah 6:1-5)

Isaiah realized that he could not stand before an Almighty God in his present state. He states that in (V.5), "...I am undone;" (Heb.= damah,) means to be dumb or silent, to perish or to be destroyed. He was making a statement of self- condemnation. He was literally saying... "I am speechless... I am dead!" He realized that he was before the King, the Lord of hosts (hamelek Yahweh tseba’oth). This King that he is in the presence of is none other than Jehovah Himself. This term for God describes God in all his majesty! God truly is the Glorious King!

I want to focus for a minute on this Fear of God. Even though Isaiah was not saved at this time, he understood what it was to fear an almighty God. We too understood this fear before we were saved. We knew that we were on our way to hell and an existence spent in eternity absent from the presence of God. We know that we now have this gift of eternal life. This has been settled by God. We no longer worry about going to hell.

But we should be concerned about our standing before a Holy God as believers in Jesus the Christ. The bible says... "According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:" (Ephesians 1:4)

This holiness is how we should be. We are to be separated from the worldliness that is around us. We are to be blameless in our character.

When you are born again, you have the Spirit of God that comes into you to dwell inside of you. We read... "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness." (Romans 8:9-10)

We further see in (Romans 8:12-14) that as believers we are not to live after the flesh! We should exhibit a lifestyle that says we are alive in Christ. In (V.14) we see the conclusion to this matter. If you are led by the Spirit of God, then you are a son of God! This is a defining quality of those who are truly born again.

My question to you is... "Are you being led by the Spirit of God? You might want to examine yourself.

This is were this fear of the Lord comes in. "Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men." (Acts 5:29) Ahh... obedience!

Now we are getting to the heart of the matter. You show your love for God by being obedient to His will for your life. Have you been ignoring God?

Here is something to think about... "Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king." (I Peter 2:17) The apostle Paul says... "HAVING therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." (II Corinthians 7:1)

We need to constantly work on our being holy in the fear of God. Remember that when you got saved, you were set apart from the world. We are living in this world, but we are not part of this world. We became a part of the family of God. We need to acknowledge this and we should act accordingly.

So if we are to live as Christians we should know just how the bible defines the Fear of the Lord!

So we begin... "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of Knowledge:" (Proverbs 1:7) This implies an awe of God as seen in (Job 37: 23-24)

"The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate." (Proverbs 8:13)

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever." (Psalm 111:10) This passage is speaking of an element of godliness within our lives. The proof of our obtaining this wisdom is in our obedience to God. Until a believer learns to fear God, he will not learn anything.

"In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death." (Proverbs 14:26-27) A believer that has learned to fear the LORD has obtained a strong confidence and a place of refuge.

This fear of the LORD is our reverence for the LORD as a son reverence’s his father. You know that your father is providing for you and you will not want to do anything to dishonor him!

"The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil." (Proverbs 19:23) Is it not a wonderful thing in how the LORD watches over us? This verse of scripture can be linked to (Proverbs 14:27)

You will out of the fear of the LORD, not bring any shame to a holy God through your word or deed!

"Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith." (Proverbs 15:16) We can surly see here that the fear of the LORD is a valuable thing to have. It is better to have little wealth than to have great wealth and the trouble that goes along with it.

"The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever:" (Psalm 19:9) To reverence the LORD is to bring about cleanliness in your life. If you fear the LORD, you will strive to walk right before a holy God.

Fear of the LORD will enable us to serve God. "Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling." (Psalm 2:11)

The fear of the LORD will keep us from sinning. "...Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not." (Exodus 20:20) The bible tells us to work out our salvation. We read this in (Philippians 2:12) This phrase, "work out" means to keep on working out, don’t stop working until you obtain the desired results. Remember that you are a servant now of the Most High God. You are working in His service. You are to exhibit the character of being a Christian at all times. We work out our salvation by being obedient to God’s commandments. What we are trying to do is become more Christlike in our daily walk. By our yielding to the Holy Spirit, we can obtain this ultimate goal.

The bible says that we have the mercy of the LORD. "But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him," (Psalm 103:17) It also states that this mercy was from eternity past to eternity future. This mercy is for those that fear Him.

"By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil." (Proverbs 16:6) If you have a fear of the LORD, you will keep yourself from evil ways.

Although there is more spoken of in scripture about the fear of the LORD, we will end on this note...

"The fear of the LORD prolongeth days:" (Proverbs 10:27)

I think that you can figure that one out for yourselves.

Peace and Blessings to you!

[mcemt]

The Coming of Christ!

Are you ready?

Have you been born again according to (Romans 10:9-10)?

Have you believed the Gospel according to God’s Word in (I Corinthians 15:1-4)?

If you have, then have you done what Jesus commanded us (The Believer) to do according to (Matthew 28:19)?

We are to witness to a lost and dying world. We are to tell them about a Saviour that is waiting to save them! Have you done this?

What will you say when you stand before Jesus and have to give an account of the things that you have done since you were saved? You might want to think about that for a minute!

We know from scripture that there is a day coming called the Tribulation Period. We read this in (Matthew 24:21). Right before this period of time we have the second coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (II Thessalonians 2:1) He is coming soon for the Church and the dead in Christ. We read this in (I Thessalonians 4:13-18).

We will as Believers go before the Judgment seat of Christ, (II Corinthians 5:10) were we will be judged for the things that were done in the body after we were born again, (I Corinthians 3:10-15)

We will also receive new bodies which will be incorruptible and immortal as seen in (I Corinthians 15:50-54)

The Bible then declares that at the same time we are at the Judgment Seat, there will be a seven year tribulation period, during which God will send judgement upon the earth. Revelation Chapters (6 to 19) give us the details of God’s wrath upon the earth. After this there will be a great war called the battle of Armageddon. (Revelation 19:17-21)

The next thing to take place in scripture is the One Thousand Year reign of Christ. We read this in (Revelation 20:1-4).

Then after the Thousand Year reign of Christ, there will be one final battle called the Battle of Gog and Magog, (Revelation 20:8). This battle will be over swiftly as God sends fire down out of Heaven to wipe out the nations that come up against Him. We see this in (Revelation 20:7-10).

Now the next thing to happen is the Great White Throne judgment, (Revelation 20:11-15).

Finally we see in scripture a New Heaven and a New Earth where we will dwell with the Lord for all eternity, (Revelation 21:1-6) We shall abide in the New Jerusalem and reign with Christ, (Revelation 21:10- 22:5)

The question is before you again. Are you ready for the return of Jesus Christ?

[mcemt]

Living a Life of Righteousness.

Why is it so important for us to live a life of righteousness?

Let us define righteousness.

     This is the character or quality of being right or just. It is used to denote an attribute of God, as found in (Romans 3:25-26). Righteousness is, holy and upright living in accordance with God’s standard. The word “righteousness” comes from a root word that means “straightness.” We cannot be righteous in the sight of God on our on merit. The Bible says that ... “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags;” (Isaiah 64:6) “As it is written, There is none righteous, no not one:” (Romans 3:10).      We get this righteousness by having it imputed to us, or transferred to us. (Romans 5:8-11) (Philippians 3:9) After we are saved we then can begin to live our lives for Christ with the help of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 8:4-27) The Spirit of God is always working in our lives to better us as Christians. Now that we understand that we cannot on our own become righteous, lets move on.      So, now why is it so important for us to live a life of righteousness...

1.     Because... We were given the free gift of life that was paid for by Jesus Christ! “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us .”  (Romans 5:8) See also (Hebrews 2:9). We were given a great gift. Now we are supposed to do something with our new found life!

*When we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, we become Justified.(Romans 3:28) That means that our sins are forgiven and we have Eternal Life and the righteousness of Jesus Christ is imputed {To attribute or to charge to another} to us the believer by faith.(Romans 3:24-25) If Jesus could die on the cross for you and me, then at the very least we can do is to try to live a life of righteousness.

2.     Because Jesus left for us an example to follow in his footsteps... “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:... ; Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness:” (I Peter 2 : 21;24)     Jesus shows us here an example here of what Christian humility should be. This is an example of how to be a good servant to your master. This shows that you are being righteous in what you do in your daily tasks.

3.     By living a life of righteousness we show an identification of being a believer... (I John 2:29) “If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.”  This talks about a persons conduct that can be characterized as righteous. The world should be able to pick us out of the crowd. They should be able to say that there goes a believer. If you are living a righteous life, people will notice. So will God.

4.     When we live a life of righteousness, we show that we are truly a people of God...  And God will give us ... “whatsoever we ask,” ...  God will bless us as a people and as a church body as long as we walk right and show love for one another! This also shows that we are righteous,(v7). (I John 3: 7-24 )

5.     We are now free to serve the Lord...  (Romans 6:18) “Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.” We now have a job to do for the Lord, what ever He has laid on our hearts and minds to do for the body of Christ.

6.     Because the Spirit of God dwells within us... (Romans 8: 9- 10) “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.” Be aware that your body does not belong to you any longer.

7.     We are Ambassadors for Christ !!!   (II Corinthians 5:20-21)...  “ Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us , who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”   We are to walk worthy of our calling in Christ Jesus. We represent Him! People watch what we do.

8.     We want to be sure that we are not ashamed when Jesus returns...  (IJohn2:28-29) “And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.”

9.      We are Children of the light...  (Ephesians 5:8-10) “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.”  People should look upon us and be able to see the spiritual light in a dark world.

10.    We live a life of righteousness , to be found in Him, Christ Jesus...  (Philippians 3:8-9) “Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:”

11.    So that we may be of use to the Lord... (II Timothy 2: 20-21) “But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.”

12.    To obtain a crown...  (II Timothy4:5-8) This is a reward for staying the course, for doing the work of an evangelist, for keeping the faith, for fighting the good fight. You took a stand on the Word of God. You stood for Bible Doctrine and not the foolishness of the world’s religion’s.

13.    We live this life of righteousness because the works that we do after we are saved will be judged at the Judgement Seat of Christ. (I Corinthians 3:10-16)(II Corinthians 5:10)(Romans 14:10)

14.     We are to be found a good steward as a minister of Christ... (I Corinthians 4:1-2) “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”

15.    Part of being a Christian living a life of righteousness is being obedient to God. The Lord says... (Galatians 5:14) “For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy  neighbour as thyself.” When we obey this law, we obey God, We are being righteous and living a righteous lifestyle. We are setting a good example for others to follow. This is a good reason to live a life of righteousness.

16.    When we show the fruits of the spirit, as listed in (Galatians 5:22-23) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, tempererance: against such there is no law.” (V25), Tells us that it helps us to walk in the spirit. Once we are in Christ (v24) we are to show outwardly an expression of our inward experience.  We do this by showing ourselves to be “...dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:11)

17.    Know that the eyes of God are upon the righteous...so live a life of righteousness... (I Peter 3:12) “For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.” So when you walk righteous, the Lord has His eye on you and His ears open to your prayer request.

Be Blessed today my Brother's and Sister's in Christ.