i know He is able

Search the Scriptures

2011-01-01T00:27:00.004-05:00

May each of us grow closer to Jesus this year.

Do you want to learn more about GOD's Doctrines?

Click GODs Doctrines to visit my new Blog. These Doctrines will build your faith.

Daily devotional reading is also extremely important.

Click here for a link to 5 different reading plans in 50 different versions so you can choose which is best for you.
In the early mornings we should arise and engage in reading through the Bible using the Bible or an Online Bible.

I encourage y0u to study using one of these plans. Our Pastor has a custom of giving us a new plan each year. You will receive an extra blessing if your are able to study the same verses that your friends study each day.

Before you read, ask God to lead you to the blessing(s) He has for you that day. You may want to have a parallel Bible and / or a wide margin journaling Bible close at hand so you can cross reference and make notes.

Let God refresh your mind as to the order of events and where they are found in His Word. That way He can and may also lead you to the specific topics He wants you to study later that day. I believe that the best study is to study God's Word, is by topic or precept, as He has said,
Isa 28:10 - Show Context
For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:
Isa 28:13 - Show Context
But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.

God has inspired me to be prepared for the enemy to work all manner of distractions to prevent the daily study. So I have downloaded the KJV Bible in mp3, so I can listen, while walking my dogs or driving. (There is a link to the web site for these below, I am alble to get the entire Old Test. on one CD and the entire New Test. and musical hymns and more on another CD)

There are also two very good search engines on this page. One at the top allows me to look up any word of phrase or reference and nearly any translation. The one at the bottom of this page will let me look up words in the KJV and do word studies in Strongs Lexicons, allowing me to find the meanings of original text in Greek and/or Hebrew.

The Bible Timelines Online helps me to keep things straight as to historical and chronological order of things.

Below I have several other tools including Bible History too.

Then I am asking others, (you all out there are invited) to share this journey with me. Please feel free to comment as I share what I learn. I hope to hear from you too.

May we be like these Christians:
"And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul's message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to check up on Paul and Silas, to see if they were really teaching the truth. " Acts 17:11

GOD's Church, Worship HIM

2010-11-05T20:58:00.002-04:00

1. HOW only can God be truly worshiped?
"God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." John 4:24.

2. How are we instructed to worship the Lord?
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." Ps. 29:2.

3. What attitude is indicative of reverence in worship?
"O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker." Ps. 95:6.

4. Is singing a part of divine worship?
"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise." "Come before His presence with singing." Ps.100:4,2.

5. Does the Bible approve of the use of musical instruments in the worship of God?
"Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet: praise Him with the psaltery and harp. Praise Him with the timbrel and dance [margin, pipe]: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him upon the high-sounding cymbals." Ps. 150:3-5. See also Ps. 92:1-3.

6. What is promised to those who wait upon the Lord?
"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isa. 40:31.

7. Is Christ's presence limited to large congregations?
"Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them." Matt. 18:20.

8. What were David's feelings concerning public worship?
"I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord." "My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God." "For a day in Thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." Ps. 122:1; 84:2,10.

9. What admonition has Paul given concerning assembling for public worship?
"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Heb. 10:25.

10. Does God take account of the meetings of His people?
"Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord harkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name. And they shall be Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels [margin, special treasure]; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him." Mal. 3:16,17.

11. Is there a blessing in habitual church attendance? "Blessed are they that dwell in Thy house: they will be still [ever and constantly] praising Thee." "One thing have I desired of the Lord, that I will seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple." Ps. 84:4; 27:4.

12. What caution is given regarding behavior in God's house?
"Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil." Eccl. 5:1. See 1 Tim. 3:15.

13. What day has God specially designed for public worship?
"The seventh day is a Sabbath of rest, an holy convocation." Lev. 23:3.

14. How has God commanded us to keep this day?
"Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. . . . In it thou shalt not do any work." Ex. 20:8-10. See Isa. 58:13,14.

15. Are offerings an appropriate part of divine worship?
"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His name: bring an offering, and come into His courts." "Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God: let all that be round about Him bring presents unto Him that ought to be feared." Ps. 96:8; 76:11.

16. Will there be public worship in the new creation?
"As the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before Me, saith the Lord, so shall your seed and your name remain. And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before Me, saith the Lord." Isa. 66:22,23.

ESTABLISH GOOD HABITS ON GOING TO CHURCH

1. Go early to church. Not only be punctual, but be in your place before the hour announced for the service to begin.
2. Go in a reverent spirit. On the way remember whither you go. Avoid lightness of manner and conversation on worldly topics.
3. Before you enter and as you enter the church breathe a silent prayer of invocation for the influence of the Holy Spirit.
4. As you take your place, bow your head reverently in prayer for yourself and for all others who enter the sanctuary.
5. Resolve that you will foster no thought, fix your eyes on no object, utter no word, that will tend to divert your mind from the holy purpose for which you have come into this place.
6. As the minister enters the pulpit, offer an earnest silent prayer in his behalf.
7. In all the service take an active part, as hearer, as worshiper.
8. At the close of the service, after a moment of prayerful silence, greet with cheerfulness and good will all whom you happen to meet, remembering that Christian fellowship is a part of Christian worship.

NOTE.-An excellent suggestion is contained in the notice posted at the doorway of many churches: "Whosoever thou art that entereth this church, remember it is the house of God. Be reverent, be silent, be thoughtful. And leave it not without a prayer to God, for thyself, for him who ministers, and for those who worship here."

GOD's Church, The Body of Christ

2010-10-29T01:14:00.000-04:00

Have you ever sat in church and felt like the minister giving the sermon was preaching straight at you? I have.

I think it is a good thing that we pray that GOD give us HIS special blessing during the Church Service. In that way each of us may feel that the message was created just for us. The Holy Spirit can do that with His Word and our hearts.

This past Sabbath, I felt like the entire service was just what I needed, including the Sabbath School discussion, the childrens story, the call for the offering, and....(well there wasn't the usual sermon, but instead a musical program) that fed my soul. No wonder GOD inspired these words to be written:

Hebrews 10:25
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Romans 12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
1 Corinthians 10:17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
1 Corinthians 12:12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

The Church, the body of Christ.

Ephesians 1:23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Colossians 1:24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

Christ is the foundation-stone of the Church.

1 Corinthians 3:11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
1 Peter 2:4-5 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ is the head of the Church.

Ephesians 1:22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
Ephesians 5:23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.

The Church is loved by Christ, so much that He gave His life for us.

Song of Solomon 7:10 I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me.
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

The Church is purchased by the blood of Jesus Christ.

Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
Hebrews 9:12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

His Church is sanctified and cleansed by Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Ephesians 5:26-27 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

The Church should be subject to Christ.

Romans 7:4 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.
Ephesians 5:24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

The Saints are baptized into His Church, by one Spirit.

1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

Ministers are commanded to feed the Church.

Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

The Church is edified by the Word.

1 Corinthians 14:4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
1 Corinthians 14:13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.

The Church belongs to GOD.

1 Timothy 3:15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

Isaiah 27:3 I the LORD do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day.
2 Corinthians 8:1 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

Ephesians 3:10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

The Church Shews forth the praises of GOD.

Isaiah 60:6 The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD.

The Bible says that God defends His Church.

Psalms 89:18 For the LORD is our defence; and the Holy One of Israel is our king.
Isaiah 4:5 And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence.
Isaiah 49:25 But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children.
Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

God provides ministers for the Church.

Jeremiah 3:15 And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.
Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

Glory to be ascribed to God by the Church.

Ephesians 3:21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

1 Peter 5:13 The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son.

Psalms 45:13 The king's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold.
Ephesians 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

Revelation 19:8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

Believers continually added to the Church, by the Lord.

Acts 2:27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Acts 5:14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)
Acts 11:24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

Still, the wicked persecute GOD's Church.

Acts 8:1-3 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.
1 Thessalonians 2:14-15 For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews: Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men:

But, even so the Church is not to be despised.

1 Corinthians 11:22 What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not.

Any defiling of GOD's Church, will be punished.

1 Corinthians 3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

Isaiah 2:2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
Ezekiel 17:22-24 Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also take of the highest branch of the high cedar, and will set it; I will crop off from the top of his young twigs a tender one, and will plant it upon an high mountain and eminent: In the mountain of the height of Israel will I plant it: and it shall bring forth boughs, and bear fruit, and be a goodly cedar: and under it shall dwell all fowl of every wing; in the shadow of the branches thereof shall they dwell. And all the trees of the field shall know that I the LORD have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the LORD have spoken and have done it.

Daniel 2:34-35 Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces. Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth.

Jesus Overcame Temptation by His Father's Power, The Same Power is Available to US

2010-10-22T05:43:00.000-04:00

What general promise is given to the overcomer?
"He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son." Rev. 21:7.

What is it to overcome?
To vanquish, to conquer, to be victorious. - Webster.

What must be overcome to realize the promises to the overcomer?
"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil." Rom. 12:21. "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world." 1 John 5:4.

What is meant by overcoming the world?
"Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin." 1 John 3:9.

What, then, must we exercise in order to claim the promise of inheriting all things?
"But godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." 1 Tim. 4:8.

Who alone can overcome?
"Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?" 1 John 5:5.

By what means are we enabled to overcome?
"This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." 1 John 5:4. "And they overcame him [Satan, the originator and disseminator of sin, verse 9] by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony." Rev. 12:11.

Who gives us strength to overcome? and through whom is it bestowed?
"But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 15:57. "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.

What is one important purpose of the promises given in the Bible?
"Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." 2 Peter 1:4.

What is one of the greatest promises given to the overcomer?
"And this is the promise that He hath promised us, even eternal life." 1 John 2:25.

Here are just some of the precious things promised to the overcomer.

(1) He shall eat of the tree of life. Rev. 2:7.

(2) He "shall not be hurt of the second death." Rev. 2:11.

(3) He shall eat of the hidden manna, and receive a white stone, and "in the stone a new name written which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it." Rev. 2:17.

(4) He shall have power over the nations. Rev. 2:26.

(5) He shall be clothed in white raiment; and his name shall not be blotted out of the book of life, but shall be confessed before the Father and the angels. Rev. 3:5.

(6) He shall be a pillar in the temple of God forever, and Christ will write upon him God's name, and the name of the New Jerusalem, and his own new name. Rev. 3:12.

(7) He shall sit with Christ on His throne. Rev. 3:21.

(8) He "shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him." James 1:12.

Have any of those who in the past have sought to receive the promises, as yet come into their possession?
"And these all [those enumerated in Heb. 11] , having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise." Heb. 11:39.

When will these precious promises be realized?
"Ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and He that shall come, will come, and will not tarry." Heb. 10:36, 37.

What manner of persons ought we to be, as we see the time approaching when the promises are to be realized?
"Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless." 2 Peter 3:14.

What will be the condition of those who realize the promises?
"After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen." Revelation 7:9-12.

I just have to share this great sermon,

by this servant of the LORD

______________________
Jesus died to save his people from their sins, and redemption in Christ means to cease the transgression of the law of God, and to be free from every sin; no heart that is stirred with enmity against the law of God, is in harmony with Christ, who suffered on Calvary, to vindicate and exalt the law before the universe.

Those who make bold assumptions of holiness give proof in this that they do not see themselves in the light of the law; they are not spiritually enlightened, and they do not loathe every species of selfishness and pride. From their sin-stained lips fall the contradictory utterances: "I am holy, I am sinless. Jesus teaches me that if I keep the law I am fallen from grace. The law is a yoke of bondage." The Lord says, "Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." We should study the word of God carefully, that we may come to right decisions, and act accordingly; for then we shall obey the word and be in harmony with God's holy law.

NOT SAVED BY LAW NOR IN DISOBEDIENCE

While we are to be in harmony with God's law, we are not saved by the works of the law, yet we cannot be saved without obedience. The law is the standard by which character is measured. But we cannot possibly keep the commandments of God without the regenerating grace of Christ. Jesus alone can cleanse us from all sin. He does not save us by law, neither will he save us in disobedience to law.

Our love to Christ will be in proportion to the depth of our conviction of sin, and by the law is the knowledge of sin. But as we see ourselves, let us look away to Jesus, who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity. By faith take hold of the merits of Christ, and the soul cleansing blood will be applied. The more clearly we see the evils and perils to which we have been exposed, the more grateful shall we be for deliverance through Christ. The gospel of Christ does not give men license to break the law; for it was through transgression that the flood-gates of woe were opened upon our world. To-day sin is the same malignant thing that it was in the time of Adam. The gospel does not promise the favor of God to anyone who in impenitence breaks his law. The depravity of the human heart, the guilt of transgression, the ruin of sin, are all made plain by the cross where Christ has made for us a way of escape.

A DOCTRINE FULL OF DECEPTION

Self-righteousness is the danger of this age; it separates the soul from Christ. Those who trust to their own righteousness cannot understand how salvation comes through Christ. They call sin righteousness, and righteousness sin. They have no appreciation of the evil of transgression, no understanding of the terror of the law; for they do not respect God's moral standard. The reason there are so many spurious conversions in these days, is that there is so low an appreciation of the law of God. Instead of God's standard of righteousness, men have erected a standard of their own by which to measure character. They see through a glass darkly, and present false ideas of sanctification to the people, thus encouraging egotism, pride, and self-righteousness.

The doctrine of sanctification advocated by many is full of deception, because it is flattering to the natural heart; but the kindest thing that can be preached to the sinner is the truth of the binding claims of the law of God. Faith and works must go hand in hand; for faith without works is dead, being alone.

THE TEST OF DOCTRINE

The prophet declares a truth by which we may test all doctrine. He says, "To the law and to the testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." (Is.8:20) Although error abounds in the world, there is no reason why men need remain in deception. The truth is plain, and when it is contrasted with error, its character may be discerned. All the subjects of God's grace may understand what is required of them. By faith we may conform our lives to the standard of righteousness, because we can appropriate to ourselves the righteousness of Christ.

In the word of God the honest seeker for truth will find the rule for genuine sanctification. The apostle says: "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. . . . For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally-minded is death; but to be spiritually-minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you." (Romans 8:1-9)

IN THE LIGHT OF THE CROSS

Only in the light shining from the cross of Calvary can we estimate the value that God places upon man. He says, "I will make a man more precious than fine gold, even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir." Man can be thus elevated through the merits of Jesus. How few look at religion in its true light. Many have it confused with traditions and ceremonies. The religion of Christ will convert men, and separate them from the world; but it does not take them out of the world, for God has said, "Ye are the light of the world." Our work is to reflect light in good works to those who know not God. God has given us a cross to bear, but under no circumstances does he want us to manufacture tests and crosses for ourselves. Jesus says: "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Why is it that so many wear a sad countenance, that so many complain of the cross and of the hardness of the way that leads to heaven? It is because they are yoked up with the world, and not with Christ. They do the very things that Christ has told them not to do. They place their affections upon the things of earth; but Christ says: "Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

We are to make God the supreme object of our affection. There are many who are seeking to serve God and mammon at the same time; but if they continue in this course, they will lose both worlds. Everyone that truly submits to the yoke of Christ will say that his yoke is easy; all who bear his burdens will say that they are light. The religion of Christ never degrades the receiver. When the truth of God takes possession of the mind and soul, it purifies, refines, and ennobles the character.

THE TRUE MEANING OF REPENTANCE

Christ Gives Repentance
(Signs of Times 1890 August EGW)

"Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick of his place, except thou repent." (Rev. 2:5)

Many think that repentance is a work which wholly devolves upon man as a preparation to come to Christ, his mediator; but this is an error and deception. Repentance must precede forgiveness, but the sinner does not repent until he has faith in Christ as his mediator. The Bible does not teach that man must repent before he comes to Christ. Our Saviour has been lifted up upon the cross of Calvary, and the love of Christ shining from the cross speaks constantly to the sinner of the sufferings of Jesus for fallen man. His love for the fallen race constantly draws sinners to him. The transgressor may resist this love, may refuse to be drawn to Christ; but if he does not resist, he will be drawn to Jesus, and a knowledge of the plan of salvation will lead him to the foot of the cross in repentance for his sins, which have caused the sufferings of God's dear Son.

Could sinful man repent of his sins in his own strength, there would be no more virtue in that repentance than in the offering made by Cain. Christ is the author and finisher of our faith. If it were possible for man to repent of himself, the virtue of the atoning sacrifice would be in vain. But this is not possible. As Peter bore his testimony before the high priest and the Sadducees, he spoke by the power of God in reference to Christ, and said, "Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins." (Acts 5:31)

Repentance comes from Christ just as much as does pardon for transgression. That repentance is a work which man must do without any special help from Christ, is a false theory. The sinner cannot take the first step in repentance, without the help of Christ. He cannot keep the moral law unless Christ imputes to him his righteousness. The grace that works contrition and repentance, as well as the forgiveness of sins, is the grace of Christ. If one step could be taken without Christ, every step in the way of salvation might be taken without him. It is true that great reformations in outward conduct are often made where there is no expressed faith in Christ; many have not even a knowledge of Jesus; but it is a divine influence that makes man capable of any change, and leads him to reformation.

This reformation is the result of a blind faith, and the one who changes the habits of his life without an intelligent faith in Jesus, worships he knows not what, but he worships that which leads him to respect his own manhood; and as he takes steps toward the light, increased light will shine upon him, that he may see the sinfulness of sin, and be led to recognize the fact that God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

The repentance required of those who seek God is that repentance that needs not to be repented of,-a repentance manifested in a radical change of mind and heart. The heart must be brought in subjection to Christ, and a repentance that works such a result can never be brought about by man; it can only proceed from Christ, who has ascended on high, and has imparted gifts unto men.

Christ said, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." (John 12:32) When the heart and mind submit to the drawing power of Christ, the love of Jesus will lead the sinner to repentance, and as he earnestly seeks help from God, power from on high will be given him. The Saviour says, "Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me." (Is. 27:5) We are to watch unto prayer, and our earnest efforts to overcome evil in our character, will make manifest the sincerity of our prayers. We are to look into the royal mirror, the law of God, that we may understand our moral standing, and detect the imperfections of our character; then we are to appropriate the righteousness of Christ, that we may keep the law of God.

As we realize the worthlessness of our own righteousness, as we feel our dependence upon Christ, we fall upon the Rock and are broken, and then Jesus molds and fashions our characters after his own divine character. Let us all bear in mind that those whom God pardons are first made penitent. Some will say that we leave man with nothing to do, with no task to take up in the struggle. This is not so; all the powers with which God has endowed man must be employed in order that we may do the will of God.

Man can never be saved in indolence. Christ has said, "My Father works hitherto, and I work;" (John 5:17 and man, for whom Christ has given his life, is designated as a co-laborer with him. No one can be saved in idleness and slothfulness. We must watch and pray lest we enter into temptation. We must keep down pride, self-esteem, envy, jealousy, evil-surmising, evil-speaking, and refrain from evil-doing. We must wrestle with infirmities, with human passions; we must keep the perfect Pattern before us; we must search the Scriptures for their hidden treasures of truth. We should be diligent to dig in the mines of truth for new and precious gems; we should bring forth from the treasure-house of God's word things new and old.

Those who are indeed followers of Christ must leave the ninety and nine and go into the wilderness to hunt for the lost sheep that has strayed from the fold. He who loves Jesus must seek to convert sinners from the error of their way, must seek to save souls for whom Christ has died, and hide a multitude of sins. To every man the Master has given his work; and in order to do this work acceptably, he must gather every ray of light God sends, and reflect it upon others. He must abase self and exalt Jesus, realizing more and more his own unworthiness and the worthiness of Christ. Through an experimental knowledge of the way of life, he must be able to lead the sinner to repentance, faith, and obedience. He must cast down the idea that has prevailed, that repentance is to spring from ourselves, and that then we are to come to Christ; this is a false theory, a deception fatal to the soul.

There are many who conclude that they are saved, simply because they have good impressions; but this is not enough. The entire affection must be renovated. Every individual must learn by experimental knowledge where lies his true strength. No one can leave his first love without a forfeiture of the Christian character. The Church must come up out of the wilderness, leaning upon the arm of her Beloved. When each member of the church can say, "I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me," (Romans 2:20) then Christ, the hope of glory, will be revealed in his people.

Faith is the gift of God, and "without faith it is impossible to please him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." (Hebrews 11:6) Those who feel that they are sinful and poor and wretched, are the very ones to whom the invitation of mercy is extended; they may ask and receive. Jesus says, "I came not to call the righteous,"-those who are clothed with the garments of their own righteousness,-"but sinners to repentance." (Mark 2:17) Those who are rich and honorable in their own eyes cannot hunger and thirst after righteousness, therefore they cannot ask in faith and receive the blessing of God; for they feel no need. They are full, therefore they must go away empty. We must not think for a moment that we can do anything to merit the blessing of God. It is by faith alone that we can claim his promise; by faith alone we can say, "I receive the things I ask for of thee; for thy word is sure, it cannot fail."

How precious to the believer are the rich promises of God! Jesus himself endured the penalty of the law in his own body upon the accursed tree, that he might make it possible for all the human family to keep the commandments of God. Without the merits of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour, fallen man could never meet the claims of the law, God could not sustain his holiness and justice, and justify the sinner; but how glorious is the truth of the atonement! what a firm foundation have the saints of the most high God upon which to rest their salvation! Not one of the promises can fail; the condemned sinner may be purified and made white through the righteousness of Christ.

Those who love Jesus will love the law of God, because it is a transcript of his character. Through the merit of Christ the transgressor is freed from the charges the law held against him. The world's Redeemer has carried the burden of guilt and woe that rested upon the sinner, and he is able to strengthen him for the conflicts he will meet day by day in his pathway to heaven. Why should not the Christian rejoice always? By faith the followers of Christ may view the eternal glory of their Redeemer. The thought that we are privileged to commit the keeping of our souls to God as unto a faithful Creator, is a most precious thought; for he says that those who love him shall be his when his jewels are made up. Oh, what love God has manifested for his church, that he has purchased with his own precious blood!

From the beginning of my labor with pen and voice, my greatest fear has been that I should make altogether too feeble efforts in seeking to set forth Christ crucified among you. I have never feared that I should place the subject before you in too strong a light. Every line my pen has traced, has been unsatisfactory because of the feebleness of my language to unfold the wonderful theme of redemption. My expressions have fallen far below the magnitude of the subject. The pen of man, the tongue of an angel, can never adequately describe the love of God as manifested in Christ. We see through a glass darkly; we have but dim and imperfect glimpses of him who is the expression of his Father's glory. Oh, that every worker in the cause of God might have a practical experience in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Oh, that every ambassador of Christ might raise his hands, as did John, and say to the people, not with lips only, but with heart and soul, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world!"

Jesus Christ's Intercession For Us

2010-02-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

Every time I study these scriptures, I think, "I remember that!" but then I wonder why sometimes I don't act like I know these things. May God bless us and make us His blessing as we read an apply His word.

Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Luke 22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

John 17:9 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.
John 17:15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
John 17:20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

1 Samuel 12:23 Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:

Job 42:10 And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.

Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Philippians 1:9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;

1 John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

2 Peter 3:9 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

Hosea 14:4 I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.

Isaiah 49:25 But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children.

Thank you Lord.

As Jesus Lived ... so should we

2010-02-20T17:45:00.000-05:00

How alone should the Christian walk?
"He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." 1 John 2:6. (See Colossians 2:6.)

What mind should be in us?
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:" Philippians 2:5.

While yet but a child, what example of obedience to parents did He present to us?
"And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart." Luke 2:51.

How are His childhood and youth described?
"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man." Luke 2:52.

What example did He give us in regard to baptism?
"Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him." Matthew 3:13-15.

How important was prayer in His life?
"And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God." Luke 6:12.
"And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray." Luke 9:28.

To what kind of work did Jesus dedicate His life?
"How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him." Acts 10:38.

What was it that caused Jesus to leave the riches of heaven and come down and live here on earth?
"For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich." 2 Corinthians 8:9.

When misunderstood, reviled, and mistreated, what did He do?
"Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:" 1 Peter 2:23.

How did He pray for those who crucified Him?
"Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots." Luke 23:34. (See Acts 3:17.)

What did the Bible predict His life would be like?
"Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows." Hebrews 1:9.

How powerfully can Jesus bring us salvation?
"Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save." Isaiah 63:1.

What was Christ's purpose in coming to this world?
"For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." Luke 19:10.

Through what was Christ made a complete and perfect Saviour?
"For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings." Hebrews 2:10.

As a result of His suffering and temptation, what is Christ able to do?
"For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted." Hebrews 2:18.

How complete a Saviour is He?
"Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25.

From what is He able to keep us?
"Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy. To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and for ever. Amen." Jude 1:24,25.

What does Jesus, our Pattern, Helper, and Friend, call those who accept Him?
"Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you." John 15:15.

What kind of friend is He?
"A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24.

What is the evidence of a genuine friend?
"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17.

Messiah's Mansion

2009-09-21T09:14:00.004-04:00

Messiah’s Mansion is a life-sized replica of the Mosaic Sanctuary that God gave instructions to
Moses to build in the wilderness. Oklahoma Academy will be bringing this exhibit to the grounds
behind the Myrtle Beach Seventh-day Adventist Church. Their team will be here for two weeks with free public tours beginning 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm October 3 -11. VIP tours are scheduled for Community leaders on October 2.

Plan now to attend and invite as many people as you can!
Based on the interest at other exhibitions, we expect that 3,000-5,000 visitors will tour during the days it will be open to the public. This is an incredible outreach opportunity for all area churches to reach those who are interested in the Sanctuary and its message of salvation.
For more information, visit http://www.mbsanctuary.com/

PROJECT SCHEDULE
Sept 26 (Sabbath) Hand out Flyers to our neighbors
Sept 27 (Sunday) - Messiah’s Mansion Construction

Oct. 2 – VIP Clergy Tour & Volunteer Tours Messiah’s Mansion
Oct.3- Oct 11 - Messiah’s Mansion Daily Public Tours 1pm-7pm
Oct 12 - Messiah’s Mansion Break-down De-construction

Exhibit Location:
Grounds behind the Myrtle Beach SDA Church

Exodus 25:1[ Offerings for the Tabernacle ] The LORD said to Moses,Exodus 25:1-3 (in Context)
Exodus 25 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 25:9Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you.

Exodus 25:8-10 (in Context) Exodus 25 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 26:1[ The Tabernacle ] "Make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim worked into them by a skilled craftsman.

Exodus 26:1-3 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 26:6Then make fifty gold clasps and use them to fasten the curtains together so that the tabernacle is a unit.Exodus 26:5-7 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 26:7"Make curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven altogether.Exodus 26:6-8 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 26:12As for the additional length of the tent curtains, the half curtain that is left over is to hang down at the rear of the tabernacle.Exodus 26:11-13 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 26:13The tent curtains will be a cubit longer on both sides; what is left will hang over the sides of the tabernacle so as to cover it.Exodus 26:12-14 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)
Exodus 26:15"Make upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle.Exodus 26:14-16 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 26:17with two projections set parallel to each other. Make all the frames of the tabernacle in this way.Exodus 26:16-18 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)

Exodus 26:18Make twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacleExodus 26:17-19 (in Context) Exodus 26 (Whole Chapter)

More results from New International Version

Jesus Christ Through All the Bible

2009-09-05T19:39:00.004-04:00

Messiah's Mansion is a full scale replica of the "Sanctuary" or "Tabernacle in the Wilderness". (Coming to Myrtle Beach SC on October 3-11, 2009 , Tours 1:00 to 7:00pm)
Ex 25:8 - Show Context "And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them. "
Christian young people are tour leaders that teach how Christ and the plan of salvation are throughout the entire Bible.

Of whom does Christ Himself tell us that the Scriptures speak about?
"Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me." John 5:39.
NOTE: "Search the Old Testament Scriptures: for they are they that testify of Christ. To find Him in them is the true and legitimate end of their study. To be able to interpret them as He interpreted them is the best result of all Biblical learning." --Dean Alford.

About whom did Moses and the Old Testament prophets write?
"Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." John 1:45.

Who revealed beforehand the death and resurrection of Christ?
"Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?" Luke 24:25,26.

Does all of Scripture tell us about Jesus?
"And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself." Luke 24:27.

Where in the Bible is the first promise of the Redeemer?
"And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Genesis 3:14, 15.

In what words was this great truth explained to Abraham?
"And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice." Genesis 22:18. (See also Genesis 26:4; 28:14.)

To whom did this promised seed refer?
"Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ." Galatians 3:16.

Whom did God promise would especially guide Israel to the Promised Land?
"Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared." Exodus 23:20.

Who was the Rock that went with them?
"And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ." 1 Corinthians 10:4.

Where was the promised Saviour to be born?
"But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth unto Me that is to be Ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." Micah 5:2.

In what Old Testament prophecy are the life, suffering, and death of Christ foretold?
See the fifty-third chapter of Isaiah.

Which passage of Scripture foretold the price of Christ's betrayal?
"And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver." Zechariah 11:12. (See Matthew 26:15.)

Christ's dying words were written a thousand years before His death. Where are they found?
"...My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?" Psalms 22:1. (See Matthew 27:46.)
"Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth." Psalms 31:5. (See Luke 23:46.)

In what passage do the Psalms also foretell Christ's resurrection?
"For Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell; neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption." Psalm 16:10. (See Acts 2:25-31.)

What words does Daniel use to describe Christ's receiving of His kingdom?
"I saw in the night visions, and behold, One like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed." Daniel 7:13, 14. (See also Luke 1:32, 33; 19:11, 12; Revelation 11:15.)

How does the book of Psalms describe Christ's Second Advent?
"Let the floods clap their hands: let the hills be joyful together before the LORD; for he cometh to judge the earth: with righteousness shall he judge the world, and the people with equity." Psalm 98:8, 9. "Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people." Psalms 50:3, 4.

Over the nest few weeks we will search the Scriptures for a better understanding of how Jesus Christ is revealed in this Sanctuary service.

2009-05-23T20:11:00.002-04:00

Think about this: In what way has God dealt with penitent sinners?

“He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.” Psalms 103:10.

Do you know why God dealt with men in this way?

“For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.” Psalms 103:11.

Is God ready to do this for all who call upon Him?

“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” Psalms 86:5.

Consider this: When Abraham asked God to spare Sodom if He should find ten righteous persons therein, what did the Lord say?

“And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten’s sake.” Genesis 18:32.

Consider also ... What prayer did Moses offer in behalf of Israel?

“Pardon, I beseech thee, the iniquity of this people according unto the greatness of thy mercy, and as thou hast forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now.” Numbers 14:19.

and...What reply did the Lord immediately make?

“And the LORD said, I have pardoned according to thy word.” Numbers 14:20.

When David confessed his great sin, what did God do for him?

“I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.” Psalms 32:5.

Does the lord forgive sins when they are confessed to Him?

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

How full is the Lord’s forgiveness, when one fulfills the conditions?

“Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:7.

In what special manner has God shown His willingness to forgive the sinner?

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

What does this wonderful manifestation on the part of God, vouchsafe to us?

“He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32.

Why has such full provision been made?

“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.

When the prodigal son, in the parable, repented and turned toward home, what did his father do?

“And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” Luke 15:20.

Upon the son’s asking to be made only a hired servant, what order was issued in behalf of the penitent one?

“But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.” Luke 15:22-24.

Is God willing to do for His children as earthly parents are for theirs?“

If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” Luke 11:13.

How many receive forgiveness from God?“

For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:8.

Does the Lord forget the cries of those who call upon Him?

“Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.” Isaiah 49:15.

The Testimony of JESUS is the Spirit of Prophecy

2009-01-23T22:02:00.001-05:00

l. Return of Elijah

A. What is said concerning Elijah?Mal. 4:5, 6

He will return.

B. What did Jesus say about John the Baptist?Matt. 17:10-13

He was the Elijah which was to come.

C. In what way was John the Baptist the Elijah?Luke 1:17

He was to come in the same spirit and power of Elijah and with amessage similar to Elijah's.

D. What did John say about himself when asked about his identity?John 1:19-23

He denied that he was Elijah. John was trying to turn theirattention to his message ratherthan to himself. It mattered little who he was.

E. How did Jesus express this same truth?Matt. 11:10 ,14

'If you will receive it (the message), this is the Elijah which wasto come.'

II. Apostasy of Ancient Israel

A. Through Ahab's marriage to Jezebel whatconditions did he bring abut in Israel?1 Kings 16:30-33

He led all Israel into idolatry. They were in a state of confusion,trying to worship the Godof heaven and also to follow the teachings of the prophets of Baal.

B.What drastic action did God take to bring them back to Him?1 Kings 17:1

He withheld the rain for three and one half years.James 5:17, 18During this time God protected Elijah from his enemies.

C. At the end of the three-and-one-half-year period whatcommand was given to Elijah?1 Kings 18:1

To go to Ahab.Verses 17, 18

III. Elijah Message

A.What was Elijah's message to the people?Verse 21

If God is the true God, then follow Him, but if Baal, then followhim, but not to try to follow both. When Jesus was on earth the sameproblem existed. The people were trying to follow the traditions of menand also the Scriptures. Jesus always pointed them to the scriptures.Today we have a similar problem in the religious world. We still have thetraditions of our fathers and many, many theories of men that are beingtaught in the churches. At the same time, they still preachfrom the Bible. The Roman Catholic church claims she is the onlyauthority for truth. The Elijah message applies with equal force today:If the Bible is the Word of God, then follow it; but if the Roman Catholicchurch is the authority, then follow her, but don't try to follow both atthe same time. This has brought about the condition in the religiousworld called Babylon' which means confusion.

IV. Church Likened to the Human Body

A.To what does God liken His church in1 Corinthians 12:1 ;12

To the human body with all its members. The gifts in the church arecomparable to the various members of the body.

V. Gifts in the Church

A.Why have these gifts been placed in the church?1 Cor. 12:18 ,25

That there should be no divisions in the church.

B. Name some of the gifts.1 Cor. 12:28 andEphesians 4:11

C.When all of these gifts are in the church and working together harmoniously, what kind of a church will it be? Eph. 4:12-16 NIV

They will perfect and edify the church and also keep out any false doctrines. When all the members and organs of the human body are functioning properly, we have health.' So it is with the church. With all the gifts in the church and functioning properly, we will have a healthy,growing church.

VI. Gift of Prophecy

A. In olden times what was a prophet called?1 Sam. 9:9

A seer. He was the eyes for the church and guided it. When oneloses his sight he stumbles around in darkness. While God's people wereobedient to Him there was a prophet in the church, but when they strayedaway from His commandments, He withdrew the prophet from their midst.See Lam. 2:9 ;Prov. 29:18

The gift of prophecy was in the church during Apostolic times, butlater when the church apostatized there were no longer any prophets thatwe have a record of. During the 1260 year period, when the Papacy ruledthe world, the little church walked almost in total darkness. TheScriptures were precious in those days and were copied by hand.

B. Will the church, which will be waiting for Christ tocome, have all these gifts?1 Cor. 1:6, 7 ,10

It will come behind in no gift. It will also be a united church--notin uniformity, but in unity.Rev. 12:17

VII. Identification of the Remnant Church

A.How is the remnant church identified?Rev. 19:10 ;Rev. 22:9

The gift of prophecy.

VIII. Women Prophetesses

A. Did God give this gift only to men?

Ex. 15:20 ;Judges 4:4 ;2 Kings 22:14 Luke 2:36 ;Acts 21:8, 9

No. There were also women prophetesses.

IX. Warning Against False Prophets

A. What warning has been given us concerning false prophets?1 John 4:1;Matt. 24:24

There will be false prophets who will perform miracles so great thatthey will deceive, if possible, the very elect of God.

B. What are the marks of a true prophet?

1. True prophets will be genuine Christians.Matt. 7:15 ,20 ;Gal. 5:22, 23

2. They will teach according to the Scriptures. We are to provethem on this point.1 Thess. 5:19, 21 ;Isa. 8:20

3. No matter if they can perform miracles and yet are teachingcontrary to the scriptures,believe them not, though their predictions even come true.Deut. 13:1-4

4. Their predictions should come true.Deut. 18:22

5. A prophet is unconscious of his surrounding while in vision. Theones in his presence donot see what he is seeing or hear what he is hearing.Dan. 10:7

6. A prophet does not breath while in vision.Dan. 10:17 last part

7.His eyes remain open at times.Num. 24:4

X. Function of Prophets

A. How does God speak to His people?Num. 12:6 ;Amos 3:7

He revealeth Himself and His secrets to His people through the prophets.

B. Why are prophets sent to us?2 Chron. 24:19

To bring us back to God and to His Word.

C. How did God bring His people out of Egypt?Hosea 12:13

By a prophet. Has there ever been a time in the history of thechurch when a prophet was more needed than today with all the confusion there is in the religious world?

XI. All the Gifts Needed in the Church

A. What is the only thing that will bring true prosperityinto the church?2 Chron. 20:20last part.

Believe in the Lord our God and also His prophets. (Perfect vision is20/20 vision.) The church that has this gift will have perfect visionwhich will enable her to see through the darknessof these last days and find her way to the kingdom.

Outpouring of the Holy Spirit

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1. FOR what did Christ, just before His ascension, tell His disciples to wait?
"And, behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high." Luke 24:49.

2. With what did He say they would be baptized?
"Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." Acts 1:5.

NOTE.-John the Baptist had foretold this baptism. He said: "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire." Matt. 3:11.

3. For what work was this baptism to prepare them?
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." Acts 1:8.

4. What were some of the results of the preaching of the gospel under the outpouring of the Spirit?
"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said . . . Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. . . . Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." Acts 2:37-41.

"And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; . . . and believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women." Acts 5:12-14.

"And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith." Acts 6:7.

5. How did persecution affect the preaching of the gospel?
"And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. . . . Therefore they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word." Acts 8:1-4.

NOTE.-"Persecution has only had a tendency to extend and establish the faith which it was designed to destroy. . . . There is no lesson which men have been so slow to learn as that to oppose and persecute men is the very way to confirm them in their opinions, and to spread their doctrines."-Dr. Albert Barnes, on Acts 4:4.

6. What words of Peter seem to indicate another outpouring of the Spirit?
"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord." Acts 3:19.

7. What event does he speak of as immediately following these times of refreshing?
"And He shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom the heaven must receive [Syriac, retain] until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began." Verses 20,21.

NOTE.-From this it seems evident that we may look for another outpouring of the Spirit for a final proclamation of the gospel to all the world just before Christ's second advent and the restitution of all things.

8. What prophecy was fulfilled in the Pentecostal outpouring of the Spirit in the time of the apostles?
"But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said, . . . These are not drunken, as ye suppose, . . . but this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of My Spirit, and they shall prophesy." Acts 2:14-18. See Joel 2:28,29.

9. What expressions in the prophecy of Joel seem to imply a double fulfillment of this outpouring of the Spirit?
"Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month." Joel 2:23. See also Hosea 6:3.

NOTE.-In Palestine the early rains prepare the soil for the seed sowing, and the latter rains ripen the grain for the harvest. So the early outpouring of the Spirit prepared the world for the extensive sowing of the gospel seed, and the final outpouring will come to ripen the golden grain for the harvest of the earth, which Christ says is "the end of the world." Matt. 13:37-39; Rev. 14:14,15.

10. For what are we told to pray at this time?
"Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain to everyone grass in the field." Zech. 10:1.

NOTE.-Before the apostles received the baptism of the Spirit in the early rain on the day of Pentecost, they all "continued with one accord in prayer and supplication." Acts 1:14. During this time they confessed their faults, put away their differences, ceased their selfish ambitions and contentions for place and power, so that when the time for the outpouring came, "they were all with one accord in one place," ready for its reception. To be prepared for the final outpouring of the Spirit, all sin and selfish ambition must again be put away, and a like work of grace wrought upon the hearts of God's people.

11. How is the closing work of the gospel under the out pouring of the Spirit described by the revelator?
"After these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory." Rev. 18:1.

12. What does this angel say?
"And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird." Verse 2.

13. What did Peter on the day of Pentecost tell his hearers to do?
"And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation." Acts 2:40.

14. What similar call and appeal will be made under the final outpouring of the Spirit?
"And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities." Rev. 18:4,5.

NOTES.-A great work will be accomplished in a short time under the final outpouring of the Spirit. Many voices all over the earth will sound the warning cry. Signs and wonders will be wrought by the believers, and, as at Pentecost, thousands will be converted in a day.
Those who fail to heed this final gospel call, like the unbelieving Jews, will be doomed to destruction. The seven last plagues will overtake them, as war, famine, death, and destruction overtook the Jews, who, not believing in Christ, failed to heed His call to flee, and shut themselves up in Jerusalem to their doom. Those who heed the call, and separate themselves from sin and from sinners, will be saved.

Holy Spirit's Gift of Prophecy

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1. How did God communicate with man in Eden?
"And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?" Gen. 3:9.

2. Since the fall, by what means has God generally made known His will to man?
"I have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions, and used similitudes, by the ministry of the prophets." Hosea 12:10.

3. What things belong to God, and what to us?
"The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever." Deut. 29:29.

4. How fully and to whom does God reveal His purposes?
"Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but He revealeth His secret unto His servants the prophets." Amos 3:7.

5. Can the wise men of the world foretell the future?
"Daniel answered before the king, and said, The secret which the king hath demanded can neither wise men, enchanters, magicians, nor soothsayers, show unto the king." Dan.2:27, R.V. See notes on question 6. of chapter 47 of this book.

6. Who did Daniel say could reveal secrets?
"But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days." Verse 28.

7. How did the prophet Daniel acknowledge the insufficiency of human wisdom?
"As for me, this secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living, but for their sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thy heart." Verse 30.

8. After revealing and interpreting the dream, what did Daniel say?
"The great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter." Verse 45.

9. How does God show His foreknowledge?
"Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them." Isa. 42:9.

10. How does the Lord reveal Himself to His prophets?
"If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make Myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream." Num. 12:6.

11. Under what influence did the prophets of old speak?
"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 1:21. See 2 Sam. 23:2.

12. How are both the origin of prophecy and the means of communicating it still further shown?
"The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, to show unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass; and He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John." Rev. 1:1.

13. What angel revealed to Daniel his visions and dreams?
"Whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening oblation. And he informed me, and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding." Dan. 9:21,22. See also chapter 10, and Rev. 22:9,10.

14. What Spirit was in the prophets inditing their utterances?
"O which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow." 1 Peter 1:10,11.

15. How were the Lord's words to the prophets preserved?
"Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters." Dan. 7:1. See Jer. 51:60; Rev. 1:10,11.

16. By whom has God spoken to us in these last days?
"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." Heb. 1:1,2.

17. What was one of the offices to be filled by the Messiah?
"The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto Him ye shall harken." Deut. 18:15.

18. What was foretold through the prophet Joel?
"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions." Joel 2:28.

19. When did this prediction begin to be fulfilled?
"But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams." Acts 2:16,17.

20. What were some of the gifts Christ gave to His church?
"When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. . . . And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers." Eph. 4:8-11.

21. By what means did God deliver and preserve Israel?
"By a prophet the Lord brought Israel out of Egypt, and by a prophet was he preserved." Hosea 12:13.

22. When Moses complained of his slowness of speech, what did God say Aaron should be to him?
"And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God." Ex. 4:16.

23. What did God afterward call Aaron?
"And the Lord said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet." Ex. 7:1.

24. What is one test by which to detect false prophets?
"When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him." Deut. 18:22.

25. What other test should be applied in determining the validity of the claims of a prophet?
"If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, and the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; thou shalt not harken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the Lord your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. Ye shall walk after the Lord your God, and fear Him, and keep His commandments, and obey His voice, and ye shall serve Him, and cleave unto Him." Deut. 13:1-4.

NOTE.-From these scriptures it will be seen that, in the first place, if a prophet's words do not prove to be true, it is evidence that God has not sent that prophet. On the other hand, even though the thing predicted comes to pass, if the pretended prophet seeks to lead others to break God's commandments, this, regardless of all signs, should be positive evidence that he is not a true prophet.

26. What rule did Christ give for distinguishing between true and false prophets?
"By their fruits ye shall know them." Matt. 7:20.

27. What general rule is laid down for testing all prophets?
"To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Isa. 8:20.

28. How did God's prophets anciently use the words of former prophets in exhorting the people to obedience?
"Should ye not hear the words which the Lord hath cried by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited and in prosperity?" Zech. 7:7.

29. What is the promised result of believing God's prophets?
"Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe His prophets, so shall ye prosper." 2 Chron. 20:20.

30. What admonition is given regarding the gift of prophecy?
"Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thess. 5:20,21.

31. What will characterize the last, or remnant, church?
"And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." Rev. 12:17.

32. What is the "testimony of Jesus"?
"The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." Rev. 19:10. See Rev. 1:9.

33. What results when this gift is absent?
"Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." Prov. 29:18. See also Ps. 74:9.

GOD's Spiritual Gifts

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How did God communicate with man in the Eden?
"And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?" Gen. 3:9.

Since the fall, how has God made known His will?
"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets." Heb. 1:1.

What was the object of speaking "by the prophets?"
"Surely the Lord God will do nothing but He revealeth His secret unto His servants the prophets." Amos 3:7.

By what influence did the prophets reveal God's will?
"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 1:21 (2 Sam. 23:2).

Then what may the gift of prophecy be called?
A gift of the Holy Spirit, or a spiritual gift.

What was said regarding the words of God's prophets?
"If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream." Num. 12:6.

How were the Lord's words preserved to the people?
"Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters." Dan. 7:1 (Jer. 51:60, 61).

What had these writings to do with the people's understanding future events?
"I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet, that He would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem." Dan.9:2.

How did God's ministers use the words of the prophets in exhorting the people to obedience?
"Should ye not hear the words which the Lord hath cried by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited and in prosperity?" Zech. 7:7 (2 Chron. 20:20).

How were people to know whether or not the words of prophets were from the Lord?
"When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously; thou shalt not be afraid of him." Deut. 18:22.

What was considered a still better test on this point?
"If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, and the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the Lord your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul." Deut. 13:1-3.
NOTE: It will be seen by these scriptures, that, in the first place, if a prophet's words did not prove to be true, it was evidence that God had not sent that prophet. On the other hand, even though the thing predicted did come to pass, if the pretended prophet did not keep God's commandments, but instead led others to break them, then it would be positively known that he was not a true prophet. To obey God is the first duty of all; hence he who does not obey Him cannot know the mind of God, to teach it to the people. God sometimes suffers the predictions of such to come to pass, to see whether or not the people will follow His word. See Deut. 13:4, 5.

"God permits such impostors to arise to try the faith of His followers, and to put their religious experience to the test; for he who experimentally knows God, cannot be drawn away after idols." -- Dr. Clarke, on Deut. 13:3.

What was predicted concerning the spirit of prophecy in the last days?
"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions." Joel 2:28.

When did this prediction commence to be fulfilled?
"But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams." Acts 2:16, 17.

To whom was this promise to extend?
"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." Acts 2:38, 39.

What relation should the Christian church sustain toward these spiritual gifts?
"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant." 1 Cor. 12:1.

What is the object of these gifts?
"But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal." 1 Cor. 12:7.

What are some of these gifts?
"For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom;... to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of Spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues." 1 Cor. 12:8-10.

Which one of these does the apostle say is especially desirable?
"Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy." 1 Cor. 14:1.
NOTE: "This refers not to ordinary religious discourses for the edification of the church, but to such a forthspeaking of the mind of God in relation to truth, duty, or coming events as the inward action of the Holy Spirit on the mind may produce." --M'Clintock and Strong's Biblical Cyclopedia, art. Spiritual Gifts.

"The gift of prophecy was that charism which enabled its possessors to utter, with the authority of inspiration, divine strains of warning, exhortation, encouragement, or rebuke; and to teach and enforce the truths of Christianity with supernatural energy and effect." -- Conybeare and Howson's Life of Paul, p. 375, people's edition.

Whom was this gift designed to benefit?
"Prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe." 1 Cor. 14:22.

What effect is the exercise of these gifts to have upon the church?
"And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." Eph. 4:11-13.

Where did God place these gifts?
"And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues." 1 Cor. 12:28.

Who came down from Judea to Ceasarea while Paul was there?
"And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus." Acts 21:10.

What did he do as soon as he saw the apostle?
"And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." Acts 21:11.
NOTE: The verses immediately following this last quotation show that while Paul did not disbelieve the testimony of Agabus, he would not be dissuaded from going on his mission to Jerusalem. It is, then, very evident that God desired him to go, and sent this warning to him to prepare his mind for the trials he was sure to meet.

At a later period, what did Paul say these trials had wrought?
"But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel." Phil. 1:12.

How long was it designed that these gifts should last?
"For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away." 1 Cor.13:9, 10.
NOTE: "It will not do to say that these gifts were restricted in their bestowment to the apostles and early Christians. All will allow that what Paul says of 'charity' or love, 'the more excellent way,' in 1 Cor. 13, applies to Christians in all subsequent time, and yet he immediately exhorts to 'covet earnestly the best gifts.' The truth is, the church needs these gifts at this day to battle against error in its various forms. She needs them to preserve in her own mind the idea of the spiritual, the supernatural. She needs them as ornaments to supersede her jewelry. Let her 'covet earnestly' these gifts, and there would be less covetousness of worldly riches and honor; less covetousness of worldly display." -- Wm. Eddy, in Northwestern Christian Advocate, 1855.

What admonition does Paul give respecting the gift of Prophecy?
"Despise not prophesyings." 1 Thess. 5:20.

What is the "testimony of Jesus?"
"The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." Rev. 19:10.

Why is it necessary for the church now to have confirmed in it the testimony of Christ?
"Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: so that ye come behind in no gift, waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 1:6, 7.

What will characterize the last, or "remnant," church?
"And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." Rev. 12:17.

Holy Spirit and His Work

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What is the first work the Bible ascribes to the Spirit of God?

"And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." Gen. 1:2.

NOTE: The original word for "moved" "expresses that tremulous motion made by the hen while either hatching her eggs or fostering her young." --Dr. A. Clarke.

By what power did Christ work miracles?

"But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you." Matt. 12:28.

To what is His resurrection ascribed?

"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit." 1 Peter 3:18.

How is conviction produced in the mind of the sinner?

"And when He [the Spirit] is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." John 16:8 (Gen. 6:3).

What office does the Spirit perform for the Christian?

"And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever." John 14:16.

What other work does the Spirit perform?

"God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth." 2 Thess. 2:13.

What is the word of God said to be?

"And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Eph. 6:17.

In what manner did the Spirit make known the word?

"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 1:21.

In what manner did the Lord speak to these holy men?

"After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward." Gen. 15:1 also see (Num. 12:6) (lsa.1:1) (Eze. 1:1).

Was this gift of the Spirit to be confined mostly to the time of the Old Testament?

"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions." Joel 2:28.

How did Peter by inspiration render this term afterward?

"And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams." Acts 2:17.

What does Paul call the Spirit?

"In whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise." Eph. 1:13.

Why was it thus designated?

"Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear." Acts 2:33 (Acts 1:4, 5).

Why did Jesus say it was necessary for Him to go unto the Father?

"For if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you." John 16:7.

Were the gifts of the Spirit referred to in this promise?

"Wherefore he saith, When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men." Eph. 4:8.

What are these gifts?

"And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers." Eph. 4:11.

Were all these gifts by the same Spirit?

"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit." 1 Cor. 12:4 also see (Eph. 4:4).

What commission did Christ give to His disciples?

"And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.

Why did they not proceed immediately to that work?

"And, behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high." Luke 24:49 (Acts 1:8).

How long did Jesus promise to be with those who preach the gospel?

"Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matt. 28:20.

NOTE: It is very certain that the Lord did not design to have His gospel preached without the aid of the Holy Spirit, the gifts of which He placed in the church (1 Cor. 12:28), there to remain as long as His commission to men shall last. Acts 2:38, 39; Eph. 4:11-13.

Whole Armor of God

2008-08-15T00:30:00.000-04:00

We are in a very real war. God tells us about it and how to fight in this war.

What power makes war upon the remnant church, prior to the second advent?
"And the dragon [Satan, Rev. 12:9] was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." Rev. 12:17.

What reward is promised to the overcomer?
"To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." Rev. 2:7, 17, 26 (Rev. 3:5, 21).

Through whom are we able to conquer?
"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.

Who was the invisible leader of the army of Israel?

"Behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand; and
Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the Lord am I now come." Joshua 5:13, 14 (1 Cor. 10:1-4).

With what weapons is the Christian warfare conducted?
"For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds." 2 Cor. 10:4.

What are these weapons able to conquer?
"Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ." 2 Cor. 10:5.

What are we to put on?
"Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the Devil." Eph. 6:11.

What is included in the "wiles of the Devil" that one has to meet?
"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Eph. 6:12.

What are the first essentials of the needed armor?
"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness." Eph. 6:14.

What is the truth with which one's loins are to be girded?
"Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.." John 17:17.

What is meant by having the loins girded?
"Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind." 1 Peter 1:13.

What is the "righteousness" of which the breastplate is composed?
"My tongue shall speak of thy word; for all thy commandments are righteousness." Ps. 119:172.

With what are the feet to be shod?
"And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace." Eph. 6:15 (James 3:18).

What piece of armor is next mentioned as necessary?
"Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." Eph. 6:16 (1 John 5:4) (Heb. 11:6).

What is the last and crowning piece of armor to be put on?
"And take the helmet of salvation." Eph. 6:17.

What sword is to be used by the soldier of Christ?
"The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Eph.6:17.

Will there be those in the remnant church who will risk their lives in the contest
against the enemy?
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." Rev. 12:11.

Will this commandment keeping company be victorious under Christ, their leader?
"And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire; and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God." Rev. 15:2.

My prayer is that we will put on the whole armor of God. A good soldier keeps his armor in the very best shape possible, He checks it daily. He does this so often it becomes a habit. May we check our armor in this way, may we fortify our "armor of God" and may this become a natural habit for us too.

How to know you are accepted by God

2008-08-12T01:22:00.000-04:00

Ever wonder if you are accepted by God?

God wants you to know.

"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 5:12

Who are accepted of God?
"But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." Acts 10:35.
"If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him." Genesis 4:7.

Since by nature man cannot "work righteousness," the carnal mind being "enmity
against God" (Rom. 8:7), what transformation is necessary?
"Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." 1 Peter 1:23.
"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.

By what agency is the new birth produced?
"That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." John
3:6.
"It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." John 6:63.
"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." Romans 8:9.

How precious is forgiveness to the burdened soul at conversion! Is this rich boon
conferred as a thing that is due, or as a pure act of grace or unmerited favor?
"In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace." Ephesians 1:7.
"I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants." Luke 15:18,19.

What relation exists between God and believers?
"And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people." 2 Corinthians 6:16.
"And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." 2 Corinthians 6:18."

Can such relation exist and one not be conscious of it?
"Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you." John
14:17.
"Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit." 1 John 4:13.

What does the knowledge of our acceptance with God bring?
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus
Christ." Romans 5:1.

Of what nature is the peace of the believer?
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27.

Will those who have this peace be free from tribulation?
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33.

What will be one of the delights of the converted man?
"For I delight in the law of God after the inward man." Romans 7:22.
"But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he
meditate day and night." Psalms 1:2.

How may true believers be identified?
"Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which
is in heaven." Matthew 7:20,21.

What is the fruit of the Spirit?
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Galatians 5:22,23.

Can one bear this fruit of himself?
"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me." John 15:4.

What was the experience of the two disciples who talked with Jesus on the way to
Emmaus?
"And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?" Luke 24:32.

What blessed experience may all have?
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Revelation 3:20.
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7.

Thank you God for this assurance you give us.

GOD Created Nature of Man

2008-07-13T17:57:00.000-04:00

In what condition was man created?
"What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that Thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels." Heb. 2:6, 7.

What is the nature of angels?
"But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage; neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection." Luke 20:35, 36.

What are angels called?
"And of the angels he saith, Who maketh His angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of fire." Heb. 1:7.

What is the difference between the two Adams?
"And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit." 1 Cor. 15:45.

Adam was made a living soul; but was he not a spiritual man?
"Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual." 1 Cor. 15:46.

When does man become a spiritual being?
"It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body, There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body." 1 Cor. 15:44.

To what does the sowing refer?
"That which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die." 1 Cor. 15:36.
NOTE. - Man does not have the undying, spiritual nature of the angels until the resurrection. Then, if righteous, he cannot die anymore ( Luke 20:36), because he is "equal unto the angels."

How is man's nature defined?
"Shall mortal man be more just than God?" Job 4:17. NOTE. - Mortal. "Subject to death." Webster.

What is God's nature?
"Now unto the King, eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen." 1 Tim. 1:17.
NOTE. - Immortal. "Exempt from liability to die." Webster.

Of what was man formed in the beginning?
"And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground." Gen. 2:7.

What act made him a living soul?
"And [God] breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Gen. 2:7.

Are others besides man called "living souls" in the Bible?
"And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea, and it became as the blood of a dead man; and every living soul died in the sea." Rev. 16:3. (See Gen. 1:30, margin.)

Do other creatures besides man have the "breath of life?"
"And all flesh died that moved upon the earth, both of foul, and of cattle, and of beast, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth, and every man; all in whose nostrils was the breath of life, of all that was in the dry land, died." Gen. 7:21, 22.

Is theirs the same breath as man's?
"As the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no pre-eminence above a beast; for all is vanity." Ecc. 3:19.

The breath of life from God was breathed into man's nostrils in the beginning. What does Job call that which is in the nostrils?
"All the while my breath is in me. and the spirit of God is in my nostrils." Job 27:3.

When man gives up the spirit, what becomes of it?
"Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it." Eccl. 12:7.
NOTE. - That is, the spirit of life by which man lived, and which was only loaned to him of God, goes back to the great Author of life. It is His, and man can have it eternally, only as a gift from God, through Jesus Christ. (Rom. 6:23.)When the spirit goes back to God, the dust, which was in the beginning made a "living soul," goes back as it was, to the earth.

Can one have the spirit of life with him eternally. unless he has Christ?
"He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." 1 John 5:12.

Why were the first guilty pair driven from the tree of life?
"And now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever." Gen. 3:22.

What was done to keep man away from the tree of life?
"So He drove out the man; and He placed at the east of the garden of Eden cherubim, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life." Gen. 3:24.

How are all men in the natural state regarded?
"We all... were by nature the children of wrath, even as others." Eph. 2:3.

If the wrath of God abides on a person, of what does it deprive him?
"He that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him." John 3:36.

Through whom is the sinner saved from wrath?
"Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him." Rom. 5:9.

When the sinner has been converted, what then is his prospect for life?
"For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory." Col. 3:3, 4.

The word immortal occurs but once in the English Bible (1 Tim. 1:17) , and is there applied to God; is any other said to have immortality?
"Who is the blessed and only potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords: who only hath immortality." 1 Tim. 6:15, 16.

How is this desirable boon brought to light?
"But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." 2 Tim 1:10.
NOTE. - Then without the gospel one cannot have immortality, but the death penalty must abide on him.

How does man obtain immortality?
"To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life." Rom. 2:7.
NOTE. - One does not need to seek for a thing which he already possesses.

When will the faithful receive immortality?
"Behold, I show you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed." 1 Cor. 15:51, 52.

What is then to be swallowed up?
"So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory." 1 Cor. 15:54.

How is this victory gained?
"But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 15:51.

SUMMARY. - We have found that man was made of the dust of the ground, and caused to live by the breath, or spirit, of life from God. The clay thus animated, not the breath of life, is called a "living soul:" or creature, according to the original text. Other creatures live by the same process, and some of them, at least, are plainly called living souls. When man dies, he knows nothing until he lives again, simply because the vitalizing element that caused him to live and move and think has been taken from him, and gone back to its original Possessor. Unless that were brought back to man, he would be forever unconscious in death. But Christ, who is the believer's life, is to appear, and bring back to those who seek for it, that life which they forfeited through sin. It is thus that man obtains immortality.

Picture of GOD

2008-06-11T17:55:00.002-04:00

GOD

Reader's Digest once featured a funny little story from a reader that went something like this:

A teacher of young children had given them an assignment to make a drawing. She circulated through the class talking to the students about their individual work. When she asked one child what she was drawing, the child responded, "a picture of GOD". To this the teacher replied "but nobody knows what GOD looks like". The child quickly responded, "everyone will know when I am finished".

Let's see what the Bible says about HIM.
What two basic characteristics are part of God's nature?
Let’s see what the Bible says:,
Psalm 145:17, NIV. "The Lord is righteous in all His ways and loving toward all He has made."

How is God described?
Let’s see what the Bible says:,
Deuteronomy 32:4, NIV. "He is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all His ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He."

What about God's strength?
Let’s see what the Bible says:,
Job 36:5, RSV. "Behold, God is mighty, and does not despise any; He is mighty in strength of understanding."

Can God be trusted to keep His promises?
Let’s see what the Bible says:,
Deuteronomy 7:9, NIV. "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commands."

Can we describe God in one word?
Let’s see what the Bible says:,
I John 4:8, NIV. "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

God is compassionate.
The Bible says:,
Psalm 86:15, NIV. "But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness."

God is impartial.
the Bible says:,
Acts 10:34-35, NIV. "Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right."

How far was God willing to go to guarantee a future for me?
Let’s see what the Bible says:,
John 3:16, TLB. "For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son so that anyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

God has given the ultimate demonstration of what real love is.
The Bible says:,
I John 4:9-10, TLB. "God showed how much He loved us by sending His only Son into this wicked world to bring to us eternal life through His death. In this act we see what real love is: it is not our love for God, but His love for us when He sent His Son to satisfy God's anger against our sins."

It pleases God to show us mercy when we don't deserve it.
The Bible says:,
Micah 7:18, NIV. "Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy."

God's blessings are not given just to good people.
The Bible says:,
Matthew 5:45-46, TLB. "For He gives His sunlight to both the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even scoundrels do that much."

God stops at nothing! He wants us to have it all!
Let’s see what the Bible says:, Romans 8:32, NIV. "He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?"

God loves us like a doting father.
the Bible says:, I John 3:1, NIV. "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!"

God's love is like a safe hiding place.
Let’s see what the Bible says:,
Psalm 36:7, NIV. "How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings."

We are to follow God's example.
Once again, let's see what the Bible says:,
I John 4:11, NIV. "Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."

Love sometimes means discipline.
The Bible says:, Hebrews 12:6, NIV. "Because the Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes everyone He accepts as a son."

God never gives up on us.
The Bible says:, Jeremiah 31:3, NIV. "The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness."

Can anything separate God's child from His love?
GOD says through His Word, the Bible:,
Romans 8:38-39, NIV. "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

It Only Takes a Spark

2008-05-30T22:39:00.000-04:00

Since my youth, I have love that song by Kurt Kaiser, Pass it On

It only takes a spark to get a fire going,
And soon all those around can warm up in its glowing;
That's how it is with God's Love,
Once you've experienced it,
Your spread the love to everyone
You want to pass it on.

What a wonderous time is spring,
When all the tress are budding
The birds begin to sing, the flowers start their blooming;
That's how it is with God's love,
Once you've experienced it.
You want to sing, it's fresh like spring,
You want to pass it on.

I wish for you my friend
This happiness that I've found;
You can depend on God
It matters not where you're bound,
I'll shout it from the mountain top - PRAISE GOD!
I want the world to know
The Lord of love has come to me
I want to pass it on.

I'll shout it from the mountain top - PRAISE GOD!
I want the world to know
The Lord of love has come to me
I want to pass it on.

By what power did Christ work miracles?
"But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you." Matthew
12:28.

To what is His resurrection ascribed?
"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit." 1 Peter 3:18.

How is conviction produced in the mind of the sinner?
"And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." John 16:8. See also (Genesis 6:3).

What office does the Spirit perform for the Christian?
"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;" John 14:16.

What other work does the Spirit perform?
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth." 2 Thessalonians 2:13.

What is the word of God said to be?
"And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:" Ephesians 6:17.

In what manner did the Spirit make known the word?
"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 1:21.

In what manner did the Lord speak to these holy men?
"After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a
vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward." Genesis 15:1. See also (Numbers 12:6) (Isaiah 1:1) (Ezekiel 1:1).

Was this gift of the Spirit to be confined mostly to the time of the Old Testament?
"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:" Joel 2:28.

How did Peter by inspiration render this term afterward?
"And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:" Acts 2:17.

What does Paul call the Spirit?
"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.

Why was it thus designated?
"Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth his, which ye now see and hear." Acts 2:33. See also (Acts 1:4,5).

Why did Jesus say it was necessary for Him to go unto the Father?
"Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto
you." John 16:7.

Were the gifts of the Spirit referred to in this promise?
"Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men." Ephesians 4:8.

What are these gifts?
"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers." Ephesians 4:11.

Were all these gifts by the same Spirit?
"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit." 1 Corinthians 12:4. See also (Ephesians 4:4).

What commission did Christ give to His disciples?
"And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.

PASS IT ON

Why did they not proceed immediately to that work?
"And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high." Luke 24:49. See also (Acts 1:8).

The Gospel and God's Law

2008-04-27T01:33:00.001-04:00

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 1 John 2:1

God is the author of both the Gospel and the Ten Commandment Law. Both show us God's love. Let us partake of that love

Of what did Paul say he was not ashamed?
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." Romans 1:16.

What good tidings did the angels announce to the shepherds?
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10,11.

What did Simeon say after seeing the Saviour?
"And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;" Luke 2:34.

To whom did Anna the prophetess speak of the Saviour?
"And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem." Luke 2:38.

In his pre-announcement of Christ's birth and name, what did the angel say Christ
should do?
"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." Matthew 1:21.

On what condition was He to save them?
"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." John 3:16.

Christ saves believers from their sins under the Christian dispensation; but does His
blood atone for sins committed in the old dispensation?
"And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance." Hebrews 9:15.

NOTE. - The blood of Christ availed for believers the same in the old dispensation as it does in the new. The first promise made to man, that the seed of the woman should bruise the serpent's head, was as verily the gospel of Jesus Christ as was the song the angels sung over the plains of Bethlehem, to the shepherds, as they watched their flocks by night, "Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, good will to men."

How did Abel show his faith in the coming Saviour?
"By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh." Hebrews 11:4.

What did the ceremonial law of the Jews contain?
"For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect." Hebrews 10:1.

What were these "good things to come" which this law foreshadowed?
"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;" Hebrews 9:11.

Did those of the patriarchal age have a knowledge of sin?
"Then Abimelech called Abraham, and said unto him, What hast thou done unto us? and what have I offended thee, that thou hast brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? thou hast done deeds unto me that ought not to be done." Genesis 20:9.(See also Genesis 4:7 and Genesis 13:13).

By what means must they have gained that knowledge?
"Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin." Romans 3:20.

"What shall we say then? is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet." Romans 7:7.

Was there a priesthood in the days of Abraham, to minister for the sins of the people?
"For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;" Hebrews 7:1.

And was the gospel preached to Abraham?
"And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed." Galatians 3:8.

NOTE. - We have learned from the foregoing scriptures that from the earliest age men were convinced of sin, and that their knowledge of their sinful condition could be learned in no other way than by a moral rule, even God's law. They also had a ministering priesthood, to point them to Christ, which was the good news, or gospel, that gave them hope in a coming Messiah actually to take away their sins. When Christ came, He died for the transgressions which had been committed in the old dispensation, just the same as He did for those which would be committed under the new.

But when Christ came, did He expect to put away the law of God in order to save men?
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come
to destroy, but to fulfil." Matthew 5:17.

NOTE. - He came to fulfill the law; that is, to carry out its design. The law was ordained to life. (Romans 7:10.) Had man never broken the law, he would not have been a sinner, and would therefore, from the first, have lived eternally. Now Christ fulfills it, or carries its design into effect, that is, gives life to the believer in Him. Had man never transgressed the law, he would not have needed Christ; if the law could have been done away, after man had broken it, he would not then have needed Christ; for it is the law, and that only, which condemns him to death. Take away the instrument of death, and man would live. Christ could not abate a jot of that law; for His mission was to make an atonement before the law, in behalf of the sinner.

How much of the law did Christ say should remain in force?
"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 5:18.

Then if we have faith in Christ and the gospel, how does that affect the law?
"Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law." Romans 3:31.

How many lawgivers are there?
"There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?" James 4:12.

What part does Christ act in behalf of the sinner?
"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:" 1 John 2:1.

In the closing message to the world, how are the law and the gospel associated?
"Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Revelation 14:12.

NOTE. - There is no salvation in the law. There is no redeeming quality in law Redemption is through the blood of Christ. The sinner may cease to break the commandments of God, and strive with all his powers to keep them; but this will not atone for his sins, and redeem him from his present condition in consequence of past transgression... The hope of eternal salvation hangs upon Christ. Adam hung his hope there. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and the believing Jews hung theirs there. We can do no more, the hope of the next life depends upon Christ. Faith in His blood can alone free us from our transgressions. And a life of obedience to the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will be a sufficient passport through the golden gates of the city of God.

Praying for Others, Intercessory Prayer

2008-04-25T00:02:00.000-04:00

Does God teach us to pray for one another?
"Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:" 1 Samuel 12:23

"If any man see his brother sin a sin [which is] not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it." 1 John 5:16

"Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:" James 5:14

Can we pray for the weather? Can we ,who are sinners, be effective in any prayer?
"Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months."
"And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit." James 5:17,18

What kind of prayer should this be?
"Oh, that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbor!" Job 16:21

Let us claim hold of GOD's promise for ourselve and for others.

Lord,...help thou mine unbelief

2008-03-31T01:49:00.000-04:00

When God gives us a command, He give us power to accomplish that which He has commanded. There is creative power in His Word. After all His commands called the world into existance.

By what are men justified?
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Rom. 5:1.

Then how are the just to live?
"Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, My soul shall have no pleasure in him." Heb. 10:38.

Why did not Israel of old attain to the law of righteousness?
"Because they sought it not by faith." Rom. 9:32.

When one told Christ of the disciples' failure to heal his afflicted son, what did He say of that generation?
"He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto Me." Mark 9:19.

What did the Saviour say to Thomas when He met him, because he did not believe the testimony of his brethren that had seen Christ alive after His crucifixion?
"Reach hither thy finger, and behold My hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into My side; and be not faithless, but believing." John 20:27.

In view of the great cloud of witnesses of faith presented by the apostle in the eleventh chapter of Hebrews, what does Paul exhort all to do?
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." Heb. 12:1.

Why were most of the children of Israel prohibited from entering the promised land?
"And to whom sware He that they should not enter into His rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief." Heb. 3:18, 19.

How was their unbelief regarded, and how did it affect God?
"But with whom was He grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness?" Heb. 3:17.

What lesson does the apostle exhort us to draw from the course of the Israelites?
"Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it." Heb. 4:1.

What should we all labor to do?
"Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief." Heb. 4:11.

Should one lose heart when trying to be a Christian, even though he feels that God is chastising him?
"My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him." Heb. 12:5.

Who are they that seem to have the greatest amount of affliction?
"For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth." Heb. 12:6.

If one has no chastisement to bear, how may he regard himself?
"But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons." Heb. 12:8.

When the disciples became almost discouraged at one of Christ's sayings, and asked, "Who then can be saved?" What answer did Christ make?
"But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." Matt. 19:26.

When God made a promise to Abraham that it seemed almost impossible to fulfill, how did the patriarch receive it?
"He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God." Rom. 4:20.

For what was Abraham's faith under these circumstances counted?
"For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness." Rom. 4:3.

What should be the burden of one's prayer, who is troubled with unbelief?
"Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief." Mark 9:24.

What do the Scriptures say of him who believes that he receives the things for which he asks?
"Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." Mark 11:24.

Let us follow God's commands and His plan for our lives by faith, for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. (see Romans 14:23)

Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life

2008-03-21T01:58:00.000-04:00

Jesus said unto her, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:" John 11:25

Name the principal result of man's fall.
"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.

In what condition is man while in the grave?
"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest." Ecclesiastes 9:10.

What has been promised in order that man may be redeemed from this condition?
"I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: repentance shall be hid from mine eyes." Hosea 13:14.

Through whom will come this redemption from the grave?
"For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive." 1 Corinthians 15:21,22. (John 5: 26-29).

What would be the result to the dead had not Christ procured their release from the grave?
"For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished." 1 Corinthians 15:16-18.

Where are the dead when they hear the voice of Christ calling them to life?
"Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice. And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection
of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation." John 5:28,29.

How many distinct classes will have a resurrection?
"And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust." Acts 24:15.

How long do the others wait after the first resurrection?
"And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand
years. "But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection." Revelation 20:4,5.

When are the righteous recompensed?
"And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." Luke 14:14.

In what condition did David expect to rise?
"As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness." Psalms 17:15.

What great contrast will be seen between the present body, and the one to be put on at the resurrection?
"So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is
sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body." 1 Corinthians 15:42-44.

After whose body will the resurrected ones be fashioned?
"For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto
himself." Philippians 3:20,21.

What will the righteous do upon rising from the grave?
"Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead." Isaiah 26:19. (1 Corinthians 15:55).

How long will they be permitted to live?
"Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection." Luke 20:36.

What will become of those who are unworthy of a part in the first resurrection?
"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." Revelation 21:8.

What will then take place?
"The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death." 1 Corinthians 15:26.

How will the righteous ever afterward appear?
"Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear." Matthew 13:43.

Faith "Hall of Fame"

2008-03-14T00:14:00.000-04:00

Hebrews 11

Hbr 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hbr 11:2
For by it the elders obtained a good report.

Hbr 11:3
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

Hbr 11:4
By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

Hbr 11:5
By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.

Hbr 11:6
But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Hbr 11:7
By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Hbr 11:8
By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

Hbr 11:9
By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as [in] a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:

Hbr 11:10
For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God.

Hbr 11:11
Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.

Hbr 11:12
Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, [so many] as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.

Hbr 11:13
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

Hbr 11:14
For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.

Hbr 11:15
And truly, if they had been mindful of that [country] from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.

Hbr 11:16
But now they desire a better [country], that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

Hbr 11:17
By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten [son],

Hbr 11:18
Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:

Hbr 11:19
Accounting that God [was] able to raise [him] up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

Hbr 11:20
By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.

Hbr 11:21
By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, [leaning] upon the top of his staff.

Hbr 11:22
By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.

Hbr 11:23
By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw [he was] a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.

Hbr 11:24
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;

Hbr 11:25
Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

Hbr 11:26
Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

Hbr 11:27
By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.

Hbr 11:28
Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.

Hbr 11:29
By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry [land]: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

Hbr 11:30
By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.

Hbr 11:31
By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.

Hbr 11:32
And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and [of] Barak, and [of] Samson, and [of] Jephthae; [of] David also, and Samuel, and [of] the prophets:

Hbr 11:33
Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,

Hbr 11:34
Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

Hbr 11:35
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:

Hbr 11:36
And others had trial of [cruel] mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:

Hbr 11:37
They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;

Hbr 11:38
(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and [in] mountains, and [in] dens and caves of the earth.

Hbr 11:39
And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:

Hbr 11:40
God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.

Faith Builders in GOD's Word

2008-03-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

I have been focusing on the foundations of our faith because I want a stronger faith. So below I will list some of my favorite Faith building verses. I have these in the front of my prayer journal to remind me how God is true to his Word.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Genesis 18:14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

Numbers 23:19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Joshua 23:14 And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof.

1 Samuel 15:29 And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.

Psalms 89:34 My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.

Psalms 119:89 . For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.

Psalms 119:90 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

Psalms 119:160 Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

Isaiah 42:16 And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.

Isaiah 46:11 Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it

Isaiah 59:1 Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:

Jeremiah 32:17 Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee

Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.

Matthew 18:19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Matthew 21:22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

Mark 11:24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Luke 18:27 And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.

John 11:41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
42 And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.
43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

John 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
14. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

Acts 2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

Romans 4:21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

Romans 8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

2 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us

Ephesians 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
2 Peter 1:4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

1 John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

May our Lord send his Holy Spirit to enlighten us as we read.

Praising GOD

2008-03-04T09:51:00.000-05:00

Have you ever felt like this?

ACTS 3: 1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; 3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. 4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. 5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. 6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. 7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God: 10 And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. 11 And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.
12 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?

"Praise The Lord"

"Praise The Lord! Praise The Lord, O my soul! I will praise The Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have being." (Psalm 146:1-2 RSV)
"Praise The Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for He is gracious, and a song of praise is seemly. The Lord builds up Jerusalem; He gathers the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars, He gives to all of them their names." (Psalm 147-1-4 RSV)

"Praise The Lord! Praise The Lord from the heavens, praise Him in the heights! Praise Him, all His angels, praise Him, all His host! Praise Him, sun and moon, praise Him, all you shining stars!" (Psalm 148:1-3 RSV)

New Testament

The New Testament version of the Hebrew Hallelujah is the Greek Alleluia (although some translations nevertheless use Hallelujah). It's found in the Book of Revelation in a magnificent Prophecy of The Return Of Jesus Christ:

"After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying, "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for His judgments are true and just; He has judged the great harlot who corrupted the earth with her fornication, and He has avenged on her the blood of His servants." Once more they cried, "Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up for ever and ever." And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who is seated on the throne, saying, "Amen. Hallelujah!"
"And from the throne came a voice crying, "Praise our God, all you His servants, you who fear Him, small and great." Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the sound of many waters and like the sound of mighty thunderpeals, crying, "Hallelujah! For The Lord our God the Almighty reigns." (Revelation 19:1-6 RSV)

Nehemiah 8:1-8
1 And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel. 2 And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law. 4 And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam. 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up: 6 And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground. 7 Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place. 8 So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.

GOD Can Solve Our Problems

2008-02-28T22:43:00.000-05:00

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him...
2Ch 16:9

Bible Solutions for Problems, Suffering, and Hardship

Everyone has troubles. We face problems, affliction, suffering, and hardship. We need strength, endurance, and patience. Why do people suffer? Are all trials the result of sin committed by the one who suffers? Why does God allow trials, worries, anxieties, and difficulties? Should we blame God and turn from Him? Can troubles and suffering actually make us better people? Is it possible to faithfully endure our difficulties? What solutions does the Bible offer to help us endure and overcome our problems, afflictions, and hardships?

"Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble" (Job 14:1). We can especially appreciate these words when we think of the suffering endured by the one who spoke them. Different people deal with different problems and afflictions, and it seems that some suffer more hardships than others do. But we all know by personal experience and from the experiences of those we know, that Job's statement is true.

Troubles concern us, not just because hardship itself is a burden, but also because affliction can lead to spiritual temptations. We may be tempted to feel that our trials justify committing sin. We may become so discouraged that we blame God for our troubles, lose faith in Him, or begin to doubt His goodness and mercy. As Job's wife said, "Curse God and die" (Job 2:9).

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Just Why Do People Suffer?
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What does the Bible say?

There are several reasons, not just one reason, why people suffer.

Sometimes people suffer as a result of their sins.
King Saul lived a miserable life and eventually was slain because he had rebelled against God (1 Chron. 10:13,14).
Judas killed himself because he had betrayed Jesus (Matthew 27:3-5).
Likewise today, alcoholics may develop disease, thieves may be imprisoned, etc.
Some people think this is the only reason people ever suffer, but we will see that it is not.
Sometimes innocent people suffer as a result of other people's sins.
This may result from cruelty or accident, as when innocent bystanders are killed by a drunken driver, or when a thief violently attacks his victims.

In other cases wicked people may harm righteous people because they resent them. This kind of religious persecution is described in many verses.
1 Peter 2:19-23 - Jesus is an example of one who committed no sin at all, yet He was persecuted and killed by wicked men. So we may follow His example and suffer, not for our faults, but when we do good.
John 15:18-20 - The treatment Jesus received should warn us of the treatment we can expect. The world hated Him and persecuted Him, and it will do the same to His servants.
2 Corinthians 11:23-26 - Paul's life shows that Jesus' followers truly often are persecuted.
2 Timothy 3:10-12 - All who live godly in Christ shall suffer persecution.
(See also 1 Peter 4:12-16; Heb. 11:35-38; 1 Thess. 3:2-4; Acts 14:22; John 16:33; Gen. 50:20)

All people suffer as a result of Adam and Eve's sin.
God originally placed Adam and Eve in a state of bliss with no problems of any kind. But He warned them of the consequences of sin. When they sinned anyway, He decreed they would endure pain, suffering, hardship, and eventual death (Gen. 3:16-19). All people since that time have endured these same problems. In particular, because of Adam, all people die (1 Cor. 15:22; Heb. 9:27).

Much of the suffering people endure, therefore, cannot be attributed to any particular sin committed by anyone now living. It is just the common lot of mankind because sin is in the world.

This does not mean, as some teach, that people today are born guilty of Adam's sin or will be eternally punished for it (Ezek. 18:20; 2 Cor. 5:10). But we do suffer in this life because of it.

Some suffering is simply a temptation from Satan.
Job 1:1-2:10 expressly states that Job's suffering was a temptation from Satan. He hoped that, because he was suffering, Job would turn away from God.

Many other passages teach that Satan is responsible for the suffering of other people. (See 2 Cor. 12:7-10; Luke 13:16; Acts 10:38).

Lessons We Should Learn
Suffering is not limited to those who are wicked.
Some people think that only wicked people suffer, but God is on the side of the righteous and will remove all their troubles. It follows that, if a person is suffering, he must have committed some sin he should repent of.

This was the theory of Job's friends (Job 4:7-9); disproving this idea is a main theme of that book. This same false doctrine is taught by many "faith healers" who teach people that God must remove all their problems if they are right with Him.

But we have learned that even righteous people suffer. This is important for the following reasons:

* We should not conclude that we have been guilty of sin every time we have a problem. Maybe we are suffering because of sin, so we should examine our lives. But maybe we are suffering for other reasons, perhaps because we are righteous.

* We should surely never reject a Bible teaching just because it may lead to suffering. If all suffering was the result of our own sin, and if a course of action led to suffering, then we would conclude it was a sinful act. But we have learned that godly people often suffer for doing right.

* We should not become Christians thinking it will automatically solve all our problems. If this is our motive, we may fall away when the hardships come.

But the main lesson to learn is the next point:

God should not be blamed for the existence of suffering.
If we believe that all suffering results from a person's own sin, and if we see good people suffering, we may be tempted to blame God or to think He is not keeping His promises. But we have learned that all people suffer, whether or not they are righteous.

The command to endure suffering is just another part of a Christian's life, like the command to study the Bible, pray, worship, etc. Faithful Christians of all ages have suffered; we are not the only ones. We should expect suffering to come, so our faith will not be shaken when it does.

The ultimate and primary blame for suffering rests on Satan who tempts people to sin and thereby brought sin into the world. The secondary blame rests upon people, ourselves included, who have given in to temptation and committed sin that led to suffering.

Yes, God did create suffering as a punishment for sin, but only after He had given people a life without problems and had warned them of the consequences of sin. When they chose to sin, He should no more be blamed for punishing them than a parent should be blamed when he must punish a rebellious child. (James 1:13,15.)

Remember, if you blame God and reject Him because you are suffering, then you are doing exactly what Satan wants you to do. He has defeated you! The only way to defeat Satan and really overcome hardship is to maintain your faithfulness to God in spite of it.

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Is it Possible for Suffering to Have Good Results?
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"It is good for me that I have been afflicted" (Psa. 119:71). Usually when we suffer we can only see the problems involved. Surely if we commit sin as a result, then the suffering is harmful. But if we remain faithful, there are favorable results that can occur. Consider a few.

Suffering Gives Us Opportunity to Prove Our Commitment to God.
1 Peter 1:6,7 - As gold is purified by passing through fire, so the genuineness of our faith is proved by trials. If suffering was limited to sinners and Christians never suffered, all people would want to be Christians, not because they really loved God, but just to avoid earthly problems.

The fact that Christians suffer too means that suffering "separates the men from the boys" - it shows who is willing to remain faithful even when it is hard to do so. (Acts 5:40-42; 1 Cor. 11:19; 1 Peter 4:12)

Suffering Causes Spiritual Growth.
James 1:2-4 - Count it joy when we face trials (hardly the natural reaction), because this leads to patience and completeness in God's service. Whoever developed patience when his patience was never tried?

Romans 5:3-5 - Rejoice in tribulations because they work steadfastness, approvedness, and hope.

Even in the physical realm, which bones and muscles are the strongest? The ones that face the most hardship. If you lay a block of ice and a block of clay in the sun, one is melted and the other is hardened. The same circumstance produces opposite results.

The story is told of two sons of an alcoholic. One son became a drunkard, the other became a teetotaler. Both explained their conduct the same way: "What can you expect with a father like mine?" The same problem produced opposite results.

Trials defeat some people but strengthen others. It depends on how we deal with them.

Suffering Keeps Us Humble and Dependent on God.
2 Corinthians 1:8-10 - Affliction taught Paul not to trust in himself, but in God. God has repeatedly allowed countries to face wars, famines, and hardships when they became independent and failed to trust Him. Often this shows people their need for God.

2 Corinthians 12:7-10 - Paul's "thorn in the flesh" was a messenger from Satan, yet God allowed it to remain because it kept Paul from becoming too proud over the many revelations he had received. From weaknesses, God can produce great strength.

Genesis 50:20 - Joseph explained that his brothers had mistreated him, but God used that as a means to save the family from famine.

Satan puts trials in our lives to harm us. Yet one of the greatest demonstrations of God's power is His ability to take those problems and use them to accomplish good. The greatest example of this is the death of Christ. Satan intended it as a defeat for God and all mankind, yet it ended up as the salvation of all mankind. (1 Peter 2:21-24)

Think for a moment of the really important things in life. How many of them are accomplished without hardship? Birth of a baby? Working to care for our families? Our eternal salvation? Suffering is an inherent part of everything good!

So Satan sends trials to harm us, but God can make them come out in the end for our good (Romans 8:28). But this works only if we remain faithful.

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What Assurance Does GOD Give Us That We Can Endure?
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When facing hardship we may think, "I just can't hold out." We may convince ourselves that, to expect someone to continue under our circumstances without sinning, would be expecting the impossible. So we may justify ourselves for disobeying God. But consider the Bible teaching that we can endure.

Bible Promises
1 Corinthians 10:13 - God will not allow you to face a temptation that is beyond your ability to endure. Every temptation will be accompanied by a way of escape so you can endure it.

This means we can endure every trial without sinning. If you think you "can't do" what God said to do, or if you ever justify disobeying God, you have believed the Devil's lie. What we need to do is to quit looking for excuses and look instead for the way of escape!

Psalm 34:19 - "Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the Lord delivers him out of them all." God may not remove all the afflictions, but He makes sure we are able to endure them faithfully - all of them.

Romans 8:35-39 - No temptation or trial can separate us from God. In them all, we are "more than conquerors." If we endured the temptation without sinning, we would just be "conquerors." But we are more than conquerors because the problem can actually make us better people. (See also 1 Pet. 5:8,9; James 4:7; Eph. 6:10-18; Prov. 24:10.)

Bible Examples
Not only does the Bible promise that we can endure faithfully, it gives us examples of many people who DID so. If they did, we can too.

James 5:10,11 - Job and Old Testament prophets are our examples of suffering. Have we suffered as much as Job? Surely not. Yet he remained faithful and so can we.

2 Timothy 1:8 - Paul suffered great hardship for the Lord, and we should share in those sufferings. If he endured without falling away, we can too. He is the example we should imitate (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Hebrews 12:1-4 - Jesus (and faithful Old Testament characters) are witnesses to what we can do under trying circumstances. Our temptations are no worse than theirs. All these examples show that God will keep His promises to help His people endure faithfully. (1 Pet. 2:19-23)

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How Will GOD Provide to Help Us Endure?
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"God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1). God has promised to help us endure, but we must make use of the help He provides. Let us summarize a few of the ways God helps.

The Bible
Romans 15:4 - "...through patience and comfort of the scriptures we might have hope." We have already learned several ways the scriptures comfort and strengthen us when we are suffering:

* They help us understand that we will have to suffer, but good can result from our suffering.

* They give us assurance that we can endure like others have.

* They give evidence of God's wisdom, power, and faithfulness to his promises. This strengthens our faith that God can and will help us endure.

But the Bible gives us none of this help unless we regularly study it.

Prayer and Worship
James 5:13 - "Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray."

Philippians 4:6,7 - "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God."

Job 1:20 - When Job suffered, he went to God in worship. Far too often when we suffer, we do the opposite. We neglect to worship, because we don't feel like it.

(1 Peter 5:7; Matt. 7:7ff)

These passages do not promise that God will remove our problem, but they do promise He will provide the strength we need to be faithful despite the problem. Jesus and Paul both prayed about problems, and God answered their prayers, but the problem was not removed. Instead, God gave them strength to endure (Matt. 26:36-46; 2 Cor. 12:7-10).

Other Christians
2 Corinthians 1:3,4 - Not only can God comfort us, so can other Christians. And we should strive to comfort others.

Galatians 6:2 - "Bear one another's burdens." We should never allow another Christian to suffer alone through serious problems, if there is any way we can help.

One of the best places to get encouragement in time of trouble is the public worship assemblies (Hebrews 10:24,25). Again, however, we must come to the assemblies and talk to other Christians to gain the help we need. (See also 1 Cor. 12:26; 1 Thess. 5:11,14.)

Hope of Eternal Life
Romans 8:16-18 - We are heirs of God if we suffer with Jesus. The sufferings of this life are unworthy to even be compared with the future glory awaiting us.

James 1:12 - The man who endures is blessed, because the result will be a crown of life.

Matthew 5:10-12 - Rejoice and be glad (don't gripe and complain) when you are persecuted, because you are suffering as God's people always have. And great is your reward in heaven. (2 Cor. 4:16,17; 2 Tim. 1:11,12; 2:12; 1 Peter 1:3-7; 4:13)

Conclusion
Faithful Christians will suffer. Yet the Christian's life is still the best, because only faithful Christians have the assurance that we can endure, that God will help us, that the result will be for our good, and that in the end we will have eternal life.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13. (See also Psalm 23.)

How is Your Countenance?

2008-02-27T17:17:00.001-05:00

II Corinthians 3:18
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

A young missionary family was living in a previoulsy unreached tribal area. They loved the Lord and it showed so much that the people they were working with were drawn to know their Lord too.

When the missionary wife had her first baby they decided to hire one of the natives to help with chores around the house so she could take time with her newborn.

A young lady begged them for the job. They hired her and found that her work was excellent. She took pride in doing her work and she seemed so happy.

One day the missionary wife happen by her own sleeping quarters and saw the young woman there. Startled that the missionary wife had discovered her she hid something she had in her hand behind her.

When the missionary wife asked her what was happening, the you lady beamed with joy...then brought forward the mirror she had held behind her. She exclaimed, "it's coming, it's coming".

"What's coming?" inquired the wife.

"The glow" said the young lady, "that same glow that you have...it's coming to my face too".

Once again, read :

II Corithians 3:18
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Notice: by beholding we become changed!.... from glory to glory.

Are you marked?

Centuries ago, two young lads in a small village in Ireland were arrested for stealing sheep. This was a very grave offense and to serve as a warning for other would-be sheep thieves, the boys' foreheads were branded with the letters ST.

The first young man was furious at his treatment. He decided the world would always be against him. He was in constant fights with the townspeople, scrapes with the law, and soon left Ireland, a bitter angry man.

The second young man was very sorry for his actions. He could be found around the village, helping the sick and the elderly, playing with children, carrying firewood for widows.

And so the years passed and passed.

Decades later, a new family moved to the village. The father noticed an old man walking down the dirt path. His forehead had faint initials, ST. He asked a small boy by the roadside just what those letters meant.

"I have no idea, Sir," the little boy replied. "But I think it means 'Saint'."

Our countenance can relfect the joy we have in our hearts, that is, if we have joy in our hearts. Someone once said, " if you are happy and you know it...please notify your face"

What is said of the heavy hearted, and the effect of cheering words upon such?
"Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop; but a good word maketh it glad." Prov. 12:25.

What is the influence of cheerfulness upon the sad and despondent?
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit drieth the bones." Prov. 17:22.

What did Job exclaim in a time of sore trouble, when well meaning friends came to him with words of reproach?
"I have heard many such things: miserable comforters are ye all." Job 16:2.

What did he say would have been the case had their circumstances been reversed?
"I also could speak as ye do: if your soul were in my soul's stead, I could heap up words against you, and shake mine head at you: but I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the moving of my lips should assuage your grief." Job 16:4, 5.

Are not those who have suffered and been comforted of God, best able to comfort others?
"Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort, who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them, which are in any trouble by the comfort where- with we ourselves are comforted of God." 2 Cor. 1:3, 4.

What beautiful promise is written for the upright in heart?
"Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart." Ps. 97:11.

What should be the language of the heart that has experienced help from God?
"Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou has put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness." Ps. 30:11.

What should be the spirit of our service toward God?
"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing." Ps. 100:2.

Here is a special cause for good cheer.
"Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee." Matt. 9:2. "Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered." Rom. 4:7

For what does Isaiah say he will greatly rejoice?
"I will greatly rejoice in the Lord. My soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation; He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels." Isa. 61:10.

Should the Christian be joyful in God under adverse and trying circumstances?
"Blessed are ye when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy; for behold, your reward is great in heaven." Luke 6:22, 23.

What does the Saviour say to us?
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33.

What special cause for encouragement is given us by virtue of Christ's victory over the world?
"To him that overcometh, will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne." Rev. 3:21.

How constant should the Christian's rejoicing be?
"Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice." Phil. 4:4.

Seek Ye First..Pray

2008-02-15T18:46:00.001-05:00

Matthew 6:33
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Matthew 14:13-21
13 When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities.
14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.
15 And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals.
16 But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.
17 And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.
18 He said, Bring them hither to me.
19 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
20 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.
21 And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.

Matthew 6:
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

God Expects His People to Pray

God expects His people to pray. (Isa 56:7, Isa 62:6,7, 1Ti 2:1)
God is grieved by our lack of prayer. (Isa 59:16, Eze 22:30)

Jesus Set an Example for Prayer
The Lord's prayer (Mt 6:9-13)
Jesus prayed alone in natural settings. (Mt 14:23, Mk 1:35, Lk 5:16)
Jesus prayed all night. (Lk 6:12)
Jesus prayed for those who persecuted Him. (Lk 23:34)
Jesus prayed for His Father's will to be done. (Lk 22:42)
Jesus prayed with strong crying and tears. (Heb 5:7)
Jesus intercedes for us. (Lk 22:31,32, Jn 17:9,11,17,20,21, Heb 7:25, 1Jn 2:1)

The Holy Spirit Set an Example for Prayer
The Holy Spirit intercedes for us. (Ro 8:26,27)

The New Testament Church Set an Example for Prayer
The new testament church set an example for prayer. (Ac 1:14, Ac 2:42)

The Bible Contains Great Promises for Prayer
The Bible contains great promises for prayer. (2Ch 7:14, Mt 21:22, Mk 11:22-24, Lk 11:9-13, Jn 15:16, Jn 16:23, Jas 1:5, Jas 5:13-18, 1Jn 3:21,22)

Certain Prayers Displease God
Prayer accompanied by a life of willful sin (2Ch 7:14, Ps 66:17,18, Pr 28:9 compare 1Jn 3:4, Isa 1:15-17, Isa 59:1,2, Zec 7:9-13)
Prayer for self-righteous display (Mt 6:5,6, Lk 20:46,47)
Prayer consisting of long lists of personal needs (Mt 6:7,8)
Prayer that is not understood by the person praying (1Co 14:14,15)
Prayer motivated by selfish pleasure (Jas 4:3)
Prayer made without faith (Jas 1:6-8)
Prayer that is never made (Jas 4:2)

Prayer is to be an Integral Part of our Lifestyle
We are to pray constantly. (Ps 55:17, Da 6:10, Lk 18:1, Lk 21:36, Ac 6:3,4, 1Th 5:17, 1Pe 4:7)
We are to pray with thanksgiving. (Col 4:2, 1Th 5:18)
We are to pray with others. (Mt 18:19,20, Mt 21:13, Heb 10:25)
We are to patiently wait for the Lord's response. (Ps 27:14, Ps 37:7, Pr 20:22, Isa 30:18, Da 10:12,13, Hos 12:6, Lk 18:1-8)
We are to hear the Lord's response. (1Ki 19:11-13, Ps 86:7, Ps 91:15, Isa 30:19,21, Jer 33:3)
Not continuing in intercessory prayer is a sin. (1Sa 12:20-23, Jas 4:17)

Prayer is a Weapon for Spiritual Warfare
Prayer is a weapon for spiritual warfare. (Eph 6:11-13,18-20, Ex 17:8-13, Mk 9:29, Jas 5:16)
We are to pray for those who mistreat and persecute us. (Mt 5:44, Lk 6:28, Ac 7:59,60)
We are to pray for the harvest of souls. (Mt 9:37,38, Col 4:3,4, 2Th 3:1)
The power of prayer is not the prayer itself, but rather the power of God. (Mt 28:18, Rev 19:6)
Our prayers ascend to the throne of God, Who answers them. (Rev 5:7,8, Rev 8:3,4)

Jesus, Life Without Sin

2008-01-04T00:47:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I think life is too hard, temtations are too great, I ask "God, do You really understand, can You really help me? The answers are in His Word

What do we know about Jesus Christ's life on earth?
"Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth." 1 Peter 2:22.

What is true of all other members of the human family?
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23.

With what question did Christ challenge His enemies?
"Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?" John 8:46.

To what extent was Christ tempted?
"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Hebrews 4:15.

In His humanity, of what nature did Christ partake?
"Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil." Hebrews 2:14.

How fully did Christ share our common humanity?
"Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people." Hebrews 2:17.

Where did God, in Christ, condemn sin, and gain the victory for us over temptation and sin?
"For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh." Romans 8:3.

By whose power did Christ live the perfect life?
"Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works." John 14:10.

What unselfish purpose did Jesus ever have before Him?
"For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me." John 6:38.

Jesus lived His life without sinning, but He says that He did not do the work on His own. He chose not to use His own power to overcome temptation but He chose to use the power of His Father available to all through prayer. What a wonderful hope He has given us. Not only did He die to give us forgive us of our sins, but He lived a life to show us that He, living in us can give us victory over temptations. Thank you Lord Jesus.

The Promise of a Saviour, Jesus Christ

2007-12-24T12:17:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas
May GOD bless each of us and make us an ever increasing blessing to those around us, that they may see Jesus living in us.

What a fitting time to review how GOD promised to save us, if we will accept HIS gift of forgiveness and salvation through Jesus.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I John 1:9

1. IN what promise was a Saviour from sin first revealed?
"And the Lord said unto the serpent, . . . I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise His heel." Gen. 3:14,15.

2. Through whom was a restoration of the lost dominion promised to Abraham?
"To thee will I give it, and to thy seed forever." Gen.13:15.

3. Who was this promised seed?
"He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ." Gal. 3:16.

4. Where was Christ to be born?
"And. . . he [Herod] demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judea." Matt. 2:4-6. See Micah 5: 2.

5. Of whom was Christ to be born?
"Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel." Isa. 7:14.

NOTE.-Immanuel means " God with us." See Matt. 1:23.

6. Before His birth, what did the angel say to Joseph concerning the naming of the child?
"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins." Matt. 1:21.

7. At His birth, what message did the angel bring to the shepherds abiding in the field?
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10,11.

8. In what song of praise did a host of angels join?
"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." Verses 13,14.

9. What prophecy of Isaiah was fulfilled at Christ's birth?
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder." Isa. 9:6.

10. What did the prophet say His name should be called?
"And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end." Verses 6,7.

11. What did the devout Simeon say when he saw the child Jesus?
"And when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for Him after the custom of the law, then took he Him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people, a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel." Luke 2:27-32.

12. How did the aged prophetess Anna express herself at the sight of Jesus?
"And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of Him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem." Verse 38.

13. What did the wise men of the East do when they had found Jesus?
"When they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshiped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh." Matt. 2:11.

14. How came Jesus to live for a time in Egypt?
"And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child, and His mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy Him." Verse 13.

15. How does the revelator describe this satanic desire to destroy Christ?
"And the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born." Rev. 12:4.

16. By what means did Herod seek to destroy Christ?
"Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under." Matt. 2:16.

17. After Herod's death, where did Joseph and his family live?
"And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene." Verse 23.

18. What is said of Christ's childhood and early life?
"And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him. . . . And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject, unto them." Luke 2:40-51.

19. Upon returning from a feast at Jerusalem, how came Joseph and Mary to lose Jesus when He was twelve years old?
"But they, supposing Him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought Him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found Him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking Him." Verses 44,45.

NOTE.-This is how many lose Jesus today. They suppose He is in their company, but do not see to it that He is with them personally. Through carelessness it takes but a day to lose Him; but, when once lost, it sometimes takes days of sorrowful searching, as it did Joseph and Mary, to find Him again.

20. What was Jesus doing when they found Him?
"And it came to pass, that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions." Verse 46.

21. How did His questions and answers impress those who heard Him?
"And all that heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers." Verse 47.

22. With what words do the Scriptures conclude the record of Christ's early life?
"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." Verse 52.

NOTE.-Christ's early life is a pattern for all children and youth. It was marked by respect and love for His mother. He was obedient to His parents, and kind to all. He hated sin, and to every temptation turned a deaf ear. He sought to understand the reason of things, and so increased in knowledge and wisdom. He was sympathetic and tender-hearted, and ever ready to relieve the oppressed, the sorrowing, and the suffering. If we love Christ, we shall love to talk of Him; our sweetest thoughts will be of Him; and by beholding Him we shall be changed into the same image.

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All praise to Thee, eternal Lord,
Clothed in a garb of flesh and blood;
Choosing a manger for Thy throne,
While worlds on worlds are Thine alone!

Once did the skies before Thee bow;
A Virgin's arms contain Thee now:
Angels, who did in Thee rejoice,
Now listen to Thine infant voice..

A little child, Thou art our guest,
That weary ones in Thee may rest;
Forlorn and lowly is Thy birth,
That we may rise to heaven from earth.

Thou comest in the darksome night
To make us children of the light;
To make us, in the realms divine,
Like Thine own angels round Thee shine.

All this for us Thy love hath done;
By this to Thee our life is won;
For this we tune our cheerful lays,
And tell our thanks in songs of praise.
MARTIN LUTHER.

I saw HIS star,,,

2007-12-18T11:36:00.000-05:00

Last night, on my way home, I stopped by the post office, just as I got out of my truck I saw a most beautiful and bright "shooting star". I know, it was probably a meteor or space junk burning up as it entered the earth's atmosphere. Even so, GOD used that to stir in my heart a wonder for the day when the star drew attention to the coming of our Lord JESUS.

Is anything too hard for GOD?
Does all nature hear HIS voice and obey?

Yes, All! all that is except for us humans who have been given the free will to make a choice to obey or not to obey. We can make that choice to obey and we can be assured that HIS power, will enable us to obey. Even as HIS power keeps the heavens in their place.

Let's see how GOD is in control of that science we call astronomy

Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. [Is] not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day. And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the Lord fought for Israel.
Joshua 10:12-14

Which shaketh the earth out of her place, and the pillars thereof tremble. Which commandeth the sun, and it riseth not; and sealeth up the stars. Which alone spreadeth out the heavens, and treadeth upon the waves of the sea. Which maketh Arcturus, Orion, and Pleiades, and the chambers of the south.
Job 9:6-9

He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, [and] hangeth the earth upon nothing.
Job 26:7

By his spirit he hath garnished the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent.
Job 26:13

Hast thou with him spread out the sky, [which is] strong, [and] as a molten looking glass?
Job 37:18

Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion? Canst thou bring forth Mazzaroth in his season? or canst thou guide Arcturus with his sons? Knowest thou the ordinances of heaven? canst thou set the dominion thereof in the earth?
Job 38:31-33

When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
Psalms 8:3

*To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.* The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. [There is] no speech nor language, [where] their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, Which [is] as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, [and] rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth [is] from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
Psalms 19:1-6

To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, [which were] of old; lo, he doth send out his voice, [and that] a mighty voice.
Psalms 68:33

To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy [endureth] for ever. To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy [endureth] for ever. To him that made great lights: for his mercy [endureth] for ever: The sun to rule by day: for his mercy [endureth] for ever: The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.
Psalms 136:5-9

The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to his place where he arose.
Ecclesiastes 1:5

For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine.
Isaiah 13:10

Therefore I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place, in the wrath of the Lord of hosts, and in the day of his fierce anger.
Isaiah 13:13

And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling [fig] from the fig tree.
Isaiah 34:4

[It is] he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof [are] as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in:
Isaiah 40:22

Thou art wearied in the multitude of thy counsels. Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, the monthly prognosticators, stand up, and save thee from [these things] that shall come upon thee. Isaiah 47:13

Thus saith the Lord, which giveth the sun for a light by day, [and] the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; The Lord of hosts [is] his name:
Jeremiah 31:35

As the host of heaven cannot be numbered, neither the sand of the sea measured: so will I multiply the seed of David my servant, and the Levites that minister unto me.
Jeremiah 33:22

And when I shall put thee out, I will cover the heaven, and make the stars thereof dark; I will cover the sun with a cloud, and the moon shall not give her light. All the bright lights of heaven will I make dark over thee, and set darkness upon thy land, saith the Lord God.
Ezekiel 32:7-8

[Seek him] that maketh the seven stars and Orion, and turneth the shadow of death into the morning, and maketh the day dark with night: that calleth for the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth: The Lord [is] his name:
Amos 5:8

Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:
Matthew 24:29

Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Matthew 24:35

Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.
Matthew 27:45

And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
Luke 21:25

And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.
Luke 23:44

And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:
Acts 2:19-20

[There is] one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for [one] star differeth from [another] star in glory.
1 Corinthians 15:41

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
2 Peter 3:10

Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.
Jude 1:13

And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.
Revelation 6:12-14

And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter. And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.
Revelation 8:10-12

And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.
Revelation 9:1-2

And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow [was] upon his head, and his face [was] as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire:
Revelation 10:1

And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.
Revelation 12:3-4

And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire.
Revelation 16:8

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
Revelation 21:1

Angels

2007-11-23T20:39:00.000-05:00

Who are angels?

Hebrews 1:14, NIV. "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?"

How many angels are there?

Revelation 5:11, NIV. "Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand."

Are angels a higher order of beings than humans?

Psalm 8:4-5, NIV. "What is man that you are mindful of him, … You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor."

Angels can appear in the form of ordinary people.

Herews 13:2, NIV. "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."

Who is the leader in charge of the angels?

I Peter 3:22, TLB. "And now Christ is in heaven, sitting in the place of honor next to God the Father, with all the angels and powers of heaven bowing before Him and obeying Him."

Angels are special guardians.

Matthew 18:10, TLB. "Beware that you don't look down upon a single one of these little children. For I tell you that in heaven their angels have constant access to My Father."

Angels provide protection.

Psalm 91:10-11, NIV. "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone."

Angels rescue from danger.

Psalm 34:7, TLB. "For the angel of the Lord guards and rescues all who reverence Him."

Angels carry out God's orders.

Psalm 103:20-21, TLB. "Bless the Lord, you mighty angels of His who carry out His orders, listening for each of His commands. Yes, bless the Lord, you armies of His angels who serve Him constantly."

Angels carry God's messages.

Luke 2:9-10, NIV. "An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people."

What part will the angels play when Jesus comes the second time?

Matthew 16:27 and 24:31, NIV. "For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with His angels." "And He will send His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other."

Where did evil angels come from?

They were good angels who chose to rebel. It's in the Bible,

Revelation 12:9, NIV. "The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him."

What influence do evil angels have?

They struggle against those who are good.

...in the Bible, Ephesians 6:12, NIV. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

What will be the final destiny of Satan and his evil angels?

Matthew 25:41, NIV. "Then He will say to those on his left, 'Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.' "

Thanksgiving and Praise

2007-11-22T11:45:00.000-05:00

Let us move our minds toward an attitude of gratitude.

1. WHEN did the psalmist say he would bless the Lord?
"I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth." "Every day will I bless Thee; and I will praise Thy name forever and ever." Ps. 34:1; 145:2.

2. What do those do who offer praise?
"Whoso offereth praise glorifieth Me." Ps. 50:23.

3. Where does David say he will praise God?
"My praise shall be of Thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear Him." Ps. 22:25.

4. What does he exhort all to do?
"O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together." Ps. 34:3.

5. What personal experience does he say he will declare in the hearing of all who fear God?
"Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what He hath done for my soul." Ps. 66:16.

6. What effect do such testimonies have upon the humble?
"My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad." Ps. 34:2.

7. Into what condition did those lapse anciently who failed to glorify God and to be thankful?
"Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened." Rom. 1:21.

8. What element should enter into all our worship?
"Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." Phil. 4:6. See Col. 4:2.

9. In how many things should we give thanks?
"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thess. 5:18.

10. How often, and for how much, should we render thanks?
"Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Eph. 5:20.

11. With what exhortation does the psalmist close his songs of praise?
"Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in His sanctuary: praise Him in the firmament of His power. Praise Him for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet: praise Him with the psaltery and harp. Praise Him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise Him upon the loud cymbals: praise Him upon the high-sounding cymbals. Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord." Psalm 150.

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Knowing GOD's Spiritual Gift for You

2007-09-25T12:16:00.000-04:00

"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions." Joel 2:28.

When did this prediction commence to be fulfilled?
"But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:" Acts 2:16,17.

To whom was this promise to extend?
"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." Acts 2:38,39.

What relation should the Christian church sustain toward these spiritual gifts?
"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant." 1 Cor. 12:1.

What is the object of these gifts?
"But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal." 1 Corinthians 12:7.

What are some of these gifts?
"For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:" 1 Corinthians 12:8-10.

Which one of these does the apostle say is especially desirable?
"Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy." 1 Corinthians 14:1.

Whom was this gift designed to benefit?
"Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe." 1 Corinthians 14:22.

What effect is the exercise of these gifts to have upon the church?
"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." Ephesians 4:11-13.

Where did God place these gifts?
"And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues." 1 Corinthians 12:28.

Who came down from Judea to Ceasarea while Paul was there?
"And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus." Acts 21:10.

What did he do as soon as he saw the apostle?
"And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." Acts 21:11.

At a later period, what did Paul say these trials had wrought?
"But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel." Philippians 1:12.

How long was it designed that these gifts should last?
"For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away." 1 Corinthians 13:9,10.
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Discover HIS Gift to you.

There are a total of 110 statements below. Print this form, then indicate whether you Strongly Agree, Agree Somewhat, are Undecided, Disagree Somewhat or Completely Disagree with each question.
Transfer your answers to the profile sheet at the end of this document.
Total your scores for each of the gifts. Each gift will have a score between ZERO and TWENTY.
Order the gifts in decending order of score. Higher scores indicate your more dominant gifts.
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1) People seem to be willing to follow my leadership without much resistance.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

2) I like to proclaim God's Word to fellow Christians.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

3) It is a joy for me to proclaim God's plan of salvation to unchurched people.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

4) It is enjoyable to have the responsibility of leading other people in their spiritual life.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

5) I'm excited in helping people to discover important truths in the scriptures.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

6) I have special joy singing praises to God either alone or with other people.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

7) It is enjoyable to motivate people to a higher spiritual commitment.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

8) People with spiritual problems seem to come to me for advice and counsel.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

9) I recevied excellent grades in school.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

10) There is great joy in doing little jobs around the church.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

11) I look for opportunities to assist people in their work.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

12) There is great joy in leading people to accomplish group goals.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

13) I like to organize people for more effective ministry.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

14) There is great satisfaction in giving large amounts of money for the Lord's work.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

15) I feel great compassion for the problems of others.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

16) It seems easy to percieve whether a person is honest or dishonest.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

17) I am ready to try the impossible because I have a great trust in God.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

18) There is great joy in having people in my home.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

19) I find that the repair and maintenance of things in my environment come easily to me.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

20) I seem to recognize prayer needs before others.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

21) I enjoy the opportunity to pray with and for a person who is physically ill that they may be made well.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

22) I adapt easily in a culture different from mine.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

23) I feel a sense of authority in my relationship to the group.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

24) I like to proclaim the Word of God to comfort others.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

25) I seem able to determine when the Spirit has prepared a person to received Jesus Christ.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

26) It is exciting to provide spiritual leadership for a congregation.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

27) Teaching a Bible Class is one of the most enjoyable things I do (or could do) in the Church.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

28) God has given me the ability to play a musical instrument and I enjoy it.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

29) It is a joy to give encouragement to people who are discouraged.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

30) I enjoy providing solutions to difficult problems in life.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

31) It seems easy to learn difficult truths.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

32) I enjoy doing routine tasks for the glory of God.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

33) I enjoy helping with the emergency tasks around the Church.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

34) People seem to enjoy following me in doing an important task.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

35) There is joy in making important decisions.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

36) I find real joy in giving a generous portion of my money to the Lord.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

37) Visiting people in retirement homes gives me a great satisfaction.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

38) I seem to know very quickly whether something is right or wrong.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

39) When things seem impossible, I'm ready to move forward.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

40) I do not feel uncomfortable when people drop in unexpectedly.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

41) I have enjoyed creating various kinds of arts and/or crafts.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

42) Prayer is one of my favorite spiritual exercises.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

43) I have prayed for an emotionally ill person and seen the person get better.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

44) It is easy for me to move into a new community and make friends.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

45) I have little fear in leading people where God wants them to go.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

46) I enjoy relating and sharing God's Word to the issues of the day.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

47) I feel a burden to share the Gospel with people.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

48) I like to assist people with their spiritual problems.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

49) It seems that people learn when I teach them.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

50) I have enjoyed being involved with Church, school and/or local musical productions.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

51) I like to encourage inactive church members to become involved Christians again.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

52) It seems that people generally follow my advice.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

53) I am able to understand difficult portions of God's word.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

54) I receive great satisfaction in doing small or trivial tasks in church.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

55) I desire to do the tasks which will free others for important ministry.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

56) It is more effective to delegate a task to someone else rather than to do it myself.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

57) I enjoy the responsibility for the achievement of group goals.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

58) I appreciate the opportunity to financially support a critical situation.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

59) I sense joy in comforting people in difficult situations.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

60) The difference between truth and error is easily perceived by me.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

61) I am often ready to believe God will lead us through a situation when others feel it is impossible.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

62) People seem to feel very comfortable in my home.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

63) I like to create things with my hands.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

64) God consistently answers my prayers in tangible ways.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

65) I have visited a person who was sick, prayed that God would make them physically whole, and the person got better.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

66) I am able to relate well to Christians of different locations or cultures.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

67) I appreciate the opportunity to proclaim God's word to others.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

68) It is important for me to speak God's Word of warning and judgment in the world today.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

69) It is a joy to share what Jesus means to me with an unchurched neighbor.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

70) People like to bring their troubles & concerns to me because they feel I care.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

71) One of the joys of my ministry is training people to be more effective Christians.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

72) I feel secure in the fact that my musical ability will be of benefit to other people with whom I come in contact.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

73) People who are feeling perplexed often come to me for encouragement and comfort.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

74) I feel that I have a special insight in selecting the best alternative in a difficult situation.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

75) I have a clear understanding of Biblical doctrines (reachings).
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

76) I find more satisfaction in doing a job than finding someone else to do it.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

77) I appreciate a ministry of helping other peoples to bear their burdens.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

78) It is a thrill to inspire others to greater involvement in church work.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

79) The development of effective plans for church ministry gives me great satisfaction.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

80) It is a joy to see how much money I can give to the Lord.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

81) I enjoy ministering to a person who is sick in the hospital.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

82) I can judge well between the truthfulness and error of a given theological statement.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

83) People seem to view me as one who believes everything is possible.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

84) When missionaries come to our church I (would) like to have them come to my home.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

85) I see that the results of my working with various objects in God's creation help to improve and beautify that which other people have not seen nor developed.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

86) I faithfully pray for others recognizing that their effectiveness and total well-being depends on God's answer to prayers.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

87) I like to participate in ministry to the physically or emontionally ill and pray for their recovery.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

88) The thought of beginning a new church in a new community is exciting to me.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

89) I enjoy training workers in the congregation.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

90) In a Bible class it seems essential to share God's word even if it irrates others.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

91) I feel a deep concern for the unreached people in my community.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

92) I Enjoy a close relationship with people in a one to one situation.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

93) It is easy to organize materials for teaching a Bible class.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

94) Leading others in singing songs of praise to God or for pure enjoyment is personally satisfying.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

95) I would rather call on a delinquent family in my Church than an unchurched family.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

96) I have a strong sense of confidence in my solutions to problems.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

97) It is an exciting challenge to read and study a difficult book of the Bible.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

98) I like to do things without attracting much attention.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

99) If a family is facing a serious crisis, I enjoy the opportunity to help them.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

100) There is great satisfaction in having others follow me in performing a task.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

101) I would rather make decisions for the group than persuade them to reach the same decision.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

102) I can give sacrificially because because I know that God will meet my needs.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

103) It is a special satisfaction to visit people who are confined to their homes.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

104) I often seek the motives of a person and look beneath the words.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

105) When people are discouraged I enjoy giving them a positive vision.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

106) People seem to enjoy coming to my house.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

107) There is pleasure in drawing, designing and/or painting various objects.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

108) I find myself praying when I possibly should be doing other things.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

109) I feel strongly that my prayers for a sick person effect wholeness for that person.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

110) More than most, I have a strong desire to see all people of other communities and countries won to the Lord.
4 - Strongly Agree
3 - Agree Somewhat
2 - Undecided
1 - Disagree Somewhat
0 - Completely Disagree

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Discovery Tool Profile Sheet
Transfer your scores for each question into the following table, then compute the sum of each row. This provides your score for each gift
1. Apostle 1____ 23____ 45____ 67____ 89____ = ____

2. Prophet 2____ 24____ 46____ 68____ 90____ = ____

3. Evangelist 3____ 25____ 47____ 69____ 91____ = ____

4. Pastor 4____ 26____ 48____ 70____ 92____ = ____

5. Teacher 5____ 27____ 49____ 71____ 93____ = ____

6. Music 6____ 28____ 50____ 72____ 94____ = ____

7. Exhortation 7____ 29____ 51____ 73____ 95____ = ____

8. Wisdom 8____ 30____ 52____ 74____ 96____ = ____

9. Knowledge 9____ 31____ 53____ 75____ 97____ = ____

10. Serving 10____ 32____ 54____ 76____ 98____ = ____

11. Helps 11____ 33____ 55____ 77____ 99____ = ____

12. Leadership 12____ 34____ 56____ 78____ 100____ = ____

13. Administration 13____ 35____ 57____ 79____ 101____ = ____

14. Giving 14____ 36____ 58____ 80____ 102____ = ____

15. Mercy 15____ 37____ 59____ 81____ 103____ = ____

16. Discernment 16____ 38____ 60____ 82____ 104____ = ____

17. Faith 17____ 39____ 61____ 83____ 105____ = ____

18. Hospitality 18____ 40____ 62____ 84____ 106____ = ____

19. Craftsmanship 19____ 41____ 63____ 85____ 107____ = ____

20. Intercession 20____ 42____ 64____ 86____ 108____ = ____

21. Healing 21____ 43____ 65____ 87____ 109____ = ____

22. Missionary 22____ 44____ 66____ 88____ 110____ = ____

In the spaces below, list your gifts in decending order of score. Use the List of Gifts for further study.

DOMINANT
___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

SUB-DOMINANT
___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

Prayer, Conversation with GOD

2007-08-17T00:54:00.000-04:00

God likes for us to talk to Him. Too often we only talk to Him when we are in trouble or in need. Even so God is happy to hear our prayers even then.

Why did Jesus give us the parable of the importunate widow?
"And He spoke a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint." Luke 18:1.

What is the proper way to ask and how will the prayer be regarded?
"Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." Mark 11:24.

What must accompany faith in order that our hearts shall not condemn us, and that we may have the things of which we ask?
"And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight." 1 John 3:22.

If one does not ask in faith, what does he gain?
"But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any- thing of the Lord." James 1:6, 7.

If prayer is offered while cherishing an unforgiving spirit toward another, of what
avail is it?
"And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any; that your Father also which is in heaven may for- give you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses." Mark 11:25, 26.

What course on the part of husbands or wives will prevent their prayers from
being answered? For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. (contention and discord) 1 Peter 3:5-7

What answer will he receive who turns away his ear from hearing the law?
"He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination." Prov. 28:9.

Below the promises and/or conditions to some specific answered prayers are complied:

( 1) For the forgiveness of sin,

2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.;

1 John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

(2) for the Holy Spirit,

John 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

Luke 11:13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

(3) for deliverance in the hour of temptation and danger,

Matthew 6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

John 17:11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

Proverbs 3:26 For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.

Psalms 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

(4) for wisdom and understanding,

James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.1 Kings 3:9;

Daniel 2:17 Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions:18 That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.19 Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.

(5) for the healing of the sick,

James 5:14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

2 Kings 20:1 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.2 Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying,3 I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.4 And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying,5 Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD.

(6) for the prosperity of the ministers of God,

Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

2 Thessalonians 3:1 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

(7) for those who suffer for the truth's sake,

Hebrews 13:3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.

Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.14 And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.

(8) for rulers,

Ezra 6:10 That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons.

Acts 23:5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

(9) for temporal prosperity, that the work of God be not hindered,

James 5:17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.

Zechariah 10:1 Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.

(10) for the Lord to vindicate His cause,

epaired the altar of the LORD that was broken down.31 And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of the LORD came, saying, Israel shall be thy name:32 And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.33 And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood.34 And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.35 And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water.36 And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again.38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.

(11) for the coming of Christ,

Matthew 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

If an answer does not come at the time and in the manner expected, what should
be the attitude of the petitioner?
"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him...." Ps. 37:7.

We should never forget how real our Faher in Heaven is and how He sent His only Son who lived among us and gave His life for us and was resurected and has sent His Holy Spirit to us. We can practice His presence daily. I knew a pastor who would say to the Lord as he sat down to eat, Lord I would like to invie you to sit here with me as I eat, or if he was driving he would invit the Lord tor ride along and then He would talk to the Lord as he drove. Pray that our God will show you how you can practice His presence in your life. In this way you can walk and talk with Him throughout your day. He is our God and therefore our very best friend.

Search the Scriptures

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Acts 17:10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.11 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.

What did Christ say to the people of His day concerning the Scriptures?
"Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me." John 5:39.

Do the Scriptures furnish positive evidence that the gospel was known in the patriarchal age?
"And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed." Galatians 3:8.

Does Holy Writ contain unmistakable evidence that the Hebrews were taught the gospel under the former dispensation?
"For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it." Hebrews 4:2.

Why did Moses give up the riches of Egypt?
"Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward." Hebrews 11:26.

Whence came the spiritual meat and drink of the Israelites while in the wilderness?
"And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ." 1 Corinthians 10:2-4.

What was the chief corner-stone of the faith of both apostles and prophets?
"And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone." Ephesians 2:20.

What part of the Scriptures did Philip hear a certain eunuch reading?
"And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?" Acts 8:30.

When asked if he understood what he was reading, what reply did the eunuch make?
"And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him." Acts 8:31.

What did Philip then do?
"Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus." Acts 8:35.

What are the Scriptures able to do?
"And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 3:15.

What was said of the Bereans because they searched the Scriptures daily?
"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." Acts 17:11.

By what is man to live?
"But he answered and said, 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.

How greatly has God magnified His word?
"I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy loving kindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name." Psalms 138:2.

How does God instruct us to study his word?
"For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:" Isaiah 28:10

The Bible is God's Word and is a Library of books of His Word. When we want to learn about a subject we go to the Library and find everything we can on that subject from each book of His Word. Here a little and there a little, precept upon precept.

May God richly bless each of us this day that we may be an ever greater blessing to others an a more powerful witness for our Lord Jesus Christ.

Work and Friendship of the Holy Spirit

2007-07-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

It is so good to have someone to talk to that can understand you, even when you do not have the words to say what you want to say.

It is a real comfort when I stammer and struggle to say something, but you say…I know, and sure enough…you really do know without my being able to actually say it. Thank you God.

When I pray, I often realize how little I know and how poorly I am at expressing my prayers, but it is so good to know that our Lord send us a Comforter, The Holy Spirit, to help us and even to pray for us.

Romans 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

What is the first work the Bible ascribes to the Spirit of God?
"And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." Genesis 1:2.

By what power did Christ work miracles?
"But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you." Matthew 12:28.

To what is His resurrection ascribed?
"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit." 1 Peter 3:18.

How is conviction produced in the mind of the sinner?
"And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." John 16:8. See also (Genesis 6:3).

What office does the Spirit perform for the Christian?
"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;" John 14:16.

What other work does the Spirit perform?
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth." 2 Thessalonians 2:13.

What is the word of God said to be?
"And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:" Ephesians 6:17.

In what manner did the Spirit make known the word?
"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 1:21.

In what manner did the Lord speak to these holy men?
"After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward." Genesis 15:1. See also (Numbers 12:6) (Isaiah 1:1) (Ezekiel 1:1).

Was this gift of the Spirit to be confined mostly to the time of the Old Testament?
"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:" Joel 2:28.

How did Peter by inspiration render this term afterward?
"And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:" Acts 2:17. Our day -

What does Paul call the Spirit?
"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.

Why was it thus designated?
"Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear." Acts 2:33. See also (Acts 1:4,5).

Why did Jesus say it was necessary for Him to go unto the Father?
"Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you." John 16:7.

Were the gifts of the Spirit referred to in this promise?
"Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men." Ephesians 4:8.

What are these gifts?
"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers." Ephesians 4:11.

Were all these gifts by the same Spirit?
"Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit." 1 Corinthians 12:4. See also (Ephesians 4:4).

What commission did Christ give to His disciples?
"And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.

Why did they not proceed immediately to that work?
"And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high." Luke 24:49. See also (Acts 1:8).

How long did Jesus promise to be with those who preach the gospel?
"Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." Matthew 28:20.

Divine Guidance

2007-07-10T00:01:00.000-04:00

I ask God to direct me once again as I prepared this for our devotion, and I was inspired to include a study of what His Word has to say about His Guidance.

"Thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left" (Isaiah 30:21).

"I will direct their work in truth" (Isaiah 61:8).

"Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel" (Psalm 73:24).

"And the LORD shall guide thee continually" (Isaiah 58:11).

"He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake" (Psalm 23:3).

"He that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them" (Isaiah 49:10).

"He led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye. As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: so the LORD alone did lead him" (Deuteronomy 32:10-12).

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way" (Psalm 37:23).

"He will be our guide even unto death" (Psalm 48:14).

"Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory" (Psalm 73:24).

"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:6).

"The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way" (Proverbs 11:5).

"A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps" (Proverbs 16:9).

"His God doth instruct him to discretion, and doth teach him" (Isaiah 28:26).

"And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them" (Isaiah 42:16).

With all of these promises from God, it seems so foolish that I ever do the wrong thing, but I have, too many times.

Praise God for His mercy and His continued desire to guide us to the PLAN that HE had for us when HE created us.

God's Love

2007-07-09T12:01:00.000-04:00

The Bible has so much education about love. The Song of Solomon is a wonderful love story. The word love is used to several kinds of desires. The main true loves mentioned are God's love (agape), Brotherly love (philadelphia) and Physical love (eros) . Sometimes a scripture may refer to other kinds of desires like when it talks about someone who loves evil or wickedness.

In the KJV the word charity is often used where today's translators would have used love.
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

This study will focus mainly on God's Love.

In what does the Lord delight?
"Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retaineth not his anger forever, because he delighteth in mercy." Micah 7:18.

How is His mercy continually manifested?
"It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22,23.

Is His mercy limited to any special class?
"Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things." Acts 17:25.
"That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." Matthew 5:45.

How has mankind repaid Him for His love in creating them and giving them all things to enjoy?
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23. See. Isaiah 1:4-6.

While all men were in this condition, how did God still further show His love to them?
"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." John 3:16.
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8.

Is there any difference between the love of the Father and that of the Son?
"I and my Father are one." John 10:30.
"Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake." John 14:11.

Into what relationship to God does His love bring us, if we accept it?
"Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not." 1 John 3:1.

What is given us to show that we are sons?
"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with out spirit, that we are the children of God." Romans 8:14-16.

What does the Holy Spirit beget in the hearts of those who receive it?
"And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." Romans 5:5.

If the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts, what effect will it have?
"Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another." 1 John 4:11.

How much must we love one another?
"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you." John 15:12.
"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." 1 John 3:16.

What exhortation is based upon Christ's love for us?
"And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour." Ephesians 5:2.

If we have the love of God, will we love only those who love us?
"Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." Matthew 5:43,44.
"For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?" Matthew 5:46.

Did God love us because of any good that we had done?
"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour." Titus 3:5,6.
"But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:4-6.

What alone should prompt all our acts?
"For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead." 2 Corinthians 5:14.

In what other way is God's love manifested to His people?
"As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." Revelation 3:19.
"For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." Hebrews 12:6

What may we confidently expect, from the fact that God so loved us as to give Christ to die for us?
"He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?" Romans 8:32.

What is God's love for His children able to do when enemies rise up against them?
"Nevertheless the LORD thy God would not hearken unto Balaam; but the LORD thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the LORD thy God loved thee." Deuteronomy 23:5.

If we appreciate this loving kindness, what will we do?
"How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings." Psalms 36:7.

How enduring is God's love to us?
"The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee." Jeremiah 31:3

Can anything turn aside the love of God for those who trust Him?
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38,39.

Unto whom will the saints of God ascribe universal praise both here and in eternity?
"And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood." Revelation 1:5.

Praise God for His wonderful Love for us.

God's Forgiveness

2007-07-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

God's willingness to forgive our sins demonstrates His great love for us.

In what way has God dealt with penitent sinners?
"He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities." Psalms 103:10.

Why has He dealt thus with men?
"For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him." Psalms 103:11.

What is God ready to do for all who call upon Him?
"For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee." Psalms 86:5.

When Abraham asked God to spare Sodom if He should find ten righteous persons therein, what
did the Lord say?
"And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten's sake." Genesis 18:32.

What prayer did Moses offer in behalf of Israel?
"Pardon, I beseech thee, the iniquity of this people according unto the greatness of thy mercy, and as thou hast forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now." Numbers 14:19.

What reply did the Lord immediately make?
"And the LORD said, I have pardoned according to thy word." Numbers 14:20.

When David confessed his great sin, what did God do for him?
"I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin." Psalms 32:5.

Does the lord forgive sins when they are confessed to Him?
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9.

How full is the Lord's forgiveness, when one fulfills the conditions?
"Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon." Isaiah 55:7.

In what special manner has God shown His willingness to forgive the sinner?
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."Romans 5:8.

What does this wonderful manifestation on the part of God, vouchsafe to us?
"He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?"Romans 8:32.

Why has such full provision been made?
"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.

When the prodigal son, in the parable, repented and turned toward home, what did his father
do?
"And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had
compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.

Upon the son's asking to be made only a hired servant, what order was issued in behalf of
the penitent one?
"But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry." Luke 15:22-24.

Is God willing to do for His children as earthly parents are for theirs?
"If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" Luke 11:13.0

How many receive forgiveness from God?
"For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be
opened." Matthew 7:8.

Does the Lord forget the cries of those who call upon Him?
"Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee." Isaiah 49:15.

May God richly bless you as you study His Word.

We Can Be Sure of Salvation

2007-07-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

We can help others to have this gift of Salvation.
1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Can we know if we will have eternal life?
1 John 5:13 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.

An easy way to remember God’s teaching is as easy as A B C and D

A = Accept that you have sinned and that God has promised you Salvation if you will accept his gift.
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

B= Believe that Jesus died for your sins so that you may have eternal life
John 3:16 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.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

C= Confess with your mouth that He has given you the gift of Salvation.
Romans 10:9 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.

D= Discipline or Discipleship
Acts 6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

May God bless you and make you a blessing as you share His Gift of Salvation.

Power in God's Word

2007-07-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

There is power in God's Word. He invites us to receive this power. As we work for Him we will need His power.

What was the way in which God brought the heavens into existence?
"By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast." Psalms 33:6-9.

What is it that Christ uses to uphold all things?
"Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high." Hebrews 1:3.

Of what great truth are some willingly ignorant?
"For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God he heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished." 2 Peter 3:5,6.

By what are the present heavens and earth reserved for a similar fate?
"But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men." 2 Peter 3:7.

What other passage of Scripture also reveals that creative power is exercised through the word of God?
"Let them praise the name of the LORD: for he commanded, and they were created." Psalms 148:5.

What change is wrought out in the life of one who is in Christ?
"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.

Jesus described this same experience in what other passage?
"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." John 3:3.

By what agency is this new creation or new birth accomplished?
"Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." 1 Peter 1:23.

What is the first creative commandment that is mentioned in the Bible?
"And God said, Let there be light: and there was light." Genesis 1:3.

Did God also command another light to shine out of darkness?
"For God, who commanded the light to shine our of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." 2 Corinthians 4:6.

What was it about Christ's teaching that astonished people?
"And they were astonished at His doctrine: for his word was with power." Luke 4:32.

What important fact testified to the power of Christ's word?
"And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out." Luke 4:36.

In ancient times, how did God bring healing to His people?
"He sent His word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions." Psalm 107:20.

In what way did the Roman centurion reveal his strong faith in Christ?
"The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed." Matthew 8:8.

What did Christ say is the seed of the kingdom of God?
"Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God." Luke 8:11.

Where does God want Christ's word to dwell?
"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." Colossians 3:16.

Could those who believed not on Jesus Christ receive this important seed?
"And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not." John 5:38.

How does the Word of God work in the life of the believer?
"For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heart 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.

What new nature is imparted to us through the promises of God?
"Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." 2 Peter 1:4.

What is it that can cleanse the lives of believers in Christ?
"Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you." John 15:3.

How can a young man cleanse his ways?
"Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word." Psalm 119:9.

What is the result of accepting the Word of God into the heart and life?"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." Psalm 119:11.

What awesome power!

Right Thinking (Meditation)

2007-07-05T12:01:00.000-04:00

God has been speaking to me about the "stinking thinking" that I have sometimes, so He inspired me to put this study together about how we should think.

1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

1 Peter 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:

1 Thessalonians 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

Titus 3:2 To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.

Acts 17:11 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.

May God instill righteous thinking into my mind and my heart. Amen.