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New Testament
ACTS
Background to the Book of Acts - The book of Acts has traditionally been called the Acts of the Apostles and this can be a bit confusing because the contents is not about all the apostles, but primarily on the life of Peter (Chapters 1-12) and Paul (Chapters 13-28) - Rather than a history book it is more in line with a biography - Luke gives a record of the life [of Jesus] and events of the early Church for a period of about sixty to sixty five years {About 35 years of Early Church History: The Ascension of Jesus Christ from Mount Olivet, Jerusalem in about 33 A.D. - The Jerusalem Council [1st Church Council] in about 50 A.D. (Acts 15) - until just before the Martyrdom of the Apostle Paul in Rome in about 67 A.D.}
Footsteps of Paul (Photos)
A Chronological Study of Paul's Ministry
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The Apostle [Paul] by John Pollock (Book - Paperback)
Paul: The Emissary (DVD)
Peter and Paul (DVD)
A.D. - The stunning sequel to Jesus of Nazareth - (DVD)
Acts - Matthew, John & Acts, 6-DVD Set The Visual Bible Series (DVD)
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Acts 1 - Luke a Gentile Physician-Doctor [a Greek background], historian, companion to the Apostle Paul, eyewitness and early Christian Church recorder/reporter continues his Ministry to the Christian Church with his follow up to the Gospel of Luke in his second and final Book of the Bible the Book of Acts -- 'Acts 1:1-3 The former treatise [Gospel of Luke] {A treatise is a formal and systematic written discourse on some subject, generally longer and treating it in greater depth than an essay, and more concerned with investigating or exposing the principles of the subject. - Wiki.com} have I [Luke] made [written], O Theophilus, *of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which He [Jesus] was taken up [Ascension at Mount Olivet, Jerusalem], after that *He [Jesus] through the Holy Ghost had given Commandments [Directions] unto the Apostles whom He had chosen: To whom also He [Jesus] shewed Himself alive [Resurrection] after His Passion [Passion to reunite God and mankind - Cross and Resurrection] *by many infallible [irrefutable] proofs, being seen [eyewitness] of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God ...'
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Acts 2 - The Christian Church already individually (Luke 24:31) [by faith in the cross and resurrection of Jesus] having the 'born again' Firstfruits of the Spirit of Jesus - The Church corporately (all in one group) receives the 'experience' the promised Baptism of the Father the Comfort and empowerment of the Holy Spirit - Note: At Pentecost The Holy Spirit is poured out upon the entire world [John 16:8] - With Pentecost [empowerment for the Church, conviction for the world] comes the Baptism of Persecution (Fire) for the Church -- 'Acts 2:1-5 And when the Day of Pentecost [lit. 50 days - after the Feast of Firstfruits] [5th Levitical Feast - Leviticus 23:16] was fully come, they [Christians] were all with one accord in one place [in the upper room]. And suddenly there came a sound from Heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire [refinement, trials, persecution], and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled [empowered] with the Holy Ghost, and [experientially] began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, *out of [representing] every Nation under Heaven.' - 'John 16:7 Nevertheless I [Jesus] tell you the Truth; It is expedient for you that I go away [back to Heaven]: for if I go not away, the Comforter [Holy Spirit] will not come unto you [at Pentecost]; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you. And when He [Holy Spirit] is come, *He will reprove the *world [Pentecost is an outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the entire world] of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on Me [Jesus]; Of righteousness, because I go to My Father, and ye see Me no more [after the Ascension]; Of judgment, because the prince of this world [Satan - Devil] is judged.'
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Acts 3 - The early Christian Church continually Worshiped and Served Jesus Christ even after His bodily Ascension back into Heaven - As a part of their Christian Devotion to Jesus their lives and the lives of those around them were dramatically altered being transformed by the Holy Spirit to conform within the Kingdom of God -- 'Acts 3:1-9 Now Peter and John went up together into the Temple at the hour of prayer [Christians went to the Temple only to pray and perform certain services but no longer to sacrifice (a lamb) as Jesus is our eternal sacrifice], being the ninth hour [3:00 P.M.]. And a certain man lame [unable to walk] from his mother's womb [physical birth] was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the Temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms (gifts) of them that entered into the Temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the Temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us [make eye contact]. And he gave heed unto them [looked them in the eye], expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said [worldly wealth], Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have [Heavenly wealth] give I thee: *In the Name [at Jesus' bidding] of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he [Peter] took him by the right hand [Christian fellowship], and lifted him up [cross and resurrection of Jesus]: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood [new life - resurrection], and walked [Christian walk], and entered with them [into fellowship] into the Temple [to pray to God], walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God ...'
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Acts 4 - The Gospel of God in Jesus Christ has begun to be Preached (Proclaimed) to mankind first to the Jews in Jerusalem then to the mixed multitude [Jews and gentiles] in Samaria [the ancient (O.T.) Kingdom of Northern Israel] and ultimately to all the Gentiles of the world -- 'Acts 4:1-4 And as they [Apostles] spake unto the people, the Priests, and the Captain [of the guard] of the Temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, *Being grieved [since Pentecost Christianity is a perceivable Spirit that men either rejoice in or are grieved by] that they taught the people, *and preached through Jesus *the resurrection [of just humans] from the dead. And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide [lit. close of a regular day - G2703]. Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men [converts to Christianity] was about five thousand.'
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Acts 5 - With the presence and assistance of the Holy Spirit people are able to Trust and discern the Truth of Christianity and as a result the Christian Church realizes an enormous, explosive, unprecedented exponential growth in numbers of participants -- 'Acts 5:14 And [Christian] believers were the more added to the Lord [Jesus Christ], multitudes both of men and women.'
Wikipedia.org - Gamaliel: However, there is no other record [than the writings of the Apostle Paul] of Gamaliel ever having taught in public, although the Talmud does describe Gamaliel as teaching a student who displayed impudence (The quality of being offensively bold - answers.com) in learning, which a few scholars identify as a possible reference to [the Apostle] Paul
The Apostle Paul - When Paul became a Christian, his very thorough [Jewish] education was enormously helpful - He was able to assimilate Christian doctrines rapidly and relate them accurately to the Scripture teaching he had received - From his education, both from Gamaliel and in the desert [Saudi Arabia] from the Lord Jesus Christ, Paul developed a divine viewpoint attitude toward human history - *Paul knew that the existence of God [by the Holy Spirit since Pentecost] can easily be perceived by anyone, *that man can become aware of God, *but that many men's deliberate sin halted this good beginning [after becoming aware of God] by [continued] immoral activities which accompanied their [past] idolatry
JewishEncyclopedia.com - GAMALIEL I: Son of Simon and grandson of Hillel: according to a tannaitic tradition (Shab.15a), he [Gamaliel] was their successor as nasi and first president of the Great Sanhedrin of Jerusalem - The apostle Paul prides himself on having sat at the feet of Gamaliel
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Acts 6 - The early Christian Church and Church leaders in Jerusalem learn to handle the continual controversies and conflicts that arise both from within the Christian Church and from outside the Church -- 'Acts 6:1-7 And in those [early Church in Jerusalem] days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians [Greek Jews] against the Hebrews [Israel Jews], because their widows were neglected [not on the list] in the daily [food giving] ministration. Then the Twelve [the Eleven plus Matthias the (temporary) replacement for Judas - Paul in all likeliness became the Twelfth Apostle permanently replacing Judas] called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the [study and preaching] word of God, and serve tables [distribute food]. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this [charity] business. But we [leaders] will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word [Bible]. And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a [Greek - Jewish convert] proselyte of Antioch: Whom they set before the Apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the [Levitical Temple] Priests were obedient [converts] to the [Christian] faith. - Note: The Grecian Christians issued the complaint and the early Church (primarily Hebrew) responded not in a compromise but by selecting all seven of the appointed charity workers from the Grecian group. The Greek [Greece the 5th Kingdom of the world - Revelation 17:10] nation ruled over Israel for about 200 years [336 B.C. - 149 B.C.] before Rome began to rule over Israel and the Greek culture was deeply implanted into Jewish society in Israel.'
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Acts 7 - Stephen under arrest for blasphemy and on trial for his life in Jerusalem - Stephen uses as his defense the known fact that nearly every single prophet of importance to Israel throughout the history of Israel the people of Israel have first rejected the true Prophet before they ultimately accepted them and their ministry as being of God - Stephen is saying that Jesus was obviously God in the flesh though many people refused to believe it but then rejecting the true Prophets of God is the track record of mankind when it comes to interactions between man and God - Mankind has a propensity to reject the true interaction with God while at the same time embrace the false prophets of the world -- 'Acts 7:52-53 Which of the [true] Prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them [true Prophets] which shewed before [prophesied] of the coming of the Just One [Jesus Christ]; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers [their Jewish forefathers put to death the true prophets but they managed to go a step further and put to death the Messiah, Jesus the one prophesied about]: Who have received the law [the image of Jesus] by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it [because the law revealed the nature of Jesus].'
wikipedia.org - St. Stephen's Day [December 26th]: Commemorates Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr
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Acts 8 - The early Christian Church begins to experience wide scale opposition and persecution -- 'Acts 8:1-3 And Saul [later the Apostle Paul] was consenting unto his [Stephen's] death. *And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they [Christians - Disciples] were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, *except the Apostles [Apostle means 'sent out' at this point in the Church the Disciples basically fled while the Apostles remained calm]. 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 [early Christians in Jerusalem were primarily sent to prison for a short time].'
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Acts 9 - The Pharisee Saul of Tarsus while traveling the road to Damascus experiences a divine encounter with the resurrected Jesus Christ of Nazareth and instantly converts to Christianity eventually becoming the Apostle Paul the permanent 12th Apostle (replacing Judas), the leader and human standard for putting forth Christian doctrine and the writer of the majority of the Holy Bible's New Testament -- 'Acts 9:1-4 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the [Christian] disciples of the Lord, went unto the High Priest, And desired of him letters [of authority] to Damascus to the Synagogues, that if he found any of this way [Christianity], whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. *And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: *and suddenly there shined round about him *a light from Heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?'
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Acts 10 - Acts Chapter 10 - The birth of the Gentile Christian Church -- 'Acts 10:1-7 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a Centurion [soldier - company commander] of the band [unit] called the Italian band, A devout [Gentile] man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the [Jewish and Gentile] people, and prayed to God alway. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour [3:00 pm] of the day an Angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he [Angel] said unto him, *Thy prayers and thine alms [giving] are come up for a memorial [eternal remembrance] before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is [Apostle] Peter He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he [Peter] shall [open the doors for the Christian Church to now receive Gentile members] tell thee what thou oughtest to do. ...'
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Acts 11 - The Christian Church in Jerusalem is told by Peter that he was instructed by God to go to Caesarea to preach to the Gentiles and that the Holy Spirit had descended upon the Gentiles and that now through the acceptance of God the Gentiles are converting from Paganism and are now entering into their true Church of God -- 'Acts 11:1-4 And the Apostles and brethren [disciples] that were in Judaea [Israel - Jerusalem] heard that the Gentiles had also received the Word of God. And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision [Jewish Christians] contended [argued] with him, Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat [fellowship] with them. But Peter rehearsed the matter [how it was intended by God] from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, ...'
Acts 11 (Part 2) - The early Christian Church in Jerusalem
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Acts 12 - The Apostle James the representative of [and Apostle to] the redeemed group of Martyred Saints of Revelation is himself Martyred -- 'Acts 12:1-2 Now about that time Herod [Antipas] the king [the son of King Herod the Great of Matthew 2:1] stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.' Note: Jesus only allowed the Disciples Peter, John and James [each representing a distinct group of redeemed - saved people] to witness and participate at the Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1) and in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:33) while the other disciples were excluded.' - Peter the Apostle representing the Jews (Galatians 2:7), the Disciple John representing the Christian Church (Revelation 4:1) and James the Apostle representing the Martyred Saints of Revelation (Acts 12:2) - John and James were brothers as the Christian Church and the future [primarily Gentile] Martyred Saints of Revelation (Revelation 6:9) are brothers (Revelation 13:7) but are not the same group - The 144,000 (Revelation 7:4) Jewish witnesses of Revelation are also Martyred (Revelation 14:1) during the tribulation period.
Jewish historian Josephus (Born: 37 AD - Died: 100 AD) on the Death of Herod [Antipas] (Born: 20 BC - Died: 39 AD) - when he had been quite worn out by the pain in his belly [infection from worms] for five days, he departed this life
Herod Antipas who put John the Baptist to death, son of Herod the Great - was Born: 20 BC - Died: 39 AD - Cause of death: unspecified [infected with worms]
Herod the Great (Matthew 2:1) [Father of Herod Antapas] - This revised chronology dates the capture of Jerusalem to 43 B.C., the rebuilding of the Temple to 32 B.C., and Herod's death to 8 B.C. - Some of the evidence for this revised chronology is summarized below
Pontius Pilate (Matthew 27:2) - Eusebius quoted some early Apocryphal (the general term 'Apocryphal' is usually applied to the books that were considered by the Church as useful, but not divinely inspired - wiki.com) accounts which he did not name, that said Pilate suffered misfortune in the reign of Caligula (AD 37-41), was exiled to Gaul (present day France and Belgium) and eventually committed suicide there in Vienne - There is an old tradition linking the birthplace of Pilate with the small village of Bisenti, Samnite territory, in today's Abruzzo region of Central Italy. There are ruins of a Roman house known as "The House of Pilate" - [Eusebius born 263 AD - died 339 AD - became the Bishop of Caesarea [home of Cornelius (48 A.D.) - Acts 10:1], in Palestine (Israel), about the year 314 A.D. - wiki.com]
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Acts 13 - The Missionary efforts of the Christian Church primarily to Gentiles begins with Saul [Apostle Paul] and Barnabas being sent out (Apostle) by the Holy Spirit on the first of three Missionary trips undertaken by the Apostle Paul and recorded in the book of Acts -- 'Acts 13:1-4 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen [a childhood friend of Herod], which had been brought up with Herod the Tetrarch, and Saul [Apostle Paul]. *As they ministered to the Lord [Father, Son Jesus, Holy Spirit], and fasted, *the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the [Missionary] work whereunto I have called them. And when they [Church fellowship] had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, *being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia [in modern Syria]; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.' - Note: Where Jesus is the head and authority of the Christian Church it is primarily the work of the Holy Spirit that is in charge of gathering, assembling and orchestrating the Christian Church into becoming the one assembled Bride of Jesus Christ.
PAUL [the Apostle] has been called the greatest Christian who ever lived
Seleucia [near Antioch (Syria)] - Seleucia was the seaport from which Paul and Barnabas left [from the Church in Antioch] with John Mark [Mark who the departed from the mission at Pamphylia] for their first missionary journey (in approximately 49 A.D.) (Photos)
Map of Paul's First [of Three] Missionary Journeys - [Paul made a fourth documented trip - as prisoner in his first visit to Rome] - This map reveals the areas in Asia Minor where Paul visited in his first missionary journey around 48 AD (Map - List of Bible Verses)
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Acts 14 - The first Missionary Journey continues and the Apostles [Paul and Barnabas] continue to experience and to witness firsthand both the events of miraculous conversions to Christianity from some and from others outright hostile opposition against Christianity -- 'Acts 14:3-7 Long time therefore abode [in the city of Iconium] they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave Testimony unto the Word of His [Jesus'] Grace, and granted [miraculous] signs and wonders to be done by their hands. But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the Apostles. And when there was *an assault made *both of the *Gentiles, and also of the *Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them, They were aware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about: And there they [also] preached the gospel.'
Ancient Syrian Antioch (Modern Antakya in Turkey): Seventeen ancient cities in present day Turkey were named Antioch but only two are remembered today in a historical sense - One is modern day Antakya (located in ancient Syria) and the other is Antioch in Pisidia (Central Turkey)
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Acts 15 - The 1st Church Council takes place about 52 A.D. at the Church in Jerusalem - The 1st Church Council was specifically in regard to the major number of Gentiles that were now joining the Christian Church daily [predominantly through Missionary efforts] and whether or not the Gentiles would have to be circumcised and observe any of the Jewish customs or take part in any of the established laws of Moses -- 'Acts 15:6 And the Apostles and [Church] Elders [including James the ½ brother of Jesus] came together for to consider of this matter.'
Acts 15 (Part 2) - Christian Church Councils - All of the Church Councils throughout history have dealt specifically with the issues of God's Redemptive and Salvation plan for mankind and in light of God's plan for mankind the councils have also attempt to explain who God is to mankind - A Note of Encouragement: Participation in the blog Bible Study has been going extraordinarily well since the start of the study and it continues as one of the most active projects on the Basic Christian website. I'm encouraged and blessed daily by the numbers of people who are so actively studying the Bible and seeking a direct relationship with God in Jesus Christ. Continue with prayer, study and fellowship! Continue the good work in Jesus Christ!
The Council of Jerusalem Acts 15:6-31 (Approx. 52 A.D.): where we read of the first General Church Council - A serious question of doctrine arose, and "the apostles and the presbyters came together to consider this matter" - The decree of the Council of Jerusalem went on, then, to establish a binding obligation upon all Christians in the local churches of Antioch, Syria and Cilicia: "that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality" (Acts 15:29) - Did the local churches bristle at this imposition of doctrine and practice from the ecclesiastical leadership of the whole Church? Not at all, but rather they "rejoiced over its encouragement" (Acts 15:31) {The 50 A.D. Jerusalem Council decision was yes, Gentiles can become Christians and then simple directions and reminders were given so that the new Gentile Christians would not offend God. The food (abstain from eating blood) decision was given so that Christians would not offend the Jews. Christians can eat any food however God is still protecting the Jews and He does not want them offended by others even Christians. Acts 15:21 For Moses of old time hath in every city them (Jews) that preach (law) him, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath day.}
wikipedia.org: First Council of Nicaea by the Roman Emperor Constantine I in 325 AD - The First Council of Nicaea is commonly regarded to have been the first Ecumenical [representing the whole Christian Church] council of the Christian Church [that is if neglecting the Council of Jerusalem in 52 AD] - Most significantly, it resulted in the first uniform Christian doctrine, called the Creed of Nicaea
Nicene Creed of 325 A.D. - Constantinople Creed of 381 A.D.
4 Great Church Councils Part 1 & 2 (Mp3s) {Note: The Council of Jerusalem Acts 15:6-31 (Approx. 52 A.D.) is the original and first Christian Church Council. All of the later Church Councils are modeled after the first Jerusalem Council.}
The Bible and The Creeds - Sermon Series: An Introduction to the Creeds (Mp3s)
Book of Common Prayer (1662) - "I believe there is no Liturgy in the world, either in ancient or modern language, which breathes more of a solid, scriptural, rational piety than the Common Prayer of the Church of England" John Wesley (PDF)
Westminster Confession of Faith (1647) - Downloadable Documents (Doc)
The Westminster Confession of Faith (1647) - Downloadable Documents (PDF)
The Westminster Confession of Faith 1648 - The Westminster Confession of Faith (WCF) and its related documents are the greatest of all the creeds of the Christian church (Mp3s)
Historic Baptist Documents - Confessions, Catechisms, Creeds
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Acts 16 - The Apostle Paul departs for his 2nd of three Missionary Journeys - Barnabas and Paul have divided company so Paul takes Silas on his second journey -- 'Acts 15:35 Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, *with many others also. And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again [on a 2nd Missionary Journey] and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do. And Barnabas determined to take with them [Mark] John, whose surname was Mark. But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. *And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder [split] one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren [fellow Christians] unto the grace of God. And [starting] he went through Syria and Cilicia [local existing Churches], confirming the Churches.'
The Didache [lit. The Teachings] - The Didache is also called the "Teaching of the Twelve Apostles" - It was possibly written around 65 - 80 A.D. {possibly 52 A.D. about the time of the letter from the 1st Church Council in Jerusalem} and is supposed to be what the twelve apostles taught to the Gentiles concerning life and death, church order, fasting, baptism, prayer, etc. - There is debate as to its authenticity - The work is cited by Eusebius who lived from 260 - 341 [A.D.] and Athanasius (293-373 A.D.) It seems to be referenced by Origen who lived from 185-254 [A.D.] - In the Didache, 16:2-3 is quoted in the Epistle of Barnabbas in 4:9, or vice versa - The Epistle of Barnabbas was [possibly] written in 130-131 A.D. - The Didache is not (purely) inspired {extra-Biblical}, but is valuable as an early church document
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Acts 17 - The 2nd Missionary Journey continues to take the Gospel of Jesus Christ into further reaches of mankind -- 'Acts 17:1-4 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica [1st and 2nd Thessalonians], where was a synagogue of the Jews: And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three Sabbath days *reasoned {now the Book of Hebrews} with them out of the scriptures, Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and *risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ [Messiah]. And some of them believed ...'
Areopagus (Mars Hill), Athens [Greece] - The Areopagus or Mars Hill is a bare marble hill next to the Acropolis in Athens - It is especially popular with travelers for its connections with a speech made by Paul the Apostle (Photos)
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Acts 18 - The eventful, far reaching and highly successful 2nd Missionary Journey of the Apostle Paul concludes as Paul visits the seaport city of Corinth in Greece and then after a brief visit to Ephesus [in modern Turkey] he quickly makes his way back to the Church at Antioch hoping first to make it to Jerusalem in time to celebrate the Passover [Holy Week] in Jerusalem - After a very short visit in Jerusalem possibly during Holy Week [it's not mentioned if Paul made it in time] and then on to Antioch and after spending a short time in Antioch he soon departed for his 3rd and final Missionary Journey -- 'Acts 18:9-10 Then [while in Corinth] spake the Lord [Jesus] to Paul in the night by a vision, *Be not afraid [of persecution], but speak, and hold not thy peace: *For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.'
Drive Thru History :: Ancient Greece - A TV Series DVD Promo (YouTube)
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Acts 19 - With the 3rd Mission Journey the Apostle Paul makes more of a concerted effort to clean up loosened doctrines that are still around, to deepen and instruct the disciples in the correct Church doctrines of Jesus Christ and to strengthen the faith of the new leaders and new disciples by having a faith based solely on the living resurrected Jesus Christ -- 'Acts 19:10 And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.' - 'Acts 19:21 After these things were ended, Paul purposed *in the Spirit, [that later] when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia [Greece], to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.'
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Acts 20 - By the 3rd Missionary Journey of the Apostle Paul the Christian Church much as we know it today [with weekly Sunday worship] was firmly established and in operation throughout most of the Roman world -- 'Acts 20:7-11 And upon the first day of the week [Sunday], when the disciples came together to break bread [regular Christian Church day], Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. ... When he [injured man was healed] therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and [Paul] talked a long while, even till [the] break of day [sunrise], so he [Paul then] departed.'
Urbana Invite Videos - Urbana is intended for anyone interested in missions - It's our prayer that Urbana 09 will be an eye-opening, life-transforming, commitment-producing call to join God's mission (Video - Downloads)
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Acts 21 - The Apostle Paul goes once again to the Church in Jerusalem and once again the Apostle Paul attempts to reconcile Christianity with Judaism and this time the events are disastrous and nearly fatal for the Apostle as Paul ends up arrested and in the custody of Rome no longer a freeman but a prisoner of Rome -- 'Acts 21:4 And finding disciples, we tarried there [in Tyre] seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, *that he should not go up to Jerusalem.' - Note: Christian laity prophecy, those exercising the gift of prophecy [forth telling] often simplify and under complicate the prophecy message they are intended to give. The many disciples who prophesied to the Apostle Paul did so in oversimplified black and white terms [don't go to Jerusalem]. The Apostle Paul correctly identified the prophesies as more complex and as a warning from the Holy Spirit, intending that Paul should go to Jerusalem but not to go there unprepared for the unsuspected and disasters events that were about to occur mainly the wholesale and universal rejection of Paul's Gospel message by his Jewish brethren in Jerusalem.
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Acts 22 - The Apostle Paul complies with the desires of the leaders of the Christian Church in Jerusalem - The results are a disaster as once in the Temple area Jews of Asia [modern Turkey] recognized Paul and immediately sought to kill him - Being arrested by the Roman authorities the Apostle Paul requested to speak to the crowd of Jews - The Jews of Jerusalem [many previously friends of Paul (Saul)] completely rejected the Apostle and more disheartening refused even to hear his message in its entirety -- 'Acts 22:24 The chief [Roman] Captain commanded him [Paul] to be brought into the castle [into the jail cell], and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he [Rome] might know wherefore they [Jews] cried so against him [Paul].' - Note: Even though the Apostle Paul was unexpectedly imprisoned in a Roman jail and facing death with charges of treason and riotousness the disciples who accompanied Paul used their precious time in Jerusalem wisely. Luke used the time to research and to write his Gospel of Luke while Paul even though in jail he used the time to write his letter to his Jewish Christian brethren in Jerusalem his book of Hebrews.
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Acts 23 - Paul goes on trial both in Jewish and Roman courts - Ultimately in Rome Paul is acquitted and released from prison - However after a brief period of freedom in Rome Paul was rearrested, being a well-known Christian leader and during the continued persecution of Nero the Apostle Paul was put to death while in his second prison stay - A short time late the Apostle Peter was also executed in Rome during the same persecution of Christians by Caesar Nero -- 'Acts 23:1-5 And Paul, earnestly beholding the [Sanhedrin] Council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good *conscience before God until this day. And the High Priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him [Paul] on the mouth [being struck Paul becomes a type of Jesus (John 18:22)]. Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for [because] sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to [against] the law? And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest? *Then said Paul, I wist (lit. perceived) not, brethren, that he was the high priest [Paul is saying that the only High Priest is Jesus Christ]: for it is written [Exodus 22:28], Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.'
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Acts 24 - The Apostle Paul would now spend over two years' time in jail in Caesarea - The Apostle Paul having already written the book of Hebrews [while in jail in Jerusalem] could have written his famous 'confinement' (prison) Epistles [the Bible books - Colossians, Philemon, Ephesians, Philippians] while in jail in Caesarea though Church tradition holds that the four Epistles were written by Paul while under house arrest in Rome after having left Caesarea and having traveled by ship to Rome -- 'Acts 24:27 But after two years Porcius (Procurator) [High Roman official - 2nd in command to the Emperor - wiki.com] Festus came into [Governor] Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound [in jail]. - Note: Besides the four common Prison Epistles of Paul the book of Hebrews is a prison Epistle [Hebrews 13:19] (from Paul's imprisonment in Jerusalem) and the book of 2nd Timothy [2nd Timothy 1:8] is a prison Epistle from Paul's second imprisonment in Rome and was written possibly just days before Paul was executed as a prisoner of Rome
The Epistles of Paul by C.I. Scofield - The Two Silences: Two periods in the life of Paul after his conversion are passed over in a silence which is itself significant--the journey into Arabia, from which the Apostle returned in full possession of the Gospel explanation as set forth in Galatians and Romans; and the two silent years in prison in Caesarea, between his arrest in the Temple at Jerusalem and his deportation to Rome - It seems most congruous [harmonious] with the events of Paul's life to suppose that these great revelations [Paul's Epistle books of the Bible] came during the silent years at Caesarea--often spoken of as wasted
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Acts 25 - The Apostle Paul famously appeals his case to Caesar and Procurator Festus [now interim Governor for Felix] famously unaware of the Spiritual matters that the case involves grants Paul's appeal and agrees to send Paul on to Rome to be tried by Caesar himself -- 'Acts 25:10-12 Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest. For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. *I appeal unto Caesar. Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, *answered, Hast thou appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go.'
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Acts 26 - The Apostle Paul gives his Testimony to King Agrippa, the King's wife Bernice and to Festus - While the Apostle Paul is speaking - Festus then has his famous 'I didn't know Christianity was about that' moment and in a loud outburst Festus publically challenges what he sees as the absurdity of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ -- 'Acts 26:1-2 Then [King] Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself ...'
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Acts 27 - The Apostle Paul is finally sent on to Rome and after surviving a major shipwreck will eventually make it into Rome -- 'Acts 27:1-2 And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy [and go to Rome the capital city of Italy], they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a Centurion of [Caesar] Augustus' band [unit]. And entering into a ship of [the city of] Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.'
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Acts 28 - The Apostle Paul finally arrives in Rome and discovers that no charges have been forwarded from Jerusalem to Rome -- 'Acts 28:16-21 And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered [allowed] to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him. And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me. But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of. For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain. And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea [Israel] concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any harm of thee.'
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ROMANS
The Books of Romans, Galatians and Hebrews are being grouped together and presented as a Trilogy of Systematic Theology by the Apostle Paul
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Romans 1 - Paul a servant (bond slave) of Jesus Christ - At the writing of his letter to the Christian Church at Rome the Apostle Paul had not yet been to Rome - It would be three more years before Paul would make it to Rome - It would not be as a free person that the Apostle Paul would take his first steps into Rome but as a prisoner of Rome that the Apostle Paul would enter into Rome -- 'Romans 1:3-6 Concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the [physical] seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with [Spiritual] power, according to the Spirit of Holiness [Holy Spirit], by the resurrection from the dead: By (Jesus) whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all Nations, for His Name: Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ'
Xenos.org: Background of the Book of Romans - Scholars also agree upon the date and place of authorship, believing [Apostle] Paul wrote this letter while in Corinth (Acts 20), between A.D. 55 and 58 A.D. (Teachings - Mp3s, Video, PowerPoint)
Drive Thru History :: Ancient Rome - A TV Series DVD Promo (YouTube)
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Romans 2 - As the Apostle Paul stated "The wrath of God is going to be revealed from Heaven" now the Apostle Paul makes clear that we are all under that wrath - this is self-evident in that no person has even met their own standards they set for themselves let alone God's standards set for all mankind -- 'Romans 2:33 And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest [others] them which do such [evil] things, and doest the same [one sin is just as evil as another and we all sin], that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?'
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Romans 3 - The Apostle Paul continues to reveal God's plan of salvation for mankind through Jesus Christ - 'Romans 3:29-30 Is He the God of the Jews only? is He not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the [Jewish] circumcision by ["a seal of the righteousness of the faith" - sign of circumcision] faith, and [Gentile] uncircumcision through [resurrection] faith.' - 'Romans 4:9-11 9 Cometh this blessedness [sins are covered] then upon the circumcision [Jews] only, or upon the uncircumcision [Gentiles] also? for we say that faith (belief) was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. And he received *the sign of circumcision, *a seal of the righteousness *of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe [Jews and Gentiles], though they [Gentiles] be not circumcised [Jews]; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:'
Romans Road - Program Download Available (Mp3)
Question: "What is the Romans Road to salvation?"
The Romans Road to salvation - Let me take you down the path of the Roman Road to Salvation and the gate of eternal life with Jesus Christ
Take the Romans Road to salvation
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Romans 4 - The Apostle Paul continues and now uses examples in the lives of Abraham and King David to illustrate how consistent the word of God is - how reliable the word of God is - and also how long ago it was that the promises of God were given [the original promise of the redeemer was given to Adam and Eve] and are still in use by God today [in the book of Hebrews Moses will be contrasted to Jesus] - 'Romans 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God [that God has the power and authority of life over death], and it was counted unto him for righteousness.' -- 'Romans 4:6-8 Even as [King] David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin [because of a faith like Abraham].'
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Romans 5 - The Apostle Paul now declares that once justified [in a right relationship with God] that we do in fact and in actuality have access into the presence of God and being in the presence of God we receive the blessings of God notably Peace and Grace -- 'Romans 5:1-3 Therefore being justified by faith, we have Peace [no longer at war] with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this Grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the Glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations [we are still in this world] also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience ...'
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Romans 6 - The Apostle Paul reveals to us that having received the righteousness of Jesus Christ and with the Holy Spirit in our heart we now have a "newness of life (eternal)" -- 'Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with Him (Jesus) by baptism [identifying ourselves with Jesus - also represented in our actual water baptism] into death [cross]: that like as Christ was raised up [resurrection] from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.'
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Romans 7 - The Apostle Paul makes clear that our emotions and intentions are not to be just reformed and made a little better but are actually to be renewed and made new into the Spiritual image and presence of God in His Spirit inside of us - 'Romans 7:24 O wretched [dual nature - physical and spiritual (actually - body, soul, spirit)] man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death [and limitation]? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord {that His resurrection Spirit life delivers me from limitations that limit and distance me from God}. So then with the mind [my new unlimited Spiritual intentions] I myself serve [obey] the law [image] of God; but with the flesh [I still unwillingly and regretfully serve] the law of sin.'
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Romans 8 - The Apostle Paul reminds us that with all the condemnation in the world and it is a world of condemnation that Jesus is one person who is not condemning us - Jesus Christ died for us, Jesus is for us and certainly not against us - Jesus is our biggest supporter and in fact the support of Jesus Christ is the complete opposite of the condemnation of the world - His support for us is confirmation and affirmation at the highest level that God does love us and that God does want us to have eternal life and a relationship with Him - 'Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even [acceptable] at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession [mediation] for us.'
Romans 8 (Part 2) - The Apostle Paul now having established the transition from our mortality in earthy sin to immortality in Jesus Christ - now begins to explain more about the heavenly realm and more about eternal Christian concepts and principles -- 'Romans 8:11 But if the [Holy] Spirit of Him (God) that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in [inside] you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken [make heavenly aware] your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you.'
Romans 8 (Part 3) - The Apostle Paul concludes his section on Christian heavenly spirituality by proclaiming the spiritual truth that absolutely nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ - 'Romans 8:38-39 For I am persuaded, that neither [physical] death, nor [events of] life, nor angels, nor principalities [fallen angels], nor [demonic] powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height [success], nor depth [failure], nor any other [i.e. unexplained UFOs (Note: UFOs are either manmade objects, or fallen angels manifesting or just demons manifesting)] creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.'
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Romans 9 - The Apostle Paul in continuing his systematic approach to theology now changes topics from sin and justification to the current standing of his fellow Jews - Paul expresses his regrets that the Jews are not partakers with the Christian Church in salvation [though the Jews still have the promises of God and are partakers of the adoption in the eternal Kingdom of God] - 'Romans 9:4-5 Who are Israelites (Jews); to whom pertaineth the adoption [heavenly adoption as Sons of God], and the glory [earthly glory and heavenly glorification], and the covenants [including the New Testament], and the giving of the law [of Moses], and the service [producing the Holy Scriptures, bringing in the Messiah, the 144,000 witnesses of Revelation, the Second Coming, etc.] of God, and the promises [of God]; Whose are the fathers [Abraham, Isaac, Jacob (Israel)], and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ [the Messiah] came, who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen.'
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Romans 10 - The Apostle Paul continues His teaching making the absolute irrefutable proof that direct access to God through Jesus Christ is now also available to the Gentiles as well as to the Jews - For about the first 10-15 years the Christian Church was entirely Jewish and there was some concern whether or not Gentiles could enter into the promises of God as a Gentile - Paul reveals that yes, because the death of Jesus on the cross finalized the physical earthly system and that Christianity is a new Heavenly Spiritual resurrection system that yes the Gentiles can enter into the new Heavenly system of Christianity and receive the promises and blessings of Christianity without first becoming Jewish -- 'Romans 10:10-13 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on Him (Jesus) shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord (Jesus) over all is rich unto all that call upon Him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord (Jesus) shall be saved (Salvation - Soteria).'
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Romans 11 - Having made clear that Gentiles now have access into the originally all Jewish Christian Church the Apostle Paul goes on to contrast the new [particularly in Rome] predominantly Gentile Christian Church customs with the old Jewish customs in Israel - Paul is saying to the Gentiles in Rome that it isn't enough to just boast that God is their Savior as the Jews had done in Israel in the past - But that God requires more than boasting and like the Jews the Gentiles will have to seek after, obey and follow God in order to remain Children of God - The Jews in a sense were set aside as the primary work of Salvation has gone to the Gentiles however Paul warns the Gentiles that just as God was under no manmade mandate or obligation to the Jews God remains under no manmade mandate or obligation to the Gentiles - Any Gentile can find themselves removed from the Church and from the promises of God by God just any branch can be removed from a plant and the branch is dead or dies yet the plant with the good healthy root continues to grow and flourish -- 'Romans 11:20-21 Well; because of unbelief they [Jews] were broken off [from Salvation], and thou standest by faith. Be not high-minded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural [Jewish] branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.'
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Romans 12 - Having established beyond a doubt that Gentiles do belong and have a home in the Christian Church the Apostle Paul goes on to instruct the Romans in Christian living and in Christian conduct -- 'Romans 12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.'
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Romans 13 - The Christian Church in Rome specifically and throughout the world generally is being instructed to obey civil authorities because ultimately it is God is in control and in charge - God has permitted each civil authority to receive their position of authority - 'Romans 13:5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject [to government authorities], not only for wrath [the wrath of God is upon those who disobey], but also for [our] conscience sake.'
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Romans 14 - The Apostle Paul instructs that Christianity is about encouragement, edification and building up of each other in Jesus Christ and that it is not like the ways of the world where tearing down, manipulating and even destroying one another are the norm -- 'Romans 14:18-19 For he (Christian) that in these things [consideration of others] serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify [encourage and build up] another.'
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Romans 15 - The Apostle Paul again provides more Biblical standing from the Old Testament scriptures that Jesus came both to fulfill the promises given to the Jews and to receive unto Himself the Gentile Nations - Paul confirms the he indeed is God's chosen Missionary to deliver God's message to the Gentile Nations - 'Romans 15:15-17 Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God, That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, *that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost. I have therefore whereof I may glory [be accomplished] through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God.'
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Romans 16 - Phebe a Deaconess [lit. servant, a female church worker] at the Christian Church in Cenchrea [the seaport near the major city of Corinth in Greece where Paul wrote his letter to Rome] - Phebe was entrusted to take Paul's letter from Corinth to the Christian Church in Rome a distance of about 617 miles - Phebe delivered the letter that Paul wrote and Tertius was the scribe for writing the letter, often a scribe wrote on parchment while the author of the letter spoke - Tertius [the scribe] salutes the Christians in Rome 'I Tertius, who wrote [scribed] this epistle, salute you in the Lord' - 'Romans 16:16 Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.'
Memo - The blog Bible Study has completed the Book of Romans and next is the Book of Galatians - The study pace has been fast though in the future the pace will probably vary a little bit more and there might even be some pauses in the study it depends mostly on the quality of material being presented - I have some other things scheduled but I think we can keep studying around any other events
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1 CORINTHIANS
THE FIRST EPISTLE TO THE CORINTHIANS: Introduction - AUTHOR: PAUL, the Apostle (1:1; 16:21) - PLACE OF WRITING: EPHESUS (16:8) - TIME OF WRITING: Probably in the spring of 57 A.D., shortly before the Jewish feast of Pentecost (16:8), *during his third missionary journey [while in Ephesus] (Ac 19:1-41) - What is the purpose of this epistle? To correct sinful practices and refute false doctrine - Where is the theme of the epistle stated? 1 Corinthians 1:10
There is going to be a slight shift in the emphasis of the blog Bible Study regarding the Church Epistles (part of study segment #6) 1st Corinthians, 2nd Corinthians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1st Thessalonians and 2nd Thessalonians - During the study of the Church Epistles the blog Bible Study is going to study and emphasize the rampant Deception currently taking place within the modern Evangelical Christian Church
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1 Corinthians 1 - In the opening of the first Church epistle (letter) to the Christian Church in Corinth the Apostle Paul defines what it is to be a Christian - 1 Corinthians 1:2-3 Unto the Church of God which is at Corinth, to *them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with *all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from [God] the Lord Jesus Christ. - Note: The word "and" in the Greek language can also be used as an equal sign (=) "from God our Father, and [=] from the Lord Jesus Christ."
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1 Corinthians 2 - Paul notes that earthly human wisdom will only go so far in understanding the Spiritual matters and nature of God as God has revealed Himself to mankind in the 3 in 1 [Triune - Trinity] nature of God - Therefore Paul speaks to people in a spiritual way so people can have an opportunity to receive the Spiritual nature of a relationship between God and mankind -- '1 Corinthians 2:1-5 And I, brethren, when I came to you, [I] came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, [in] declaring unto you the Testimony of God [Jesus]. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. And I was [humble] with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing [salesmanship] words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: *That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.'
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1 Corinthians 3 - The Spiritual nature of God is revealed to now be inside and comingled with the [cleansed by the blood of Jesus] human spirit in the [completed] Spiritually born again person -- '1 Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the Temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?' - '1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are [equally] yours ...'
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1 Corinthians 4 - It is required that those who oversee and administer the elements [mystery] of the Kingdom of God to themselves and to others that they do so being faithful to Jesus Christ -- '1 Corinthians 4:1-2 Let a man so account of us, as of the Ministers of Christ, and stewards [keepers, agents] of the *mysteries of God. Moreover *it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.'
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1 Corinthians 5 - The Apostle Paul rebukes some of the unholy behavior taking place in the Church and states that as a discerning Christian Paul does not even have to be in their presence to discern that their behavior is unscriptural -- '1 Corinthians 5:3-5 For I [Paul] verily, as absent [not physically among you] in body, *but present [discerning] in spirit, *have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this [immoral] deed, In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit [of fellowship], with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver such an one unto Satan [remove the offender from Church fellowship] for the destruction of the flesh [having discovered the hard way after encountering Satan that serving (self) or is not worth it], that [through repentance] the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.'
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1 Corinthians 6 - The Apostle Paul explains Christian liberty - we as Christians in a personal relationship with God in Heaven are free to do anything on earth - However on earth there are still harmful (unprofitable) things and if a Christian is not discerning enough to avoid and stay away from the harmful effects of things that still remain on this earth than a Christian can suffer the consequences of bad personal decisions -- '1 Corinthians 6:9-12 Know ye not that the unrighteous [unsaved] shall not inherit the Kingdom of God? *Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the Kingdom of God. *And such were some of you [we have all sinned]: *but ye are [now] washed [cleansed by the blood of Jesus], but ye are sanctified [set apart to God], but ye are justified [right with God] *in the Name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit [born again] of our God. *All things are lawful unto me [we have liberty not the law], but all things are not expedient [well]: all things are lawful for me, *but I will not be brought under the power [into bondage] of any [worldly thing].'
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1 Corinthians 7 - 1 Corinthians 7:12-13 But [this is a New Testament Teaching] to the rest speak I [in the Holy Spirit in the New Testament], not the Lord [through the Old Testament]: If any brother [Christian] hath a [non-Christian] wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not [divorce] put her away. And the [Christian] woman which hath an [non-Christian] husband that believeth not, *and *if *he *be *pleased *to *dwell [no violence or abuse] with her, let her not leave him. *For the unbelieving husband is sanctified [set apart] by the wife [through her prayers and intercession for the family], and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband [through his prayers and intersession for the family]: else were your children unclean [without any knowledge of God]; but now are they holy [having some knowledge of God]. - Note: Divorce is unfortunate however love is above the law (Galatians 5:22). If someone is divorced they can remarry anyone out of love [a highest commitment of good to God]. Divorce breaks the law, it breaks the marriage, it breaks the family and it breaks society but marriage [any marriage, 2nd, 3rd, etc.] in a committed union through love in Jesus Christ can overcome all things. God is the God of a new life and of second, third, fourth, fifth chance etc. Have the freedom [freedom means making mistakes] and the liberty [to make more mistakes] in this life but be sure to live it for God and God is more than willing and more than capable of picking up the pieces of our life including and especially in failed relationships and in marriages.
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1 Corinthians 8 - Continuing with instructions to the Church the Apostle Paul explains that Christian love is more important and more meaningful than knowledge and it is certainly more powerful than hidden (occult) knowledge - If someone has vast occult knowledge the answer often isn't our Christian knowledge but our Christian love and of our concern for them, their safety and their wellbeing -- '1 Corinthians 8:1 Now as touching (occult) things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity (love) edifieth [builds up].'
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1 Corinthians 9 - The Apostle Paul points out that although servants of God are allowed to make a living from their service to God it is not intended that the Gospel [Good News of Jesus Christ] is to be perceived by others as having been sold for income -- '1 Corinthians 9:18 What is my reward then? Verily that, *when I Preach the Gospel , I may make the Gospel of Christ [free] without charge, *that I abuse not my power in the Gospel.'
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1 Corinthians 10 - A continuing encouragement for Christians to conduct our lives with an ever-present Kingdom of God conduct and with an eternal life purpose of mind -- '1 Corinthians 10:31-33 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, *or whatsoever ye do [with your liberty], *do all to the glory of God. Give none offence, neither to the *Jews, nor to the *Gentiles, nor to the *Church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit [benefit], but the profit [benefit] of many, *that they may be saved. - Note: The Bible divides the three groups; Jews, Gentiles and Christians.'
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1 Corinthians 11 - The Church is instructed in the Communion of Jesus Christ -- '1 Corinthians 11:23 For I have received of the Lord [Jesus] that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus *the same night in which He was betrayed [by Judas] took bread ...' - Note: The Communion represents and is a part of the Levitical Feats of "The Lord's Passover" Jesus was betrayed on the night of the Passover Feast [14th of Nisan - Leviticus 23:5]. The very next day, the day of the crucifixion (cross) of Jesus is the Levitical Feast the "Feast of Unleavened Bread" [15th of Nisan - Leviticus 23:6] then that first day of the week [Sunday] is the Feast of Firstfruits [Leviticus 23:7] - Jesus Resurrected on Sunday the Feast of Firstfruits and began (John 20:22) to give individually to each one of His disciples the Firstfruits of His Holy, eternal resurrection life - 'Romans 8:23 And not only they [all of creation groans for redemption], but ourselves also, which have *the Firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption [from Children of God to Sons of God], to wit, the redemption of our body.'
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1 Corinthians 12 - The individual nature and use of Spiritual gifts [abilities] giving from God are discussed -- '1 Corinthians 12:1-7 Now concerning Spiritual gifts [abilities from God], brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can [honestly] say [with the human spirit] that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost [but deceivers can easily say in their mind or with their mouth that Jesus is God - or some variation 'Almighty' to attempt to fool people]. Now there are diversities of [different] gifts, but [done in] the same [Holy] Spirit. And there are differences of administrations [uses for the same gift], but the same Lord [Jesus]. And there are diversities of operations [how each gift is used by each individual person], but *it is the same God which worketh all in all [in all Christians]. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit [each man] withal [each in a similar manner].'
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1 Corinthians 13 - The superior Christian way - The way of Love (Agape) - Spiritual resurrection life love in Jesus Christ -- '1 Corinthians 13:12-13 For now [while in our physical body] we see through a glass [eye], darkly [barely visible of the spiritual realm]; but then [after our resurrection and spiritual body then] face to face [with Jesus - God]: now I know [experience - Ginosko, G1097] in part; but then shall I know [experience divinely - Epiginosko, G1921] even as also I am known. And *now [in the darkened physical realm] abideth [exists] *faith, *hope, charity (love - Agape, G26), these three; but the greatest of these is charity (love - Agape, G26).'
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1 Corinthians 14 - The Christian Church is to function in an and orderly manner and in an atmosphere of mutual respect -- '1 Corinthians 14:31-33 For ye [Christian] may all prophesy [explain Biblical concepts] one by one, that *all may learn, and *all may be comforted. And *the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets [themselves] {people are not possessed (taken over) by the Holy Spirit the way a demon might (overpower) a person's freewill}. For God is not the author of confusion, *but of peace [comfort], as *in all Churches of the Saints [holy - saved].'
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1 Corinthians 15 - The Christian Gospel is given as the [cross] redemption and [resurrection] salvation of Jesus Christ for our benefit of receiving eternal [resurrection] life -- '1 Corinthians 15:1-4 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you *the Gospel [Jesus Christ is risen] which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved [salvation], if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died [cross - redemption] for our sins according to the scriptures; And that He was buried [proven to be dead], and that He rose again [resurrection - salvation] the third day according to the scriptures'
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1 Corinthians 16 - Paul concludes his current letter to the Church at Corinth -- '1 Corinthians 16:1-2 Now concerning the collection [donation] for the Saints [in Jerusalem], as I have given order to the Churches of Galatia [modern day Asia, Turkey], even so do ye [in Greece]. Upon [Church day] the first day of the week [Sunday] let every one of you lay by him in store (savings), as God hath prospered him, *that there be no gatherings when I come.' - Note: the Apostle Paul continually separates himself from any appearance of being personally enriched by the work of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. - Also Note: The collection was taken for the Church in Jerusalem and likely 100% of the collection went directly to the Church in Jerusalem. Today in modern Christianity some ministries would probably take their own cut [though honestly many Church ministries do not take a cut - but in a modern non-Church, visiting pastor (as the Apostle Paul was) or crusade type of setting the donations are often misappropriated] of the donations [for a specific causes] and usually only a fraction of the designated amount of the original stated purpose would now make it to the original cause.
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2 CORINTHIANS
Second Corinthians "A Ministry of Reconciliation" - This is a unique letter with a writing style that is very personal, bold, at times sarcastic, and very defensive - It shares the concern, passion, intimate feelings and thoughts of an Apostle [Paul] who is defending his own apostleship and ministry in a church which he founded - The letter is the least systematic [theology] of the Apostle Paul's writings - Even a casual reading gives the impression of a man who is on his feet fighting a battle with his feelings and personal biases clearly involved - It reads almost like a man who expresses freely his feelings about himself and his ministry in a journal
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2 Corinthians 1 - The Apostle Paul begins what in the Bible is 2nd Corinthians though possibly it is his 4th letter to the Church at Corinth - Paul was a simple straightforward man from a medium sized city (Tarsus) - In Corinth one of the true metropolises of the ancient world the seemingly unsophisticated ways of Paul were almost completely rejected by the highly cultured and complex people of Corinth -- '2 Corinthians 1:-2 Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the Church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia [grater Greece]'
2 Corinthians 1 (Part B) - Intermixed in Paul's letter is his own personal memoirs and contributions to the Christian Church as a whole -- '2 Corinthians 1:3-5 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 wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.'
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2 Corinthians 2 - Paul sets out that he is in Ministry to reveal Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world and not for fame, fortune or even wealth -- '2 Corinthians 2:14-17 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour [sweet aroma] of His knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour [aroma] of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one [unsaved] we are the savour [reminder] of death unto [their eternal spiritual] death; and to the other [fellow Christians] the savour [reminder] of life unto [eternal spiritual] life. And who is sufficient [worthy] for these [eternal - Kingdom of God] things? For we are not as many [hired pastors - imposters], which corrupt the Word of God: but as of sincerity [of an Apostle - Evangelist], but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.'
2 Corinthians 2 (Part B) - Paul is explaining that this rift between the Church and himself is taking a heavy personal toll on him -- '2 Corinthians 2:1-5 But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. For if I make you sorry, who is he then that makes me glad, but the same [people] which is made sorry by me? And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all. *For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you [possibly a letter after 1st Corinthians and before this 2nd Corinthians] with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you. But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge [breakoff relations with] you all.'
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2 Corinthians 3 - Glory brings about glory while dishonor brings about dishonor - In order to be conformed into the image of Jesus we need to be steadily transformed from spiritual victory (glory) to spiritual victory (glory) in the Holy Spirit -- '2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all [Christians], with open [unveiled] face beholding as in a glass [the physical realm] the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image [as Jesus is already in] from glory [accomplishment] to glory [accomplishment], even as by the [Holy] Spirit of the Lord.'
2 Corinthians 3 (Part B) - Don't rely on men to teach you the Bible and in the same context don't rely on men to recommend other men to you as men of good Christian character, conduct or ability - Assess each Christian man (leader, worker) yourself in prayer, in guidance and in discernment with the Holy Spirit and don't look for other people to commend your ministry instead just look for 'living' Spiritual fruit from God as conformation for your work in Jesus -- '2 Corinthians 3:1-3 Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles (letters) of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our [living] epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, *written not with ink [in the words of man], but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.'
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2 Corinthians 4 - Paul reiterates the equality we all have in Jesus Christ - One Christian person [regardless of service or human status] will be raised up just as the next Christian person -- '2 Corinthians 4:14 Knowing that He [Father] which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up *us also by Jesus, and shall present [in Heaven] us [equally] with you.'
2 Corinthians 4 (Part B) - Christian work is difficult in fact it is doing the impossible therefore relax, enjoy and allow God to work naturally through your life in an extraordinary, supernatural way, a way unknown and not experienced by unsaved mankind -- '2 Corinthians 4:8-11 We [Christian workers] are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, *that the [unselfish] life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the [extraordinary] life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal [body] flesh.'
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2 Corinthians 5 - The physical human body is temporary and for the [saved] Christian will be exchanged for a an eternal spiritual body as given by God to each of us individually -- '2 Corinthians 5:4-5 For we that are in this tabernacle [temporary physical body] do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed [unembodied], but clothed upon [with an eternal spirit body], that mortality might be swallowed up of [eternal] life. Now He that hath wrought [created] us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest [down payment - Firstfruits] of the Spirit.'
2 Corinthians 5 (Part B) - Paul continues to instruct the Church in the ability to discern between the staged and planned exhibits of mankind and the actual eternal Spiritual life realm of God -- '2 Corinthians 5:11-12 Knowing therefore the terror [lit. reverence] of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences [discernment]. For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory [accomplish] on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them [imposters] which glory in [human] appearance [standing], and not in [a godly soul, spirit] heart.'
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2 Corinthians 6 - Paul now focuses on the opportunity that life is the opportunity to enter into an eternal life relationship with God -- '2 Corinthians 6:1-2 We then, as workers together with Him [God - Father, Son Jesus, Holy Spirit], beseech you also that ye receive not the grace [personal individuality allowed by God] of God in vain. For He saith, I [God] have heard thee [prayers] in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured [assisted, aided] thee: *behold, now [today] is the accepted time [to become a born into the family of God - child of God]; behold, now is the day of salvation [eternal life].'
2 Corinthians 6 (Part B) - Do to the behind the scenes and always hindering nature of spiritual warfare and because of the Christian maturity of the Apostle Paul the Apostle is actively seeking to keep the door of communication open and accessible with his Church in Corinth knowing that Satan prefers to deceive in darkness with rumors and through innuendos -- '2 Corinthians 6:11-13 O ye Corinthians, our mouth [communication] is open unto you, our heart is enlarged [accepting you]. Ye are not straitened [confined] in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels. Now for a recompense in the same, I speak as unto my children [in the faith], be ye also enlarged [accepting].'
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2 Corinthians 7 - Paul continues to represent that Christianity requires individual self-effort - Christianity, a relationship with God, does not just happen by coincidence or by random circumstances it is the result of continued individual intentions and actions in deliberately seeking a personal relationship with God -- '2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore *these promises [eternity in the family of God], dearly beloved, *let us cleanse ourselves [enter into a personal relationship with Jesus through His blood] from all filthiness of the flesh and [human] spirit, perfecting [completing in Jesus the] holiness in the fear of God.'
2 Corinthians 7 (Part B) - Paul mentions a previous letter he had written to the Church at Corinth and how the letter was difficult for them to read but very necessary in order for them to regain some eternal perspective in Jesus Christ -- '2 Corinthians 7:8-10 For though I made you sorry with a [previous] letter [1st Corinthians or possibly another letter no longer available], I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle [letter] hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season. Now I rejoice, *not that ye were made sorry, *but that ye sorrowed to repentance [mind change - life change]: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. *For *godly *sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented [regretted] of: but the [self] sorrow of the world worketh death.'
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2 Corinthians 8 - A healthy empowered Church-Fellowship is a body that is able to give to others while the week Church [regardless of size and location] is a Church that receives more than it gives -- '2 Corinthians 8:3-5 For to their [other Christian Churches in Greece] power [of giving], I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the [offering] gift [for Jerusalem], and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints [in Jerusalem]. And this they did, not as we hoped [but exceeded the expectations], *but first gave their own selves to the Lord [Jesus], and [then donated] unto us by the will of God.'
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2 Corinthians 9 - The Apostle Paul wants the Church in Corinth to experience the empowerment and the blessings of giving but he wants to be certain that they maintain an understanding that it is God that first and foremost gave to us in His free gift to us of eternal life in Jesus Christ -- '2 Corinthians 9:5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty [generosity], and not as of covetousness [provoked].'
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2 Corinthians 10 - The Christian battle being a battle of eternity and for souls is a battle primarily being fought and waged in the spiritual realm - Later some physical observations and outcomes can be perceivable after the events or outcomes have been manifested from the spiritual realm into the physical realm -- '2 Corinthians 10:3-6 For though we walk in the flesh [physical], we do not war after the flesh: *For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal [physical], *but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; *Casting down imaginations [imagination, fantasy], and every high thing [like pride] that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of [Jesus] Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, *when your obedience is fulfilled [having kept everything in a godly eternal perspective].'
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2 Corinthians 11 - Paul makes clear the Biblical concept that "subtlety" is the most dangerous Satanic element to the Christian and that many Preachers preach with a subtlety and a worldliness that can lead people away from Jesus and into the subtle worldly 'good works' and agendas that are actually of Satan -- '2 Corinthians 11:3-4 But I fear, lest by any means, as the Serpent [Satan] beguiled Eve [in the Garden of Eden] *through his [Satanic] *subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he [self-aggrandizing, worldly personality preacher] that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [accept] him [and his , worldly, vaguely entertaining but possibly highly Satanic preaching].' - Note: It isn't preaching the style that is being addressed but more the preaching content. The subtly 'worldly' preaching like Rick Warren at Greg Laurie's 2009 Anaheim Harvest Crusade (parts available on YouTube) after being introduced by Chuck Smith he is then supposedly leading people in prayer to Jesus but then not really mentioning repentance, sin, the cross or even addressing Jesus in his prayer it is that 'subtle' preaching and teaching of worldliness and the acceptance and passing on of worldly cultural trends into the Church that can actually be so 'subtle' and so worldly that it becomes Satanic.
2 Corinthians 11 (Part B) - The Apostle Paul is now going to contrast what true Kingdom of God Christianity is like compared to the worldly social Christianity that is beginning to be practiced in Corinth -- '2 Corinthians 11:1-2 Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband [Jesus], that I may present you as a chaste virgin to [Jesus] Christ.'
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2 Corinthians 12 - The Apostle Paul explains that he is paying a severe price, often being harassed demonically, because of the abundance and magnitude of the Holy revelations that Paul has been able to deliver to mankind [much like the afflictions of the prophets Isaiah, Daniel and Jeremiah] -- '2 Corinthians 12:7-10 And lest I [Paul] should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the [Holy] revelations, there was given to me a [demonic interference] thorn in the flesh, *the messenger of Satan to buffet [inflict] me, lest I should be [personally] exalted above measure. For [removal of] this thing I besought the Lord thrice [three times], that it [being demonic] might depart from me. And He [Jesus] said unto me, *My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect [complete] in weakness [as Jesus completes his strength]. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities [weaknesses], *that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: *for when I am weak, then am I strong [completed in Jesus Christ].'
2 Corinthians 12 (Part B) - Paul tells the Church in Corinth that his only objective is to build them up spiritually in Jesus Christ -- '2 Corinthians 12:19 Again, think ye that we excuse [make excuses for] ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but *we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying [building up].'
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2 Corinthians 13 - The Apostle Paul concludes his much labored letter to the Christian Church in Corinth, Greece -- '2 Corinthians 13:7-9 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.'
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GALATIANS
Introduction: Part 2 of the Apostle Paul's Trilogy [Romans, Galatians, Hebrews] of Systematic Theology - The Book of Galatians
Short introduction/synopsis to the New Testament Book of Galatians and an outline to the book - The book of Galatians was written by [the Apostle] Paul in the year 49 A.D. or 55 A.D. - The subject of Galatians seems to be parallel to that of [the Book of] Romans in the aspect of justification by faith alone
Galatians - Salvation is by God's grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ by means of the Holy Spirit - The book of Galatians played a critical role in the formation and development of the Reformation and the conversion and spiritual life of Martin Luther
Martin Luther (1483 - 1546) on Galatians by ARLAND J. HULTGREN Luther Seminary St. Paul, Minnesota (PDF)
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Galatians 1 - Continuing the Apostle Paul's Trilogy of Systematic Theology with Part 2 the Book of Galatians - Perhaps no other book either Christian or secular has made more of an impact in the changing, designing and shaping of Western Culture than the Bible's Book of Galatians -- 'Galatians 1:1-5 Paul, an Apostle, not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised Him (Jesus) from the dead; And all the brethren which are with me, unto the Churches of Galatia: Grace be to you and Peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: To whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.'
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Galatians 2 - The Apostle Paul is encouraging the Galatians to work on areas that they know need improving - By demonstrating in his own life that they don't need permission from a Church hierarchy in order to do what is Biblically right even to the point of rebuking authority figures when they fail to practice themselves what they preach -- 'Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith [resurrection] of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.'
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Galatians 3 - The Apostle Paul explains that works have never been a part of a relationship with God - There has always only been one program with God and it is a program based on faith and trust in God and not in the works of man - Even Abraham's great relationship with God was based on faith and trust as Abraham had faith in God before he exhibited his works to God -- 'Galatians 3:2-3 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the [Holy] Spirit by the works of the law {no}, or by the hearing [free gift] of faith {yes}? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the [Holy] Spirit, are ye now made perfect [complete] by the [human] flesh? {no}'
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Galatians 4 - The Apostle Paul continues to dispel any notion that there might be benefits to following the Law that faith alone and the receiving of the Holy Spirit cannot provide -- 'Galatians 4:4-7 But when the fullness of the time [human history] was come, God sent forth His Son (Jesus), made of a woman [virgin birth], made under the law [Temple in Jerusalem was in operation], To redeem [bring into the presence of God] them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. *Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir [inheritor] of God through Christ.' {Note: Being redeemed from the law is not the same thing as being redeemed from sin. It is similar to a Christian practicing alcohol, drugs, pornography etc. and then being redeemed from those things that are restricting a Christian from their closer more intimate relationship with the presence of God in their life. The Law was actually a boundary keeping sinful people apart from the Holy God but after being cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ and with the finality of His death on the cross the Holy Spirit then removed the boundary of the law from us and redeemed us into the actual perceivable presence of God.}
Mountain Of Fire - The Search For Mount Sinai pt 2 of 5 - The boundary markers around Mt. Sinai (Video) - Exodus 19:12 And thou shalt set bounds unto the people round about, saying, Take heed to yourselves, that ye go not up into the mount [Mt. Sinai], or touch the border of it: whosoever toucheth the mount shall be surely put to death:' (YouTube)
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Galatians 5 - The Apostle Paul exhorts the Christian Church to live in their newfound life of freedom and liberty in Jesus Christ -- 'Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith [Jesus] Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.'
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Galatians 6 - The Apostle Paul concludes his remarks and encouragement to the Christians in Galatia -- 'Galatians 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of (Christian) faith.'
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EPHESIANS
The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians - Colossians 4:16 mentions an epistle to the Laodiceans - It has been conjectured that the letter known to us as Ephesians is really the Laodicean letter [retitled] - Probably it was sent to Ephesus and Laodicea without being addressed to any church - The letter would then be "to the saints and the faithful in Christ Jesus" anywhere - Essentially, three lines of truth make up this Epistle: the believer's exalted position through grace; the truth concerning the body of Christ; and a walk in accordance with that position
The book of Ephesians - A short introductory synopsis to the New Testament book of Ephesians with an outline to the book - Ephesians is a cylindrical letter {circuit letter, a memo - Attn: to everyone} - It is a treatise of a doctrinal nature to the churches in Asia Minor - Some of the better {other} Greek documents do not include the words, "at Ephesus" found in 1:1 - Paul though worked at Ephesus for nearly three years and the fact that no personal names were mentioned help to support the ideal of a cylindrical letter to the churches. This letter is perhaps the same letter sent to Ephesus by Tychicus, Ephesians 6:21-22 {Note: No letter, only a messenger (Tychicus) is mentioned in Ephesians 6:21-22} - It is suspected that Christianity first came to Ephesus with Aquila and Priscilla when Paul stopped there on his second missionary trip - Paul remained in Ephesus for three years on his third journey - Ephesus being a major center for trade ranked it up with the cities of Antioch and Alexandria - Timothy was given charge of the church in Ephesus after Paul left - Years later [just after his imprisonment on the island of Patmos about in 92 AD] the Apostle John [accompanied by Mary] set up his headquarters in Ephesus
All About Turkey: The Region of Ephesus - Ephesus [in modern Turkey] maintained its importance during the [early] period of Christianity; the Apostle St. Paul arrived there during the years of 50 A.D., and [the Disciple] St. John was buried on the hill of Ayasuluk (Selcuk, near Izmir) at the beginning of the 2nd century [100 A.D.] - On Bulbul Dag (Nightingale mountain) there is the House of the Virgin [Mary] where it's believed that she passed last years of her life and passed away - She [Mary] came to Ephesus together with St. John and taken up to Panaghia Kapulu mountain to survive the Roman persecutions
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Ephesians 1 - The Apostle Paul begins his generic Christian Church letter - A letter specifically designed to broadly address Church Christianity in a broad-based and uniform manner without giving special attention to specific localized Church issues as he had previously written in his letters (epistles) to the Church in Corinth -- 'Ephesians 1:2-4 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings *in Heavenly places *in Christ [Jesus]: According as He hath [eternally] chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love ...'
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Ephesians 2 - Christianity though composed of individuals is ultimately a group, a close personal family group - Family with one another here on earth and eternally family with one another and with God in Heaven -- 'Ephesians 2:19-22 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the Saints, and [family] of the Household of God [Father, Son Jesus, Holy Spirit]; And are built upon the foundation of the [N.T.] Apostles and [O.T.] Prophets, *Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone [the content of the Bible O.T. and N.T.]; In whom all the [eternal Temple] building fitly framed together groweth unto an Holy Temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an [Holy Spirit] habitation of God through the [Holy] Spirit.'
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Ephesians 3 - The continued fellowship of Christianity both on earth and in Heaven -- 'Ephesians 3:9-11 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the Mystery [the Triune 3 in 1, Trinity Mystery of God], which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: *To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in Heavenly places might be known [experienced] by the Church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which He purposed in [Himself] Christ Jesus our Lord ...'
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Ephesians 4 - Take special note that what we do now and how we behave as individuals has serious ramifications beyond just the initial people involved but extends on into the Assembly including both the Church group on earth and the group in Heaven -- 'Ephesians 4:23-25 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind [soul]; And that ye put on the new [born again - spiritual] man, which [comes] after God [has given it and] is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, *speak [to] every man truth [in love] with his neighbor: *for we are [an Assembly - group] members one of another [both on earth and in Heaven].'
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Ephesians 5 - Above everything be a follower of Jesus Christ - Only Jesus Christ has demonstrated to mankind the example that all mankind is expected to follow in achieving a godly relationship between mankind [with one another] and with God in Heaven -- 'Ephesians 5:1-2 Be ye therefore followers of God [Jesus Christ], as dear children [family members]; And walk in love, as [Jesus] Christ also hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice [on behalf of sinful man] to [the Holy] God for a sweetsmelling savour [atonement].'
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Ephesians 6 - The Apostle Paul concludes his generic Church letter (memo) with the important concept of Spiritual Warfare -- 'Ephesians 6:10-13 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord [Jesus], and in the power *of His might. Put on the whole armor *of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles [deceitful tactics] of the Devil [Satan]. For we wrestle [struggle] not against [physical] flesh and blood, but against [spiritual] principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against *spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and *having done all, *to stand [in Jesus].'
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PHILIPPIANS
Philippians: [Apostle] Paul's Joy in Christ - Philippi was Paul's pride and joy - Arms of friendship extended between Paul and the believers at Philippi that didn't exist in the other churches - None of his other letters has such abundant expressions of tender personal dedication and benevolence as this letter - Luke seems to have been their first pastor for about five years after its establishment in Acts 16
Philippi - Ancient Macedonia, Northern Greece - (Photos)
GODS, GOLD AND THE GLORY OF PHILIPPI - The Apostle Paul's visit to Macedonia marked the first time he set foot on European soil (Acts 16:11) - However, this was not the first time the gospel was proclaimed in Europe (Acts 2:10) - In fact, the "Macedonian call" (Acts 16:9) seems to imply that there were already believers in Macedonia that needed help in evangelizing their province - One writer commented, "Out of Macedonia, Alexander the Great once went to conquer the Eastern world but later from Macedonia the power of the gospel went to conquer the Western world of Paul's day" (Swift 1984:250) - Philippi played an important role in the life and ministry of the Apostle Paul - He also had an effective and lasting ministry in the lives of the believers in the Lord Jesus in Philippi
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EarlyChristianWritings.com: THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP [Bishop of the Church at Smyrna] to the Church at Philippi - Polycarp born about 69 A.D. - died as a martyr in 155 A.D. at Smyrna - {Note: Church Fathers [Fathers in the Christian Faith] also known as Apostolic Fathers are the 2nd generation of Christians. The Apostles were those who had exclusively and personally witnessed (1 Corinthians 15:6) the resurrected Jesus Christ. The next generation of Christians (the 2nd generation) are those [like Polycarp the Bishop of the Church in Smyrna ] who did not see the resurrected Jesus but who learned from the Apostles themselves. Polycarp was a student of the Apostle John who had been a Disciple of Jesus Christ. The term "Church Fathers" is applied to the 2nd generation of Christians in the same way that the term "Father of the Faith" is applied to Abraham (Romans 4:11). Abraham is not the first generation of faith in God but he is the first generation to have faith as we have it. Prior to Abraham, during the days of Abraham's father Terah (Genesis 11:26), the sons of Noah [1st global judgment of God] were still living and previous to the days of Noah the Adam of creation was still living. If a person wanted to know about the flood or the original creation before the flood of Noah they could get an eyewitness account from one of the sons of Noah, likewise the Apostles gave eyewitness accounts of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and having had an eyewitness experience with God in His resurrection, His global judgment flood or with God's original creation the Apostles and the ancients [those who had lived previous to the days of the flood of Noah (Job 12:12)] had a slightly different faith (John 20:29) than we have. We have a faith more similar to that of the Church Fathers than to the faith of the original Apostles.}
Early Christian Church Fathers - Published documents and letters of the Early Church Fathers
The Encyclical Epistle of the Church at Smyrna Concerning the Martyrdom of the Holy [Bishop] Polycarp [155 A.D] - We have written to you, brethren, as to what relates to the martyrs, and especially to the blessed Polycarp
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Polycarp [Letter] to the Philippians - Estimated Range of Dating: 110-140 A.D. - Polycarp resided in Asia Minor as Bishop of Smyrna and sent an epistle to the Philippians c. 120-140 AD - Polycarp was martyred c. 155 AD
BasicChristian.org: Did Jesus have a wife and child? Of course Not! - Da Vinci Code Gnostic (Jesus is only human) Cults Exposed!
Gnosticism - Hollywood's War on God: Learn how these movies are initiating the masses into a Gnostic worldview that will culminate in a "strong delusion" as the world joins Satan & the final Antichrist in their war against God (DVD - $19.95)
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Philippians 1 - The Apostle Paul begins his letter to the Church at Philippi a Church fellowship that had become one of his main delights and joys in the Lord -- 'Philippians 1:1-6 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the Saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops [Bible teaching Church leaders, pastors, Sunday school teachers, etc.] and deacons [non-teaching servants, ushers, preparing communion, etc.]: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, *For your fellowship in the Gospel *from the first day until now; *Being confident of this very thing, *that He [God] which hath begun a good work *in you *will perform [complete] it until the day [2nd Coming] of Jesus Christ'
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Philippians 2 - Paul explains that though circumstances are difficult for him at the moment a knowledge of their continued Christian growth and maturity would bring a joy to Paul that would help to make his present difficulties less difficult -- 'Philippians 2:1-5 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. *Look not every man on his own things, *but every man also on the things of others. *Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus'
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Philippians 3 - Paul is serious that this physical life is an opportunity to fellowship with Jesus in His sufferings and in His persecutions and that to know and experience the suffering of Jesus is to fellowship with Jesus -- 'Philippians 3:8-11 Yea doubtless, and I count all [accomplishments] things [in this life] but loss *for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in Him, *not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, *the righteousness which is of God by faith: *That I may know Him [Jesus], *and the power of His resurrection, *and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death; [so that] If [since] by any means I might attain unto the [Holy, eternal] resurrection of the dead.'
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Philippians 4 - The Apostle Paul explains that eternal life our names written in the "Book of Life" is what is at stake in Christian Fellowship -- 'Philippians 4:1-3 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, *my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord [Jesus Christ], my dearly beloved. I beseech [request] [the two Christian women] Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they [try to get along and stop causing so much strife and drama within the fellowship] be of the same mind in the Lord. And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women [Euodias, and Syntyche] which labored with me in the Gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellow laborers, *whose names are in the Book of Life [and if not removed (Revelation 3:5) will pass the Bema Seat Judgment of Jesus Christ].'
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COLOSSIANS
Background on Colossians: As far as we know Paul never visited Colossae, at least not at the time he wrote this epistle; he had only "heard" about the church at Colossae (1:4, 9; 2:1) - {Note: The book of Colossians is an extraordinary book of the Bible often the favorite book of the Bible for many Christians. The book of Colossians is unique in that the Apostle Paul was writing to a city that he had not yet been to, a city that had not had any Apostle visit it [unlike Rome where many Christians from Jerusalem and even Peter might have visited there before Paul]. The book of Colossians is considered Paul's opening evangelical statement of what the Apostle might have said to people in any given city who gathered to hear his first public appearance and presentation of the Gospel in places that previously had little or no exposure to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.}
Background on Colossians (Part 2): Because of the rising tide of human philosophies confronting us today, no New Testament book speaks with more relevancy than does the epistle to the Colossians - Increasingly our generation wants to take religion out of the realm of rational discourse and relegate it to the area of personal preferences and opinions. If there are thirty-one flavors of ice cream, why can we not have similar variety in religions? - Thus, Colossians is a book that speaks to our cosmic age and to this New Age movement
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Colossians 1 - The Apostle Paul begins his letter to a Church stating what he would say to them if he could visit them -- 'Colossians 1:3-6 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, *praying always for you, Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, *For the hope which is laid up *for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the Word of the Truth of the Gospel; Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and *bringeth forth fruit [evidence], as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the Grace of God in Truth'
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Colossians 2 - Paul then talks about the importance of not being deceived by the 'enticing words' [false religions, false science, empty philosophies] of man -- 'Colossians 2:1-5 For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of *the [3 in 1] Mystery of God [Holy Spirit], and of *the Father, and of *[Jesus] Christ; *In whom [Holy Spirit, Father, Jesus Christ] are hid *all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile [deceive] you with enticing [i.e. Gnostic] words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the Spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in [Jesus] Christ.'
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Colossians 3 - The importance of living a new spiritual; heavenly, godly life, a maturing Christian life centered in the Holy Bible and focused on Jesus Christ -- 'Colossians 3:1-10 If ye then be risen [resurrection] with [Jesus] Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth [enthroned] on the right hand of God. *Set your affection on things above, *not on things on the earth. For ye are dead [to this world], and your [new] life is [Heaven] hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear [2nd Coming], then shall ye also appear with Him in Glory. Mortify [put to death] therefore *your members [worldly, desires, urges] which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old [sin] man with his deeds; And have put on the new [Spiritual] man, which is *renewed in [Biblical] knowledge after the image [spiritual substance] of Him [God] that created him [a new Spiritual person]:'
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Colossians 4 - The Apostle Paul concludes his letter, a letter written to group of people that he will most likely not meet until after they have been gathered together and are a part of the great Congregation in Heaven -- 'Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch [look for the 2nd Coming of Jesus] in the same [prayerful manner] with thanksgiving' ... 'Colossians 4:5-6 Walk in wisdom toward them [non-Christian] that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace [hospitable], seasoned with salt [giving people a taste of Christianity, eternity], that ye may know how ye ought to answer [having ourselves a graceful attitude towards God and giving every person a desire for Christian spiritual things] every man.'
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1 THESSALONIANS
1 Thessalonians: An Exegetical and Devotional Commentary - The Thessalonian epistles were written to the church at Thessalonica - It was a church under persecution, but also a church that had a dynamic testimony and that had grown through the persecution - Significantly, in every chapter of 1 Thessalonians, the Apostle sought to comfort and motivate with the truth of the Lord's sure return
Background of 1st Thessalonians - Thessalonica was a major city in northern Greece. Situated on the main east-west highway of the Roman Empire, it was the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia and very loyal to Rome. It survives to this day, now known as Salonika - Paul planted this church on his second missionary journey about 50 AD - Upon hearing Timothy's report, he [Paul] writes this letter from Corinth to encourage, instruct and equip them in their relationships with Christ - This means that 1 Thessalonians is one of the earliest documents of the New Testament-preceded only by Galatians and James [and probably the Gospel of Matthew and the extra-biblical book 'The Didache'] - It is also one of the most personal
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1 Thessalonians 1 - The Apostle Paul begins his first of two letters of encouragement to a highly persecuted Christian Church a Church that was nearly wiped out do to the severe nature of the deadly persecutions it endured -- '1 Thessalonians 1:2-4 We give thanks to God *always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.'
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1 Thessalonians 2 - The Christians in Thessalonica were able to grasp and discern that the Words of comfort are from God and that the violent persecutions were from Satan -- '1 Thessalonians 2:11-13 As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto His [eternal] Kingdom and Glory. For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the Word of God *which ye heard [from] 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 [lit. faith - belief is the verb form of the noun faith].'
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1 Thessalonians 3 - The misery and even death of persecution does not make void the fact that we are even now alive in Jesus Christ -- '1 Thessalonians 3:8-10 For *now we live [even in persecution], if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect [complete] that which is lacking in your faith [knowledge of the Ministry, the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ]?'
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1 Thessalonians 4 - Living in times of crisis and persecution is not a time to relinquish immorality and holiness towards God -- '1 Thessalonians 4:1-4 Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received (Acts 15:20) of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound [in holiness] more and more. For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification [holiness], that ye should abstain from fornication: *That every one of you [individually] should know how to possess his [own body] vessel in sanctification and honor [to God]'
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1 Thessalonians 5 - A continued separation and distinction is made between the holiness and conduct of Christians and the rebellion and disobedience of non-Christians -- '1 Thessalonians 5:5-8 Ye [You] are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch [for the 2nd Coming of Jesus] and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. *But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of [our individual] salvation.'
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2 THESSALONIANS
2 Thessalonians - They thought that they were already in 'the day of the Lord' just preceding Christ's [2nd Coming] return - This doctrinal problem caused a practical issue - Some of the members, *convinced that the end was near, had given up their jobs, and were living in idleness waiting for the Lord - They were spending their time spreading their views and living off of others - So Paul had to write to them and straighten them out
Persecution in the Early Church - In the face of persecution, many Christians chose to die before they would deny their Lord [Jesus Christ] - Those who did so came to be called martyrs, which means "witnesses"
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2 Thessalonians 1 - The Apostle Paul begins his second and final letter to the heavily persecuted and heavily martyred Church in Thessalonica -- '2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure'
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2 Thessalonians 2 - To see people doing good and following God in peace during times of strife and evil is a sight and an event to be thankful for and to give thanks both to the people of peace and to God the author of peace and love -- '2 Thessalonians 2:13-15 But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation [wellbeing] through sanctification [being set apart to God] of the [Holy] Spirit and Belief of the Truth: Whereunto He [God] called [invited] you by our Gospel, to the obtaining of the Glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. *Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions [prayer, fellowship, Bible study, communion, baptism, etc.] which ye have been taught, whether by Word [Holy Bible], or our epistle [letter].'
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2 Thessalonians 3 - The Apostle Paul concludes his letter confirming that Jesus Christ is Peace and Love and that Jesus will keep us from committing evil if we will trust our lives and our circumstances unto Jesus - But that Satan is death and destruction and to follow Satan is to receive eternal death and permanent destruction -- '2 Thessalonians 3:1-3 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the Word [peace and love] of the Lord may have free course, and be Glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable [violent] and wicked men [who follow Satan]: for all men have not faith. But the Lord [Jesus] is faithful [peace and love], who shall stablish [establish] you, and keep you from {doing} evil.'
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1 TIMOTHY
Historical Background To Paul's Pastoral Epistles [1st Timothy, 2nd Timothy and Titus] - Paul's First and Second Letters to Timothy and his Letter to Titus have been called "Pastoral Letters" since the eighteenth century (1700's) - [Though] Thomas Aquinas [born (in Sicily Italy) 1225 AD; died 7 March 1274 AD - wiki.com] had given this name to Paul's First Letter to Timothy already in the thirteenth century (1200's) - These letters are called "Pastoral Letters" because in them Paul reveals his concern for the future of the church and its ministry - In them he addresses a wide range of issues pertaining to the life and ministry of the church - He instructs his co-workers Timothy and Titus to provide the churches with qualified pastors and lay leaders - Paul informs them what are the qualifications of those servants in the church - He instructs them in the worship life of the church - He teaches them how to care for the souls in their congregation men and women, young and old, rich and poor - Paul urges them repeatedly to be on their guard against false doctrine and to teach the Word of God faithfully as well as to exhibit a godly life - He [Apostle Paul] anticipated that his martyrdom was near, as he stated in 2 Timothy 4:6 - According to Christian tradition Paul suffered martyrdom in Rome around 67 to 68 A.D. - It is therefore thought that Paul wrote his Second Letter to Timothy shortly before his death in A.D. 67 - {Note: 2nd Timothy was probably written within days of Pauls' execution (as soon as he received news [either from Jesus or from Rome] that he was to be executed) possibly even written within the last hours of his life.}
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1 Timothy 1 - 1st Timothy is the Apostle Paul's letter to a struggling Minister - Since all ministry is a struggle in one sense or another the letter is generally referred to as the main Pastoral epistle -- '1 Timothy 1:1-4 Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment [command] of God our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia [Greece], *that thou mightest charge some *that they teach no other doctrine, Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: [and] so do [accomplish the task of teaching pure Biblical doctrine].'
Doxology General Information: A doxology is a short prayer or hymn of praise that extols the glory and majesty of God. Well known doxologies include the Glory to God (Gloria Patri {Latin}), the Glory Be (Gloria in Excelsis {Latin}), the Holy, Holy, Holy (Sanctus {Latin}), and the Hebrew word Alleluia, which means "praise the Lord" Some verses of hymns, such as Thomas Ken's "Praise God from whom all blessings flow," are also called doxologies
1 TIMOTHY - The recurrence of doxologies (1 Timothy 1:17; 6:15,16; 2 Timothy 4:18) as from one living perpetually in the presence of God, to whom the language of adoration was as his natural speech
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1 Timothy 2 - Christian conduct and social responsibility is addressed -- '1 Timothy 2:1-4 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.'
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1 Timothy 3 - The qualifications for Church-fellowship overseers and leaders is given -- '1 Timothy 3:1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a Bishop [Church overseers], he desireth a good work. A Bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife [no polygamy; this is not about divorce it is about the Church representing the one bride of Jesus Christ], vigilant, sober, of good behavior, *given to hospitality, *apt to teach [a Bishop is able to teach sound Bible doctrine (i.e. Sunday school) while a Deacon is a Church servant who does not yet regularly teach Bible studies]; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre [unclean money]; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous [desirous of worldly items] ...'
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1 Timothy 4 - The Apostle Paul forewarns the body of Christ of advanced problems that will occur within the Christian Church in the later years of the Christian Church era just prior to the 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ -- '1 Timothy 4:1-2 Now the [Holy] Spirit speaketh expressly [emphatically], that in the latter times [end of the Church era] some [Christians] shall depart from the [Christian] faith, giving heed [attention] to seducing spirits [i.e. the various 'New Age' movements], and doctrines of devils [i.e. Ecumenicalism - reducing Christianity and making all religions equal and one]; Speaking lies in hypocrisy [two-facedness]; having their conscience [godly discernment] seared [hardened] with a hot [active] iron ...' - Note: Iron Biblically generally denotes a strong force often a demonic stronghold (Psalms 107:10) the 'hot iron' mentioned is possibly the result of a demonic deception and influence in the life of a once faithful Christian.
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1 Timothy 5 - Christian fellowship and relationships are defined in terms not as strangers to one another, but as Christian family with one another - This includes all Christians even the people we haven't met or don't yet personally know -- '1 Timothy 5:1-2 Rebuke [harshly correct] not an elder [older man], but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as [equal] brethren; The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, *with all purity. Honor widows that are widows indeed.'
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1 Timothy 6 - The Apostle Paul briefly touches on Christian employment and then concludes his first letter to Timothy by again emphasizing Christian conduct and service to God -- '1 Timothy 6:1-2 Let as many servants [workers] as are under the yoke [employed] count their own masters [bosses] worthy of all honor, that the Name of God and His Doctrine be not blasphemed. And they [workers] that have believing [Christian] masters [bosses], let them not despise them [i.e. if a non-Christian gets a promotion or a raise and not the Christian], because they are brethren; but *rather do them service [good work], because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the [eternal] benefit. These things teach and exhort.'
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2 TIMOTHY
Second Epistle to Timothy - The Second Epistle of Paul to Timothy, usually referred to simply as Second Timothy and often written 2 Timothy, is one of the three Pastoral Epistles, traditionally attributed to Saint Paul, and is part of the New Testament - [The Apostle] Paul [in prison again] clearly anticipates his being put to death and realities beyond in his valedictory found in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
A Tale of Two Cities - A Tale of Two Cities (1859) originally a novel by Charles Dickens [1812 - 1870] - Movie 1935 B&W Version {Best version} - An immortal story... A brilliant cast... An unforgettable film of the French Revolution - The most dramatic love story in the history (since the Bible) of literature! - [Spoiler Alert: The lead character Sydney Carton (a 'carton' - a is cheap container holding within it a more valuable content i.e. the human spirit and soul) offers himself up (2 Timothy 4:6-8) to be poured out as a drink offering.] (DVD)
MOVIE - Dickens: A Tale Of Two Cities 1939 [parts 1-15] (YouTube)
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2 Timothy 1 - The Apostle Paul's final letter - Paul starts out his last letter with his consistent business as usual approach - Then sprinkled throughout and nearing the end (2 Timothy 4:6 ) Paul suddenly reveals something that is heavy on his heart, that he knows he is close to being called home to Heaven - The Apostle Paul then just as quickly returns to his business as usual format and closes out his last epistle -- '2 Timothy 1:7-12 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner [Paul's later and final imprisonment]: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called [invited] us with an holy calling, *not according to our works, *but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But [the plans and purposes of God] 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 [His cross and resurrection]: Whereunto I am appointed a Preacher, and an Apostle, and a Teacher of the Gentiles. For the which [Gospel] cause I also suffer these [persecution] things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: *for I know [Jesus] whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that [human soul and spirit] which I have committed unto Him against that day [of eternal judgment].' - {1. The Apostle Paul seemed to know from God that he was going to be offered as an acceptable sacrifice offering but Paul had been spared so many times (i.e. Acts 27:42-43) and he might not have been exactly sure of the moment. 2. The Apostle Paul desperately wanted the Christian Church to continue on and to function normally even after his departure. Paul wanted Timothy to not give up and go home but to still conduct Church business in Rome and elsewhere whether or not Paul was still alive and still in need of his clothing and materials that he had requested Timothy bring to him at prison in Rome.}
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2 Timothy 2 - Paul reiterates the necessity of applying and generously appropriating the grace of Jesus Christ into the individual efforts of day to day ministry - In other words don't be too hard on yourself in ministry but instead keep Jesus Christ in focus and trust that God is working daily in all events unto His ultimate Glory -- '2 Timothy 2:1-3 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me [openly] among many witnesses, the same [doctrines] commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness [hardship], as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.'
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2 Timothy 3 - The Apostle Paul seems to have been given a unique understanding of the events and condition of the 'Last Days' of the Christian Church -- '2 Timothy 3:1-5 This know also, that in the Last Days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection [a seared conscience], trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a [societal] form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.'
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2 Timothy 4 - The Apostle Paul's final admonishment to his fellow Christian brothers and co-laborers with him in the faith of Jesus Christ -- '2 Timothy 4:1-5 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick [living] and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the Word [Bible]; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come [End Times] when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the Truth [of Jesus Christ], and shall be turned unto fables [i.e. The Da Vinci Code]. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist [spread the Gospel], make full proof of [confirm with God] thy ministry.'
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TITUS
Background of Titus - Paul wrote this letter to Titus, a young [Gentile] pastor, who faced the unenviable assignment of setting things in order in the church at Crete - Crete is the largest island in the Mediterranean - The inhabitants of Crete had an evil reputation, a fact witnessed not only by Paul, but also by others - Their lying was famous, so much so that 'to act the Cretan' was a synonym for 'to play the liar' - Their morals were low and the wine of Crete was famous, drunkenness was everywhere - The low standard of morality among the Cretans had doubtless had an adverse influence on the lives of the believers
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Titus 1 - The Apostle Paul's letter to Titus an accomplished Gentile Pastor - Where the much beloved Timothy was having abundant problems in his ministry, in his health and probable even problems sleeping at night - The Pastor Titus was seeing a lot of success in his ministries - Titus also occasionally traveled with Paul (Galatians 2:1) and went with Paul and Barnabas on an earlier visit to Jerusalem - Titus was sent to the Church in Corinth (2 Corinthians 7:6) and very much helped stabilize the situation - Titus was then pastoring in the extremely difficult neighborhood of the Island of Crete -- 'Titus 1:5 For this cause left I [Paul] thee in Crete, that thou [Titus] shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee'
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Titus 2 - Paul points out the simple fact that the manner and way that the Pastor speaks and teaches in his local fellowship is the direction that the Church is going to go in -- 'Titus 2: 1 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine ...'
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Titus 3 - The Apostle Paul reminds Titus to instruct his congregation to live constantly in an eternal, heavenly perspective -- 'Titus 3:1-7 Put them [congregation] in mind to be subject to principalities [lit. highest powers - God] and powers [lit. freedoms], to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. *For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. *But after that the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which He shed on us *abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior; That being justified by His grace, *we should be made heirs [inheritors] according to the hope of eternal life.'
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PHILEMON
Philemon: Introduction - Even though this letter is a brief, personal note to a friend, it shows up in the early canon lists (Marcion's [Cannon of 144 A.D.] and the Muratorian [Cannon 170-200 A.D.]) - Further, the ancient church never doubted its authenticity
PHILEMON Background: Onesimus who was probably a domestic slave of Philemon's and had run away, stole some money from Philemon (vs. 18) to afford the getaway - We need to remember that slavery was an accepted institution in the Roman Empire - Romans and Greeks brought multitudes of slaves (old and young) home from their wars, and the buying and selling of slaves was a part of their daily life
Philemon - Thru the Bible Radio with Dr. J. Vernon McGee - Christianity does not do away our duties to others, but directs [us] to the right doing of them (Mp3)
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Philemon 1 - Philemon - The Apostle Paul's personal letter to a friend a successful businessman [from Colossae] whom Paul had met probably in Ephesus [Paul never made it to Colossae] - Philemon had a slave that ran away [and probably stole something] from Philemon and Paul asked Philemon to receive the slave Onesimus back, not as a runaway slave as he had been but now as a free brother in Jesus Christ to both Paul and Philemon - It's not recorded but Church tradition is that Philemon did receive Onesimus back and did grant him his freedom -- 'Philemon 1:15-16 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him forever; Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?'
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HEBREWS
Introduction: The Book of Hebrews - The Book of Hebrews is probably the main content from the Apostle Paul's Synagogue visiting ministry [Acts 17:2] - Acts 9:15 'for he [Paul] is a chosen vessel unto Me (Jesus), to bear My Name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the [Jews] Children of Israel' - The Apostle Peter mentions Paul's Book of Hebrews in 2 Peter 3:15-16 'our beloved brother [Apostle] Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written [Book of Hebrews] unto you; as also in all his [other] epistles' - The Book of Hebrews is unsigned and undelivered most likely indicating that Paul wrote it himself while in Jerusalem and that Paul personally gave it to the Church in Jerusalem
Perpetual Bible Study - Book of Hebrews: Background - The writer of Hebrews [Apostle Paul] understood this - It not would do for him to present the gospel merely as an alternative to Judaism; he had to clearly demonstrate the superiority of Christ - And that is the key - Hebrews is a book of comparisons, but it is not Judaism compared to Christianity, but Judaism compared to Christ - He is the difference - He is greater than angels, He is the [High] Priest after the order of Melchizedek, He is the perfect sacrifice, and so on
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Hebrews 1 - The Apostle Paul's Trilogy of Systematic Theology to the Nations [Romans, Galatians, Hebrews] - The Book of Hebrews is to give the Hebrew, Jewish Nation a perspective of their past, present and future glory with God in Jesus Christ the risen Savior, Messiah - 'Hebrews 1:8-9 But unto the Son He (Father) saith, *Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever: a scepter of righteousness [the cross] is the sceptre [rule] of Thy Kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy [Father] God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy [human] fellows.'
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Hebrews 2 - The Apostle Paul continues to build his case and lay the ground work that in Christianity there is something going on that is bigger than Judaism and in fact Christianity in the risen Jesus Christ is encompassing both heaven and earth and both our mortal and eternal existence - 'Hebrews 2:14-15 Forasmuch then as the Children [God's Children] are partakers of flesh and blood, He (Jesus) also Himself likewise took part of the same [flesh and blood]; that through death He might destroy him [Satan and sin] that had the power of death, that is, the Devil; *And deliver them who through fear of death [fear of dying] were all their lifetime subject to [phobia of death] bondage.'
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Hebrews 3 - The Apostle Paul continues to explain the Divinity of Jesus Christ in that Jesus' authority, creation abilities and congregation [gathering] spans both heaven [Angels and Saints] and the earth [humans, all things] unlike the great human endeavors - Even the accomplishments of Moses are limited and were only performed here on earth -- 'Hebrews 3:1-2 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the *Apostle and *High Priest of our (Christian) profession, *Christ Jesus; Who was faithful [in Heaven and on earth, all things] to Him [Father God] that appointed Him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house [Nation of Israel].' - 'Hebrews 1:6 And again, when He (Father) bringeth in the firstbegotten (Jesus) into the world, He saith, And let all the Angels of God worship Him (Jesus).'
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Hebrews 4 - Having established that the Kingdom of Jesus Christ is both in Heaven and on earth and that it lasts for all eternity - The Apostle Paul now directs people to actually make sure that we enter into the eternal Kingdom of Jesus Christ - The way to know that we have entered into His Kingdom is that we have ceased from our works and have entered into a personal relationship of trust and rest with God -- 'Hebrews 4:1 Let us (Christians) therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His [eternal] rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.'
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Hebrews 5 - Having made certain that we have entered into the right Kingdom the Kingdom of Jesus Christ the Kingdom of security and rest and that we have not been deceived into some kingdom of works, strife, envy and worry - the Apostle Paul will now goes into a long discussion about the Priesthood of Jesus' Divine Priestley Kingdom -- 'Hebrews 5:10 [Jesus] Called of God an High Priest after the order of Melchisedec (Melchizedek).'
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Hebrews 6 - The Apostle Paul is instructing the Jewish segment of the Christian Church that their redemption in Judaism once combined with the Salvation of Christianity is permanent and that for anyone Jew or Gentile to reject Jesus Christ after having experienced eternal Salvation is to forfeit salvation and receive eternal damnation - 'Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those [Jews or Gentiles] who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the [eternal] world to come, If they shall fall away [reject God], to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame.' -- The Hebrews/Jews are redeemed by God but the difference between Jewish redemption and Christian salvation is immense. - The Jews are a part of the full plans of Jesus to the extent that Jesus came as a Jew and is Jewish. Jesus is not a Gentile.
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Hebrews 7 - If Melchizedek where human it would be a redundant Aaronic Priesthood but Melchizedek is not human He is eternal and Spiritual and therefore not a redundant human Priesthood - Melchizedek is superior to even Abraham - Abraham was blessed by God yet Melchizedek blessed Abraham - Jacob then having the blessing of Abraham from God blessed the Pharaoh of Egypt [Genesis 47:7] - Its simply not possible that Abraham would have received the blessing of a human after having received the blessings of God - Abraham did receive the blessing from Melchizedek -- 'Hebrews 7:1 For this Melchisedec [Melchizedek], King of Salem [Peace], Priest of [from God, of God] the Most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;'
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Hebrews 8 - The Levitical Priesthood offered limited atonement in that the sacrifices they offered to God were limited to the Nation of Israel however the Atonement of Jesus Christ is unlimited because it was offered on behalf of all mankind and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross being an acceptable Atoning sacrifice to God has opened the way to God and access to God is now available to all mankind through the Atonement blood of Jesus Christ -- 'Hebrews 8:11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know Me, from the least to the greatest.'
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Hebrews 9 - The Apostle Paul is now saying that in Jesus Christ Spiritual access into the once restricted Holiest presence of God is now available to all mankind -- 'Hebrews 9:1 Then verily the first covenant [Old Testament] had also ordinances *of divine service, *and a worldly sanctuary.' - 'Hebrews 9:8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the Holiest of all was not yet made manifest [available], while as the first tabernacle [and later the Temple in Jerusalem] was yet standing [with the veil blocking the way keeping mankind apart from the Holiest presence of God]:' - Now! - 'Hebrews 10:19-20 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the Holiest [presence of God] by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living [spiritual] way, which He hath consecrated [made available] for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh' {into His Spirit realm that is now available to all mankind}
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Hebrews 10 - The Old Testament and the physical Levitical Priesthood that accompanied it have been permanently removed by the completed work of the first coming of Jesus Christ - The New Covenant with its eternal Spiritual Melchizedek Priesthood has now been permanently established "once for all" in the shed blood and eternal bodily resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ -- 'Hebrews 10:5-10 Wherefore when He cometh [incarnate] into the world, He saith, [Levitical] Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a [physical] body hast Thou [Holy Spirit] prepared Me: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I (Jesus), Lo, I come in the volume [pages] of the Book (Bible Scrolls) it is written of Me, to do thy will, O [Father] God. Above when He said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first [Old Testament], that He may establish the second [New Testament]. *By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.'
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Hebrews 11 - The Apostle Paul writes what is now known has the Bible's 'Hall of Faith' in Hebrews Chapter 11 - 'Hebrews 11:16 But now they [men and women of faith] 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 [a home in Heaven].'
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Hebrews 12 - The Apostle Paul now encourages every Christian to have an eternal perspective and Heavenly focus of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ - Having an eternal Heavenly focus we are to live our lives in a holy Heavenly manner -- 'Hebrews 12:2 Looking unto Jesus *the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy [our Salvation] that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is [Resurrected] set down at the right hand of the throne of God.'
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Hebrews 13 - The Apostle Paul concludes the Bible's Book of Hebrews -- 'Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant [New Testament], Make you perfect [complete] in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be Glory forever and ever. Amen.'
Cowboys and Angels (2000) - Written and Directed by Gregory C. Haynes - [warning - skip the DVD previews] (Movie - DVD)
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DebbieSchlussel.com: Happy 'Jewish' New Year! - Tonight (Friday), at sundown, Rosh HaShanah-the Jewish New Year-begins - One of the two most important Jewish holidays the other is Yom Kippur, it marks the beginning of the Jewish "Ten Days of Repentance" [Rosh HaShanah (New Year) until the 'Day of Atonemet' Yom Kippur] {Having just finished studying the book of Hebrews its good timing in that at sundown (8/18/2009) it is the start of the Jewish New Year Rosh Hashanah and ten days of Jewish observances that concludes with the feast of Yom Kippur the 'Day of Atonement' - We pray God's blessing, peace and prosperity for the Nation of Israel and for all the Jews throughout the world who are in blessed observance of their Holy Feast Days.}
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JAMES
An Overview Of The Book Of James - These factors suggest that the date of writing could have been possibly around A.D. 45 - Such a date makes the Letter of James the first book and letter of the New Testament to have been written
Bible Study Notes James Introduction Part I by Dr. Richard J. Krejcir - James is a book about the application of our faith and the importance to learn and grow in Christ - That way, we can grow in faith and maturity so we can apply our Christian character and conduct in how we (relate) to others!
Background of James - whose epistle (letter) is said to be the first of the epistles called Catholic (Universal) - The book of James was not widely circulated and accepted by the early church - The church applied the rule that unless a book was apostolic it could not be canonical [placed in the Bible]
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James 1 - James a servant (bond slave) of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ - Jude also uses the introduction of 'bond slave' - James and Jude were full brothers and half-brothers to Jesus Christ - Both James and Jude became believers after the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ their half-brother - While Peter was the first leader of the Church James being a half-brother of Jesus became the de facto first leader of the Church in Jerusalem and as leader James dealt with the many and divers problems and relationships of the early Church - 'James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God [Jesus] and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction [need], and to keep himself unspotted [pure] from the world'
Experts Say Burial Box for 'Brother of Jesus' is a Forgery - The 20-inch long ossuary, which was common in Jewish burial ceremonies in the first centuries B.C. and A.D., has an inscription in the Aramaic language that reads, "James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus" - But after a lengthy investigation, the Antiquities Authority of Israel said it found overwhelming evidence that the [Aramaic] inscription was a fake produced in modern times - "The bottom line is that every single scholar who examined this came to the conclusion that the inscription was not authentic; it was done recently by a very skillful artist" {Any use of the Aramaic language on an ancient Jewish artifact is almost a sure indication that the item was tampered with or is an outright forgery. The Biblical languages are Hebrew and Greek with the early commentaries being written in the Roman Latin language. Introducing Aramaic into the Biblical languages is a direct attempt to introduce forged documents and objects into Church history in order to rewrite and manipulate Church history.}
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James 2 - James continues to provide his godly wisdom and council to the early Church - James instruct Christians to honor everyone equally regardless of status or class in society - 'James 2:1-4 My brethren (Christians), have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Glory, with respect [veneration] of persons. ... Are ye not then partial [societal segmentation] in yourselves, and are become judges of evil [class superiority] thoughts?'
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James 3 - We are urged to take control of our tongue when we speak to others - and when we do speak to speak words of blessing and words of edification not words of accusations -- 'James 3:8-10 But the tongue can no man tame [you have to first tame your soul in order to tame your tongue]; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith [with our mouth] bless we God, even the Father; and therewith [our same mouth] curse we men, which are made after the similitude [image] of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.'
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James 4 - James continues to exhort Christians to adhere to the higher calling in Christianity by separating themselves from the conduct of the world -- 'James 4:7-8 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh [close] to God, and He will draw nigh [close] to you.'
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James 5 - James concludes his remarks and exhortations to the Christian Church with an emphases on the need for individuals to pray with and for one another - and really just to encourage, assist and to cooperate with one another - to keep focused on the return of Jesus all the while remaining diligent in godly pursuits - and to be patient in all things particularly in illnesses, persecutions and any type sufferings -- 'James 5:7-8 Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish [establish] your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.'
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1 PETER
Book of 1st Peter - Introduction and Background Information - Date of Writing somewhere around AD 62-64 [by Peter in Rome] {note: The cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the start of His Christian Church was in 32 A.D. counting His birth as year 0 A.D. [33 A.D. otherwise] -- The Apostle Paul was martyred about 64-65 A.D. in Rome -- Peter was martyred about 67 A.D. also in Rome -- Caesar Nero (*was the fifth, and last Roman Emperor (and also the most wicked) of the Julio-Claudian dynasty) reigned in Rome from 13 October, AD 54 - 9 June, AD 68 -- later the 2nd Jerusalem Temple was destroyed by Rome in 70 A.D. (Titus Flavius Vespasianus (Vespasian) was the Emperor in Rome [69-79 AD] -- his son Roman General Titus Flavius Vespasianus (Titus) oversaw the destruction of Israel, Jerusalem and the Temple {this generation, Matthew 23:36} in 70 A.D. and was later briefly Emperor of Rome himself [79-81 A.D.]) - wiki.com} - Clearly, this was a horrific time for the early Christian church - Themes: There are generally speaking five themes that permeate this text: Hope, Suffering, *Holiness, Humility, Submission
Studies in 1 Peter - A Call to Holiness - "As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as He which hath called [invited] you is Holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written (Leviticus 11:44), Be ye holy; for I am Holy" [1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV] - "But ye are a chosen generation [peer group], a Royal Priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; *that ye should shew forth the Praises of Him who hath called [invited] you out of darkness into His marvellous light" [1 Peter 2:9 KJV]
1 Peter 1: 22-2:3 Spiritual Dynamics of Holiness - When Peter tells us: "Be holy in everything you do" he is simply saying: "Live every aspect of your lives the way God designed you to live" - God has created us in His image, and therefore our lives have a high purpose-to demonstrate His character (His love, righteousness, justice, etc.) in this world - *To live otherwise is to profane my life, to misrepresent God's character *and to damage myself and others
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1 Peter 1 - The Apostle Peter the Apostle of Holiness - The first order of Holiness is to understand that while we are alive in our fleshly body in the physical world that we live holiness generally at the level of a Child of God in need of God's constant presence and supervision -- '1 Peter 1:1-5 Peter, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, Elect [called for a purpose - i.e. Evangelist] according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the [Holy] Spirit, *unto obedience *and sprinkling of *the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope *by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, *reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith [in the completed works of the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ] unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.'
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1 Peter 2 - Holiness derives from being in the presence of God [prayer, Bible study, fellowship, service to God] 'the milk of the Word' as a Child of God and then Christian maturity derives from holiness [maturity does not lead to holiness (acceptability and a closer relationship with God), holiness (intimate fellowship with God) leads a Child of God to maturity and eventually into Sonship] -- '1 Peter 2:1-3 Wherefore laying aside all malice [mischievous], and all guile [bitterness], and hypocrisies [self-promotion], and envies, and all evil speakings, *As newborn babes (Matthew 18:3), desire the sincere milk of the Word (Bible), that ye may grow [mature] thereby: If so be *ye have tasted [fellowshipped with God] that the Lord [Jesus Christ] is gracious.'
BasicChristian.org: The Royal Priesthood - The High Calling of each Christian - Now that we are Christians and in a relationship with God there is still the question of how do we as people approach and interact with the Holy God?
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1 Peter 3 - The Apostle Peter admonishes all Christians to have a Heavenly, eternal perspective -- '1 Peter 3:8-9 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as [Christian] brethren, be pitiful [compassionate], be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise [contrary to the ways of the world instead be a] blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should [as Sons and Daughters] inherit a [living, eternal] blessing.'
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1 Peter 4 - The Apostle Peter reveals that the Christian Church is an intermixed, interdependent group of individuals - Comprised of all the individuals in attendance [and in prayer] and it is certainly not just the efforts and accomplishments of one highly visible person or of a few notable people -- '1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the [spiritual] gift [i.e. administration, servant, teacher, leader, visionary, etc.], even so minister the same [use your own (God given) gift - don't try to imitate the gifts of others] one to another, *as good stewards of the manifold grace [individuality given to us] of God. If any man speak [to a group or to another person], let him speak as the oracles [pages of the Bible] of God; if any man minister [servant], let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: *that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be Praise and Dominion forever and ever. Amen.'
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1 Peter 5 - The Apostle Peter warns the Pastors not to neglect their temporary assignment as a faithful shepherd to a part of the flock of God -- '1 Peter 5:1-4 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and *a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker [Mount of Transfiguration, Matthew 17:1-2] of the Glory [of Jesus] that shall be revealed: *Feed [read the Bible to] the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords [owners] over God's heritage, but being [servant] ensamples [examples] to the flock. And when [Jesus Christ] the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a Crown of Glory that fadeth not away.'
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2 PETER
Epistle of 2nd Peter - 2nd Peter was written somewhere around 67 AD, shortly before Peter's martyrdom in Rome
Background of Second Peter - The theme of 2 Peter is summarized by the word 'knowledge' which occurs twelve times in the [short] letter - In a letter which fights false teaching, the greatest weapon is a knowledge of the truth
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2 Peter 1 - Where 1st Peter was written more with Christian conduct, holiness and maturity in view the second letter, 2nd Peter was written more with Christian endurance and the eventual End Times in view -- '2 Peter 1:16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power [supernatural, the resurrection power - Dunamis, G1411] and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but [as Disciples and Apostles] were eyewitnesses of His majesty.'
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2 Peter 2 - The Apostle Peter points out that the Christian Church is always going to have to contend with false doctrines and false teachers just as the Jews themselves had to contend with false prophets in their midst -- '2 Peter 2:1-3 But there were false prophets also among the people [in O.T. times], even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily [privately, secretly, behind closed doors] shall bring in damnable heresies, *even denying the Lord [Jesus] that bought them [paid with His blood for our sins], and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom The Way of Truth [Christianity] shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise [selling blessings or ministry items] of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.'
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2 Peter 3 - The Apostle Peter begins to close his second and last epistle with a warning that eventually the earth is going to be judged again and at the Command of God all physical things will perish in a 'fervent heat' -- '2 Peter 3:1-5 This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the Holy Prophets, and of the Commandment [love God and love your neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40)] of us the Apostles of the Lord and Savior [Jesus Christ]: Knowing this first, that *there shall come in the Last Days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of His [return, 2nd] coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant [the earth has not continued unchanged but has had radical changes (flood of Noah) and will continue in the Book of Revelation to have more radical changes] of, that by the [Command] Word of God the heavens [skies] were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water ...' {Note: The original earth of creation was flooded in the flood of Noah by the Command judgment of *water from God - now the earth is currently being judged this time by the *blood and cross of Jesus Christ and with the Testimony of the Holy *Spirit (1 John 5:6-9) - and finally for those who reject the water and the blood and the Holy Spirit the earth will again be judged a final time by judgment and destruction in *fire.}
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1 JOHN
History of John the Disciple of Jesus
1st John - *Let us Love One Another - Because God's children have experienced such love, the command that comes to them to love each other is not the "ought" of external compulsion but the "ought" of internal constraint (Bruce 1970:109) - So strong is John's confidence that the Christian community will fulfill this command that he writes that mutual Christian love manifests the presence and action of the invisible God (v. 12; Smalley 1984:246) - When he writes no one has ever seen God, he calls to mind the same statement in the Gospel of John (1:18) - *In both cases, he is not trying to tell us what God is like but how God is known - And God is known not only in the revelation that comes to us in Jesus (Jn 1:18) but also by the manifestation of our love for each other (1 Jn 4:12) [in and through Jesus Christ]
Background of First John - Only in John among the biblical writers does the word 'antichrist' occur - It is mentioned in 1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3 and 2 John 7 - Anti means ['instead of,' replacement - replacement chirst (savior) - not Jesus Christ but a replacement - antichrist either as self or eventually Antichrist as Satan in the body of a human] 'one who takes the place of, or opposes or stands against' - The essence of the antichrist essentially is a denial of the incarnation and deity of Christ - This means the destruction of the redemptive work of Christ, which was the basis for the destruction [works] of Satan himself - Without the work of Christ, Satan would continue in his evil ways - However *the cross [of Jesus Christ] puts an end to antichrist and all his plans [and abilities of entrapping and enslaving mankind]
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1 John 1 - John the beloved Disciple and Apostle of Jesus Christ begins his first of three letters (epistles) - The first letter is to the general Church at large then his next letter is to a specific Church fellowship while his third letter is to an individual -- '1 John 1:1-4 That [Jesus Christ] which was from the beginning, which *we have heard, which *we have seen with our eyes, which *we [Apostles] have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of Life; For the life was manifested [Virgin Birth], and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that *eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested [Resurrection] unto us; That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, *that ye also may have fellowship with us [Christian Apostles]: and truly *our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.'
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1 John 2 - The Disciple and Apostle John writes of the works accomplished and completed in Jesus Christ for the Salvation of the entire world -- '1 John 2:1-2 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: And He is the propitiation (full payment) for our sins: and *not for ours only, *but also for the sins of the whole world.' {Note: Everyone who chooses to be forgiven of their sin and to enter into a relationship with God through Jesus Christ will be accepted by God into a personal relationship with God.}
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1 John 3 - The Disciple John explains that our partaking in the Love that has been and is manifested in Jesus Christ reaches its ultimate conclusion in our eternal life in Jesus Christ -- '1 John 3:1-3 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons [lit. children] of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not. Beloved, now are we the sons [lit. children] of God [see also - Romans 8:14, Sons of God], and it doth not yet appear what we shall be [in the resurrection]: but we know that, when He shall appear [2nd Coming], we shall be [bodily] like Him [Jesus Christ]; for we shall [bodily] see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope [eternal life] in him purifieth himself, even as He [Jesus Christ] is pure.'
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1 John 4 - The Disciple John warns everyone about the deceiving, manipulating and evil spirits that are out to destroy mankind and that often the evil spirits work directly through mankind -- '1 John 4:1-3 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets [evil spirits] are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the [Holy] Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth [agrees in word and actions] that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not [in word and lifestyle] that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; *and even now already is it in the world.'
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1 John 5 - The Disciple John explains that our victory over our sin and this world leads to fellowship - Fellowship both with our fellow mankind and our personal fellowship with God -- '1 John 5:1-5 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ [Savior] is born of God: and every one that loveth Him [Father God] that begat loveth Him [Jesus Christ] also that is begotten of Him [Father God]. By this we know that we love the Children of God, when we love God, and keep His Commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His Commandments: and His Commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born [again] of God overcometh the world: *and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even *our faith [belief in the finished work of Jesus; Creation, Cross, Resurrection]. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?'
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2 JOHN
Walking Thru The Bible - SECOND & THIRD JOHN - While John does not use his name in these two epistles it is generally accepted by the scholars that the writer is the same as the writer of the first epistle and the Gospel that bears his name - John refers to himself as "the elder" not in the sense in which that word is synonymous with bishop in a local church but in the primary sense of an older or aged person - *John writes to warn this dear sister (or Church congregation) against having her hospitality taken advantage of by the false teachers circulating in the region (PDF)
The Apostle John - There is a church tradition, which says, that when John was evidently an old man in Ephesus, he had to be carried to the church in the arms of his disciples - At these meetings, he was accustomed to say no more than, "Little children, love one another!" - After a time, the disciples wearied at always hearing the same words, asked, "Master, why do you always say this?" - "It is the Lord's command," was his reply - "And if this alone be done, it is enough!" - There is, also, a tradition which says that John was in Rome for a time
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2 John 1 - The beloved Disciple John writes his 2nd of three letters - This letter is to admonish a fellow Christian Church not to partake with or to assist just anyone - To be careful and make sure not to accept or to assist in any way any of the many deceivers that are out there attempting to take advantage of the simple Christians -- '2 John 1:1-4 The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us forever. Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.'
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3 JOHN
3 John: Introduction, Argument, and Outline - It is probable that both 2 John and 3 John were written and sent out at the same time, due in large measure to the remarkable stylistic similarities - The letter is addressed to one Gaius - The Greek name-as well as the Greek names of Diotrephes and Demetrius mentioned in the letter-suggest that this letter was addressed to a Gentile Christian - He would have been a member in one of the churches of Asia Minor which John had adopted [overseen] as his own after the death of [the Apostle] Paul - *Theme: Show [continue to show] hospitality to the messengers of [Christianity] the truth
Basilica of St. John, Ephesus - The Basilica of St. John was a great church in Ephesus constructed by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century [who reigned in Rome from 9 August 525 A.D. - 4 November 565 A.D. (40 years, 97 days) - Wiki.com] - It stands over the believed burial site of St. John, who is identified as the Apostle, Evangelist, author of the Fourth Gospel and prophet/author of the Book of Revelation (Photos)
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3 John 1 - The Disciple John's third and final epistle (letter) is to Gaius - Probably someone that John himself had personally led to the Lord Jesus Christ - Gaius had been kind, hospitable and giving to everyone however he apparently had been taken advantage of so much that he stopped [or lessened] his generosity and hospitality - The Disciple John wrote Gaius in order to encourage him to be careful but to continue to be generous and hospitable to others especially to those in the faith therefore keeping his faith pure and not to end up accidently having the same inhospitable conduct of Diotrephes a known deceiver -- '3 John 1:1-4 The elder [Disciple John] unto the well-beloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, *even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the Truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the Truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in Truth.'
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JUDE
New Testament Overview: Jude - Written by Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, this letter is an appeal to Christians everywhere to contend for the true faith, and not to let false teachings creep in
Bible Study - The Book of Jude: In searching for study material on the book of Jude, I was amazed at how much could be gleaned from this little book - It has been described as the "difficult and neglected letter" and I now believe that this is certainly true - It has a lot to say to the modern church; and addresses much of what we call "today's culture" human rights, and liberty - It also gives guidance as to what role the church should play today - These 25 verses are packed full of spiritual insights and principles; in fact, so much so, that this will be a rather extensive study
Jude's purpose: To condemn the practice of the false teachers - To condemn the doctrine(s) of the false teachers - To encourage the true believers to stand firm and contend for the faith - His message: Direct exhortation to believers to fight [stand firm and contend] for the Truth - Originally he [Jude] thought he would write them concerning our salvation - However, while he was still considering what to say, he was informed about a group of false teachers who had begun to infiltrate the church - They were using grace as an excuse to live godless lives - He decided that he must write them immediately and urgently - The false teachers were using the doctrine of grace as an excuse to live godless and immoral lives - In addition to the practical [Paganism] error, they were also denying [Jesus] Christ - Therefore, Jude wrote out of urgent concern for the [wellbeing of the] Saints
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Jude 1 - The epistle (letter) of Jude - Jude begins to write a letter to fellow Christians rejoicing in their common Salvation in Jesus Christ - However as Jude begins to write the Holy Spirit impresses upon him to instead write a letter of exhortation encouraging fellow Christians to resist selfish and false teachers and to stand fast in the Christian faith of Jesus Christ -- 'Jude 1:1-4 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called: Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and *denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.'
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REVELATION
Introduction to the Book of Revelation - The Book of Revelation is the most controversial book in the Bible - Revelation has caused major divisions between denominations, churches and families - What makes this book so controversial? {Revelation is about the future and it is about complicated End Time events, events (Acts 1:6-7) that are purposely clouded from humanity even Christians, the very nature of the Book of Revelation requires a certain amount of speculation and with speculation comes controversy} - A promise of blessing is made in the very first chapter of the book to those who read and hear the words of this prophecy - The book has 404 verses, and according to some scholars, [over] half of those verses have an Old Testament reference
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Revelation 1 - The Disciple John begins to record for all mankind the Revelation Message given directly to him from the resurrected Jesus Christ -- 'Revelation 1:1-3 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God [the Father] gave unto Him, to shew unto His servants [Church era] things which must shortly [Revelation 22:7] come to pass; and He [Jesus Christ] sent and signified it by his Angel [Messenger] unto His servant John [the Disciple John]: [the same John] Who bare record of the Word of God, and of the Testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all [disciple] things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the Words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.' - Note: At times some say that Jesus Christ did not have any direct input into the written Bible however Jesus Himself dictates the Book of Revelation to His Disciple John and Revelation seal's the New Testament and the entire Bible placing Jesus' seal and approval upon the entire Holy Bible from Genesis to Revelation.
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Revelation 2-3 - The Resurrected Lord and Savior Jesus Christ dictates Seven Letters to His entire Christian Church encompassing both the entire Church body and the entire Church age from the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the beginning of the Christian Church (John 20:22) until the eventual rapture [closure] of the Christian Church -- 'Revelation 2:1-4 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith He [the Resurrected Jesus Christ] that holdeth the [heavens] seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of [earth] the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried [discerned] them which say they are Apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love [lit. Agape].'
BasicChristian.org: The 7 Church Letters of Revelation from Jesus Christ - The Christian Church is divided into Seven Church groups - Which Church group are You in?
Sword of the Spirit Podcast - The Seven Letters of Revelation (Mp3s)
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Revelation 4 - The Disciple John after writing and documenting the complete Christian Church age the Disciple is 'called' into Heaven to be told what will take place after the Christian Church era has concluded on earth -- 'Revelation 4:1-2 After this I [Disciple John] looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet (1 Corinthians 15:51-51) talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter [after the Christian Church age]. And immediately I was in the Spirit [and in Heaven before the Throne of God]: and, behold, a Throne was set in Heaven, and One sat on the Throne.' - Note: It goes without saying that the interpretation, timing and events of Revelation are highly controversial and therefore all anyone can do is to interpret the Book of Revelation the best they can for their own understanding. - Also Note: It is imperative that mature Christians understand and have a concept of the 2nd Coming of Jesus Christ and of the End Time events that precede His 2nd Coming and it is just as important that mature Christians are willing to place fellowship and Church unity over and above personal speculation about the End Times.
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Revelation 5 - The events of the Book of Revelation are going to bring about the final reconciliation between Heaven [Throne of God] and earth the dwelling of mankind -- 'Revelation 5:1-5 And I saw in the right hand of Him that sat on the Throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals [restraints - judgments]. And I saw a strong Angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals [restraints] thereof? And no man in heaven [alone], nor in earth [alone], neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. And I [Disciple John] wept much, because no {one dimensional} man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon. And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda (Judah), the Root [descendant] of [King] David, hath prevailed [being from Heaven and overcoming on earth] to open the book [to reconcile and unite Heaven and earth], and to loose the seven seals thereof.'
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Revelation 6 - The Revelation Judgments of Jesus Christ the 7 Seal Judgments begin - Each Seal is a restraint that has kept the evil of mankind within certain boundaries - What Jesus Christ is doing is breaking each boundary (seal) and removing certain restraints on mankind and allowing mankind to more completely behave the way mankind wants to behave - The 7 Seal judgments are overseen and administered by Jesus Christ - While the 7 Trumpet Judgments are overseen by the Holy Spirit and administered by Angels - While the 7 Vial (measured bowl) judgments are overseen by God the Father and are also administered by Angels -- 'Revelation 6:1 And I saw when the Lamb [Jesus Christ] opened one of the (7) Seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts [Spirit beings] saying, Come and see.'
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Revelation 7 - The 144,000 Jewish 'firstfruits' are sealed as witnesses of Jesus Christ during the Tribulation days - The 144,000 are the first (firstfruits)of Jewish Salvation (Revelation 14:4) - Up until this point in time the Jews have Redemption or became Christians and received Christian Salvation however at this point with the Christian Church era having ended the Jews now begin to receive Salvation as Jews -- 'Revelation 7:4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand [144,000] of all the Tribes of the Children of Israel.'
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Revelation 8-9 - The 7th Seal is mentioned before the revelation of the 7 Trumpet judgments and the 7 Vial Judgments however it appears that though revealed in separate groups the actual events occur largely in one comingled and continuous group of judgments -- 'Revelation 8:1 And when He [Jesus Christ] had opened the Seventh Seal, there was silence in Heaven about the space of half an hour.'
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Revelation 10 - With the Judgments of Revelation becoming accomplished the Mystery and separation between God and mankind is about to come to an end as all the many Holy Prophets have been Prophesying since the beginning of sin and separation -- 'Revelation 10:5-7 And the Angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, And sware by Him that liveth forever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be [separation] time no longer: But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, *the Mystery [unknown separation] of God should be finished, as He hath declared to His servants the prophets.'
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Revelation 11 - The 3rd Temple in Jerusalem is measured and described - At the time that the Disciple John was writing this in about 95 A.D. the 2nd Temple in Jerusalem had already been destroyed in 70 A.D. by the Legions of forces of Rome -- 'Revelation 11:1-2 And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the Angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the Temple of God [3rd Temple], and the altar, and them that worship therein. But the court which is without the Temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city [Jerusalem] shall they tread under foot forty and two months [3½ years].' - Note: There are several 3½ year segments in the Tribulation time period however they are not all a part of the same 7 year period. This 42 month period could be well under way before the Rapture then the 3½ years of the Two Witnesses could occur right after the Rapture and at the start of the 7 years of Tribulation. Just keep in mind that there are multiple 3½ year periods with different starting times and different completion times.
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Revelation 12 - The Disciple John while in the middle of the Visions of Revelation gives a historical summary of previous events further revealing that the Vision of Revelation as a whole is not in chronological order -- 'Revelation 12:1-5 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman [Nation of Israel] clothed with the sun [in fellowship with God], and the moon under her feet [observing proper spiritual discernment], and upon her head a crown of twelve stars [12 Tribes of Israel]: And she being with Child [Jesus Christ] cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon [Satan], having seven heads [the 7 global Gentile Kingdoms] and ten horns (Daniel 7:7), and seven crowns [king's crown - Diadema, G1238] upon his heads. And his [Satan's] tail drew the third part {this is where it is believed that 1/3 of the Angels fell with Satan} of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the Dragon [Satan] stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her Child [Jesus Christ (Matthew 2:16)] as soon as it was born. And she [Nation of Israel] brought forth a man child [Jesus Christ], who was to rule all Nations [8th Kingdom] with a rod of iron: and her child [Jesus Christ] was caught up [Resurrection - Ascension (Acts 1:9)] unto God, and to His Throne.'
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Revelation 13 - The Beast [Antichrist, Satan], the False Prophet and the 666 [Mystery Babylon, demonic realm] of the Unholy Trinity -- 'Revelation 13:1-4 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast [Antichrist] rise up out of the sea [Nations, people], having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. ... And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded [assassinated] to death; and his [fake] deadly wound was healed [fake resurrection]: and all the world wondered after the [apparent eternal life of the] beast [Antichrist]. And they worshipped [gave thanks for their life] the dragon which gave power unto the beast [the fake trinity]: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is [Messiah, Christ] like unto the beast? who is able to make war with [everlasting life] him?'
BasicChristian.org: What is the Mark of the Beast 666 - There are at least three aspects to the Mark of the Beast as explained in the Book of Revelation
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Revelation 14 - The 144,000 Jewish Saints of Jesus Christ -- 'Revelation 14:1-5 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb [Jesus Christ] stood on the Mount Sion (Zion) [Jerusalem], and with Him an hundred forty and four thousand [144,000], having His Father's Name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from Heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps [praise]: *And they [144,000] sung as it were a New Song before the Throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and [it is a separate and exclusive group] no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed [Jewish] from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed [Jewish] from among men, being the firstfruits [Jewish Salvation] unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the Throne of God.'
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Revelation 15-16 - The Martyred Saints of Revelation continue to assemble in Heaven - The 7 Vial (Measured) Judgments, the final judgments of Revelation are revealed -- 'Revelation 15:1-4 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven Angels having the Seven *last plagues [the 7 Measured Bowl judgments]; for in them is filled up the wrath [lit. passion for justice and righteousness] of God. And I saw as it were a Sea of Glass {now} mingled with fire {the earlier view while the Christian Church was present (Revelation 4:6) was without the Great Tribulation Wrath fire}: and them [Martyred Saints of Revelation] that had gotten the victory over the beast [Antichrist, Satan], and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number [666, incomplete, a trinity of emptiness] of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they [Martyred Saints of Revelation - having not yet experienced the "Feast of Firstfruits" the being 'born again' by the Holy Spirit from 'above' within the Promise Land - Heaven] sing the (Redemption/Salvation) *Song of Moses (Exodus 15:1-18) the servant of God, and the Song of the Lamb [Jesus Christ], saying, Great and marvellous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and True are Thy ways, Thou *King of Saints [Martyred Saints]. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy Name? for Thou only art Holy: for all Nations shall come and Worship (give thanks for eternal life) before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest [visible].' - Note: The Martyred Saints of Revelation [Gentiles] coming through the Tribulation Period [with redemption (Revelation 6:11) but not yet salvation] have more in common with Moses and the Children of Israel [Jews] then they do with the Christian Church that did possess Salvation while upon the earth (before the rapture).
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Revelation 17 - The great Mystery Babylon [the hidden invisible unholy spiritual realm] is revealed -- 'Revelation 17:1-2 And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me [Disciple John], saying unto me, Come hither [near]; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters [Nations]: With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication [unfaithfulness], and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine [spiritual influences] of her fornication.'
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Revelation 18 - The sins of Mystery Babylon will result in the plagues of God upon Mystery Babylon -- 'Revelation 18:1-5 And after these things I saw another Angel [messenger] come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with His Glory [Jesus Christ]. 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. For all Nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication [unfaithfulness], and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. *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 (Genesis 11:4) have reached unto Heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities [intentional sins].'
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Revelation 19 - The Great eternal Congregation of Saints in Heaven all Worship and Praise God at the same time and in the same place -- 'Revelation 19:1-5 And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power, unto the Lord our God: For True and Righteous are His judgments: for He hath judged the great [unfaithful] whore, *which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of His servants at her hand. And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up forever and ever. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the Throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia. And a voice came out of the Throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye His servants, and ye that fear Him, both small and great.'
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Revelation 20 - Satan is to be incarcerated for the entire 1,000 year Kingdom reign of Jesus Christ on earth -- 'Revelation 20:1-3 And I saw an Angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit (Revelation 9:1) and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, *and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the Nations no more, till the thousand years [Kingdom reign of Jesus Christ on earth, 8th Kingdom] should be fulfilled: and after that he [Satan] must be loosed a little season. - Note: The human elements of Satan's 7th Kingdom the human Antichrist and the human false prophet have at this point already been sentenced to the eternal lake of fire. Satan is held in chains for the 1,000 years and then he is released for a brief final temptation on mankind.'
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Revelation 21 - The earth and sky are going to pass away as humanity enters into a new earth and a new sky in the eternal state with God -- 'Revelation 21:1-5 And I saw a new heaven (sky) and a new earth: for the first heaven (sky) and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of Heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her Husband. And I heard a great voice out of Heaven saying, Behold, the Tabernacle [dwelling] of God [the Father] is with men, and He [the Father] will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God [Jesus] Himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: *for the former things are passed away. And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said unto me, Write: *for these Words [being from God] are True and Faithful.'
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Revelation 22 - The Disciple John is shown the Eternal State of the Saints with the New Jerusalem containing the Eternal Throne of God [Father, Son Jesus (Lamb), Holy Spirit] on earth - The beloved Disciple John closes the great Revelation of the beloved Jesus Christ by sealing (the 8th Seal) it with a promise, this final Seal is an unbreakable promise from Jesus Christ Himself to return quickly, when it is time (opened) and when the 8th Seal is opened Jesus will return according to all of His promises - The Disciple John then prays in agreement with Jesus Christ and requests the return of Jesus Christ - The Disciple John then finalizes all Holy Bible Scripture with a blessing from Jesus Christ to all the beloved Saints in Jesus Christ -- 'Revelation 22:1-6 And he [Angel] shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the Throne of God and of the Lamb [in the New Jerusalem]. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there *the Tree of Life (Genesis 2:9), which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and *the leaves of the tree were for the healing [wellbeing] of the Nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the Throne of God and of the Lamb [Jesus Christ] shall be in it; and His servants shall serve Him: And they shall see His face; and His name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign forever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are Faithful and True: *and the Lord God of the holy prophets *sent His Angel [messenger] *to shew unto His servants [Christians - Saints] the things which must shortly be done [accomplished].'
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Source: David Anson Brown “The blog Bible Study” 2009-2010 BasicChristian.org
— David Anson Brown posted 2016/02/08
