tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49579581580524837092024-03-14T03:52:29.319-04:00Daily TruthbaseDaily Truthbase (DTB) is a devotional blog which will help you to read through the whole Bible in a year. Subscribe to get emails in your inbox every day for a quality quiet time in God's Word. DTB is a great study resource to teach you how to study the Bible like Sherlock 'Olmes (see sidebar).
If you find it helpful, spread the word. Pass it on to faithful people who will teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2).NHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04156234133677792849noreply@blogger.comBlogger365125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-82811481296996558272012-09-01T01:48:00.004-04:002021-01-01T19:32:23.739-05:00<div><i><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></i></div><i><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><div><b style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01; font-size: large;">SIGN UP <a href="https://goo.gl/forms/5F09V1zqPnmURqJC3" target="_blank">HERE</a> TO RECEIVE DAILY TRUTHBASE VIA EMAIL</span></b></div><div><br /></div>[If this is your first time at </span><a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">DailyTruthbase</a><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">, read the </span><a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/p/introduction.html" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Introduction</a><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> on the right and sign up for the daily emails. They will arrive Monday-Friday, but you'll miss out on all the goodies in the "Week in Review" on Saturday and Sunday, so you'll have to use the "Blog Archive" to navigate to those treasures. Happy digging!]</span></i><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Congratulations!</span></b> If you started in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-1-whats-first-thing-god-said.html" target="_blank">Genesis 1</a> and finished at <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-21-22-new-heavens-and-earth.html">Revelation 22</a>, you have just entered the ranks of the top 2% of believers who have read the entire Bible!</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">If you paid a little attention to what you were reading, you probably have a more accurate understanding of the Scriptures than the 90% of "professionals" (Pastors, Bible College and Seminary Professors, and Commentators) who have never read the entire Bible.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">If you paid a lot of attention, and actually worked at:</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> understanding the text;</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> examining alternative viewpoints;</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> looked up some words on your own;</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> saw how the applications and "Nutshells" flowed from the text;</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> meditated on how to apply the principles to your life;</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"> responded back to God in worshipful prayer and application;</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">then you have a guaranteed spot reserved for you in the Heavenly City! Congrats!</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">(Just don't backslide between now and then).</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Now that you've learned and lived the truth, <b>go love others with it</b>.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">To help, see the <u>7 Passages</u> in the sidebar, beginning with <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/p/7-passages-introduction.html" target="_blank">"How to Study the Bible Like Sherlock Olmes"</a> and learn how to teach others the truths you learn.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">If you understand and are applying the passages, it's time to tackle a Book Study, like <a href="http://truthbase.net/resources/bible-study/inductive-outlines/">1 Peter</a> or <a href="http://truthbase.net/resources/bible-study/inductive-outlines/">Titus</a>, so you can develop an exegetical outline in context.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Then it's time to start thinking about how God could use you to glorify Himself by helping develop a Body of Believers. That's what the Catacomb Church Victorious Christianity <a href="http://catacombchurch.blogspot.com/%E2%80%8E">Blog</a> is all about.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Oh, yeah, three more things. You might want to go over the posts from Revelations <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html" target="_blank">19</a>-<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-21-22-new-heavens-and-earth.html" target="_blank">22</a> and develop your own Biblical Theology from those texts, seeing what God stresses and emphasizes. At the conclusion of the Book, you'd expect the major points to be emphasized and repeated. If you're brave, and have a strong stomach, you can compare your findings with what is usually passed off as Christianity.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The second thing is to encourage at least one other person to read through Daily Truthbase with you, this upcoming year. In the near future I will start posting <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzA2iMSygp0">10MinuteBible</a> videos for each DTB post on YouTube, giving the highlights, for the literacy impaired. Get together with the person once a week to share what you're learning and thinking about what you're reading, and you're on your way to being a Catacomb Christian.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The third thing is implicit in the second thing, go through <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/">Daily Truthbase</a> again, but this time put some comments on the blog and let me know what you think.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span> <span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Godspeed,</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">-<a href="https://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614">bc</a></span><br />
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</script>Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-72632726609239783282012-08-31T01:47:00.010-04:002015-03-07T20:35:29.638-05:00Revelation 21-22 New Heavens and Earth <div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS Leviticus 19:11 </b><u><b>Honesty is the Best Policy</b></u></div>
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<i>Leviticus 19:11 “You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another.”</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 19:11 Although the contents of this verse is included in the Ten Commandments (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/exodus-19-24-ten-commandments-given-and.html">Exodus 20</a>), it's worth having as a separate memory verse because these sins are so common in our society. We're tempted to steal or deal falsely (not portray things honestly in good faith) or lie to and deceive others because we don't believe God. We don't trust that He is good, and will give what's best, when it's best. So we disobey Him, and violate the rights of others, and fail to act in love, to satisfy our selfish appetites. We also don't believe that God is omniscient and just. We don't fear His judgment, both for being unfaithful to Him and unjust to others.</div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-4-7-falling-away-or-following.html">Hebrews 4:13</a><i> "And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."</i></blockquote>
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<b>Application</b>: When tempted to act unrighteously, think about how you'll explain it to a fearsomely holy God. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, help me be content with Your provision, and help me follow Your will so You can develop me and give me all that is best for me. Thanks. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Revelation 21-22 </b>The final chapters of the Bible present the eternal blessing and rewards the faithful believers will receive and enjoy when Christ returns. John sees the new heavens and new earth, the future heavenly Jerusalem descend out of heaven and takes a tour. He sees the River of Life and the Tree of Life, and records the promises of Jesus to the Church Age saints. Jesus freely offers the water of life to whomever thirsts, but the fruits of the Tree of Life are reserved exclusively for those who faithfully obey Him (just like it was in the Garden of Eden). Drink deeply, and eat heartily. <br />
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<b>Revelation 21 <u>Heavenly City Hovers</u></b></div>
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<i>21:1 "<u>And</u> I <u>saw</u> a <u>new heaven</u> and a <u>new earth</u>: for the <u>first heaven</u> and the <u>first earth</u> <u>passed</u> <u>away</u>, and the <u>sea</u> is <u>no</u> more. 2 I saw the <u>holy city</u>, <u>New Jerusalem</u>, <u>coming</u> down <u>out</u> of <u>heaven</u> from God, prepared <u>like</u> a <u>bride</u> adorned for her <u>husband</u>. 3 I heard a loud <u>voice</u> out of <u>heaven</u> saying, "Behold, <u>God’s</u> <u>dwelling</u> is with <u>men</u>, and He will <u>dwell with them</u>, and they will be <u>His people</u>, and <u>God</u> <u>himself</u> will be <u>with them</u> as <u>their God</u>. 4 He will <u>wipe</u> away from them <u>every</u> <u>tear</u> from their <u>eyes</u>. <u>Death</u> will be <u>no</u> <u>more</u>; <u>neither</u> will there be <u>mourning</u>, nor <u>crying</u>, nor <u>pain</u>, any <u>more</u>. The <u>first things</u> have <u>passed</u> away." 5 He who <u>sits</u> on the <u>throne</u> said, <u>"Behold,</u> I <u>am making</u> <u>all things</u> <u>new</u>." He said, "<u>Write</u>, for these <u>words of God</u> are <u>faithful</u> and <u>true</u>." </i> </div>
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<i>6 He said to me, "<u>It is done</u>! I am the <u>Alpha</u> and the <u>Omega</u>, the <u>Beginning</u> and the <u>End</u>. I will give <u>freely</u> to him who is <u>thirsty</u> from the <u>spring</u> of the <u>water of life</u>. 7 He who <u>overcomes</u>, I will <u>give</u> him <u>these things</u>. I will be <u>his God</u>, and he will be <u>My son</u>. 8 But for the <u>cowardly</u>, <u>unfaithful</u>, <u>sinners</u>, <u>abominable</u>, <u>murderers</u>, <u>sexually immoral</u>, <u>sorcerers</u>, <u>idolaters</u>, and <u>all liars</u>, their <u>part</u> is in the <u>lake</u> that burns with <u>fire</u> and <u>sulphur</u>, which is the <u>second</u> <u>death</u>."</i></div>
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<i>9 One of the <u>seven angels</u> who had the <u>seven bowls</u>, who were loaded with the <u>seven</u> <u>last</u> <u>plagues</u> came, and he spoke with me, saying, "<u>Come</u> here. I will <u>show</u> you the <u>wife</u>, the <u>Lamb’s bride</u>." 10 He carried me away <u>in the Spirit</u> to a great and high <u>mountain</u>, and showed me the <u>holy city</u>, <u>Jerusalem</u>, <u>coming</u> <u>down</u> out of <u>heaven</u> <u>from</u> <u>God</u>, 11 having the <u>glory</u> of <u>God</u>. Her <u>light</u> was like a most <u>precious</u> stone, as if it were a <u>jasper</u> stone, clear as <u>crystal</u>; 12 having a great and high <u>wall</u>; having <u>twelve gates</u>, and at the gates <u>twelve angels</u>; and <u>names</u> written on them, which are the names of the <u>twelve tribes</u> of the children of <u>Israel</u>. 13 On the <u>east</u> were <u>three</u> gates; and on the <u>north</u> <u>three</u> gates; and on the <u>south</u> <u>three</u> gates; and on the <u>west</u> <u>three</u> gates. 14 The wall of the city had <u>twelve</u> <u>foundations</u>, and on them <u>twelve</u> <u>names</u> of the <u>twelve Apostles</u> of the <u>Lamb</u>. 15 He who spoke with me had for a measure, a golden <u>reed</u>, to <u>measure</u> the city, its gates, and its walls. 16 The city lies <u>foursquare</u>, and its length is as great as its breadth. He <u>measured</u> the <u>city</u> with the reed, <u>Twelve thousand twelve stadia</u>. Its length, breadth, and height are <u>equal</u>. 17 Its wall is <u>one hundred forty-four cubits</u>, by the measure of a man, that is, of an angel. 18 The <u>construction</u> of its wall was <u>jasper</u>. The <u>city</u> was pure <u>gold</u>, like pure <u>glass</u>. 19 The <u>foundations</u> of the city’s wall were <u>adorned</u> with all kinds of <u>precious</u> <u>stones</u>. The <u>first</u> foundation was jasper; the <u>second</u>, sapphire; the <u>third</u>, chalcedony; the <u>fourth</u>, emerald; 20 the <u>fifth</u>, sardonyx; the <u>sixth</u>, sardius; the <u>seventh</u>, chrysolite; the <u>eighth</u>, beryl; the <u>ninth</u>, topaz; the <u>tenth</u>, chrysoprasus; the <u>eleventh</u>, jacinth; and the <u>twelfth</u>, amethyst. 21 The <u>twelve gates</u> were <u>twelve pearls</u>. Each one of the gates was made of <u>one pearl</u>. The <u>street</u> of the city was pure <u>gold</u>, like transparent <u>glass</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>22 I saw <u>no</u> <u>temple</u> in it, for the <u>Lord God</u>, the <u>Almighty</u>, and the <u>Lamb</u>, are its <u>temple</u>. 23 The city has <u>no</u> <u>need</u> for the <u>sun</u>, neither of the <u>moon</u>, to <u>shine</u>, for the <u>very</u> <u>glory</u> of God <u>illuminated</u> it, and its <u>lamp</u> is the <u>Lamb</u>. 24 The <u>nations</u> will <u>walk in its light</u>. The <u>kings</u> of the <u>earth</u> bring the <u>glory</u> and <u>honor</u> of the <u>nations</u> <u>into it</u>. 25 Its <u>gates</u> will in <u>no</u> way be <u>shut</u> by day (for there will be no night there), 26 and they shall bring the <u>glory</u> and the <u>honor</u> of the <u>nations</u> <u>into it</u> <u>so</u> that they may <u>enter</u>. 27 There will in <u>no</u> way enter into it anything <u>profane</u>, or one who causes an <u>abomination</u> or a <u>lie</u>, but only those who are <u>written</u> in the <u>Lamb’s</u> <u>book of life</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 21:1 Next John sees a new heaven and a new earth, because the first ones passed away (aorist), and the sea as well as the land mass was no more. This is chronologically after the Millennium, in which the sea still exists (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/ezekiel-44-48-worship-in-millennial.html">Ezekiel 47:8-20; 48:28;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/zechariah-9-14-messiah-rejected-and.html">Zechariah 14:8</a>). The need for a new earth is that the old one was cursed, and thus an unsuitable place for God to dwell (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/08/genesis-3-games-in-garden.html">Genesis 3:17;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/02/isaiah-24-27-perfect-plan-and-perfect.html">Isaiah 24:4-6; 19-23</a>). Isaiah and the other prophets saw the future events of the Day of the Lord from afar, viewing multiple events (such as the Tribulation, various judgments, the Millennium, and the Eternal State), like a mountain range, and not distinguishing the spaces and valleys in between them. John sees them up close and differentiates between them. Peter gave a little more commentary on the climactic destruction of the atmospheric heavens and terrestrial earth.</div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2peter-1-3-partake-of-divine-nature.html">2 Peter 3:10</a><i> “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will be dissolved with fervent heat, and the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.”</i></blockquote>
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Like becoming a spiritual child of God, the new heaven and earth are not a reformation, but a new creation. </div>
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21:2-5 John also sees the holy city, the New Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, which implies it previously existed beyond the atmospheric heavens (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-8-10-following-in-faith-hope.html">Hebrews 8:5</a>). The city was radiant/glorious like a bride. John hears the last of loud voices proclaiming that God's dwelling is with men, as it was back in the Garden before the Fall. The relationship has been restored. One has to wonder where the people are in all this, especially if the old physical order is no more. In order for there to be people existing on the new earth, they had to be removed from the old one, and placed back on the new one. God will wipe away every tear (same word as blot out); there will be no more death, mourning, crying or pain, because the old “order” is past, and God on His throne, speaking directly for the first time since 1:8), says He is making all things new. As Isaiah wrote in<br />
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/03/isaiah-60-66-gods-plans-for-future.html">Isaiah 65:17</a> <i>"For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former things shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.”</i> </blockquote>
God specifically tells John to write the words of the faithful and true God as John was told earlier (in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-12-15-unholy-trinity.html">Revelation 14:13</a> and <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 19:9</a>) so his readers could put their faith and hope in God's revelation. </div>
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21:6-8 God affirms His sovereignty, and two actions that flow from it. First, that He gives freely, to all who thirst, from the spring of the water of life. This was promised by Jesus to the woman at the well and is affirmed again in one of the last verses in the Bible (next chapter Revelation 22:17).</div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/john-4-6-believing-words-that-give.html">John 4:14</a><i> "but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."Revelation 22:17 "And the Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.”</i></blockquote>
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The emphasis is on God giving a free gift, to whomever wants it. As seen throughout the Scriptures, part of God's sovereign plan is for humans to have free will, and sovereign consequences attached to their free choices. Anyone who thirsts is offered the solution. </div>
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Note, in Jesus' offer to the woman, the distinction between reception of the water and the eternal life which follows. See the discussion at the end of the last chapter about eternal life (dominion of the Age) being given as a gift to those who believe and are born-again. There is a distinction, as the next aspect of God's pronouncement make clear.</div>
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The second action that flows from God's sovereignty is God giving heirship to overcomers. There is a correspondence between these last chapters and the first ones of Revelation, where the overcomers are promised rewards; those who don't overcome (be victorious) don't get them, but forfeit whatever they would have (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/luke-18-21-will-you-be-considered.html" target="_blank">comments on the parable of the minas - Luke 19:24)</a>. For victorious overcomers, there is intimacy with God (cf the distinction between priests in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/ezekiel-44-48-worship-in-millennial.html">Ezekiel 44</a>). The recognition of a child as a son or an heir indicated that they would have the right of inheritance (equated with reward - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/colossians-3-4-perfect-and-complete-in.html">Colossians 3:24</a> and in OT = <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-8-11-imitate-paul-and.html">1 Corinthians 10</a> references). In the justice of God, for the losers, there is loss, which continues into the eternal state if one is following the sequential chronology. For believers who behave badly (see the list in verse 8) their allotted portion or inheritance is burned in the lake of fire. Works are burned or tried in Gehenna (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-1-4-carnal-christians.html">1 Corinthians 3:15</a>) the garbage dump outside the city, where faithful believers works are shown to be gold, silver and precious stones that remain, and result in eternal reward. The losers works are wood, hay, and stubble, and nothing remains to exchange for reward (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-14-17-truth-and-trust-trump.html">Matthew 16:26;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/mark-8-12-royal-route-to-glory.html">Mark 8:37</a>). The inheritance or allotted portion of the unfaithful (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20:26</a>) is in the lake of fire. Note carefully that the text does not say that the losers themselves are tossed into the lake of fire. That was the destiny of those who had never believed in Christ, and thus never got their names written in the Book of Life. All the “unbelievers” were consigned to the never ending torment of the lake of fire at the end of the last chapter (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20:15</a>). This is a new day and new world in chapter 21, the old has passed. So these losers can't be those who were tossed into the lake of fire at the end of the last chapter. Again, note that these are not tossed but their allotted portion or inheritance (not place) is in the lake of fire. We'll actually see these losers again in the next chapter, excluded from the city. For some reason folks who've been exposed to a faulty oral tradition all their lives can't see the difference between justification and glorification, which is essential for understanding what might amount to a hundred difficult passages in the Scriptures (I haven't counted them, but that might be a low estimate, if one includes all the parables and contexts). </div>
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21:9-21 One of the angels who had one of the seven bowl/vial plagues invited John to see the wife, the Lamb's bride. This is not a person, nor a group of people (like Israel or the Church) but rather the heavenly city of New Jerusalem, in contrast to the harlot Babylon. The marriage imagery is used of the Church, Israel, and the City, and it should be obvious that they are not all the same entity just because they are described with the same imagery. John gets carried away in the Spirit to a mountain to view the descent of the city from heaven. The nation of Israel is still a distinct entity from the Church, as indicated by the names of the tribes being on each gate. The arrangement echos that of the nation camping around the Ark of the Covenant in the Tabernacle, on which dwelt the Shekinah glory of God. The wall of the city had foundations with the names of the twelve Apostles of the Lamb, representing the Church. Both Jews and Gentiles are united in future dwelling place of God, which is what Paul and Peter taught should be their status in the Church Age (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-2-3-grace-faith-and-works.html">Ephesians 2:22:</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/1peter-1-2-merited-grace.html">1 Peter 2:5</a>). The angel measures the city: it has four equal sides and could be a cube (like the Holy of Holies) or a pyramid, 1,500 miles per side (more than 75% of the land mass of the Continental USA).</div>
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21:22-27 John saw no temple in the city, which distinguishes it very clearly from Ezekiel's Millennial Temple, because the Lord and the Lamb are its temple, perhaps meaning there is no longer any need for symbolic ritual, since the reality is present. There is no need for sun or moon because the glory of God gives light, as radiating from the lamp of the Lamb. The nations will walk by the light of the glory of God, which gives perpetual day, and no night. What are the nations doing in this picture? The kings of the earth (which implies that there are nations and kings organized in a hierarchical structure on earth, and not everyone is in the city) bring tribute, the glory and honor of the nations, into the city, so they may enter it (so much for the thought of a classless society in heaven, unless this isn't heaven). The kings only enter bearing gifts. No common, nor profane person, nor defiled (abomination), nor a liar can enter the city, but only those whose names have been (perfect tense) written in the Lamb's Book of Life, the register of those who can participate in the rule of a kingdom (see comments at the end of last chapter). Why is there a reference to there being people excluded from the city? See next chapter. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: God graciously gives life to whomever wants it, but inheritance only to overcomers; those who exclude Him from their lives now will be excluded from His life in the future.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, You are my God; may I be a faithful son/daughter who enjoys Your fellowship forever. Thanks. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Revelation 22 <u>Free Water, Earned Blessing</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--RJPkpORj6I/UEAPrhBIg0I/AAAAAAAAFGM/QnWaaUHW8bo/s1600/tree+of+life+stained+glass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--RJPkpORj6I/UEAPrhBIg0I/AAAAAAAAFGM/QnWaaUHW8bo/s200/tree+of+life+stained+glass.jpg" height="200" width="134" /></a><i>22:1 "<u>And</u> He showed me a <u>river</u> of <u>water of life</u>, clear as <u>crystal</u>, proceeding out of the <u>throne</u> of <u>God</u> and of the <u>Lamb</u>, 2 in the <u>middle</u> of its <u>street</u>. On this <u>side</u> of the river and on <u>that</u> was the <u>tree of life</u>, bearing <u>twelve</u> kinds of <u>fruits</u>, yielding its <u>fruit every month</u>. The <u>leaves</u> of the tree were for the <u>healing</u> of the <u>nations</u>. 3 There will be <u>no curse</u> <u>any more</u>. The <u>throne</u> of <u>God</u> and of the <u>Lamb</u> will be in it, and His <u>servants</u> <u>serve</u> Him. 4 They will <u>see His face</u>, and His <u>name</u> will be on their <u>foreheads</u>. 5 There will be <u>no</u> <u>night</u>, and they need <u>no</u> <u>lamp</u> light; for the <u>Lord</u> <u>God</u> will <u>illuminate</u> them. They will <u>reign</u> <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>.</i></div>
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<i>6 He said to me, "These <u>words</u> are <u>faithful and true</u>. The <u>Lord God</u> of the <u>spirits</u> of the <u>prophets</u> sent His <u>angel</u> to <u>show</u> to His <u>bondservants</u> the <u>things</u> which must <u>happen</u> <u>soon</u>." 7 "Behold, I <u>come quickly</u>. <b>Blessed</b> is he who <u>keeps</u> the <u>words</u> of the <u>prophecy</u> of <u>this book</u>." 8 Now I, John, am the <u>one</u> who <u>heard</u> and <u>saw</u> these things. When I <u>heard</u> and <u>saw</u>, I <u>fell</u> down to <u>worship</u> before the <u>feet</u> of the <u>angel</u> who had <u>shown</u> me these things. 9 He said to me, "<u>See</u> you <u>don’t do it</u>! I am a <u>fellow</u> <u>bondservant</u> with you and with your <u>brothers</u>, the <u>prophets</u>, and with <u>those</u> who <u>keep the words of this book</u>. <u>Worship God</u>." 10 He said to me, "<u>Don’t</u> <u>seal</u> <u>up</u> the <u>words</u> of the <u>prophecy</u> of this <u>book</u>, for the <u>time</u> is at <u>hand</u>. 11 He who <u>acts</u> <u>unjustly</u>, let him <u>act</u> <u>unjustly</u> still. He who is <u>filthy</u>, let him <u>be</u> <u>filthy</u> still. He who is <u>righteous</u>, let him <u>do</u> <u>righteousness</u> still. He who is <u>holy</u>, let him <u>be holy</u> still." </i> </div>
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<i>12 "<u>Behold</u>, I <u>come quickly</u>. My <u>reward</u> is <u>with</u> <u>Me</u>, to <u>repay</u> to <u>each</u> man <u>according to his work</u>. 13 I am the <u>Alpha</u> and the <u>Omega</u>, the <u>First</u> and the <u>Last</u>, the <u>Beginning</u> and the <u>End</u>. 14 <b>Blessed</b> are those who <u>do</u> His <u>commandments</u>, that they may have the <u>right</u> to the <u>tree of life</u>, and may <u>enter in</u> by the <u>gates</u> into the <u>city</u>. 15 <u>Outside</u> are the <u>dogs</u>, the <u>sorcerers</u>, the <u>sexually immoral</u>, the <u>murderers</u>, the <u>idolaters</u>, and everyone who <u>loves</u> and <u>practices</u> <u>falsehood</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>16 I, <u>Jesus</u>, have sent <u>My</u> angel to <u>testify</u> these things to <u>you</u> for the <u>assemblies</u>. I am the <u>root</u> and the <u>offspring</u> of <u>David</u>; the <u>Bright</u> and <u>Morning Star</u>. 17 The <u>Spirit</u> and the <u>bride</u> say, "<u>Come</u>!" He who <u>hears</u>, let him say, "<u>Come</u>!" He who is <u>thirsty</u>, let him <u>come</u>. He who <u>desires</u>, let him <u>take</u> the <u>water of life</u> <u>freely</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>18 I testify to everyone who <u>hears</u> the <u>words</u> of the <u>prophecy</u> of <u>this book</u>, if anyone <u>adds</u> to them, may God <u>add</u> to him the <u>plagues</u> which are <u>written</u> in this <u>book</u>. 19 If anyone tak<u>e</u>s <u>away</u> from the <u>words</u> of the book of this <u>prophecy</u>, may God <u>take away</u> his <u>part</u> from the <u>book of life</u>, and <u>out</u> of the <u>holy city</u>, which are <u>written</u> in this <u>book</u>.</i></div>
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<i>20 He who <u>testifies</u> these things says, "<u>Yes</u>, I <u>come quickly</u>." Amen! Yes, <u>come</u>, <u>Lord Jesus</u>. 21 The <u>grace</u> of the <u>Lord Jesus Christ</u> be with <u>all</u> the <u>saints</u>. Amen."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 22:1-5 Continuing the tour, the angel shows John a river, containing the water of life, that proceeds out from the throne of God and the Lamb. In the Millennial temple (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/ezekiel-44-48-worship-in-millennial.html">Ezekiel 47</a>) similar waters, flanked by many trees, flowed from under the threshold of the temple to the sea. A comparison of the two records indicate two different scenes (there is no temple in the Heavenly Jerusalem). On either side of the river of the water of life in the heavenly city was a tree of life (no definite article) which means there were two trees or one that spanned the river. The tree of life bore twelve kinds of fruit, perhaps one each month, and its leaves were for the healing of the nations. Why do the nations need healing? There is no curse any more. This is a reversal of <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/08/genesis-3-games-in-garden.html">Genesis 3</a> where the earth was cursed, and farming difficult (earthly trees only yield fruit seasonally) to a restoration of the pre-Fall state where abundance was the rule. The throne of God and the Lamb are in the city, and His servants shall serve/worship Him (cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-4-7-wrath-of-lamb-begins.html">Revelation 7:15-17</a> where the worship of the Lamb by the Tribulation saints is described with the same word and a similar setting). John rounds out the blessings of faithful God's servants describing the intimacy they enjoy with God (similar to that in the pre-Fall Garden). His name is on their foreheads, like the High Priest who alone was allowed into the Holy of Holies. There is no longer any night, nor need for lamp light, for God illuminates them, and they will reign forever and ever. Over whom do the faithful saints/servants reign? Angels (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-5-7-carnal-relationships.html">1 Corinthians 6:3</a>)? Over whom do the kings of 21:24 (above) reign? There it is specified as the nations. </div>
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Most of the difficulties raised in the above questions find a resolution in a view I first heard form one of my old professors (really old, he's a few years shy of the century mark), Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost, author of “Things to Come.” In class one day he mentioned that some thought the New Jerusalem hovered over the old earth during the Millennium, giving light to the earth (remember the sun got pretty trashed in the Tribulation), and then would finally settle on a new earth after the old one had been destroyed. Because the old earth was cursed, it could not be the abode of God “in person.” That's all I remember for the class, but this view allows for there to be kings and nations outside the city, faithful saints allowed into it, and unfaithful believers to be excluded from it. Faithful believers with glorified bodies (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/2corinthians-4-5-gaining-your-glory.html">2 Corinthians 4-5</a>) would be able to move between earth and a city suspended above it. Unfaithful, non-glorified “naked” believers wouldn't. One of the ways those believers ruling over the nations would be able to maintain their rule, during the Millennium, would be by having access to the leaves of the Tree of Life, to dispense for various ailments of the 1,000 year period (wrinkles being a major problem). The inhabitants of the nation of Israel would have access to the healing waters which flowed from under the Millennial temple (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/ezekiel-44-48-worship-in-millennial.html">Ezekiel 47:8-9</a>), so the leaves weren't specified for them. So while seeing the Heavenly Jerusalem which doesn't rest on earth until after the Millennial Kingdom, John describes features of it that relate to the Kingdom. An alternative view is to say that prophesy is a jumbled affair that doesn't always make sense, and John was just seeing a tangled mess and telling us parts of it out of order. But since there is a scenario that accounts for all the facts (see Sidebar for the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/p/7-questions-how-do-you-know-whats-true.html">7 Questions, “How Do You Know What's True?”</a>), and in light of the following verses, it's worth seeking an embracing that which best explains all the facts. </div>
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22:6-11 The angel says that the God of the spirits of the prophets has sent him to show what must happen soon, so that believers will understand and obey the revelation. Those who do will be blessed (those who don't, won't be blessed). When John heard and saw these things he fell down to worship at the feet of the angel (again - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 19:9-10</a>). The angel admonishes him to worship only God, and not seal or hide the words of the prophecy of this book because “the time is at hand.” These words stress that believers of all ages should always live ready to face their final day of judgment and retribution, which one day will be the next day. Verse 11 is somewhat ironic, sinners might as well continue to be sinners, and saints should continue to be saints because any day the judgment will come and fix them in their choices. While the faithful should continue to be faithful in light of the coming judgment, obviously sinners should repent.</div>
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22:12-15 Jesus now speaks, giving His last Sermon on Motivation. He is the Alpha and Omega, whom none can supersede (cf comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-1-3-peek-into-heaven.html">Revelation 1:7-8</a> where He makes the same claim). He is coming quickly, and His reward is with Him. When He returns He will repay (as in wages that are earned) each person according to his works. No work, no pay (what about <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/colossians-3-4-perfect-and-complete-in.html">Colossians 3:24</a> don't people understand?). The believers who get blessed are those who have done, (as in works) his commandments (as in plural). This goes beyond belief (forgiveness/justification by faith) to faithful obedience and works (sanctification) which will result in reward (glorification). All three are aspects of our salvation, and effectively reverse the effects of the Fall. Only those believers who obey will have the right to the Tree of Life in the heavenly city. Only glorified believers will be able to enter the city. </div>
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Outside the city are the unfaithful believers who accepted Christ as an insurance policy against the lake of fire. These are the ones who were ruled over during the Millennium, or were resurrected after the 1,000 year reign of Christ. The first resurrection before the start of the Kingdom was the resurrection of the righteous. This was the “first in kind” since, Christ, the righteous first-fruits after His resurrection from the Cross, the raptured saints (holy ones), and the two-witnesses would also be among those experiencing the “first resurrection.” </div>
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The second resurrection, after the Kingdom was for the unrighteous/unfaithful. If one understands the term “in Christ” to mean faithful believers “in union with Christ” (which is the only way to read most contexts where the term shows up), then only such believers would have been resurrected before the Kingdom to reign with Christ. It's possible such critters were included in the Rapture, in which case they would be among those ruled over. If not raptured, then these are the ones whose names had been written in the Book of Life, and then crossed out for renouncing their allegiance to Christ by their independent lifestyles. They were spared the lake of fire because they had been written in the Book of Life as a result of being justified/forgiven by faith (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20:15</a>). These are those who were not allowed to enter the city in 20:8 whose inheritance (allotted portion, not themselves) was in the lake of fire (in contrast to the inheritance of the faithful in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20:7</a>). They are the believers Paul warned would not have an inheritance in the kingdom. He was warning believers who do these things.</div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-5-7-carnal-relationships.html">1 Corinthians 6:9-10</a> <i>"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God."<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-5-6-walk-and-warfare.html">Ephesians 5:5-6</a> "For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience."</i></blockquote>
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They are also the forgiven but deceived Jews who refused their invitation to the wedding feast in the kingdom of heaven (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-18-22-service-of-king.html">Matthew 22:1-14</a>) who would not enjoy the festivities.</div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-8-10-son-of-man-and-son-of-god.html">Matthew 8:11-12</a><i> "And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."</i></blockquote>
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22:16-17 Jesus says He sent His angel to testify to these thing for the benefit of the assemblies/churches. He is the Promised Messiah, the offspring of David (cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-4-7-wrath-of-lamb-begins.html">Revelation 5:5</a> the One who has prevailed to open the seals of the title deed to the earth; as well as the Davidic descendant prophesied of in the Davidic Covenant - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/12/2samuel-7-10-davidic-covenant-david-and.html">2 Samuel 7</a>; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/12/1kings-9-11-wise-guy-washes-out.html">Psalm 89</a>), and the bright and morning star (predicted in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/10/numbers-21-24-fiery-serpents-and.html">Numbers 24:17</a> and <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2peter-1-3-partake-of-divine-nature.html">2 Peter 1:19;</a> cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-1-3-peek-into-heaven.html">Revelation 2:28</a>). As the Messiah, He invites anyone who hears and desires to come and take the water of life freely. This is the gracious offer of God to all humanity, each of which is slowly dying of thirst. </div>
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22:18-19 Jesus also gives a solemn warning that if any man, woman, priest or prophet adds to the book any additional revelation, claiming it to be from God, God will add to him the plagues written in this book. Jesus alone is the one who can open the seals and who has redeemed people, and will rule over them in the prophesied Kingdom. If anyone takes away from the words, God will take away his “allotted portion” from the book of life (a textual variant has “tree” but “book” fits the context), as in deprive of inheritance and access to the city (cf comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20:6;</a> 21:8). </div>
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22:20 Jesus testifies to the veracity of these things and promises He will come quickly. John adds his prayer that the Lord Jesus will come, and then prays that the covenantal blessing of the grace of the Lord Jesus the Messiah would be with all the holy ones (saints). </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Those who do what Christ has commanded will be blessed and repaid when He returns to reward His faithful servants. Those who don't obey don't get rewarded nor blessed. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, I look forward to Your return and reward; please guide me in doing all that is pleasing in Your sight. Thanks. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging Deeper:</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God will one day dwell with faithful men (and women) on a new earth, receiving the worship due Him, freely rendered by those who believe Him. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is coming soon to reward those faithful to Him, who do/obey His commandments. He freely offers the water of life to all, and the fruits of the Tree of Life to the glorified saints who obey Him (cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-1-whats-first-thing-god-said.html">Genesis 1-3</a>).</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Those who faithfully obey will be blessed and rewarded, have an inheritance in the kingdom, will rule with Christ, and have intimate access to God in the most pleasurable place in the history of the universe. Those who are unfaithful to Christ now will miss out on all those benefits, eternally. What could possibly be worth it?</div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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<b>Don't miss the upcoming <a href="http://catacombchurch.blogspot.com/">Catacomb Church Blog</a>! </b> </div>
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Future <a href="http://www.dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/">DTB</a> Posts will finish the TMS and have info about upcoming plans.</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-5573252836539343662012-08-30T01:47:00.005-04:002015-10-13T06:33:34.982-04:00Revelation 19-20 The Return of the King of Kings<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS 1 Peter 2:11 </b><u><b>Abstinence is Biblical</b></u></div>
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<i>1 Peter 2:11 “Beloved, I beg you</i> <i>as <u>sojourners</u> and <u>pilgrims</u>,</i></div>
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<i><u>abstain</u> from <u>fleshly</u> <u>lusts </u></i><i>which <u>war</u> against the <u>soul</u>.”</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:11 Peter is concerned about the spiritual wellbeing and eternal happiness of his readers. He wants them to experience the blessings God has for them in this life and the next (cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2peter-1-3-partake-of-divine-nature.html">2 Peter 1:11</a> below). He warns them of their adversary the devil (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/1peter-3-5-passport-to-glory.html">1 Peter 5:8</a>), but the thing most likely to do them in, is their unsanctified desires. So in the verse above he says believers should live on this planet as sojourners and pilgrims (we're just passing through an alien land for spiritual purposes). Our real home isn't here, so we shouldn't get too comfortable. In fact, we should abstain from (and steer clear away from) any fleshly lusts (desires for the temporal, particularly illegitimate sensual attractions), because such distractions war against our souls. Our souls (mind, will, emotions) are what we use to exchange our temporal days for the eternal delights of God. If we're distracted and consumed by gratifying our desires for temporal power (security/significance), pleasures, or possessions, we can't be busy laying up treasure in heaven, nor delighting in the presence of God, in Whose hand are pleasures forever more. </div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2peter-1-3-partake-of-divine-nature.html">2 Peter 1:2</a> <i>"Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.<br /> </i><i>5 But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue...</i><i>10...for if you do these things you will never stumble; 11 for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."</i></blockquote>
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<b>Application</b>: Don't become a casualty like Demas who loved this present world, and departed from the path of righteousness; instead learn to kill your deadly desires, and live happily ever after. <br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, help me keep my desires and appetites focused on what is of eternal benefit, so I don't get stuffed and consumed by the temporal that never really satisfies. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Revelation 19-20 </b>In these penultimate chapters of the Bible, the Lord Jesus actually reigns: He celebrates the wedding feast of the Lamb, returns to earth, defeats and tosses the Anti-Christ and False Prophet into the lake of fire, and treads the winepress of God, killing their followers; He resurrects and rewards faithful OT and Tribulation saints, has Satan bound, and as promised, reigns over His Millennial Kingdom for a thousand years. Satan is loosed to deceive the nations once more, but is defeated in the battle of Gog and Magog, and tossed into the lake of fire with the other members of the unholy trio. Then sitting on the Great White Throne He judges the not so righteous, according to their unrighteous deeds. Anyone whose name was not found in the Book of Life was tossed into the lake of fire (and there are still two more chapters to come).</div>
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<b>Revelation 19 <u>Wedding Or Winepress</u></b></div>
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<i>19:1 "<u>After</u> these things I heard something <u>like</u> a loud voice of a great <u>multitude</u> in heaven, saying, "<u>Hallelujah</u>! <u>Salvation</u>, <u>power</u>, and <u>glory</u> <u>belong to our God</u>: 2 for <u>true</u> and <u>righteous</u> are His <u>judgments</u>. For He has <u>judged</u> the <u>great</u> <u>prostitute</u>, who <u>corrupted</u> the earth with her sexual <u>immorality</u>, and He has <u>avenged</u> the <u>blood</u> of <u>his</u> <u>servants</u> at her <u>hand</u>." 3 A <u>second</u> said, "<u>Hallelujah</u>! Her <u>smoke</u> goes up <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>." 4 The <u>twenty-four elders</u> and the <u>four living creatures</u> fell down and <u>worshiped</u> <u>God</u> who <u>sits</u> on the <u>throne</u>, saying, "<u>Amen</u>! <u>Hallelujah</u>!"</i></div>
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<i>5 A <u>voice</u> came forth from the <u>throne</u>, saying, "Give <u>praise</u> to our <u>God</u>, all you <u>His</u> <u>servants</u>, you who <u>fear Him</u>, the small <u>and</u> the great!" 6 I heard something <u>like</u> the voice of a great <u>multitude</u>, and like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of mighty thunders, saying, "<u>Hallelujah</u>! For the <u>Lord our God</u>, the <u>Omnipotent/Almighty</u>, <u>reigns</u>! 7 Let us <u>rejoice</u> and be exceedingly <u>glad</u>, and let us give the <u>glory</u> to <u>Him</u>. For the <u>marriage of the Lamb</u> has <u>come</u>, and His <u>wife</u> has made herself <u>ready</u>." 8 It was <u>given</u> to <u>her</u> that she would <u>array</u> herself in <u>bright/shining</u>, <u>pure</u>, <u>fine</u> <u>linen</u>: for the <u>fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints</u>. 9 He said to me, "<u>Write</u>, ‘<b>Blessed</b> are those who are <u>invited</u> to the <u>marriage</u> <u>supper</u> of the <u>Lamb</u>.’" He said to me, "These are <u>true</u> <u>words</u> of <u>God</u>." 10 I fell down before his feet to <u>worship</u> him. He said to me, "Look! <u>Don’t</u> do it! I am a <u>fellow</u> <u>bondservant</u> with you and with your <u>brothers</u> who <u>hold</u> the <u>testimony</u> of <u>Jesus</u>. <u>Worship God</u>, for the <u>testimony</u> of <u>Jesus</u> is the <u>Spirit of Prophecy</u>."</i></div>
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<i>11 I saw the <u>heaven</u> <u>opened</u>, and behold, a <u>white</u> <u>horse</u>, and He who <u>sat</u> on it is called <u>Faithful</u> and <u>True</u>. In <u>righteousness</u> He <u>judges</u> and <u>makes war</u>. 12 His <u>eyes</u> are a <u>flame</u> of <u>fire</u>, and on His <u>head</u> are <u>many</u> <u>crowns</u>. He has <u>names</u> <u>written</u> and a <u>name</u> <u>written</u> which <u>no one knows</u> but He <u>Himself</u>. 13 He is <u>clothed</u> in a <u>garment</u> <u>sprinkled</u> with <u>blood</u>. His <u>name</u> is called "<u>The Word of God</u>." 14 The <u>armies</u> which are in <u>heaven</u> <u>followed</u> Him on <u>white</u> <u>horses</u>, clothed in <u>white/shining</u>, <u>pure</u>, <u>fine linen</u>. 15 Out of His <u>mouth</u> proceeds a <u>sharp</u>, double-edged <u>sword</u>, that with it He should <u>strike</u> the <u>nations</u>. He will <u>rule</u> them with an <u>iron rod</u>. He treads the <u>winepress</u> of the <u>fierceness</u> of the <u>wrath</u> of <u>God</u>, the <u>Almighty</u>. 16 He has on His <u>garment</u> and on His thigh a <u>name</u> written, "<u>KING OF KINGS</u>, AND <u>LORD OF LORDS</u>." 17 I saw an <u>angel</u> standing in the <u>sun</u>. He cried with a loud voice, saying to all the <u>birds</u> that fly in the sky, "<u>Come</u>! Be <u>gathered</u> together to the <u>great supper</u> of <u>God</u>, 18 that <u>you</u> may <u>eat</u> the <u>flesh of kings</u>, the <u>flesh of captains,</u> the <u>flesh of mighty men</u>, and the <u>flesh</u> of <u>horses</u> and of <u>those</u> who <u>sit</u> on them, and the <u>flesh</u> of <u>all</u> <u>men</u>, both free <u>and</u> slave, and small <u>and</u> great." 19 I saw the <u>beast</u>, and the <u>kings</u> of the <u>earth</u>, and their <u>armies</u>, <u>gathered</u> together to make <u>war</u> against Him who sat on the <u>horse</u>, and against <u>His army</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>20 The <u>beast</u> was <u>taken</u>, and <u>with</u> him the <u>false prophet</u> who <u>worked</u> the <u>signs</u> in his sight, with which he <u>deceived</u> those who had <u>received</u> the <u>mark</u> of the <u>beast</u> and those who worshiped his <u>image</u>. These two were <u>thrown</u> <u>alive</u> into the <u>lake of fire</u> that <u>burns</u> with <u>sulphur</u>. 21 The <u>rest</u> were <u>killed</u> with the <u>sword</u> of him who sat on the <u>horse</u>, the <u>sword</u> which came forth out of his <u>mouth</u>. All the <u>birds</u> were <u>filled</u> with their <u>flesh</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 19:1-4 After all the preceding judgments, John then hears praise being given to God for the executing justice on the false religious system and avenging the blood of His servants at her hand. Salvation, power and glory belong to God for His true and righteous judgments in eradicating the corrupting evil. A second voice praises God (Hallelujah means Praise Yah, as in Yahweh). The twenty-four elders and four living creatures concur. </div>
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19:5-10 A voice from the throne exhorts all God's servants, those who fear Him, to praise Him. John hears them do so, praising God for reigning, and executing His will on the earth. He had tolerated the false religious system, as a means of trying and purifying His holy ones, to give people an opportunity to demonstrate loyalty and prove themselves worthy of His blessings (unlike Satan). The saints give God glory because the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His Bride, the church has made herself ready (being clothed in bright/shining, fine linen, as in glorious, the righteous acts of the saints). John is instructed to write another “beatitude” indicating the blessedness of those who are invited to the Marriage Feast/supper of the Lamb. The placement of the Marriage Feast here, at the end of the Tribulation and the beginning of the Millennial Kingdom might cause some eyebrows to be raised, since the Rapture in the Pre-Tribulational view occurred seven years earlier (or three and a half years earlier for the Mid-Trib view). The time lag for the feast could be explained by Jewish marriage customs, for there is no Scripture that says that it has to occur immediately. However, the moving of the Rapture to just before the Feast, causes a lot more difficulties than arched eyebrows (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/1thessalonians-3-5-will-of-god-and.html">1 Thessalonians 4:16</a>, and <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-1-3-peek-into-heaven.html">Revelation 3:10</a>). The angel tells John that these are the true words of God, and John falls down to worship him. The angel forbids him, indicating that he is just a fellow servant along with believers who hold fast the testimony of Jesus. Only God should be worshiped, because the testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy. Both “testimonies” are probably the testimony which Jesus gives (subjective genitives), making the last clause mean that Jesus is the One who gives the Spirit of Prophecy, therefore He is God, and the One who should be worshiped, rather than the messenger.</div>
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19:11-19 John sees the heaven opened and a Rider on white horse. The Rider is called Faithful and True, who judges and wars in righteousness. He wears many crowns and names/titles, as well as a name which no one knows but He Himself. This implies self-sovereignty, having inherited power/glory (name). He is clothed in a garment sprinkled with blood (as the High Priests were), and is called “The Word of God” (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/john-1-3-become-child-of-god.html">John 1:14</a>). The armies of heaven follow Him. Out of His mouth proceeds a sharp sword, His word (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-4-7-falling-away-or-following.html">Hebrews 4:12</a>) which strikes His enemies. He will rule the nations with a rod of iron (Psalm 2) and tread the winepress of the wrath of God, destroying all who oppose Him (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-12-15-unholy-trinity.html">Revelation 14:10-20</a>). His visible title is “King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” An angel calls the vultures to the great supper of God, in which they will feed on the flesh of God's enemies. John sees the Beast and the kings of earth and their armies gathered against Jesus and His army. The worldlings don't have a chance of succeeding against Him.</div>
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19:20 The Beast was taken/captured, along with the False Prophet. They were thrown into the lake of fire, that differs from the garbage dump of Gehenna on many counts, the one noted there is that it burns with sulfur/brimstone. The rest of the opposition were killed by the sword/word of Christ, and the vultures had a feast. <br />
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<b>Application</b>: Three characteristics of the saints: they worship God for His righteous and just character; they are clothed in righteous deeds; and they hold fast (as in faithfully obey) the revelation Jesus gave.<br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord, You are the victorious King of Kings, and Lord of Lords; don't let me foolishly think that anyone else is worth serving, but please guide me in pleasing You. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Revelation 20</b> <b><u>Blessed or Burnt</u></b></div>
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<i>20:1 "<u>And</u> I <u>saw</u> an <u>angel</u> coming down out of heaven, having the <u>key</u> of the <u>abyss</u> and a great <u>chain</u> in his hand. 2 He <u>seized</u> the <u>dragon</u>, the <u>old serpent</u>, which is the <u>devil</u> and <u>Satan</u>, who <u>deceives</u> the <u>whole</u> inhabited earth, and <u>bound</u> <u>him</u> for a <u>thousand years</u>, 3 and <u>cast</u> him into the <u>abyss</u>, and <u>shut</u> it, and <u>sealed</u> it over him, that he should <u>deceive</u> the nations <u>no more</u>, <u>until</u> the <u>thousand years</u> were <u>finished</u>. <u>After</u> this, he must be <u>freed</u> for a <u>short time</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>4 <u>And</u> I saw <u>thrones</u>, and they <u>sat</u> on them, and <u>judgment</u> was given to them. I saw the <u>souls</u> of those who had been <u>beheaded</u> for the testimony of <u>Jesus</u>, and for the <u>word of God</u>, and such as <u>didn’t worship</u> the <u>beast</u> nor his <u>image</u>, and <u>didn’t receive</u> the <u>mark</u> on their <u>forehead</u> and on their <u>hand</u>. They <u>lived</u>, and <u>reigned</u> with Christ for a <u>thousand years</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 The <u>rest</u> of the <u>dead</u> <u>didn’t live</u> <u>until</u> the <u>thousand years</u> were <u>finished</u>. This is the <u>first</u> <u>resurrection</u>. 6 <b>Blessed</b> and <u>holy</u> is he who has <u>part</u> in the <u>first resurrection</u>. Over these, the <u>second death</u> has <u>no</u> <u>power</u>, but they will be <u>priests</u> of <u>God</u> and of <u>Christ</u>, and will <u>reign</u> with him <u>one thousand years</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>7 And <u>after</u> the <u>thousand years</u>, <u>Satan</u> will be <u>released</u> from his <u>prison</u>, 8 and he will come out to <u>deceive</u> the <u>nations</u> which are in the four corners of the <u>earth</u>, <u>Gog</u> and <u>Magog</u>, to gather them together to the <u>war</u>; the number of whom is as the <u>sand</u> of the sea. 9 They went up over the breadth of the earth, and <u>surrounded</u> the <u>camp</u> of the <u>saints</u>, and the <u>beloved</u> <u>city</u>. <u>Fire</u> came down out of <u>heaven</u> from <u>God</u>, and <u>devoured</u> <u>them</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>10 The <u>devil</u> who <u>deceived</u> them was thrown into the <u>lake of fire</u> and <u>sulphur</u>, where the <u>beast</u> and the <u>false prophet</u> <u>are</u> also. They will be <u>tormented</u> day <u>and</u> night <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>.</i></div>
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<i>11 <u>And</u> I saw a <u>great white throne</u>, and him who <u>sat</u> on it, <u>from</u> whose <u>face</u> the <u>earth</u> and the <u>heaven</u> <u>fled</u> away. There was found no place for them. 12 And I <u>saw</u> the <u>dead</u>, the <u>great</u> and the <u>small</u>, standing <u>before</u> the <u>throne</u>, and they <u>opened</u> <u>books</u>. <u>Another</u> <u>book</u> was <u>opened</u>, which is the <u>book of life</u>. The <u>dead</u> were <u>judged</u> out of the things which were <u>written</u> in the <u>books</u>, <u>according</u> to their <u>works</u>. 13 The <u>sea</u> gave up the <u>dead</u> who were in it. <u>Death</u> and <u>Hades</u> gave up the <u>dead</u> who were in them. They were <u>judged</u>, <u>each</u> one <u>according to his works</u>. 14 <u>Death</u> and <u>Hades</u> were <u>thrown</u> into the <u>lake of fire</u>. This is the <u>second</u> <u>death</u>, the <u>lake of fire</u>. 15 If <u>anyone</u> was <u>not</u> found <u>written</u> in the <u>book of life</u>, <u>he</u> was <u>cast</u> into the <u>lake of fire</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 20:1-3 John next sees an angel with the key to the abyss/pit and a great chain. He seizes the Dragon/Devil/Deceiver, aka Satan and binds him for a 1000 years, and casts him into the pit, so he won't deceive the nations any more, until the 1000 years are finished. After this, he must be freed for a short time, according to God's plan. The normal way of reading this progression is as a definite and literal prison sentence. “Until” indicates a definite point in time. Those who falsely say this is an indefinite period of time, not only have no basis for saying so, but fail to read the rest of the context which explains why this period of time exists. There are over two dozen references to the Devil/Satan's activity in the lives of believers from the Day of Pentecost to the letters to the Churches in Revelation, so he wasn't bound at the Cross as some falsely teach. Obvious Satan is currently alive and well on planet earth, deceiving the nations and those who write non-contextual (unbiblical) theological commentaries (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/1peter-3-5-passport-to-glory.html">1 Peter 5:8</a>). </div>
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20:4-6 After Satan is bound and imprisoned John sees thrones on which sat those who received rulership (one of the rewards Jesus promised to the apostles in His Kingdom -<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/luke-22-24-resurrection-revelation-and.html">Luke 22:30</a>, and the overcomers -<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-1-3-peek-into-heaven.html">Revelation 3:21</a>). This is the resurrection of the righteous, when Christ repays righteous behavior as He promised (cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/luke-11-14-inconvenient-truths.html">Luke 14:14</a>). </div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-18-22-service-of-king.html">Matthew 19:28</a><i> "Jesus said to them, "Most certainly I tell you that you who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on the throne of his glory, you also will sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”</i></blockquote>
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He also sees the souls of martyrs who had been been beheaded for their faithfulness to the testimony of Jesus and the word of God, as well as Tribulation saints who had not worshiped the Beast nor received his mark. Righteous OT saints would wake up here (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/ezekiel-37-38-valley-of-dry-bones.html">Ezekiel 37:12-13</a>; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/02/isaiah-24-27-perfect-plan-and-perfect.html">Isaiah 26:19-21</a>; and <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/daniel-10-12-antichrist-and-eternal.html">Daniel 12:1-3</a> below). </div>
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<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/ezekiel-37-38-valley-of-dry-bones.html">Ezekiel 37:12</a> <i>“Therefore prophesy and say to them, 'Thus says the Lord GOD: "Behold, O My people, I will open your graves and cause you to come up from your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. 13 Then you shall know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves, O My people, and brought you up from your graves. 14 I will put My Spirit in you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I, the LORD, have spoken it and performed it," says the LORD.' " </i></blockquote>
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NT saints had been resurrected at the Rapture (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/1thessalonians-3-5-will-of-god-and.html">1 Thessalonians 4:16</a>). These all came to life (were resurrected) and reigned with Christ for a 1000 years in His Millennial Kingdom. The rest of the dead weren't resurrected until the 1000 years were completed, which again indicates a definite, purposeful period of time, the fulfillment of the Messianic Kingdom promises of the OT (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/02/isaiah-40-44-comfort-my-people.html">Isaiah 40</a>-66, <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/03/ezekiel-1-5-wheels-watchmen-and.html">Ezekiel</a>, etc). </div>
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Another “beatitude” or blessing is pronounced on those who have a part, share, allotment, or assigned portion (see Thayer's Lexicon Strongs #3313) in the first resurrection. Notice that this blessedness is for those who are holy. Throughout the Scriptures, since expulsion from the Garden, blessing is a consequence of obedience (see the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/11/deuteronomy-26-29-blessed-or-cursed.html">Blessings and Cursings in Deuteronomy</a>, <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-1-whats-first-thing-god-said.html">Psalm 1</a>, and the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-5-7-sermon-on-mount.html">Sermon on the Mount</a>). Blessing is not some random act of kindness by God, but a benevolent response to our behavior. The blessings are listed as rulership and priesthood which are promised only to overcomers (Rev 3:12, 21). Note too, that the text does not read “take part” but “have an assigned portion” which in the context means the believer's inheritance. The second death has no power or authority over the faithful saints, but they will be priests of God and Christ (cf. Ezek 44) and reign with him 1000 years, in the administration of His Kingdom. </div>
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20:7-10 Continuing the specific time sequence, after the 1000 years are over, Satan will be released from his prison, and will go back to his old tricks of deceiving the nations who have experienced Christ's Millennial rule. Satan will gather the nations for war, (for Gog and Magog, see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/ezekiel-37-38-valley-of-dry-bones.html">Ezek 38:2, 16; 39:26</a>). The deceived nations will be incited to rebel against the Messiah's rule, and surround Jerusalem. Fire will come down from heaven and destroy them. Then the Devil/Satan will join his buddies the Beast and the False Prophet in the lake of fire, for an indeterminate period of time, as in continual torment forever. There is a clear distinction in this chapter between a 1000 distinct years (which corresponds to the promised Sabbath rest for the people of God -Heb 4:9, mirroring God resting on the seventh day of creation) during which Satan is bound, and the indefinite, everlasting period of the eternal state, during which Satan is in the lake of fire. There is nothing in the text to indicate otherwise, so those who say this is symbolic (as the imagery and other parts of Revelation are), have the burden of proof to demonstrate that it is symbolic, and then specify what it is symbolic of. (Good luck). </div>
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20:11-15 Next (coordinate <i>kai</i>) John sees a Great White Throne, and on it is God, probably in the person of the Son, since all judgment was committed to Him. Christ not only promised a resurrection of the righteous, but also of the unrighteous as did Daniel.</div>
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<i>John 5:27 “He also gave him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man. 28 Don’t marvel at this, for the hour comes, in which all that are in the tombs will hear his voice, 29 and will come out; those who have done good, to the resurrection of life; and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of judgment.”</i></div>
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<i>Daniel 12:1 "At that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince who stands for the children of your people; and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who shall be found written in the book. 2 Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to <u>everlasting</u> <u>life</u>, and some to <u>shame</u> and <u>everlasting</u> <u>contempt</u>. 3 Those who are wise shall shine as the brightness of the expanse; and those who turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.</i></div>
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Then John sees all the previously unresurrected dead standing before the throne. Holy and righteous people were resurrected in the resurrection of the righteous (20:5-6 above). These are the not so righteous, who were hanging out in Hades (the grave or Sheol) during the Millennial Kingdom. (Yes, that would mean the badly behaving miss out on blessing, just like unfaithful Israel missed out on the Promised Land.) John sees a set of books opened, an then another book opened, which is the Book of Life. The Book of Life in the context of Biblical times was a register of those people (citizens) who could participate in the rule (dominion/life) of a city-state (usually by voting) or enjoy citizenship benefits in a kingdom. All believers have their names written in the Book of Life (Ex 32:32), but those who persist in rebellious sin can have they names “blotted out” (Ex 32:31). This incident of the Golden Calf in Exodus 32 is instructive. Moses wants his name blotted out of God's book on behalf of the sinning Israelites if God won't forgive them. God says those who sin will have their names blotted out (which means they were in the book), and then smites the major sinners (not the entire nation) depriving them of the blessings of the Promised Land (parallel to unfaithful believers missing out on the blessings of the Millennial Kingdom -1Cor 10). </div>
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In Psalm 69:28 David asks God to blot the names of unrighteous enemies out of the Book of Life because of their persecution of him. <i>“Let them be blotted out of the book of life, and not be written with the righteous.”</i> Note that their names were in the book, but they are behaving unrighteously against the Lord's anointed. Romans 11 quotes this psalm to refer to the temporary blinding of Israel to the blessings of God, as a consequence of their sin (but goes on to say God still has a plan for them). </div>
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In Revelation 3:5 Jesus promised the overcomers that their names would not be blotted out of the book of life, but instead He would confess their name before the Father (for glory and blessing -Mt 16:27). The possibility of having one's name blotted out for unfaithfulness was real, which doesn't mean they would lose their forgiveness, but lose their reward. The rest of the promises to overcomers in Revelation 2-3 are rewards in the kingdom. </div>
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The question remains of: “How does one get their name in the Book of Life?” The NT uses the term in Philippians 4:3, recording the names of faithful laborers, but doesn't specify how the names got there. In Luke 19:20, when the seventy disciples returned from casting out demons, Jesus said that they should rejoice that their names are recorded in heaven. They were just exercising the authority of Christ, and Jesus made the segue into exercising authority in heaven (not that they were forgiven, but that is a part of it).</div>
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The key (as is true in many “difficult” passages) is to recognize that “eternal life” is “dominion of the Age” in many instances, received in the NT as a result of belief in the Messiah. See the discussion on Genesis 3 and Deuteronomy 30:19 for starters (and then examine the context of every usage of the term life in the OT and NT before you reject the conclusion). The “life” that Jesus came to give consisted of forgiveness (justification), the empowerment of the Holy Spirit (given by the ascended Messiah and necessary for sanctification), and the blessing of an inheritance in the coming kingdom (glorification -Rm 8:17). The NT is abundantly clear that unrighteous believers lose their inheritance (3Jn 8; Eph 5:5, etc) or their right to rule in the kingdom (Col 3:24-25). This is precisely parallel to the OT experience as taught explicitly by Paul in 1Corinthians 10. All the Israelites that came out of Egypt exercised faith (Ex 14:31), were redeemed, had a participation in Christ (although not the New Covenant Holy Spirit), and a planned inheritance in the Promised land. Most forfeited their right to live in the Promised Land (as the ruling people) by their unfaithfulness to the Lord and His commands (Num 13-14). This is why Deuteronomy puts an emphasis on obeying so the next generation will be blessed (exercise life or dominion) rather than cursed (deprived of life and dominion) as were their parents (Dt 28 and all over the book). </div>
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The NT believer is given life in the Messianic Age as a result of their trust in Christ (John 3:16) but can forfeit it as a result of unfaithfulness (1Jn 3:15 see comments there). This does not mean they are no longer born again, nor were never born again in the first place, nor that their sins where never forgiven, but it does mean that they won't receive the blessings of the righteous. Most talk of “positional righteousness” as an attempt to explain righteousness and reward by works (as in passages like Romans 2:5-10) is mere talk. We are given life, forgiven and justified by faith in Christ, but experience abundant life by continued belief (John 20:31). Unbelief and sin don't undo regeneration, but result in forfeiture of reward. We'll see more of this in the next chapter where the allotted portion or share in blessing of the unfaithful is in the lake of fire (they're not in the lake of fire, their reward is). Those who equate Gehenna with the lake of fire have simply not studied the passages in the Gospels referring to Gehenna (often incorrectly translated “hell”) with an understanding of context, and with the removal of the glasses of their incorrect and uninformed biases (most fail to take into account the state of the forgiveness of the audience, e.g., in the Sermon on the Mount the audience were Jews who were forgiven on the basis of their participation in the Day of Atonement, as it had been for over a thousand years, and the fact that the Sermon is about being rewarded in the Kingdom, not getting one's sins covered by the blood of the cross). Since ignorant biases die hard, may I recommend the use of a concordance, and previous posts in DailyTruthbase where the context of each use of Gehenna is explained?</div>
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Back to the Great White Throne judgment, the less-than-righteous dead are resurrected, and judged according to their deeds, showing them to be worthy of death. However, as a testimony to God's grace, another book was opened, the Book of Life. After being judged worthy of death, there is no hope or merit which could spare the sinner the lake of fire, except if his name was found “having been written” (perfect tense, for an activity that happened in the past with continuing results up to the present) in the book of life. Even if his name was crossed out, or blotted out, it still had been written there. The NT/Greek usage of “blot” has a range of meanings, from wipe away a tear, smear, white-wash, plaster over or erase. It could mean totally eradicate, but as usual, the precise meaning needs to be determined from context. If a name was written on a scroll, simply crossing it out would be the practice as is seen in NT and OT manuscripts and marginal readings. The OT has similar corresponding usages, although obliterate is more common, the other usages could be appropriate. The argument is not that the name still remains (it doesn't, in terms of being a righteous citizen) but it had been written there, which is what the text says, and a person who believed is spared the lake of fire. God is gracious. There would be no purpose of having the book of life there if no name of those being judged was written in it (although some could argue for having a second witness). The second witness argument will fall to pieces under the cross examination of the next two passages referring to the book of life (21:27; 22:19) as well as the reference to the tree of life (see next post). The next chapters also present unrighteous believers, which according to any other interpretation, would not exist.</div>
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So all the dead who weren't resurrected and rewarded in the resurrection of the righteous, are judged according to their deeds which were written in the books, and if their name had not been written in the book of life, they joined the unholy trio in the lake of fire. <br />
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<b>Application</b>: Be righteous, be blessed, and live happily ever after. Do your will rather than God's will, and you will regret it.<br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, may I be faithful to You in all my ways, doing what finds Your favor and is right in Your sight. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God is the sovereign judge, who will reign with Christ and destroy all of their enemies. God the Father and God the Son are to be worshipped. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus, the Bridegroom of the Church, the Messiah, the Word of God, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, will triumph. He will reward those who are faithful to Him, and destroy those who have totally rejected Him. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Believers have the opportunity to be resurrected and blessed, and share in the Messiah's kingdom, or forfeit those blessings in doing the devil's will. Those who trust in Christ will have their names written in the Book of Life, and won't go into the lake of fire. Those who are faithful will live happily ever after. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-73837399117692706602012-08-29T01:47:00.003-04:002015-03-09T13:16:14.897-04:00Revelation 16-18 Mystery Babylon Judged <div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS Ephesians 5:3 </b><u><b>Holiness or No Inheritance</b></u></div>
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<i>5:3 “But sexual <u>immorality</u>,</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mOt9mh7V_oA/UD1rIE6iBLI/AAAAAAAAFDM/lFOn-siY_SI/s1600/holy+cheese.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mOt9mh7V_oA/UD1rIE6iBLI/AAAAAAAAFDM/lFOn-siY_SI/s200/holy+cheese.png" height="120" width="200" /></a><i>and all <u>uncleanness</u>, or <u>covetousness</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>let it not even be <u>mentioned</u> among you, </i> </div>
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<i>as becomes <u>saints</u>;</i></div>
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<i>4 nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting,</i></div>
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<i>which are not appropriate; but rather giving of thanks.</i></div>
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<i>5 Know this for sure, that no sexually immoral person, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any <u>inheritance</u> in the <u>Kingdom</u> of Christ and God.</i></div>
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<i>6 Let no one deceive you with empty words. For because of these things, the <u>wrath</u> of God comes on the <u>children</u> of <u>disobedience</u>. 7 Therefore don't be partakers with them."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 5:3 It's inappropriate for immorality or materialism to be associated with followers of Jesus Christ. Believers are warned against both sins by John in Revelation 17 and 18 (below). Paul goes on to say those believers who engage in such practices will not only lose their inheritance/reward, but will experience the wrath of God which will come upon His disobedient children. He doesn't say that they won't do such things, but that they will be punished for such sin. Covetousness is equated with idolatry in 5:5, because a person looks to money rather than God for the provision of his/her needs. Uncleanness is a deed of the flesh (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/galatians-4-6-reaping-fruit-of-spirit.html" target="_blank">Galatians 5 post</a>) which is a desire for the temporal. Earlier in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-4-biblical-church-growth.html">Ephesians 4:18-19</a> Paul gave some insight in uncleanness, saying it came from being ignorant of (as in ignoring) God, and developing a calloused, insensitive spirit. The next step was to give themselves over to the fulfillment of gratifying their desires, resulting in doing all manner of uncleanness, which frequently, but not always has a sexual connotation. Failure to fully follow God opens the door for deadly desires to grow. If we don't kill them, they will destroy us. See comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-5-6-walk-and-warfare.html" target="_blank">Ephesians 5</a> and the sermon series on <a href="http://truthbase.net/sermons/title/deadly-desires/" target="_blank">Deadly Desires</a>, and the sermon<a href="http://truthbase.net/sermons/title/it-aint-gonna-reign-no-more-2012/" target="_blank"> “Sanctification: It Ain't Gonna Reign No More”</a> on <a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a> for help on destroying these sins at the root. <br />
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<b>Application</b>: Holiness isn't a suggestion; it's commanded, and God's commands not only carry blessings, but sanctions.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, help me live in purity and holiness, trusting You for meeting my physical and emotional needs as well; guide me in rooting out the things which will diminish my eternal joy. Thanks. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Revelation 16-18 </b>The final seven judgments, the Bowl or Vial Judgments are poured out on the earth in preparation for the Messiah's reign. The recipients of judgment curse God rather than repent, but God promises blessings to those who are faithful to Him. Two chapters detail the judgment of Mystery Babylon, the religious and economic world systems that keep people from a relationship with God, as preparation for the Kingdom. In Revelation 19 (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">next post</a>) Jesus finally comes to earth as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.</div>
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<b>Revelation 16 <u>Seven Bowls of Judgment</u></b></div>
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<i>16:1 "I <u>heard</u> a loud voice out of the temple, saying to the <u>seven angels</u>, "Go and <u>pour</u> out the <u>seven bowls</u> of the <u>wrath of God</u> on the <u>earth</u>!" 2 The <u>first</u> went, and poured out his <u>bowl</u> into the earth, and it became a <u>harmful</u> and <u>evil</u> <u>sore</u> on the people who had the <u>mark</u> of the <u>beast</u>, and who <u>worshiped</u> his <u>image</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>3 The <u>second</u> angel poured out his bowl into the <u>sea</u>, and it became <u>blood</u> as of a <u>dead man</u>. <u>Every</u> living thing in the sea <u>died</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>4 The <u>third</u> poured out his <u>bowl</u> into the <u>rivers</u> and <u>springs</u> of <u>water</u>, and they became <u>blood</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 I heard the angel of the <u>waters</u> saying, "You are <u>righteous</u>, who <u>are</u> and who <u>were</u>, you <u>Holy one</u>, <u>because</u> you have <u>judged</u> these things. 6 For <u>they</u> <u>poured</u> out the <u>blood</u> of the <u>saints</u> and the <u>prophets</u>, and you have <u>given</u> them <u>blood</u> to <u>drink</u>. <u>They deserve this</u>." 7 I heard the <u>altar</u> saying, "<u>Yes</u>, <u>Lord God, the Almighty</u>, <u>true</u> and <u>righteous</u> are your <u>judgments</u>."</i></div>
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<i>8 The <u>fourth</u> poured out his bowl on the <u>sun</u>, and it was given to him to <u>scorch</u> <u>men</u> with <u>fire</u>. 9 People were <u>scorched</u> with great <u>heat</u>, and people <u>blasphemed</u> the <u>name of God</u> who has the <u>power</u> over these <u>plagues</u>. They <u>didn’t</u> <u>repent</u> and <u>give him glory</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>10 The <u>fifth</u> poured out his <u>bowl</u> on the <u>throne of the beast</u>, and his <u>kingdom</u> was <u>darkened</u>. They <u>gnawed</u> their <u>tongues</u> because of the <u>pain</u>, 11 and they <u>blasphemed</u> the <u>God of heaven</u> because of their <u>pains</u> and their <u>sores.</u> <u>They didn’t repent of their works</u>.</i></div>
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<i>12 The <u>sixth</u> poured out his bowl on the great <u>river</u>, the <u>Euphrates</u>. Its water was <u>dried</u> up, that the <u>way</u> might be <u>prepared</u> for the <u>kings</u> that come from the <u>sunrise</u>. 13 I saw <u>coming</u> out of the <u>mouth</u> of the <u>dragon,</u> and out of the <u>mouth</u> of the <u>beast</u>, and out of the <u>mouth</u> of the <u>false</u> <u>prophet</u>, <u>three unclean spirits</u>, something like <u>frogs</u>; 14 for they are <u>spirits</u> of <u>demons</u>, <u>performing</u> <u>signs</u>; which go forth to the <u>kings</u> of the <u>whole</u> <u>inhabited</u> earth, to <u>gather</u> <u>them</u> together for the <u>war</u> of that <u>great day of God</u>, the <u>Almighty</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>15 "Behold, I <u>come</u> like a <u>thief</u>. <b>Blessed</b> is he who <u>watches</u>, and <u>keeps</u> his <u>clothes</u>, so that he doesn’t <u>walk</u> <u>naked</u>, and they see his <u>shame</u>." </i> </div>
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<i>16 He <u>gathered</u> them together into the <u>place</u> which is called in Hebrew, <u>Megiddo</u>.</i></div>
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<i>17 The <u>seventh</u> poured out his <u>bowl</u> into the <u>air</u>. A loud voice came forth out of the <u>temple</u> of <u>heaven</u>, from the <u>throne</u>, saying, "<u>It is done</u>!" 18 There were <u>lightnings,</u> <u>sounds</u>, and <u>thunders</u>; and there was a <u>great</u> <u>earthquake</u>, such as was <u>not</u> <u>since</u> there were <u>men</u> on the <u>earth</u>, so <u>great</u> an <u>earthquake</u>, so <u>mighty</u>. 19 The <u>great</u> <u>city</u> was <u>divided</u> into <u>three parts</u>, and the <u>cities</u> of the <u>nations</u> <u>fell</u>. <u>Babylon</u> the <u>great</u> was <u>remembered</u> in the <u>sight of God</u>, to <u>give</u> to her the <u>cup</u> of the <u>wine</u> of the <u>fierceness</u> of His <u>wrath</u>. 20 <u>Every</u> <u>island</u> <u>fled</u> away, and the <u>mountains</u> were <u>not</u> <u>found</u>. 21 Great <u>hailstones</u>, about the <u>weight</u> of a talent, came <u>down</u> out of the <u>sky</u> on <u>people</u>. <u>People</u> <u>blasphemed</u> God because of the <u>plague</u> of the <u>hail</u>, for this <u>plague</u> is <u>exceedingly</u> <u>severe</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 16:1-2 The seven angels are commanded to pour out the seven bowls/vials of God's wrath. The first four are more general and the last three more specific, just like the seals and trumpets. Some think these occur as the Lord descends. Notice they are called the wrath of God rather than the Lamb, and are somewhat similar to those plagues with which God struck Egypt at the Exodus. These are not just punitive retribution, but are revelatory of the heart of those on the earth who refuse to repent. The first angel pours out a judgment that results in boils or sores on those who received the mark of the Beast and worship his image (similar to the sixth plague on Egypt - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/exodus-7-10-battle-of-gods-begins.html">Exodus 9:10</a>). </div>
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16:3-7 The second turns the sea into blood and everything in it dies. The third turns the rivers and springs into blood so there is no water to drink (like what happened to the Nile, <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/exodus-7-10-battle-of-gods-begins.html">Exodus 7:17</a>). An angel praises God for righteously judging those who poured out the blood of the saints and the prophets. The evil people deserve their judgment, in kind. The altar (voice from it) agrees that the Lord God Almighty is true and righteous in His judgment. If He didn't judge, then He wouldn't be righteous. This means that all sin must be negatively judged, and all righteous behavior positively judged. If otherwise, God would be unjust. </div>
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16:8-9 The bowl of the fourth angel causes the sun to scorch men with fire, and their response to a taste of God's fiery judgment isn't to repent. Instead, they curse/blaspheme God for the problems they brought upon themselves. They didn't repent of their works and give Him glory, which would be to recognize His right to rule in their lives.</div>
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16:10-11 The fifth angel heads to the throne of the Beast, to pour out the next bowl, and his kingdom (the earth) was darkened (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/exodus-7-10-battle-of-gods-begins.html">Exodus 10:22</a>). The cumulative effects of the judgments cause a lot of pain, but still no repentance nor praise, but instead, a lot of cursing against God.</div>
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16:12-14 The sixth angel's bowl dries up the Euphrates (cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/exodus-11-15-yahweh-wins-lets-party.html">Exodus 14</a> -Red Sea), preparing the way for the kings of the East to come on the scene for judgment at Armageddon (verse 16 below). The unholy trinity calls for all the kings of the earth to gather for war against God, issuing the invitation through three unclean spirits that somehow resembled frogs (another similarity to <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/exodus-7-10-battle-of-gods-begins.html">Exodus 8:5</a>). </div>
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16:15 The voice of Christ is heard in one of the seven “beatitudes” or statement of blessing in Revelation (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-1-3-peek-into-heaven.html">1:3;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-12-15-unholy-trinity.html">14:13;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-16-18-mystery-babylon-judged.html">16:15;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">19:9;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">20:6;</a> <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-21-22-new-heavens-and-earth.html">22:7,14</a>), promising blessing/reward to those who watch (stay on guard) and keep their clothes (a metaphor for righteousness) so they don't walk naked (deprived of glory - see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/2corinthians-4-5-gaining-your-glory.html" target="_blank">2 Corinthians 4-5</a>), and have their shameful sin exposed. The reminder of Christ's coming “as a thief” (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2peter-1-3-partake-of-divine-nature.html">2 Peter 3:10</a>) points to the loss that the unprepared will suffer. The verse would serve as a warning for Tribulation saints to persevere, and saints of all ages to be ready for the judgment at the return of Christ. In 1:3 blessing was promised to those who hear and keep the words of this book. These are words to hear and heed. </div>
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16:16 Armageddon (literally the “mountain of the place of slaughter”) could be a reference to the mountain near the town of Megiddo, (Mt. Carmel) where Elijah slaughtered the prophets of Baal in the Valley of Jezreel. </div>
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16:17 The seventh angel pours out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice said “It is done/finished: meaning the wrath of God had been poured out. The catastrophic effects that followed were unlike any previously seen in human history (appropriate, since this is just about the end of the world as it has been known). The great city became three parts. There is debate whether this is Jerusalem, or physical Babylon, or spiritual Babylon. Ezekiel indicated major geographical changes in Jerusalem at the return of Christ, but the following chapters consider the fall of Babylon, so it's more likely that this verse introduces Babylon. All the cities of the nations fell, and Babylon is singled out for special judgment (next chapters). Every island fled, and the mountains were gone. Giant hailstones (100 pounds each) pulverized the people on whom they landed, and rather than surrendering and submitting to God, people are still cursing Him.<br />
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<b>Application</b>: If you don't like your circumstances, consider if you are the cause of them, and are just reaping negative consequences for your sin; if so, repent and seek God's mercy while you can; if not, seek His grace to endure righteously.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, You are awesomely just, and will always pay back the good and evil according to what I've sown; please guide me in sowing righteousness, so You will remember me for blessing. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Revelation 17 <u>Religious Babylon Judged</u></b></div>
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<i>17:1 "One of the <u>seven angels</u> who had the <u>seven bowls</u> came and <u>spoke</u> with me, saying, "<u>Come</u> here. I will <u>show</u> you the <u>judgment</u> of the <u>great prostitute</u> who <u>sits</u> on <u>many waters</u>, 2 with whom the <u>kings</u> of the earth <u>committed</u> sexual <u>immorality</u>, and those who dwell in the earth were made <u>drunken</u> with the <u>wine</u> of her sexual <u>immorality</u>." 3 He <u>carried</u> me away <u>in the Spirit</u> into a <u>wilderness</u>. I saw a <u>woman</u> sitting on a scarlet-colored <u>animal</u>, full of <u>blasphemous</u> names, having <u>seven heads</u> and <u>ten horns</u>. 4 The <u>woman</u> was <u>dressed</u> in <u>purple</u> and <u>scarlet</u>, and decked with <u>gold</u> and <u>precious stones</u> and <u>pearls</u>, having in her <u>hand</u> a <u>golden cup</u> full of <u>abominations</u> and the <u>impurities</u> of the sexual <u>immorality</u> of the earth. 5 and on her <u>forehead</u> a name was written, "<u>Mystery</u> <u>Babylon</u> the great, the <u>mother</u> of the <u>prostitutes</u> and of the <u>abominations</u> of the earth." 6 I saw the woman <u>drunken</u> with the <u>blood</u> of the <u>saints</u>, and with the <u>blood</u> of the <u>martyrs of Jesus</u>. When I saw her, I <u>wondered</u> with great amazement.</i></div>
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<i>7 The angel said to me, "Why do you <u>wonder</u>? I will tell you the <u>mystery</u> of the <u>woman,</u> and of the <u>beast</u> that <u>carries</u> her, which has the <u>seven heads</u> and the <u>ten horns</u>. 8 The <u>beast</u> that you saw <u>was,</u> and <u>is not</u>; and is about to <u>come</u> up out of the <u>abyss</u> and to go into <u>destruction</u>. Those who <u>dwell</u> on the <u>earth</u> and whose <u>names</u> have <u>not</u> been <u>written</u> in the <u>book of life</u> from/<u>since</u> the foundation of the world will <u>marvel</u> when they see that the beast <u>was</u>, and <u>is not</u>, and <u>shall</u> <u>be</u> present. 9 Here is the <u>mind</u> that has <u>wisdom</u>. The <u>seven heads</u> are <u>seven</u> <u>mountains</u>, on which the <u>woman</u> <u>sits</u>. 10 They are <u>seven</u> <u>kings</u>. <u>Five</u> have <u>fallen</u>, the <u>one</u> <u>is</u>, the <u>other</u> has <u>not</u> <u>yet</u> <u>come</u>. <u>When</u> <u>he</u> <u>comes</u>, he must con<u>t</u>inue a <u>little</u> <u>while.</u> 11 The <u>beast</u> that <u>was</u>, and <u>is not</u>, is <u>himself</u> also an <u>eighth</u>, and is of the seven; and he goes to <u>destruction</u>. 12 The <u>ten</u> <u>horns</u> that you saw are <u>ten kings</u> who have received <u>no</u> <u>kingdom</u> as <u>yet</u>, but they <u>receive</u> <u>authority</u> as <u>kings</u>, with the <u>beast</u>, for <u>one</u> <u>hour</u>. 13 These have <u>one</u> <u>mind</u>, and they give their <u>power</u> and <u>authority</u> to the <u>beast</u>.</i></div>
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<i>14 These will <u>war</u> against the <u>Lamb</u>, and the <u>Lamb</u> will <u>overcome</u> them, for he is <u>Lord of lords</u>, and <u>King of kings</u>. They also will <u>overcome</u> who are <u>with him</u>, <u>called</u> and <u>chosen</u> and <u>faithful</u>." 15 He said to me, "The <u>waters</u> which you saw, where the prostitute <u>sits</u>, are <u>peoples</u>, multitudes, <u>nations</u>, and languages. 16 The <u>ten</u> <u>horns</u> which you saw, and the <u>beast</u>, these will <u>hate</u> the prostitute, and will make her <u>desolate</u>, and will make her <u>naked</u>, and will eat her <u>flesh</u>, and will <u>burn</u> her utterly with <u>fire</u>. 17 For <u>God</u> has <u>put in</u> their <u>hearts</u> to <u>do</u> what <u>he</u> <u>has</u> in <u>mind</u>, and to be of <u>one</u> <u>mind</u>, and to <u>give</u> their <u>kingdom</u> to the <u>beast</u>, <u>until</u> the <u>words of God</u> should be <u>accomplished</u>. 18 The <u>woman</u> whom you saw is the <u>great</u> <u>city</u>, which <u>reigns</u> over the <u>kings</u> of the <u>earth</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 17:1-6 Some argue for Babylon being a literal city, and in some passages it may be just that, a revived city in Iraq that achieves prominence in the End Times as it did under Nebuchadnezzar, when all the kingdoms of the know world were given to him as prophesied by God, and then he was destroyed as God also prophesied, to show that God was the One who ruled in the world. Others think Babylon is a code word for Rome, or for the Roman Catholic Church. The judgments in these two chapters relate to both a religious and commercial entity that had world wide influence. Protestants have been fond of equating this with the Papacy (and there are similarities), but the mystery Babylon of the future might be something the world has yet to see. It's most likely that Babylon is representative of the false religious systems from sensual pagan demon worship to “respectable religiosity” of any organized (or disorganized) religion not based upon the Word of God (both apostate Christian and non-Christian). John is shown a “mystery“ Babylon that represents a world religious and commercial system that is hostile toward true believers in the true God, just as it was back in the days of the Tower of Babel. Babylon is personified as a great whore or prostitute who leads or seduces the kings of the earth into idolatry, literally “fornication” or sexual immorality, an imagery used to depict unfaithfulness to God. Her sitting on many waters describes her pervasive influence over many peoples (as verse 15 indicates). John is carried in the Spirit to the wilderness to witness the woman sitting on a beast matching the description of the Anti-Christ (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-12-15-unholy-trinity.html">Revelation 13:1</a>). Apparently she operates with his power which supports her. Outwardly she has every worldly appeal, but inside are the abominations depicted as the evil in the cup she sips. She wears an rather unflattering name tag (to most), describing her character and power (as names often do in Scripture). “Mystery” is the word for “hidden” so her evil is not obvious to those who consort with her. She is definitely opposed to Jesus, and responsible for martyring many of His followers, as well as faithful OT saints. </div>
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17:7-13 The angel explains the Beast as the one that was, was not, and is again (resurrection from the “fatal” wound 13:3). Those who fall for the phoney miracles and worship him are those whose names have not been written in the book of life. The time when they have not been written is from (<i>apo</i>) the foundation of the world. The preposition <i>apo</i> with the genitive denotes separation as its fundamental meaning. “From” or “since” are appropriate translations indicating the time span from the foundation of the world, to the present in John's day. During that time, those who believe are written in the Lamb's book of life, and their name is not blotted out (forfeit inheritance) if they remain faithful. Remember that the “book of life” is the register of those who participate in the political life or rule of a city state (see comments on 3:5, 13:8 and upcoming references in chapters 20, 21, and 22). John elaborates on the heads as seven mountains upon which the woman sits, which has led many to speculate that Rome with its seven surrounding hills in is view. Yet John is told that they represent kings on the earth, as do the horns, who in unity, give their authority to the Beast. The initial anti-God kingdoms are most likely those mentioned in Daniel (Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome), with another yet to come (the Beast's). The ten kings are considered those of a revived Roman Empire. Other have matched them up with historical kings; still others say they are symbolic of all civil authority. If speculating who each king is essential for you to obey Jesus, love others, make disciples, and glorify God, feel free to consult a couple of commentaries for more details to scratch your head over. </div>
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17:14 The kings will war against the Lamb and the Lamb (Jesus) will overcome them because He is the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. Those who are in union with Jesus will also overcome, and are the invited (and responsive), chosen (elect, select, choice) and faithful. Note that being invited precedes the state of being choice (or of excellent quality), which precedes the condition of being faithful. </div>
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17:15-18 The religious system symbolized by the Great Prostitute will be hated by the ten kings and the Beast (lovers are so fickle), and will abandon her, destroying her with fire. This is probably a reference to the destruction of her city and power. They will turn on her who had ruled over the kings of the earth because God worked in their hearts to rebel against her, just as Satan and his minions work to get people to rebel against God. <br />
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<b>Application</b>: Knowing that there is a pervasive, popular and deceptive religious system opposed to the true worship of God should give us pause for reflection and evaluation to be sure that our worship of God is based upon His word, not that of men (or women).</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, You are the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, and Lord and Master of my life; may I be loyal to You and faithful, regardless of the cost or attractiveness of the alternatives. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Revelation 18 <u>Economic Babylon Judged</u></b></div>
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<i>18:1 "After these things, I saw <u>another</u> <u>angel</u> coming down out of the sky, having <u>great</u> <u>authority</u>. The earth was <u>illuminated</u> with his <u>glory</u>. 2 He cried with a mighty voice, saying, "<u>Fallen</u>, <u>fallen</u> is <u>Babylon the great</u>, and she has become a <u>habitation</u> of <u>demons</u>, a <u>prison</u> of <u>every</u> <u>unclean</u> <u>spirit</u>, and a <u>prison</u> of every <u>unclean</u> and <u>hateful</u> <u>bird</u>! 3 For <u>all</u> the nations have <u>drunk</u> of the <u>wine</u> of the <u>wrath</u> of her sexual <u>immorality</u>, the <u>kings</u> of the earth <u>committed</u> sexual <u>immorality</u> with her, and the <u>merchants</u> of the earth grew <u>rich</u> from the <u>abundance</u> of her <u>luxury</u>." </i> </div>
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<i>4 I heard <u>another</u> voice from heaven, saying, "<u>Come out of her</u>, <u>my people</u>, that you have <u>no participation</u> in her <u>sins</u>, and that you <u>don’t</u> <u>receive</u> of her <u>plagues</u>, 5 for her <u>sins</u> have <u>reached</u> to the <u>sky</u>, and God has <u>remembered</u> her <u>iniquities</u>. 6 <u>Reward</u> her just as she <u>rewarded</u>, and <u>repay</u> her <u>double</u> as she <u>did</u>, and according to her <u>works</u>. In the <u>cup</u> which she <u>mixed</u>, <u>mix</u> to her <u>double</u>. 7 However much she <u>glorified</u> herself, and <u>lived luxuriously</u>, so much give her of <u>torment</u> and <u>mourning</u>. For she <u>says</u> in her <u>heart</u>, ‘<u>I sit a queen</u>, and am <u>no</u> <u>widow</u>, and will in no way see <u>mourning</u>.’ 8 <u>Therefore</u> in <u>one day</u> her <u>plagues</u> will come: <u>death</u>, <u>mourning</u>, and <u>famine</u>; and she will be <u>utterly</u> <u>burned</u> with <u>fire</u>; for the <u>Lord God</u> who has <u>judged</u> her is <u>strong</u>.</i></div>
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<i>9 The <u>kings</u> of the earth, who <u>committed</u> sexual <u>immorality</u> and lived <u>luxuriously</u> with her, will <u>weep</u> and <u>wail</u> over her, when they look at the <u>smoke</u> of her <u>burning</u>, 10 <u>standing</u> <u>far</u> away for the <u>fear</u> of her <u>torment,</u> saying, ‘<u>Woe</u>, <u>woe</u>, the <u>great city</u>, <u>Babylon</u>, the <u>strong city</u>! For your <u>judgment</u> has come in <u>one hour</u>.’ 11 The <u>merchants</u> of the earth <u>weep</u> and <u>mourn</u> over her, for <u>no</u> one <u>buys</u> their <u>merchandise</u> any more; 12 merchandise of <u>gold</u>, <u>silver</u>, <u>precious stones</u>, <u>pearls</u>, fine linen, purple, silk, scarlet, all expensive wood, every vessel of ivory, every vessel made of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble; 13 and cinnamon, incense, perfume, frankincense, wine, olive oil, fine flour, wheat, sheep, horses, chariots, and <u>people’s</u> <u>bodies</u> and <u>souls</u>. 14 The <u>fruits</u> which your <u>soul</u> <u>lusted</u> after have been <u>lost</u> to <u>you</u>, and all things that were <u>dainty</u> and <u>sumptuous</u> have <u>perished</u> from you, and you will find them <u>no</u> <u>more</u> <u>at all</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>15 The <u>merchants</u> of these things, who were made <u>rich</u> by <u>her</u>, will stand far away for the <u>fear</u> of her <u>torment,</u> <u>weeping</u> and <u>mourning</u>; 16 saying, ‘<u>Woe</u>, <u>woe</u>, the <u>great city</u>, she who was dressed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls! 17 For in an <u>hour</u> such <u>great</u> <u>riches</u> are made <u>desolate</u>.’ Every <u>shipmaster</u>, and everyone who <u>sails</u> anywhere, and <u>mariners</u>, and as many as gain their living by <u>sea</u>, stood <u>far</u> away, 18 and cried out as they <u>looked</u> at the <u>smoke</u> of her burning, saying, ‘What is like the <u>great</u> <u>city</u>?’ 19 They cast dust on their heads, and <u>cried</u>, <u>weeping</u> and <u>mourning</u>, saying, ‘<u>Woe</u>, <u>woe</u>, the <u>great city</u>, in which all who had their ships in the sea were made <u>rich</u> by <u>reason</u> of her great <u>wealth</u>!’ For in <u>one</u> <u>hour</u> is she made <u>desolate</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>20 "<u>Rejoice</u> over her, O <u>heaven,</u> you <u>saints</u>, <u>apostles</u>, and <u>prophets</u>; for <u>God</u> has <u>judged</u> <u>your judgment</u> on <u>her</u>." 21 A mighty <u>angel</u> took up a <u>stone</u> <u>like</u> a great millstone and <u>cast</u> it into the <u>sea</u>, saying, "Thus with <u>violence</u> will <u>Babylon</u>, the <u>great</u> <u>city</u>, be <u>thrown</u> down, and will be <u>found no more</u> <u>at all</u>. 22 The voice of <u>harpists</u>, <u>minstrels</u>, flute players, and trumpeters will be heard <u>no</u> <u>more</u> <u>at all</u> in you. <u>No</u> <u>craftsman</u>, of whatever craft, will be found any more <u>at all</u> in you. The sound of a mill will be heard <u>no</u> more <u>at all</u> in you. 23 The <u>light</u> of a lamp will shine <u>no more</u> <u>at all</u> in you. The <u>voice</u> of the <u>bridegroom</u> and of the <u>bride</u> will be heard <u>no more</u> <u>at all</u> in you; for your <u>merchants</u> were the <u>princes</u> of the earth; for with your <u>sorcery</u> all<u> </u>the nations were <u>deceived</u>. 24 In her was found the <u>blood</u> of <u>prophets</u> and of <u>saints</u>, and of <u>all</u> who have been <u>slain</u> on the earth."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 18:1-3 Next, John sees another angel having great power, who illuminated the earth with his glory. This is a great verse to see the identification of power/authority, light, and glory, the energizing force of the universe. This angel focuses on the commerce aspects of Babylon. In Ancient times the temple of the god was the the bank and center of commerce for a city or locale. The fall of the corrupt religious system symbolized by the Great Harlot has repercussions in the world of buying and selling. The angel announces the fall of Babylon the great, and the accompanying desolation. She becomes the desolate habitation of demons and all that is unclean. The reason for this destruction is because of the unfaithfulness she propagated among the nations of the world, and the independence from God spawned by wealth. “Wall Street” comes to mind as an example of John using Babylon, as a geographical place, but also a world-influencing economic center that has often been portrayed as a hot-bed of corruption and vice. (Some would also view it as the center of worship of the almighty buck, in whom they trust.) </div>
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18:4-8 John hears another voice that has reverberated though the ages calling the people of God out of the corruption of “Babylon” so that they don't participate in her sins, otherwise they will participate in her judgment. If there was no possibility of believers being entranced and entrapped by materialism, there would be no need for this warning. God will repay “Babylon” and those who sin with her, double for her sinful ways, being corrupt, and corrupting others. To the degree that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, she will be humbled and tormented. She said she was a queen above any possibility of need, yet in one day she will be reduced to ashes, because the God who judges is so much stronger than her wealth and self-sufficiency. Remember that those believers who live for “Babylon's” pleasures and benefits, rather than the pleasure of God, and His benefits, will share in her discipline. They won't get tossed into the lake of fire (for their names were written in the book of life) but their works will be totally burned up in the garbage dump of Gehenna (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-1-4-carnal-christians.html">1 Corinthians 3:15</a>).</div>
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18:9-14 The kings of the earth who had profited from their union with Babylon will lament her destruction, which has not yet taken place, but will, in an very short period of time. The merchants too will mourn her loss, because the breakdown of the economic system with her fall will destroy their business. Note that they trade not only in the luxuries and necessities of life, but also in human bodies and souls! Those things for which people's souls lusted will be totally gone. </div>
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18:15-19 The merchants will weep and mourn for the loss of what was the source of their riches, as will those who profited in transportation. They will see the smoke of her burning and weep. This seems to indicate that a physical location is destroyed, observable from the sea. The fragile nature of temporal things is underscored by the fact that in an hour, all is lost. </div>
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18:20 Meanwhile, in heaven, there is cheering and rejoicing. The saints, apostles, and prophets who were victims of the temporal materialistic system will be avenged by God's judgment. </div>
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18:21-24 A mighty angel took a giant stone and cast it into the sea, indicating the violent and overwhelming destruction that will occur. Entertainment and industry, production and merriment will be no more, at all, in Babylon. Because of her deception of the nations (last chapter) and persecution of the prophets (who denounced both apostasy and injustice), and martyrdom of the saints, and the shedding of innocent blood, Babylon is judged, by the Judge of all the earth.<br />
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<b>Application</b>: Believer must be careful not to be seduced by false teaching nor unholy living, both the sponsors of and participants in unfaithfulness will be judged, be they believers or not.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, thanks that You judge righteously and will vindicate all those who follow You at the expense of worldly pleasures; may I always fear living independently of You in any manner. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><u>Digging Deeper:</u></b></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God is the judge of all the earth, and all that is in it, from the depths of the sea to the heights of the mountains. He will destroy the earth, and its religious and economic systems, executing just vengeance for those faithful to Him. He gives rebels opportunities to repent as He judges, but they curse Him instead, reaping the full measure of His wrath.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords who will vanquish all pretenders to His throne when He returns, with His faithful ones to set up His Millennial Kingdom. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Believers, whose names are written in the book of life, are still in danger of experiencing judgment if they allow themselves to be swept into false religious practices and materialism. </div>
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<u><b>Where to Go for More:</b></u></div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-59203371141918052492012-08-28T01:46:00.003-04:002014-08-08T15:34:03.214-04:00Revelation 12-15 The Unholy Trinity<div class="new-post-style">
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Revelation 12-15 <u>The Unholy Trinity</u></div>
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<b>TMS 1Peter 5:5-6 </b><u><b>The Humble Get Grace</b></u></div>
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<i>1Pt 5:5 “Likewise you younger people, </i> </div>
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<i><u>submit</u> yourselves to your <u>elders</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>Yes, all of you be <u>submissive</u> to <u>one another</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and be clothed with <u>humility</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>for "God <u>resists</u> the <u>proud</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>But gives <u>grace</u> to the <u>humble</u>."</i></div>
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<i>6 Therefore <u>humble</u> yourselves under the mighty <u>hand</u> of <u>God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that He may <u>exalt</u> you in <u>due</u> time,</i></div>
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<i>7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 5:5-6 Humility requires a trust that God cares for you, and will look out for your interests (verse 7). An incentive to humility is that pride gets God's opposition (and Satan's attention), while submission gets God's grace (both now and in the future). Submission (see <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/title/the-s-word-submission/">sermon on the S-word</a> on Truthbase.net) is yielding our rights for the purpose of protection and God glorifying unity. In a Body of believers, people need to be persuaded about their leaders (as being Biblical) and submit to them (or find a place where they can do that; see comments on Heb 13:17). Also, as members of a Body, one needs to be submitted to the needs and interests of the group (see comments on Eph 5:21). Body parts that are cut off or disconnected from the body shrivel and die. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Since independence is the essence of sin, avoid it by being dependent upon God and submitted to His will. How are you submitted to a Body of believers?</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Heavenly Father, thanks for caring about the things that concern me; help me submit to the authority You've placed in my life for my benefit, and give me the grace to live as Jesus did, in humility. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 12-15 </b>These chapters form an interlude between the sounding of the seventh trumpet (last chapter) and the seven bowl/vial judgments which are contained in the seventh trumpet (chapter 16). John describes seven signs, three in heaven (12:1, 3; 15:1), and four on earth (13:13-14; 16:14; 19:20). The time sequence is interrupted to provide some ”background” scenes of things in the past and future. Many of the “vignettes” John presents are still future, but some occurred before John wrote as well. This post will reveal the unholy trinity of the Dragon/Satan, the Beast/Anti-Christ, and the False Prophet, as well as their attempts to control the entire earth. Those who receive the mark of Christ will be triumphant, while those who accept the mark of the Beast will live in torment. </div>
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<b>Revelation 12 <u>The Woman and the Dragon</u></b></div>
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<i>12:1 A <u>great</u> <u>sign</u> was <u>seen</u> in <u>heaven</u>: a <u>woman</u> <u>clothed</u> with the <u>sun</u>, and the <u>moon</u> <u>under</u> her <u>feet</u>, and on her head a <u>crown</u> of <u>twelve</u> <u>stars</u>. 2 She was with <u>child</u>. She cried out in <u>pain</u>, laboring to give <u>birth</u>. 3 Another <u>sign</u> was seen in <u>heaven</u>. Behold, a great <u>red</u> <u>dragon</u>, having <u>seven</u> <u>heads</u> and <u>ten</u> <u>horns</u>, and on his heads <u>seven</u> <u>crowns</u>. 4 His <u>tail</u> drew <u>one third</u> of the <u>stars of the sky</u>, and <u>threw</u> them to the <u>earth</u>. The <u>dragon</u> stood <u>before</u> the <u>woman</u> who was about to give <u>birth</u>, so that when she gave <u>birth</u> he might <u>devour</u> her <u>child</u>. 5 She gave birth to a <u>son</u>, a <u>male</u> <u>child</u>, who is to <u>rule</u> <u>all</u> the <u>nations</u> with a rod of <u>iron</u>. Her <u>child</u> was <u>caught</u> <u>up</u> to <u>God</u>, and to his <u>throne</u>. 6 The woman <u>fled</u> into the <u>wilderness</u>, where she has a <u>place</u> <u>prepared</u> by God, that there they may <u>nourish</u> her <u>one thousand two hundred sixty days</u>. </i></div>
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<i>7 There was <u>war</u> in the <u>sky</u>. <u>Michael</u> and his <u>angels</u> made <u>war</u> on the <u>dragon</u>. The <u>dragon</u> and his <u>angels</u> made <u>war</u>. 8 They <u>didn’t</u> <u>prevail,</u> neither was a place found for him <u>any</u> <u>more</u> in <u>heaven</u>. 9 The <u>great dragon</u> was <u>thrown</u> down, the<u> old serpent,</u> he who is called the <u>devil</u> and <u>Satan</u>, the <u>deceiver</u> of the <u>whole world</u>. He was <u>thrown down</u> to the <u>earth</u>, and his <u>angels</u> were <u>thrown down</u> <u>with</u> him. </i></div>
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<i>10 I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "<u>Now</u> the <u>salvation</u>, the <u>power/dominion</u>, and the <u>Kingdom</u> of our <u>God</u>, and the <u>authority</u> of his <u>Christ</u> has <u>come</u>; for the <u>accuser</u> of our <u>brothers</u> has been <u>thrown down</u>, who <u>accuses</u> them <u>before</u> our <u>God</u> day and night. 11 They <u>overcame</u> <u>him</u> because of the <u>Lamb’s</u> <u>blood</u>, and because of the <u>word</u> of their <u>testimony</u>. <u>They didn’t love their life, even to death.</u></i></div>
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<i>12 Therefore <u>rejoice</u>, <u>heavens</u>, and you who <u>dwell</u> in them. <u>Woe</u> to the <u>earth</u> and to the <u>sea</u>, because the <u>devil</u> has <u>gone</u> <u>down</u> to you, having <u>great</u> <u>wrath</u>, <u>knowing</u> that he has but a <u>short</u> <u>time</u>." 13 When the <u>dragon</u> saw that he was <u>thrown down</u> to the earth, he <u>persecuted</u> the <u>woman</u> who gave <u>birth</u> to the <u>male</u> <u>child</u>. 14 <u>Two</u> <u>wings</u> of the <u>great</u> <u>eagle</u> were <u>given</u> to the <u>woman</u>, that she might <u>fly</u> into the <u>wilderness</u> to her <u>place</u>, so that she might be <u>nourished</u> for a <u>time</u>, and <u>times</u>, and <u>half a time</u>, from the <u>face</u> of the <u>serpent</u>. 15 The <u>serpent</u> spewed <u>water</u> out of his <u>mouth</u> <u>after</u> the <u>woman</u> like a <u>river</u>, that he might cause her to be <u>carried</u> <u>away</u> by the stream. 16 The <u>earth</u> <u>helped</u> the <u>woman</u>, and the earth <u>opened</u> its <u>mouth</u> and <u>swallowed</u> up the <u>river</u> which the <u>dragon</u> <u>spewed</u> out of his <u>mouth</u>. 17 The <u>dragon</u> grew <u>angry</u> with the <u>woman,</u> and went away to make <u>war</u> with the <u>rest</u> of her <u>seed</u>, who <u>keep</u> <u>God’s</u> <u>commandments</u> and <u>hold</u> <u>Jesus</u>’ <u>testimony</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 12:1-6 John sees a “great sign,” a woman clothed with the sun. This is representative of something else (that's what a sign is). The context would point to the nation of Israel. The sun and moon would be indicative of the glory God gave the nation. The crown of twelve stars are most likely the twelve tribes. She is in labor, about to give birth to a male child who will rule all the nations with a rod iron, which can only be Jesus. Psalm 2 makes that explicit, the Father installing the Son as King on the holy hill of Mount Zion (cf Rev 2:27 where Jesus quotes this Psalm as the basis of His power which He shares with overcomers). </div>
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Another sign is introduced in verse 3, the great red dragon, which is identified as Satan in verse 9. The heads, horns, and crowns describe powers that rule under his authority (Dan 7:18-27 has the details). Verse 4 describes Satan leading a third of the angels to rebel (see verses 7-9). Satan sought to destroy Christ, but He was caught up (same word for “rapture” 1Thess 4:17) to God and His throne. Satan persecuted the woman/Israel, who fled into the wilderness, where she was protected for three and a half years (360 days to a prophetic year). This specific period of time would fit the last half of the Tribulation, when the anti-Christ (anti-Messiah) breaks the covenant with Israel. </div>
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12:7-9 John describes a “war” in heaven between Michael the archangel (Jude 9; Dan 12:1) and the good angels against Satan and the demonic angels, who lost, and were evicted from heaven. </div>
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12:10-11 Then John hears a voice announcing the arrival of the salvation, dominion and kingdom of God and of Christ. The reason for the announcement is that the accuser of the brethren has been cast down, which implies the salvation is the glorification (Heb 9:28) eagerly awaited by faithful saints. The saints overcame the accuser by the blood of the Lamb (which secured their forgiveness and relationship with God), and the word of their testimony, and their faithfulness to Christ, even though it resulted in death. Satan had no basis for accusation (see verse 17 below).</div>
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12:12-17 The heavens rejoice because Satan is cast down, but the earth mourns because of his activity there. He knows his time is short, so he does at much as possible to seek to thwart God's purposes and cause his own (usurpation of God) to be advanced. He persecutes Israel who is given divine protection so she can flee. Foiled again, Satan goes to make war with the rest of her descendants, described as those who keep God's commandments and hold to the the testimony concerning Christ.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Those who faithfully obey Christ will encounter demonic opposition, and usually divine protection (but not always if God wants them in heaven right away). Since failure to obey is spiritual suicide and enslavement to Satan, it's far better to die for doing what is right.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Heavenly Father, help me be loyal to You regardless of the presence or absence of opposition. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 13 <u>The Unholy Trinity</u></b></div>
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<i>13:1 Then I stood on the sand of the <u>sea</u>. I saw a <u>beast</u> coming up out of the <u>sea</u>, having <u>ten</u> <u>horns</u> and <u>seven</u> <u>heads</u>. On his horns were <u>ten</u> <u>crowns</u>, and on his <u>heads</u>, <u>blasphemous</u> <u>names</u>. 2 The <u>beast</u> which I saw was like a <u>leopard</u>, and his feet were like those of a <u>bear</u>, and his mouth like the mouth of a <u>lion</u>. The <u>dragon</u> gave him his <u>power</u>, his <u>throne</u>, and great <u>authority</u>. 3 One of his heads <u>looked</u> <u>like</u> it had been <u>wounded</u> <u>fatally</u>. His fatal <u>wound</u> was <u>healed</u>, and the whole <u>earth</u> <u>marveled</u> at the <u>beast</u>. 4 They <u>worshiped</u> the <u>dragon</u>, because he gave his <u>authority</u> to the <u>beast</u>, and they <u>worshiped</u> the <u>beast</u>, saying, "<u>Who</u> is <u>like</u> the <u>beast</u>? Who is able to <u>make</u> <u>war</u> with him?" 5 A mouth <u>speaking</u> great things and <u>blasphemy</u> was given to him. <u>Authority</u> to make <u>war</u> for <u>forty-two months</u> was <u>given</u> to him. 6 He <u>opened</u> his <u>mouth</u> for <u>blasphemy</u> <u>against</u> God, to blaspheme his <u>name</u>, and his <u>dwelling</u>, those who <u>dwell</u> in <u>heaven</u>. 7 It was <u>given</u> to him to make <u>war</u> with the <u>saints</u>, and to <u>overcome</u> them. <u>Authority</u> over <u>every</u> tribe, <u>people</u>, language, and <u>nation</u> was given to him. 8 <u>All</u> who dwell on the earth will <u>worship</u> him, everyone whose <u>name</u> has <u>not</u> been <u>written</u> in the <u>book of life</u> of the Lamb who has been <u>slain</u> from the <u>foundation of the</u> <u>world</u>. 9 If anyone has an ear, let him <u>hear</u>. 10 He who leads into <u>captivity</u>, he will go into <u>captivity</u>. He who <u>kills</u> with the sword, he must be <u>killed</u>. Here is the <u>endurance</u> and the <u>faith</u> of the <u>saints</u>.</i></div>
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<i>11 I saw <u>another</u> <u>beast</u> coming up <u>out</u> of the <u>earth</u>. He had <u>two</u> <u>horns</u> like a <u>lamb</u>, and he <u>spoke</u> like a <u>dragon</u>. 12 He exercises <u>all</u> the <u>authority</u> of the <u>first</u> <u>beast</u> in his <u>presence</u>. He <u>makes</u> the <u>earth</u> and those who <u>dwell</u> in it to <u>worship</u> the first <u>beast</u>, whose <u>fatal</u> <u>wound</u> was <u>healed</u>. 13 He <u>performs great signs</u>, even making <u>fire</u> come down out of the <u>sky</u> to the <u>earth</u> in the <u>sight</u> of people. 14 He <u>deceives</u> my <u>own</u> <u>people</u> who dwell on the <u>earth</u> because of the <u>signs</u> he was <u>granted</u> to do in <u>front</u> of the <u>beast</u>; saying to those who dwell on the <u>earth</u>, that they should make an <u>image</u> to the <u>beast</u> who had the <u>sword</u> <u>wound</u> and <u>lived</u>. 15 It was given to him to give <u>breath</u> to it, to the <u>image</u> of the <u>beast</u>, that the <u>image</u> of the <u>beast</u> should both <u>speak</u>, and cause as many as <u>wouldn’t</u> <u>worship</u> the image of the beast to be <u>killed</u>. </i> </div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 13:1-10 John sees the Beast come out of the sea (usual imagery for Gentiles) who is very similar to the dragon (12:3 -Satan) and Daniel's fourth and final beast the Anti-Christ (see comments on Daniel 7:19-25). John will revisit this character in chapter 17. He is ruler over Satan's world dominion, exercising his power through the ten leaders (horns) that many consider a revival of the Roman Empire. The Satanically energized Anti-Christ will receive what looks like a fatal wound, and experience what looks like a resurrection, which will cause all to worship him (and the Dragon who energizes him). As Daniel predicted, he will be given authority to make war against the saints for 42 months (three and a half years). The rest of Daniel's timetable was specifically and exactly fulfilled (once one understands the math; see comments on Daniel's seventieth week in Dan 9), so this looks like a literal period as well. There is no other explanation for the use of the specific numbers except to indicate the last half of the Tribulation. He speaks against God, His people, and His dwelling place (Jerusalem). All who dwell on the earth will worship the Beast except those whose names have been written in the Book of Life (register of the citizens who could vote or participate in the rulership of a city-state -cf Dan 12:1-2). Those who are faithful to the Lamb have their names in His book. The Lamb has been slain from the foundation of the world, meaning it was God's plan to have faithful believes rule with Christ in His kingdom, before creation. See comments on Ephesians 1 for God's master plan of glorifying Himself. Those who take the end of verse 8, “from the foundation of the world” which modifies the slaying of the Lamb, and move it to the middle of the sentence to modify the writing of the names, are totally deceived. They deliberate twist the text to present an idea that might be consistent with their faulty theology, but is at odds with all that we've seen in the Scriptures thus far (and we're almost at the end). Shame on you ESV. Anyone who has ears to hear will recognize verse 9 as a call to faithful and painful discipleship (cf. Lk 9:23). Verse 10 is a promise that God will execute justice.</div>
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13:11-15 John sees the third member of the unholy trinity, another beast arise from the earth (in contrast to the sea, possibly indicating a Jew). This is the False Prophet, who has two horns like a lamb, probably symbolic of a religious figure, and speaks lies like the Devil (that about settles it). He will exercise the Dragon's power which had been given to the first Beast (the Anti-Christ) to cause all who dwell on earth to worship the Anti-Christ. The signs and wonders will deceive even the remaining Jews to engage in idolatry. Satan can do miracles, and those who base their spiritual experience on signs, wonders, and miracles, will wind up worshiping demons. Only by knowing the truth of Revelation can one interpret spiritual experience correctly. No one knows that they are deceived (Duh!, that's the whole point of deception). Without the light of God's truth illuminating events and experiences, people stumble in the dark. It should be obvious that if someone's perceptual grid says that anything miraculous is from the Creator God, that exposure to miracles (real or feigned) will cause that person to worship the miraculous, thinking it is from God. It is more likely than not the false god of this world, or one of his demons, rather than the Creator God. Anyone who won't worship the Beast gets an expensive one-way ticket to martyrdom (it costs them their life, but it will be totally worth it). </div>
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13:16-18 The Dragon or Satan usurps the life giving role of God the Father, the Beast or Anti-Christ, usurps the Kingship of Christ the Messiah, and the False Prophet usurps the confirming and motivating role of the Holy Spirit. To ferret out those who won't worship the Beast and the Dragon through the false religious system of the False Prophet, the banking and commerce system is made to serve the terrible trio. Everyone is given the mark of the Beast on their right hand or forehead, so they can't buy or sell without it. Tribulation saints will have a difficult time keeping body and soul together. The name or number of the beast is 666, and John invites all math buffs to calculate. Bible numerologists say that six is the number of man, and seven is the divine number, so the unholy trinity will fall short of the holy Trinity. When I finish obeying Matthew 28:19-20 I'll dust off my calculator, but by that time the answer will be obvious, and I'll be having too much fun in heaven to do math.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: If you don't want to be deceived, you need to know the truth well enough to spot and avoid counterfeits, particularly the miraculous ones.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, I praise You for being all-wise and just; I will always trust that You know what You are doing, and will rejoice at any difficulty that comes into my life as a result of being faithful to You. Thanks that Your grace is always sufficient to do Your will. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 14 <u>Blessed Saints and Bad News for the Other Guys</u></b></div>
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<i>14:1 I saw, and behold, the <u>Lamb</u> standing on <u>Mount</u> <u>Zion</u>, and with him a number, <u>one hundred forty-four thousand</u>, having <u>his</u> <u>name</u>, and the <u>name</u> of his <u>Father</u>, <u>written</u> on their <u>foreheads</u>. 2 I heard a sound <u>from</u> heaven, like the sound of many waters, and like the sound of a great <u>thunder</u>. The sound which I heard was like that of <u>harpists</u> playing on their harps. 3 They <u>sing</u> a <u>new song</u> before the <u>throne</u>, and before the <u>four living creatures</u> and the <u>elders</u>. No one could <u>learn</u> the <u>song</u> except the <u>one hundred forty-four thousand</u>, those who had been <u>redeemed</u> out of the earth. 4 These are those who were <u>not</u> <u>defiled</u> with women, for they are <u>virgins</u>. These are those who <u>follow</u> the <u>Lamb</u> wherever he <u>goes</u>. These were <u>redeemed</u> by <u>Jesus</u> from <u>among</u> <u>men</u>, the <u>first</u> <u>fruits</u> to <u>God</u> and to the <u>Lamb</u>. 5 In their mouth was found <u>no</u> <u>lie</u>, for they are <u>blameless</u>.</i></div>
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<i>6 I saw an <u>angel</u> flying in mid heaven, having the <u>eternal/of the Age</u> <u>gospel</u> to <u>proclaim</u> to those who <u>dwell</u> on the <u>earth</u>, and to every <u>nation</u>, tribe, language, and <u>people</u>. 7 He said with a loud voice, "<u>Fear the Lord</u>, and <u>give him glory</u>; for the hour of <u>his</u> <u>judgment</u> has <u>come</u>. <u>Worship</u> him who <u>made</u> the heaven, the earth, the sea, and the springs of waters!" 8 Another, a second angel, followed, saying, "<u>Babylon</u> the great has <u>fallen</u>, which has made all the nations to <u>drink</u> of the <u>wine</u> of the <u>wrath</u> of her <u>sexual</u> <u>immorality</u>." 9 Another angel, a <u>third</u>, <u>followed</u> them, saying with a great voice, "If anyone <u>worships</u> the <u>beast</u> and his <u>image</u>, and receives a <u>mark</u> on his forehead, or on his hand, 10 he also will <u>drink</u> of the wine of the <u>wrath</u> of God, which is <u>prepared</u> unmixed in the <u>cup</u> of his <u>anger</u>. He will be <u>tormented</u> with <u>fire</u> and <u>sulphur</u> in the presence of the <u>holy</u> <u>angels</u>, and in the presence of the <u>Lamb</u>. 11 The smoke of their <u>torment</u> goes up <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>. They have <u>no</u> <u>rest</u> day <u>and</u> night, those who <u>worship</u> the <u>beast</u> and his image, and whoever <u>receives</u> the <u>mark</u> of his <u>name</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>12 Here is the <u>patience</u> of the <u>saints</u>, those who <u>keep</u> the <u>commandments</u> of God, and the <u>faith</u> of <u>Jesus</u>." 13 I heard the voice from heaven saying, "Write, ‘<b>Blessed</b> are the <u>dead</u> who <u>die</u> <u>in the Lord</u> from <u>now</u> <u>on</u>.’" "Yes," says the Spirit, "that they may <u>rest</u> from their <u>labors</u>; for their <u>works</u> <u>follow</u> with them." </i> </div>
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<i>14 I <u>looked</u>, and behold, a <u>white cloud</u>; and <u>on</u> the cloud one sitting like a <u>son of man</u>, having on his head a <u>golden crown</u>, and in his hand a <u>sharp sickle</u>. 15 <u>Another</u> angel came out <u>from</u> the <u>temple,</u> crying with a loud voice to him who <u>sat</u> on the <u>cloud</u>, "Send forth your <u>sickle</u>, and <u>reap</u>; for the hour to <u>reap</u> has come; for the <u>harvest</u> of the <u>earth</u> is <u>ripe</u>!" 16 He who <u>sat</u> on the <u>cloud</u> thrust his <u>sickle</u> on the <u>earth</u>, and the earth was <u>reaped</u>. 17 <u>Another</u> angel came out from the temple which is in heaven. He <u>also</u> had a <u>sharp</u> <u>sickle</u>. 18 <u>Another</u> angel came out from the <u>altar</u>, he who has power over <u>fire</u>, and he called with a great voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, "Send forth your <u>sharp</u> <u>sickle</u>, and <u>gather</u> the <u>clusters</u> of the <u>vine</u> of the earth, for the earth’s <u>grapes</u> are <u>fully</u> <u>ripe</u>!" 19 The angel thrust his <u>sickle</u> into the earth, and gathered the <u>vintage</u> of the <u>earth</u>, and threw it into the <u>great</u> <u>winepress</u> of the <u>wrath</u> of <u>God</u>. 20 The <u>winepress</u> was <u>trodden</u> outside of the city, and <u>blood</u> came out from the <u>winepress</u>, even to the <u>bridles</u> of the <u>horses</u>, as far as <u>one thousand six hundred stadia</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 14:1-5 It doesn't look like the world gets to be more and more Christian by the time Christ returns. With the wrath of the Lamb and the reign of the unholy trio, things are more like hell than heaven on earth. Believers will be persecuted and martyred to extinction if Satan has his way. So to provide hope and assurance to believers of all ages that persevering is worth it, particularly to those who become believers during the Tribulation, John is given a positive revelational interlude. He sees the Lamb standing on Mount Zion, from which He will execute His Millennial rule (which begins in chapter 19). With him are the 144.000 who have His mark or seal on their foreheads (from 7:3-8) rather than that of the Beast. They sing a new song before the throne, that only they can learn/express. In the Psalms a new song was sung to praise God for something He had uniquely done for the worshiper. These Tribulation saints from among the Jews had a unique role and ministry, in being the first-fruits to God. They were redeemed, and undefiled, and follow the Lamb. The “virginity” could be literal, or could refer to lack of participation in sensual pagan worship, or both. They were also blameless, and no falsehood was found on their lips. </div>
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14:6-11 A trio of angels announce the gospel of the age, from mid heaven, so everyone on earth can hear. Fearing God (being careful to do what is right in His sight), and giving Him glory (carrying out His will rather than any other, particularly our own, because He alone is worthy), is the wisest course of action in light of upcoming judgment. Fear can't be divorced from judgment, because justice is an essential part of God's character. Worship is a response to revelation (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-20-22-first-use-of-worship-in.html" target="_blank">Genesis 22</a>). The revelation of God's upcoming judgment should produce a response of being careful to do what is right in His sight. For those who fear God and give Him glory by their worshipful service, judgment is good news. A second angel announces the good news that Babylon the great is fallen. Chapters 16 and 17 will mention Babylon, but chapter 18 gives the more complete elaboration. Here the angel mentions that Babylon (either the literal city, or one that functions as Babylon did historically) has made the nations participate in her immorality (probably a reference to false worship), and thus they will share in the wrath of God's judgment. A third angel announces good news to the faithful and bad news to anyone who has received the mark of the Beast. The latter group will experience the fury and pain of God's judgment. The smoke of their “torment” will ascend forever and ever, (literally “to the ages of the ages”). </div>
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14:12-13 The recognition that those who oppress them will be overcome themselves, and the fate of those who succumb, give the saints the perseverance or endurance to keep the commands of God and their faith in Jesus, their Messiah. This is reinforced by a voice declaring the blessedness of those who die in union with the Lord. The Spirit also testifies that in contrast to those who worship the Beast, those faithful to Christ will rest from their labors, because their works will follow them in death, and result in reward (see Hebrews 4 comments on rest = inheritance/reward). </div>
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14:14-20 John sees Jesus, the Son of Man (Jesus' favorite title for Himself, the one to whom all authority was given -Dan 7:13-14), sitting on a cloud (Shekinah glory) with a sickle (Mk 4:29) to reap the production of the earth. It's possible the first reaping is of believers (Mt 3:12), since there is no mention of their fate, and the second of unbelievers (Mt 13:41), whose fate is death. The blood flowed over a distance of 200 miles, probably splashing up to the bridles of the horses (this vignette could be describing one of the earlier judgments -Rev 6 or 9). </div>
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<i>Joel 3:13 “Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Come, go down; For the winepress is full, The vats overflow --- For their wickedness is great."</i></div>
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<b>Application</b>: Knowing that God's judgment is certain and fearsome, the wise person will live in light of that judgment for the glory of God. They will rest and rejoice, the others will whine.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord God, may I live every day prepared to face Your judgment, and be found faithful. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 15 <u>The Song of the Lamb</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1KSocwdp-Rw/UDwtas_uKhI/AAAAAAAAFB8/QBJhJUmU800/s1600/sheep+sing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1KSocwdp-Rw/UDwtas_uKhI/AAAAAAAAFB8/QBJhJUmU800/s200/sheep+sing.jpg" height="106" width="200" /></a><i>15:1 I saw <u>another</u> great and marvelous <u>sign</u> in the sky: <u>seven</u> <u>angels</u> having the <u>seven</u> <u>last</u> <u>plagues</u>, for in/by them God’s <u>wrath</u> is <u>finished</u>. 2 I saw something like a sea of <u>glass</u> mixed with <u>fire</u>, and those who <u>overcame</u> the <u>beast</u>, his <u>image</u>, and the <u>number</u> of his <u>name</u>, <u>standing</u> on the sea of glass, having <u>harps</u> of <u>God</u>. 3 They <u>sang</u> the <u>song</u> of <u>Moses</u>, the servant of God, <u>and</u> the <u>song</u> of the <u>Lamb</u>, saying, "<u>Great</u> and <u>marvelous</u> are your <u>works</u>, <u>Lord God, the Almight</u>y! <u>Righteous</u> and <u>true</u> are your <u>ways</u>, you <u>King of the nations</u>. 4 Who wouldn’t <u>fear</u> you, <u>Lord</u>, and <u>glorify</u> your <u>name</u>? For <u>you</u> <u>only</u> are <u>holy</u>. For <u>all</u> the <u>nations</u> will <u>come</u> and <u>worship</u> before <u>you</u>. For your <u>righteous</u> <u>acts</u> have been <u>revealed</u>."</i></div>
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<i>5 <u>After</u> these things I looked, and the <u>temple</u> of the <u>tabernacle</u> of the <u>testimony</u> in <u>heaven</u> was <u>opened</u>. 6 The <u>seven angels</u> who had the <u>seven plagues</u> came out, clothed with <u>pure</u>, <u>bright</u> <u>linen</u>, and wearing <u>golden</u> sashes around their breasts. 7 One of the <u>four living creatures</u> gave to the <u>seven angels</u> <u>seven golden bowls</u> <u>full</u> of the <u>wrath</u> of God, who lives forever and ever. 8 The <u>temple</u> was <u>filled</u> with <u>smoke</u> from the <u>glory</u> of <u>God</u>, and from his <u>power</u>. No one was able to <u>enter</u> into the <u>temple</u>, <u>until</u> the <u>seven</u> <u>plagues</u> of the <u>seven</u> <u>angels</u> would be <u>finished</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 15:1-4 John sees another sign, which serves as a prelude to the final judgments contained in the seventh trumpet, the seven bowl judgments. He sees the seven angels standing by, but also sees a sea of glass (cf 4:6) before the throne. Those who overcame the Beast are standing before the throne. They are the martyrs of the Tribulation. They sang the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb. The former is probably from Exodus 15, just after the God of the Israelites overcame the gods of the Egyptians in the Exodus. The latter isn't cited earlier in the Scriptures, but a lot of the phrases can be found in the Psalms and Prophets. God is praised for deeds and the character which gave rise to them. He alone is holy, who does what is righteous. He is the King of the Nations, and therefore all will worship Him. The correct response to this revelation of Himself is to fear Him and glorify His name (14:7). </div>
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15:5-8 John sees the temple of the testimony/covenant opened and the seven angels standing ready. The temple contained the covenant or law of God which the earth had ignored, and now payback was coming. One of the four living creatures gives each angel a golden bowl/vial containing a full measure of the wrath of the God who lives/reigns forever. The plagues (described in the next chapter are similar, but not identical to those poured out on Egypt). The temple was filled with the smoke from the glory of God, and no one can enter the temple (for intercession) until the judgments were finished, indicating the certainty of the judgment. In the OT God would relent when people repented. The time for repenting was past (9:20-21; 16:9-11) and now only judgment remained for those who continued to rebel against God. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: God is holy and righteous in all He does; if we experience His discipline, it is because we chose it, but ignoring His warnings and calls to repentance.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, You are holy, righteous and just in all You do; help me be sensitive to what You want me to do, so I reap Your blessings rather than judgment. Amen.</div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God has purposed to bless those who are loyal to Him, and judge those who reject Him. The choice of consequence is ours. His sovereignty is demonstrated in attaching consequences to our actions, and giving us the freedom to choose. God is holy, righteous and just in all His ways, and will be worshiped by all the earth eventually. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus redeems men from the earth and reaps the harvest of those who trust Him. He is the Son of Man to whom all authority is given, and He exercises it to the glory of God.</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Fearing God (being careful to do what is right in His sight) and seeking to glorify His name (by doing His will above anything else) are good ways to demonstrate our loyalty and faithfulness to Him. Those who suffer for Him, will be glad they did. Those who don't fear and glorify Him will suffer. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-13348764762675031802012-08-27T01:31:00.003-04:002014-10-27T07:23:17.241-04:00Revelation 8-11 Seven Trumpets Sound <div class="new-post-style">
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<b>Revelation 8-11 Seven Trumpets Sound</b></div>
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<b>TMS Philippians 2:3-4 <u>Other-centeredness</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OKi8RKeQO24/UDrN3AEDCYI/AAAAAAAAFAE/_wn9QIGuS-g/s1600/Shellfish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OKi8RKeQO24/UDrN3AEDCYI/AAAAAAAAFAE/_wn9QIGuS-g/s200/Shellfish.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><i>Phil 2:1 Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, </i> </div>
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<i>if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, </i> </div>
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<i>2 fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, </i> </div>
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<i>being of one accord, of one mind.</i></div>
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<i>3 Let <u>nothing</u> be done through <u>selfish</u> <u>ambition</u> or <u>conceit</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but in <u>lowliness</u> of <u>mind</u> </i> </div>
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<i>let each <u>esteem</u> others <u>better</u> than himself.</i></div>
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<i>4 Let each of you look out <u>not</u> <u>only</u> for his <u>own</u> <u>interests</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but also for the <u>interests</u> of <u>others</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:3-4 Because of what we have in union with Christ, believers have a basis for unity. That unity is developed by considering others as more important than ourselves, and destroyed by selfish ambition (wanting what we want without regard for how it affects others) and conceited behavior (literally “vain/empty glory”). The trick to considering others more important than ourselves is recognizing that when it comes to being rewarded (as Christ was in the rest of the chapter, whose mindset we are exhorted to embrace) they are. Jesus said that if we wanted to be great, we needed to be a servant of others. It was because of His service of all (Phil 2:9) that God exalted Him above all. So we don't totally neglect our needs (if we do, we will not be in any condition to serve others), but we look out for what is in their best interest, even if it means sacrificing our desires (definition of love). God will make it up to us.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Loving our neighbor as ourselves means looking out for their interests and benefits to at least the degree that we do so for ourselves. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord, help me develop a sensitivity to the needs of others, and recognize the importance of serving them as You have me. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 8-11</b> This section covers the seven trumpet judgments which comprise the seventh seal on the title deed to the earth. The judgments result in the destruction of a third of the earth and half of its population. The cumulative effect of the catastrophes should cause those experiencing the Tribulation to repent, but not many do. Two witnesses testify to the nation of Israel with fire and plagues; when their ministry is concluded, they are overcome by the Beast and killed, but God resurrects them and calls them to heaven. The seventh trumpet sounds and the kingdom of the world becomes the Kingdom of God. John is seeing individual events, in sequence. All these events are obviously future, and are specific, not mere symbols for the general triumph of good over evil. </div>
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<b>Revelation 8 <u>Trumpets and Woes</u></b></div>
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<i>8:1 When he opened the <u>seventh seal</u>, there was <u>silence</u> in heaven for about <u>half an hour</u>. 2 I <u>saw</u> the <u>seven</u> <u>angels</u> who stand before God, and <u>seven</u> <u>trumpets</u> were <u>given</u> to them. 3 <u>Another</u> <u>angel</u> came and stood over <u>the</u> altar, having a golden <u>censer</u>. Much <u>incense</u> was given to him, that he should <u>add</u> it to the <u>prayers</u> of all the <u>saints</u> on the <u>golden altar</u> which was before the <u>throne</u>. 4 The <u>smoke</u> of the <u>incense</u>, with the <u>prayers</u> of the <u>saints</u>, went up before <u>God</u> out of the angel’s hand. 5 The angel took the <u>censer,</u> and he filled it with the <u>fire</u> of the <u>altar</u>, and threw it on the <u>earth</u>. There followed <u>thunders</u>, <u>sounds</u>, <u>lightnings</u>, and an <u>earthquake</u>. 6 The <u>seven</u> <u>angels</u> who had the <u>seven</u> <u>trumpets</u> prepared themselves to <u>sound</u>.</i></div>
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<i>7 The <u>first</u> <u>sounded</u>, and there followed <u>hail</u> and <u>fire</u>, mixed with <u>blood</u>, and they were thrown to the earth. <u>One third</u> of the earth was <u>burnt</u> up, and one <u>third</u> of the <u>trees</u> were <u>burnt</u> up, and <u>all</u> <u>green</u> <u>grass</u> was burnt up. </i> </div>
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<i>8 The <u>second</u> angel <u>sounded</u>, and something <u>like</u> a great <u>burning</u> <u>mountain</u> was thrown into the <u>sea</u>. One <u>third</u> of the <u>sea</u> became <u>blood</u>, 9 and one <u>third</u> of the living <u>creatures</u> which were in the sea <u>died</u>. One <u>third</u> of the <u>ships</u> were <u>destroyed</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>10 The <u>third</u> angel <u>sounded</u>, and a great <u>star</u> fell from the <u>sky</u>, <u>burning</u> like a torch, and it fell on one <u>third</u> of the <u>rivers</u>, and on the <u>springs</u> of the waters. 11 The name of the <u>star</u> is called "<u>Wormwood</u>." One <u>third</u> of the waters became <u>wormwood</u>. Many people <u>died</u> from the <u>waters</u>, because they were made <u>bitter</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>12 The <u>fourth</u> angel <u>sounded</u>, and one <u>third</u> of the <u>sun</u> was <u>struck,</u> and one <u>third</u> of the <u>moon,</u> and one <u>third</u> of the <u>stars;</u> so that one <u>third</u> of them would be <u>darkened</u>, and the <u>day</u> wouldn’t <u>shine</u> for one <u>third</u> of it, and the <u>night</u> in the <u>same</u> way. 13 I saw, and I heard an <u>eagle</u>, flying in mid heaven, <u>saying</u> with a loud voice, "<u>Woe</u>! <u>Woe</u>! <u>Woe</u> for those who <u>dwell</u> on the earth, because of the other <u>voices</u> of the <u>trumpets</u> of the <u>three</u> <u>angels</u>, who are <u>yet</u> to <u>sound</u>!"</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 8:1-6 When the seventh seal is opened, there is silence. It could signify a pause in the progression, or emphasize the impending doom. In the OT there was a pause between the sacrifices being offered, and the incense and prayers being offered. Seven angels with trumpets are revealed in the seventh seal. Then in a scene very similar to Ezekiel 10 (when the glory departed from the temple) an angel took coals from the altar and scatters them on the earth, followed by all kinds of disasters. It's possible that the judgments are in response to the prayers of the saints who are being persecuted during the Tribulation or who had been previously martyred (cf Rev 6:10).</div>
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8:7 The first trumpet results in a third of the earth and its vegetation being destroyed.</div>
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8:8-9 The second trumpet summons something like a burning mountain which destroys a third of the seas and ships.</div>
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8:10-11 The third trumpet causes a great star to fall, named Wormwood, which poisons a third of the rivers and streams and results in many deaths, of an unspecified number of people.</div>
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8:12-13 The fourth trumpet wipes out a third of the sun, moon, and stars. An eagle (could also be translated “vulture”) flies by with more bad news, a triple “Woe” for those who dwell on earth. Woe means bad news. There are some double woes (Exek 16:23), but this is triple woe is really bad news for the people, since they will be harmed directly. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Judgment comes from the presence of God as a function of His justice. Just like He destroyed the OT temple for the Israel's rejection of Him, so too, He destroys the nations and earth for rejecting His revelation. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, may I live so that I experience Your blessings rather than Your cursings. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 9 <u>Torment and Death of Sinners</u></b></div>
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<i>9:1 The <u>fifth</u> angel <u>sounded</u>, and I saw a <u>star</u> from the <u>sky</u> which had <u>fallen</u> to the earth. The <u>key</u> to the <u>pit</u> of the <u>abyss</u> was given to him. 2 He <u>opened</u> the <u>pit</u> of the <u>abyss</u>, and <u>smoke</u> went up out of the <u>pit</u>, like the smoke from a burning <u>furnace</u>. The <u>sun</u> and the <u>air</u> were <u>darkened</u> because of the <u>smoke</u> from the <u>pit</u>. 3 Then out of the <u>smoke</u> came forth <u>locusts</u> on the earth, and <u>power</u> was given to them, as the <u>scorpions</u> of the earth have <u>power</u>. 4 They were told that they should not <u>hurt</u> the <u>grass</u> of the earth, neither any <u>green</u> <u>thing</u>, neither any <u>tree</u>, but only those <u>people</u> who don’t have <u>God’s</u> <u>seal</u> on their <u>foreheads</u>. 5 They were given <u>power</u> <u>not</u> to <u>kill</u> them, but to <u>torment</u> them for <u>five</u> <u>months</u>. Their torment was like the torment of a <u>scorpion</u>, when it strikes a person. 6 In <u>those days</u> people <u>will</u> <u>seek</u> <u>death</u>, and will in <u>no</u> way <u>find</u> it. They will <u>desire to die</u>, and <u>death</u> will <u>flee</u> <u>from them</u>. 7 The shapes of the <u>locusts</u> were like <u>horses</u> prepared for <u>war</u>. On their <u>heads</u> were something like golden <u>crowns</u>, and their faces were like <u>people’s</u> <u>faces</u>. 8 They had <u>hair</u> like <u>women’s</u> hair, and their <u>teeth</u> were like those of <u>lions</u>. 9 They had <u>breastplates</u>, like breastplates of <u>iron</u>. The <u>sound</u> of their <u>wings</u> was like the sound of <u>chariots</u>, or of many <u>horses</u> rushing to <u>war</u>. 10 They have <u>tails</u> like those of <u>scorpions</u>, and <u>stings</u>. In their tails they have power to <u>harm</u> men for <u>five</u> <u>months</u>. 11 They have <u>over</u> them as <u>king</u> the <u>angel of the abyss</u>. His name in Hebrew is "<u>Abaddon</u>," but in Greek, he has the name "<u>Apollyon</u>." 12 The first <u>woe</u> is past. Behold, there are still <u>two</u> <u>woes</u> <u>coming</u> after this.</i></div>
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<i>13 The <u>sixth</u> angel <u>sounded</u>. I heard a voice from the <u>horns</u> of the golden <u>altar</u> which is before God, 14 saying to the <u>sixth</u> angel who had one <u>trumpet</u>, "<u>Free</u> the <u>four</u> <u>angels</u> who are <u>bound</u> at the great river <u>Euphrates</u>!" 15 The <u>four</u> <u>angels</u> were <u>freed</u> who had been <u>prepared</u> for that <u>hour</u> and <u>day</u> and <u>month</u> and <u>year</u>, so that they might <u>kill</u> <u>one third</u> of <u>mankind</u>. 16 The <u>number</u> of the <u>armies</u> of the <u>horsemen</u> was <u>two hundred million</u>. I heard the <u>number</u> of them. 17 Thus I saw the <u>horses</u> in the <u>vision</u>, and those who <u>sat</u> on them, having <u>breastplates</u> of <u>fiery</u> <u>red</u>, hyacinth <u>blue</u>, and sulphur <u>yellow</u>; and the <u>heads</u> of <u>lions</u>. Out of their <u>mouths</u> proceed <u>fire</u>, <u>smoke</u>, and <u>sulphur</u>. 18 By these <u>three plagues</u> were <u>one third</u> of <u>mankind</u> <u>killed</u>: by the <u>fire</u>, the <u>smoke</u>, and the <u>sulphur</u>, which proceeded out of their <u>mouths</u>. 19 For the power of the <u>horses</u> is in their <u>mouths</u>, and in their <u>tails</u>. For their tails are like <u>serpents</u>, and have <u>heads</u>, and with them they <u>harm</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>20 The <u>rest</u> of <u>mankind</u>, who were <u>not</u> <u>killed</u> with these <u>plagues</u>, <u>didn’t</u> <u>repent</u> of the <u>works</u> of their <u>hands</u>, that they <u>wouldn’t</u> <u>worship</u> <u>demons</u>, and the <u>idols</u> of <u>gold</u>, and of <u>silver</u>, and of <u>brass</u>, and of <u>stone</u>, and of <u>wood</u>; which can neither see, nor <u>hear</u>, nor <u>walk</u>. 21 They didn’t <u>repent</u> of their <u>murders</u>, nor of their <u>sorceries</u>, nor of their <u>sexual</u> <u>immorality</u>, nor of their <u>thefts</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 9:1-12 The last three trumpets of the seventh seal are the three “Woes” the eagle announced. When the fifth angel sounded the trumpet, John saw a star which had fallen to the earth. The key to the pit of abyss was given to the “star” and he opened the pit to let loose a swarm of “locusts.” The pit is the temporary prison of demonic angels (2Pt 2:4; Jude 6) and the beast (11:7); Satan will spend a 1,000 years there (20:3) before being tossed into the lake of fire. It turns out the “locusts,“ like something out of a horror movie, have the power to sting like scorpions and torment (but not kill) those who don't have God's mark on their foreheads (7:3-8), for five months. It will be so bad, people will want to die, but death will elude them. A swarm of locust was impossible to stop or evade. The “locusts” appear like warhorses, with crowns and flowing hair; they sting humans and follow a leader, so they are not your basic garden variety locusts, but rather demonic creatures (cf Joel 2:4-6 Day of the Lord). The leader's name means “Destroyer” but is probably not Satan, who makes his grand entrance in chapter 12. The eagle (or perhaps John) makes an editorial comment: “one down, two to go.”</div>
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9:13-19 The sixth angel sounded and a voice from the horns of the altar (where a sacrifice was usually bound) instructs the four bound angels (probably not those in 7:1 due to location differences, and only fallen angels are recorded as being bound), be let loose to kill a third of the earth's population. A quarter of those living on earth after the Rapture had been killed in the fourth seal judgment (Pale Horse -6:8). The timetable of their release had been planned down to the specific hour. Neither man's sin, nor rejection of Christ was a surprise to God. We're not given any information as to when the fallen angels were bound (but it's most likely it happened when Satan rebelled), nor are we given the significance of the specific time in history. John hears that there are two hundred million horsemen, which he then sees spewing three plagues out of their mouths to kill a third of mankind. Like the locusts, these are demonic beings, under control of the four previously bound fallen angels.</div>
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9:20-21 The purpose of these judgments is to execute judgment on those who were rejecting God, but even though people were experiencing wrath, they didn't repent of their idolatry, murders, sorceries, immorality, nor thefts (sins against God and man). Some people just don't learn. </div>
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<i>Ezekiel 18:32 For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies," declares the Lord GOD. "Therefore, repent and live."</i></div>
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<b>Application</b>: God doesn't delight in the death of sinners, but will discipline them unless they repent. Learn at the low volume, and from the mistakes of others. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, may I be sensitive to Your will and discipline, so I am quick to repent when erring. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 10 <u>The Little Book of Revelation</u></b></div>
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<i>10:1 I saw a <u>mighty</u> <u>angel</u> coming down out of the <u>sky</u>, clothed with a <u>cloud.</u> A <u>rainbow</u> was on his <u>head.</u> His face was like the <u>sun</u>, and his feet like <u>pillars</u> of <u>fire</u>. 2 He had in his hand a <u>little</u> <u>open</u> <u>book</u>. He set his <u>right foot</u> on the <u>sea</u>, and his <u>left</u> on the <u>land</u>. 3 He cried with a loud <u>voice</u>, as a lion <u>roars</u>. When he cried, the <u>seven</u> <u>thunders</u> uttered their <u>voices</u>. 4 When the <u>seven thunders</u> <u>sounded</u>, I was about to <u>write</u>; but I heard a voice from the sky saying, "<u>Seal</u> up the <u>things</u> which the <u>seven</u> <u>thunders</u> said, and <u>don’t</u> <u>write</u> them." 5 The <u>angel</u> whom I saw standing on the <u>sea</u> and on the <u>land</u> lifted up his <u>right</u> <u>hand</u> to the sky, 6 and <u>swore</u> by him who <u>lives</u> <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>, who <u>created</u> <u>heaven</u> and the things that are <u>in it</u>, the <u>earth</u> and the things that are <u>in it</u>, and the <u>sea</u> and the things that are <u>in it</u>, that there will <u>no</u> <u>longer</u> be <u>delay</u>, 7 but in the <u>days</u> of the voice of the <u>seventh</u> <u>angel</u>, when he is <u>about</u> to <u>sound</u>, then the <u>mystery</u> of God is <u>finished</u>, as he declared to his <u>servants</u>, the <u>prophets</u>.</i></div>
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<i>8 The <u>voice</u> which I heard from heaven, again speaking with <u>me,</u> said, "<u>Go</u>, take the <u>book</u> which is <u>open</u> in the <u>hand</u> of the <u>angel</u> who <u>stands</u> on the <u>sea</u> and on the <u>land</u>." 9 I went to the <u>angel</u>, telling him to <u>give</u> me the <u>little book</u>. He said to me, "<u>Take</u> it, and <u>eat</u> it up. It will make your <u>stomach</u> <u>bitter</u>, but in your <u>mouth</u> it will be as <u>sweet</u> as <u>honey</u>." 10 I took the <u>little</u> <u>book</u> out of the angel’s hand, and <u>ate</u> it up. It was as <u>sweet</u> as <u>honey</u> in my mouth. When I had eaten it, my <u>stomach</u> was made <u>bitter</u>. 11 They told me, "You must <u>prophesy</u> <u>again</u> over <u>many</u> <u>peoples</u>, <u>nations</u>, <u>languages</u>, and <u>kings</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 10:1-7 John sees a mighty angel with a glorious appearance set a foot on land and the other on the sea. In his hand is a little book/scroll, that was for the entire world to hear (land and sea). The angel cried out with a loud voice and seven thunders replied. John was forbidden to record what he heard. Apparently God is not going to reveal everything until it happens, which might have something to do with the timing of the return of Christ to earth. The angel swears by the Creator that there will no longer be a delay, but that in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, the mystery of God will be completed/brought to fulfillment, as He declared to the prophets. This is a reference to the establishment of the Millennial Kingdom of the Messiah, which occurs at the seventh trumpet (11:15). The mystery (Eph 1) was to sum up everything under the headship of the Messiah which at this juncture is still future. </div>
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10:8-11 John gets told to eat the book, which was sweet to his taste, like honey, but gave him a bitter stomach ache. Like Ezekiel (3:1-11) the word of God was sweet to those receptive to Him, but when they sought to share it with others, they were rejected by them. John is given the revelation (rest of the book) which tells of the triumph of Christ, but it too, until this day, is rejected by most. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Our belief and witness must be based upon God's revelation, which must become part of our lives.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Heavenly Father, I want Your word to be an integral part of all that I do and say. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 11 <u>Two Witnesses and the Seventh Trumpet</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CyruQMGwX9c/UDrPCSFZT9I/AAAAAAAAFAk/I1YCUy14CZI/s1600/two+witnesses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CyruQMGwX9c/UDrPCSFZT9I/AAAAAAAAFAk/I1YCUy14CZI/s1600/two+witnesses.JPG" /></a><i>11:1 A <u>reed</u> like a <u>rod</u> was given to me. Someone said, <u>"Rise,</u> and <u>measure</u> God’s <u>temple</u>, and the <u>altar</u>, and <u>those</u> who <u>worship</u> in it. 2 <u>Leave out</u> the <u>court</u> which is <u>outside</u> of the <u>temple</u>, and <u>don’t</u> <u>measure</u> it, for it has been <u>given</u> to the <u>nations</u>. They will <u>tread</u> the <u>holy</u> <u>city</u> under foot for <u>forty-two</u> <u>months</u>.</i></div>
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<i>3 I will give <u>power</u> to my <u>two</u> <u>witnesses</u>, and they will <u>prophesy</u> <u>one thousand two hundred sixty days</u>, clothed in <u>sackcloth</u>." 4 These are the <u>two olive trees</u> and the <u>two lampstands</u>, standing before the <u>Lord</u> of the <u>earth</u>. 5 If anyone <u>desires</u> to <u>harm</u> them, <u>fire</u> proceeds out of <u>their</u> <u>mouth</u> and <u>devours</u> their <u>enemies</u>. If anyone <u>desires</u> to <u>harm</u> them, he must be <u>killed</u> in this way. 6 These have the <u>power</u> to <u>shut</u> up the <u>sky</u>, that it may <u>not</u> <u>rain</u> during the <u>days</u> of their <u>prophecy</u>. They have <u>power</u> over the <u>waters</u>, to turn them into <u>blood</u>, and to <u>strike</u> the <u>earth</u> with every <u>plague</u>, as often as they <u>desire.</u> 7 When they have <u>finished</u> their <u>testimony</u>, the <u>beast</u> that comes up out of the <u>abyss</u> will make <u>war</u> with them, and <u>overcome</u> them, and <u>kill</u> them. 8 Their <u>dead</u> <u>bodies</u> will be in the street of the <u>great</u> <u>city</u>, which <u>spiritually</u> is called <u>Sodom</u> and <u>Egypt</u>, where also their <u>Lord</u> was <u>crucified</u>. 9 From among the <u>peoples</u>, tribes, languages, and <u>nations</u> people will <u>look</u> at their <u>dead</u> <u>bodies</u> for <u>three and a half days</u>, and will not allow their <u>dead</u> bodies to be laid in a <u>tomb</u>. 10 Those who <u>dwell</u> on the earth <u>rejoice</u> over them, and they will be <u>glad.</u> They will give <u>gifts</u> to <u>one another</u>, because these <u>two</u> <u>prophets</u> <u>tormented</u> those who <u>dwell</u> on the <u>earth</u>. 11 After the <u>three and a half days</u>, the <u>breath</u> of life from <u>God</u> <u>entered</u> into <u>them</u>, and they <u>stood</u> on their <u>feet</u>. Great <u>fear</u> fell on those who <u>saw</u> them. 12 I heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, "<u>Come</u> <u>up</u> <u>here</u>!" They <u>went</u> <u>up</u> into <u>heaven</u> in the cloud, and their <u>enemies</u> <u>saw</u> them. 13 In that <u>day</u> there was a <u>great</u> <u>earthquake</u>, and a <u>tenth</u> of the <u>city</u> <u>fell</u>. <u>Seven thousand</u> people were <u>killed</u> in the <u>earthquake</u>, and the <u>rest</u> were <u>terrified</u>, and gave <u>glory</u> to the <u>God of heaven</u>.</i></div>
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<i>14 The <u>second woe</u> is past. Behold, the <u>third woe</u> <u>comes</u> <u>quickly</u>. 15 The <u>seventh</u> <u>angel</u> <u>sounde</u>d, and <u>great</u> <u>voices</u> in heaven followed, saying, "The <u>kingdom of the world</u> has <u>become</u> the <u>Kingdom of our Lord</u>, <u>and of his Christ</u>. He <u>will reign</u> <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>!" 16 The <u>twenty-four elders</u>, who <u>sit</u> on their <u>thrones</u> before God’s throne, <u>fell</u> on their <u>faces</u> and <u>worshiped</u> God, 17 saying: "We give you <u>thanks</u>, <u>Lord God,</u> the <u>Almighty</u>, the one who <u>is</u> and who <u>was</u>; because you have <u>taken</u> your <u>great power</u>, and <u>reigned</u>. 18 The <u>nations</u> were <u>angry</u>, and your <u>wrath</u> came, as did the <u>time</u> for the <u>dead</u> to be <u>judged</u>, and to <u>give</u> your <u>bondservants</u> the <u>prophets</u>, their <u>reward</u>, as well as to the <u>saints</u>, and those who <u>fear</u> your <u>name</u>, to the <u>small</u> and the <u>great</u>; and to <u>destroy</u> those who <u>destroy</u> the earth." 19 God’s <u>temple</u> that is in <u>heaven</u> was <u>opened</u>, and the <u>ark</u> of the <u>Lord’s</u> <u>covenant</u> was <u>seen</u> in his <u>temple</u>. <u>Lightnings</u>, <u>sounds</u>, <u>thunders</u>, an <u>earthquake</u>, and <u>great</u> <u>hail</u> <u>followed</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 11:1-2 Like Ezekiel in chapter 40, John is told to measure the temple. This is not the Millennial temple which Ezekiel measured, because the outer court of this temple and the Holy City is given to the nations/Gentiles to trample for 42 months. No such fate befalls the Millennial Temple and City, since they are set up after Christ returns. According to Daniel 9:27, the Anti-Christ will make a covenant with the nation of Israel (after the Rapture, and at the beginning of the Tribulation) which will allow them to rebuild the temple. Halfway through the seven year Tribulation (42 months) the Anti-Christ will break his covenant with the nation of Israel and Gentiles will trample the courts of the temple and the Holy City (for another 42 months). The act of measuring the temple, altar, and those who worship is probably a reference to God's ownership (and thus protection) of them, since John is instructed to not measure the part that the nations will defile. </div>
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11:3-14 The temple reference leads into two Spirit empowered witnesses. The lampstands symbolized the light of witnesses to God, which was the role the nation was supposed to play. The design of lampstands was such that they were fueled by oil of the trees (symbolizing never-ending supply, and thus ever-present witness). The two witnesses of this chapter were prophesied in Zechariah 4:11-14. The oil is usually a symbol of the Holy Spirit, who empowers the witness (cf. Acts 1:8). These two witness aren't identified in the text. Elijah and Enoch are two frequently mentioned candidates since neither of them died during their time on earth. Malachi 4:5 prophesied that Elijah return before the Messiah (cf Mt 11:14). Elijah also appeared with Moses on the Mount of Transfiguration (Mt 17:2). The wearing of sackcloth was a mourning over loss and a prophetic call to repentance. The two witnesses would be able to call down fire to protect themselves (as did Elijah in 2Kings 1:10-14). The length of their ministry matches the length of the drought in Elijah's day, so he's the most likely to be a witness to the Jews during the second half of the Tribulation. Enoch is my choice for the second witness (since people are only suppose to die once, and Moses was already dead -Heb 9:27). Enoch had also prophesied of end time events (Jude 1:14). It really doesn't matter who they were, but what does matter is that God still calls the Jewish nation to repentance even in the midst of judgment. The other noteworthy dynamic, is that God let's His servants be overcome by evil (the Beast) when, but not until, their job is done. Then, after they are killed (and the whole town celebrates), God brings them back to life, using their death to glorify Himself. God resurrects them, and calls them up to heaven. He destroys 7000 people and a tenth of the city, and some respond with glorifying (believing in) God. This, in addition to the drought and plagues of the witnesses, constitute the second “woe.” </div>
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This is the first of many references in Revelation to the Beast prophesied by Daniel (7:21). His home was the abyss where the demons were kept and he is energized by Satan (Rev 9:1-3; 13:4). Another editorial comment indicates “two down, one to go.”</div>
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11:15 The seventh trumpet heralds the return of Christ. It is only after the ministry of the two witnesses (and all the preceded) that the kingdom of the world becomes the Kingdom of our Lord God, and the Messiah. Not until then (as in not in our time, nor the NT time) will Christ reign. Within the seventh trumpet are seven bowl or vial judgments that will be poured out as Christ comes to earth (chapter 16). Before and after that, there are a few interludes describing the Beast, False Prophet, and Satan, as well as Armageddon, and the events that precede the establishment of Christ's rule on earth (19:6) such as the Fall of (Mystery) Babylon. Here the seventh trumpet announces the transfer of kingdoms, and that the Messiah shall reign to the Ages of the Ages. </div>
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11:16-19 The twenty-four elders worship God, who was, is, and is to come because He has taken (perfect tense) His great power and begun to reign (NIV). “Reign” is in the aorist tense, which is the unspecified tense, giving a snapshot of the action, which is usually translated in the past. However, Christ's reign isn't past and over, but as the rest of the book demonstrates, hasn't occurred yet. The aorist is often used to describe future prophetic events, since from the prophet's point of view, they have already happened. Attention to the surrounding context gives insight into how the aorist should be translated. All the actions for which the elders praise God are in the aorist tense: His wrath coming, the judging of the dead, the rewarding of the faithful, and the destruction of those who destroy the earth, yet none of those events have happened, as the future chapters will demonstrate. So here the elders are anticipating the rule of the Messiah. His judging and rewarding are major events of His coming as Isaiah 40:10 and John the Baptist foretold, Jesus predicted, and the other NT authors anticipated as a means of motivating their audiences to obey. The elders specify that the Lord's reward is for those saints who fear His name. The temple of God in heaven was opened, accompanied by elaborate effects. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Fearing God (being careful to do what is right in His sight) is essential to being rewarded, regardless of what may befall us here on earth.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, thanks that Your future return, reign, and reward are guaranteed by Your promises and John's witness; may I be faithful to accomplish Your purposes for my time on earth. Amen.</div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God will judge without mercy those who refuse His mercy. He sends discipline in the hopes that people will repent (and some do). </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is not yet reigning over the earth; He won't begin His Messianic rule until the kingdom of the world becomes the Kingdom of God, at the seventh trumpet.</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Those who fear and serve God will be rewarded. Those who rebel and serve their pleasures will suffer destruction.</div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-31521586095272558102012-08-26T01:31:00.005-04:002014-03-13T22:28:27.418-04:00Romans 12 Transformed Thinking Sermon<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Romans 12 Transformed Thinking </b></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> © 2012 WF Cobb Truthbase.net </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>DailyTruthbase.Blogspot.com</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>I. A Renewed Mind is Necessary for Sacrificial Service and Experiencing the Perfect Will of God.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the <u>mercies</u> of God, that you present your bodies a living/ongoing <u>sacrifice</u>, </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>holy</u>, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable/”of the word” <u>service</u> of worship. <i>(Cf 6:11 reckon dead/alive 12:11 serving)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">2 And do <u>not</u> be <u>conformed</u> to this world, but be <u>transformed</u> </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">by the <u>renewing</u> of your mind, that you may prove/<u>demonstrate</u> what is that <u>good</u> and <u>acceptable</u> and <u>perfect</u> <u>will of God</u>. </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Caterpillar Christians </b>are not much different from they way they were, nor from other worldings (no metamorphosis). They inch along on their own power (rather than riding breezes), blending in (rather than attractively reflecting God's glorious creativity), never rising above the circumstances, eating weeds (rather than sipping nectar), not reproducing. <i>[robot not reprogrammed]</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>A Conformed Mind</b> is bound by old identities and what others think (rather than free to be what God wants them to be), selfishly views itself as the center of the universe, lives for immediate gratification of senses (no spiritual insight nor eternal objectives), consumes vs invests.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>A Transformed Mind</b>, renewed by the Truth, is very conscious that this world is not all there is; that a new world is coming in which God rewards righteousness, service, and love; that independence is the essence of sin, and dependence is the essence of delight; makes disciples.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>II. A Renewed Mind Has a Proper View of Oneself in Relationship to the Body</b> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(new identity, focus, and purpose)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to <u>think</u> of himself more <u>highly</u> than he <u>ought</u> to <u>think</u>, but to think <u>soundmindedly</u>, as God has dealt to <u>each</u> one a <u>measure</u> of faith. 4 For as we have <u>many</u> members in <u>one body</u>, but all the <u>members</u> do not have the same <u>function</u>, 5 so we, being many, are <u>one body</u> in Christ, and individually <u>members of one another</u>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>III. A Renewed Mind Serves with Grace by Faith to accomplish God's purposes in building up the Body.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">6 Having then <u>grace-things</u> differing according to the <u>grace</u> that is <u>given</u> to us <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(1Cor 12:11)</span>, let us <u>use</u> them: <i>(saved sinner or serving saint)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to the measure of <u>the</u> faith; </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">7 or ministry/service, let us use it in our ministering/serving; he who teaches, in teaching;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">8 he who encourages/exhorts, in encouragement/exhortation; </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>IV. A Renewed Mind Loves Purely</b><span style="font-size: x-small;"> (sanctifies & sacrifices oneself to do what is in another's highest interest -other-centered)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Love</b>: 9 Let <u>love</u> be <u>without hypocrisy</u>. <u>Abhor</u> what is <u>evil</u>. <u>Cling</u> to what is <u>good</u>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">10 Be kindly <u>affectionate</u> to one another with <u>brotherly</u> <u>love</u>, in honor giving <u>preference</u> to one another;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>1 Peter 1:22 Since you have <u>purified</u> your souls by <u>obedience</u> to the <u>truth</u> through the <u>Spirit</u> for a sincere <u>love</u> for the brothers, <u>love</u> one another fervently from a pure heart, 2 Peter 1:5-7 virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, <u>brotherly</u> love, <u>agape</u> love.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Service/Ministry</b>: 11 not lagging in <u>diligence</u>, <u>fervent</u> in spirit, <u>serving the Lord</u>; (cf 12:1; Matthew 25:40 <i>done to me</i>; John 21:17 <i>feed sheep</i>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">12 <u>rejoicing</u> in hope, <u>patient</u> in tribulation, continuing <u>steadfastly</u> in <u>prayer</u>;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">13 <u>distributing</u> to the needs of the saints, given to <u>hospitality</u>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">14 <u>Bless</u> those who persecute/<u>harass</u> you; <u>bless</u> and do <u>not</u> curse. <i>Colossians 3:13 bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do. Matthew 6:15 if you do not forgive...neither will your Father </i></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">15 <u>Rejoice</u> with those who rejoice, and <u>weep</u> with those who weep.<i> (other-centered emotions)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Unity</b></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">: 16 Be of the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>same</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>mind</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> toward </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>one another</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>1 Corinthians 1:10 I plead with you, by the name of our Lord that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be </i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><u>perfectly</u></i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> joined together in the same mind and in the same </i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><u>judgment</u></i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Do not set your </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>mind</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> on </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>high</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>things</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">, but associate with the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>humble</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. Do not be </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>wise</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> in your </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>own</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>opinion/estimation</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">17 <u>Repay</u> no one evil for evil. Have regard for <u>good</u> things in the <u>sight</u> of <u>all</u> men.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">18 If it is <u>possible</u>, as much as <u>depends</u> on you, live <u>peaceably</u> with <u>all</u> men.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Purity</b>: 19 Beloved, do not <u>avenge</u> yourselves, but rather <u>give</u> place to <u>wrath</u>; it is written, "<u>Vengeance</u> is Mine, I will <u>repay</u>," says the Lord. 20 Therefore "If your enemy is <u>hungry</u>, <u>feed</u> him; If he is <u>thirsty</u>, <u>give</u> him a <u>drink</u>; For in so doing you will <u>heap</u> <u>coals</u> of fire on his head." </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">21 Do not be <u>overcome</u> by <u>evil</u>, but <u>overcome evil</u> with <u>good</u>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">1. Do most believers live like caterpillars or butterflies? How does one undergo metamorphosis? What happens if one doesn't?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">2. Why is independence the essence of sin? Can someone be pleasing to Christ and not a functioning member of His Body (biblical)?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">3. Why do you think the Holy Spirit gave differing grace to believers? How are the grace-things necessary for a Body to function?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">4. Do you have to like someone to love them? Is love an emotion or a decision of the will? What hinders fondness and affection?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">5. How has your life changed in response to the mercy of God? How have you changed others' lives? What help do you need?</span></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-83055981264151614482012-08-25T01:30:00.001-04:002014-03-13T22:25:30.536-04:00Week in ReviewIf you missed the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/jude-and-philemon-truth-and-love.html">Book of Jude</a>, this would be a good time to catch up. Not many are familiar with its contents, nor have they integrated its truth into their thinking/theology, nor lives. Jude has a significant and relevant message for our times.<br />
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A similar thing could be said about the letters to the churches of Revelation. They are as relevant today as when they were written. If you are not an overcomer, a victorious Christian, then this might be a good time to get on the path. Tomorrow's post on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/romans-12-16-butterfly-believers.html">Romans 12</a> will get you off to a good start.Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-75269323869042537762012-08-24T01:08:00.003-04:002014-10-24T08:39:21.649-04:00Revelation 4-7 The Wrath of the Lamb Begins<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS 1John 5:13 </b><u><b>Assurance of Salvation</b></u></div>
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<i>1Jn 5:11 “And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.</i></div>
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</i> <i>13 These things I have <u>written</u> to you </i> </div>
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<i>who <u>believe</u> in the <u>name</u> of the <u>Son of God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that you may <u>know</u> that you <u>have</u> <u>eternal life</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and that you may <u>continue</u> </i> </div>
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<i>to <u>believe</u> in the <u>name</u> of the <u>Son of God</u>. </i> </div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 5:13 Eternal life is given to those who believe in the name of the Son of God. John 1:12 equates believing in His name with receiving or welcoming Him into one's life. Forgiveness for sin is part of the package, given on the basis God's grace, to those who exercise faith in Christ's death for their sins. That forgiveness removes the barrier between us and God so we can have a relationship with Him. Nothing else that we can do provides the relationship. Maintaining and developing the relationship, and not forfeiting the benefits, are another story. We already have the assurance of the justification/forgiveness aspect of our salvation, according to the first half of verse 13. But John writes the epistle, and the second half of verse 13 (which some versions inappropriately omit) to enable us to maintain the benefits of the relationship by continuing to believe. As Jesus said in John 10:10, He came that we “might have life, and have it abundantly.” John wrote in 20:31 that by continuing to believe we will have life in (by means of) His name/power. To “have the Son” in 1John is to have an abiding relationship with Him (see Jn 15 and comments in 1Jn 5:13). Those who continue to believe will reap the benefits of the relationship, including glory/dominion in the Messianic Age. Those who don't continue to believe what God has revealed in Christ, don't lose their forgiveness, but will forfeit the blessings God intends to give those who are loyal and faithful. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Belief in Christ starts the relationship and begets life; continuing to believe brings in the abundant life Christ wants to share with us. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord Jesus, thank You for wanting a relationship with me, may I believe all that You have said, and act accordingly. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 4-7 </b>John gets invited to come up to heaven to see and record what God has planned for the future. The judgments of Revelation are the wrath of the Lamb, who pays back injustice and unrighteousness. This section describes six of the “seven seal judgments” that will occur during the Great Tribulation. In the Pre-millennial view, the Tribulation is the seven year period following the Rapture of the Church and before the Messiah returns to set up His promised Millennial Kingdom (thus the return of Christ is Pre-millennial). The term “Pre-Tribulation” refers to the Rapture of the church occurring before this time of trouble (see comments on 1Thess 4). Like a telescope, contained within the “seventh seal judgment” are “seven trumpet judgments,” and contained in the “seventh trumpet” are “seven vial or bowel judgments.” The cumulative effect of these judgments totally alters earth and life on it as we know it. It is obvious that these judgments are yet future. </div>
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<b>Revelation 4 <u>Worthy is the Lord</u></b></div>
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<i>4:1 <u>After</u> these things I looked and <u>saw</u> a <u>door</u> <u>opened</u> in <u>heaven</u>, and the first <u>voice</u> that I heard, like a <u>trumpet</u> speaking with me, was one saying, "<u>Come up</u> <u>here</u>, and I will <u>show</u> you the things which <u>must happen</u> <u>after</u> this." 2 Immediately I was <u>in the Spirit</u>. Behold, there was a <u>throne</u> set in <u>heaven</u>, and one <u>sitting</u> on the <u>throne</u> 3 that <u>looked like</u> a jasper stone and a sardius. There was a <u>rainbow</u> around the throne, like an emerald to look at. 4 Around the throne were <u>twenty-four</u> <u>thrones</u>. On the thrones were <u>twenty-four</u> <u>elders</u> sitting, dressed in <u>white</u> garments, with <u>crowns of gold</u> on their heads. 5 <u>Out</u> of the <u>throne</u> proceed <u>lightnings</u>, sounds, and thunders. There were <u>seven lamps</u> of <u>fire</u> burning <u>before</u> his <u>throne</u>, which are the <u>seven Spirits of God</u>. 6 <u>Before</u> the <u>throne</u> was something like a sea of <u>glass</u>, similar to crystal. In the <u>midst</u> of the <u>throne</u>, and <u>around</u> the throne were <u>four living creatures</u> full of <u>eyes</u> before and behind. 7 The first creature was like a <u>lion</u>, and the second creature like a <u>calf</u>, and the third creature had a face like a <u>man</u>, and the fourth was like a flying <u>eagle</u>.</i></div>
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<i>8 The <u>four living creatures</u>, each one of them having <u>six</u> <u>wings</u>, are full of <u>eyes</u> around and within. They have no rest day and night, saying, "<u>Holy</u>, <u>holy</u>, <u>holy</u> is the <u>Lord God</u>, the <u>Almighty</u>, who <u>was</u> and who <u>is</u> and who <u>is to come</u>!" </i> </div>
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<i>9 <u>Whenever</u> the living <u>creatures</u> give <u>glory</u>, <u>honor</u>, and <u>thanks</u> to <u>him</u> who sits on the <u>throne</u>, to him who <u>lives</u> forever and ever, 10 the <u>twenty-four</u> <u>elders</u> <u>fall</u> down <u>before</u> him who sits on the throne, and <u>worship</u> him who <u>lives</u> forever and ever, and throw their <u>crowns</u> before the <u>throne</u>, saying, 11 "<u>Worthy</u> are you, our <u>Lord</u> and <u>God</u>, the <u>Holy one</u>, to <u>receive</u> the <u>glory</u>, the <u>honor</u>, and the <u>power</u>, for you <u>created all things</u>, and because of your <u>desire</u> they <u>existed</u>, and were <u>created</u>!"</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 4:1-8 After hearing the contents of the seven letters, John sees a door open in heaven and a voice calling him up there (some see this as an indication of the Rapture), to see the things which must happen according to the plan of God. Being transported in the Spirit to the presence of God like Ezekiel, he sees God on His throne, as did Ezekiel. This vision clearly links the two books, as Ezekiel is also about the establishment of the Messiah's Millennial Kingdom. Thus all that Ezekiel said should be in the back of the reader's mind as they consider Revelation. Daniel 7:9-14 has a somewhat similar vision which fits the next chapter better. The four “living/ruling” creatures are most likely angelic beings, reflective of the aspects of Christ in His roles as king (lion), servant (ox/calf), man, and God (eagle). </div>
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4:9-11 Whenever the four creatures gave glory to God, the elders also worshiped, both by their actions and words which acknowledged that all things were created by and for Him. We're not told the identity of the twenty-four elders in white garments with crowns on their heads. The crowns are golden victors' wreaths, which would designate them as rewarded overcomers, rather than angels (5:11 distinguishes them from angels as well). The next chapter (5:10) indicates that they are representative of those Christ has redeemed from all nations. The twelve apostles were promised thrones and rulership over the twelve tribes of Israel, so the additional twelve could be those who ruled over the Gentiles (rather than OT Patriarchs or prophets or priests), but most opinions are just that since we're not given more specifics. </div>
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<i>Matthew 19:28 So Jesus said to them, "Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” </i></blockquote>
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The elders worship Him who lives (not just exists, but rules or exercises dominion) forever. Those who think that rewards don't matter because “we just give them back to Jesus” are deluded on multiple accounts. </div>
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Having a crown/glory is a means of honoring God. The giving of glory, honor, and thanks is different from the living creatures saying “Holy, Holy, Holy.” When they do, the elders cast (present tense) their crowns before His throne as an acknowledgment of His worthiness to receive glory and honor and power. For a ruler to put their crown under another's feet was to acknowledge not only the other's greater power, but that they ruled by the permission and pleasure of the greater power. Those who fail to overcome and be rewarded will not be able to honor God like this. </div>
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God doesn't want the area in front of His throne to be littered with pointy tipped crowns (stepping on them could be painful). Note that in order to fall down again, they have to get back up and put their crowns back on their head, and resume their duties of ruling, and carrying out God's will (which is why they have thrones in the first place).</div>
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The giving of rulership, authority, and power, means the person giving it, has it, thus when He rewards His faithful servants, God is displaying His hitherto unseen glory. Those who want God to receive the maximum amount of glory, will live so He can display it in rewarding them. </div>
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<i>2Thessalonians 1:10 when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed. 12 that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.</i></blockquote>
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<b>Application</b>: God is worthy of our total worship and allegiance because He is the Creator and thus Owner of all. He is doubly worthy because He not only gave us life, He gave it back to us through His redemption of us, after we forfeited it through sin.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, You are holy, and worthy of all the honor I could ever give You; may I live to bring You glory. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 5 <u>Title Deed to the Earth</u></b></div>
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<i>5:1 I <u>saw</u>, in the <u>right hand</u> of him who sat on the <u>throne</u>, a <u>book/scroll</u> written inside and outside, <u>sealed</u> shut with <u>seven seals</u>. 2 I saw a <u>mighty</u> angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is <u>worthy</u> to open the <u>book</u>, and to <u>break</u> its <u>seals</u>?" 3 <u>No one</u> in heaven <u>above</u>, or <u>on</u> the earth, or <u>under</u> the earth, was <u>able</u> to <u>open</u> the book, or to <u>look</u> in it. 4 And I <u>wept</u> much, because <u>no</u> one was found <u>worthy</u> to open the book, or to look in it. 5 One of the <u>elders</u> said to me, "Don’t weep. Behold, the <u>Lion</u> who is of the <u>tribe of Judah</u>, the <u>Root of David</u>, has <u>overcome</u>; he who <u>opens</u> the <u>book</u> and its <u>seven seals</u>."</i></div>
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<i>6 I saw in the <u>midst</u> of the <u>throne</u> and of the four living <u>creatures</u>, and in the <u>midst</u> of the <u>elders</u>, a <u>Lamb</u> standing, as though it had been <u>slain</u>, having <u>seven horns</u>, and <u>seven eyes</u>, which are the <u>seven</u> <u>Spirits of God</u>, sent out into <u>all</u> the earth. 7 Then he <u>came</u>, and he <u>took</u> it out of the <u>right hand</u> of him who <u>sat</u> on the <u>throne</u>. 8 Now when he had taken the <u>book</u>, the four living <u>creatures</u> and the twenty-four <u>elders</u> <u>fell down</u> before the <u>Lamb</u>, each one having a <u>harp</u>, and golden <u>bowls</u> full of <u>incense</u>, which are the <u>prayers</u> of the <u>saints</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>9 They <u>sang</u> a new <u>song</u>, saying, "You are <u>worthy</u> to take the <u>book</u>, and to <u>open</u> its <u>seals</u>: for you were <u>killed</u>, and <u>redeemed us</u> <u>for</u> God with <u>your blood</u>, out of <u>every</u> <u>tribe</u>, <u>language</u>, <u>people</u>, and <u>nation</u>, 10 and made us <u>kings</u> and <u>priests</u> to our <u>God</u>, and <u>we</u> will <u>reign</u> on <u>earth</u>." </i> </div>
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<i>11 I saw, and I heard something like a voice of many <u>angels</u> around the throne, the living <u>creatures</u>, and the <u>elders</u>; and the <u>number</u> of them was ten thousands of ten thousands, and thousands of thousands; 12 saying with a loud voice, "<u>Worthy</u> is the <u>Lamb</u> who has been <u>killed</u> to receive the <u>power</u>, <u>wealth</u>, <u>wisdom</u>, <u>strength</u>, <u>honor</u>, <u>glory</u>, and <b>blessing</b>!" 13 I heard <u>every</u> <u>created</u> thing which is <u>in</u> heaven, <u>on</u> the earth, <u>under</u> the earth, <u>on</u> the sea, and everything <u>in</u> them, saying, "To <u>him</u> who sits on the <u>throne</u>, <u>and</u> to the <u>Lamb</u> be the <b>blessing</b>, the <u>honor</u>, the <u>glory</u>, and the <u>dominion</u>, <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>! Amen!" 14 The four living <u>creatures</u> said, "Amen!" The <u>elders</u> fell down and <u>worshiped</u> Him that <u>lives</u> forever.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 5:1-5 John sees the Father holding a scroll with seven seals on it. Roman law required that a “will” be authenticated by seven seals from seven witnesses. The scroll is the title deed to the earth which is inherited by Christ as a result of His obedience (Phil 2). He is worthy to open it because He is not only the legal inheritor of the promises made to David (2Sam 7; Ps 89 -Davidic Covenant) and Abraham (Gen 12), but also the faithful “overcomer” (verse 5). John was distraught perhaps because the purposes of God contained in the scroll would be thwarted if no one could open it. One of the elders encouraged John with the fact that the Lion of Judah, the Root of David, had overcome (was victorious) and therefore could open the scroll.</div>
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5:6-10 In the midst of the throne John sees the Lamb that was slain having seven horns (symbols of authority and rulership -cf Daniel's visions), and the sevenfold (abundant and omnipresent) Spirit of God. Jesus came and took the scroll and the four living creatures and the twenty-four praised Him. It's noteworthy that Jesus' reward is not given to Him, but He takes it, as a just recompense, which is highlighted in the chapter. The elders now have bowls of incense, (instead of the crowns which represented their ruling function, John sees them exercising their priestly function) representing the prayers/praises of the saints (holy believers), and harps to accompany their praise. (The less honorable ones had accordions.) They sang a new song, acknowledging the worthiness of Christ to open the scroll/will and execute its provisions. They cite the cause of His worthiness, His death, and highlight what it accomplished, the redemption of people from all nations, and the constitution of them as kings and priests (crowns and incense), to reign with the Messiah upon the earth. Note that this is a vision of the future which had not yet been implemented. </div>
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5:11-14 Then John sees and hears innumerable angels joining in with the elders and living creatures in praising the Lamb who was slain, for His worthiness. He is worthy to receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and blessing (did they miss anything?). Every created thing joins in the praise of God the Father on the throne, and the Lamb, ascribing blessing, honor, glory, and dominion/power to them. The elders fall down (again) and worship Him that lives (exercises dominion) forever (to the Age of Ages).</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Jesus was worthy to be blessed because of His victorious obedience to the Father's will. The same goes for us; we are worthy by virtue of our faithful behavior (Mt 10:38; Eph 4:1).</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord, I praise You for redeeming me; You are worthy of all I could possibly give You; please guide me in being worthy to share in Your kingdom. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 6 <u>Six Seals of the Wrath of the Lamb</u></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wR_C2m-CXOQ/UDbN3DtFq-I/AAAAAAAAE-k/kmJaoI6kv1Q/s1600/rev+4+horseman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wR_C2m-CXOQ/UDbN3DtFq-I/AAAAAAAAE-k/kmJaoI6kv1Q/s200/rev+4+horseman.jpg" height="168" width="200" /></a><i>6:1 I <u>saw</u> that the <u>Lamb</u> opened <u>one</u> of the <u>seven seals</u>, and I <u>heard</u> one of the <u>four living</u> <u>creatures</u> saying, as with a voice of <u>thunder</u>, "<u>Come</u> and <u>see</u>!" 2 And <u>behold</u>, a <u>white horse</u>, and he who sat on it had a <u>bow</u>. A <u>crown</u> was <u>given</u> to him, and he came forth <u>conquering</u>, and to <u>conquer</u>.</i></div>
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<i>3 When he opened the <u>second seal</u>, I heard the <u>second</u> living creature saying, "<u>Come</u>!" 4 Another came forth, a <u>red horse</u>. To him who sat on it was <u>given</u> <u>power</u> to <u>take peace</u> from the <u>earth</u>, and that they should <u>kill</u> <u>one another</u>. There was given to him a <u>great</u> <u>sword</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 When he opened the <u>third seal</u>, I heard the <u>third</u> living creature saying, "<u>Come</u> and <u>see</u>!" And behold, a <u>black horse</u>, and he who sat on it had a <u>balance</u> in his hand. 6 I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, "A quart of <u>wheat</u> for a denarius, and three quarts of <u>barley</u> for a denarius! <u>Don’t</u> damage the <u>oil</u> and the <u>wine</u>!" </i> </div>
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<i>7 When he opened the <u>fourth seal</u>, I heard the <u>fourth</u> living creature saying, "<u>Come</u> and <u>see</u>!" 8 And behold, a <u>pale</u> horse, and he who sat on it, his name was <u>Death</u>. <u>Hades</u> <u>followed</u> with him. <u>Authority</u> over <u>one fourth</u> of the earth, to <u>kill</u> with the <u>sword</u>, with <u>famine</u>, with <u>death</u>, and by the <u>wild</u> animals of the earth was given to him.</i></div>
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<i>9 When he opened the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the <u>souls</u> of those who had been <u>killed</u> for the <u>Word of God</u>, and for the <u>testimony</u> of the <u>Lamb</u> which they <u>had</u>. 10 They <u>cried</u> with a loud voice, saying, "<u>How</u> <u>long</u>, <u>Master</u>, the <u>holy</u> and <u>true</u>, <u>until</u> you <u>judge</u> and <u>avenge</u> <u>our blood</u> on those who <u>dwell</u> on the <u>earth</u>?" 11 A long <u>white</u> <u>robe</u> was given to <u>each</u> of them. They were told that they should <u>rest</u> yet for a <u>while</u>, <u>until</u> their <u>fellow</u> <u>servants</u> and their <u>brothers</u>, who would also be <u>killed</u> even <u>as they were</u>, should <u>complete</u> their <u>course</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>12 I saw when he opened the <u>sixth seal</u>, and there was a <u>great</u> <u>earthquake</u>. The <u>sun</u> became <u>black</u> as sackcloth made of hair, and the <u>whole</u> <u>moon</u> became as <u>blood</u>. 13 The <u>stars</u> of the <u>sky</u> <u>fell</u> to the <u>earth</u>, like a fig tree dropping its unripe figs when it is shaken by a great wind. 14 The <u>sky</u> was <u>removed</u> like a <u>scroll</u> when it is <u>rolled</u> up. <u>Every</u> mountain <u>and</u> island were <u>moved</u> out of their <u>places</u>. 15 The <u>kings</u> of the earth, the <u>princes</u>, the commanding <u>officers</u>, the <u>rich</u>, the <u>strong</u>, and every <u>slave</u> and <u>free</u> person, <u>hid</u> themselves in the <u>caves</u> and in the rocks of the <u>mountains</u>. 16 They told the mountains and the rocks, "<u>Fall</u> on us, and <u>hide</u> us from the <u>face</u> of him who <u>sits</u> on the throne, and from the <u>wrath of the Lamb</u>, 17 for the <u>great day of his wrath</u> has come; and who is able to <u>stand</u>?"</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 6:1 John sees the Lamb undo the seals on the scroll. As each of the first four is opened, a judgment is unleashed upon the earth, commented upon by one of the four living (ruling?) creatures. The four horsemen of the Apocalypse come from this passage, and are an outpouring of the wrath of the Lamb (see verse 17). It should be obvious to any literary or literal interpreter that these have not yet occurred, as well as those who pay attention to the clues in the context (ie, how long until...?). </div>
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6:2 The first is a white horse, a symbol of power, as is the bow, and crown. White implies but doesn't guarantee righteousness. The rider is given authority/permission to conquer, but no more is said about him here. No arrows are mentioned, nor the effect on earth, possibly pointing to a peaceful conquest (cf. Dan 9:27; 1Thess 5:3). </div>
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6:3-4 The second is a red horse, whose rider was given a sword, and power to take peace from the earth, which resulted in people killing each other. Red usually symbolizes blood.</div>
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6:5-6 The third is a black horse, who has a balance scale, used in buying and selling (the word is also for a “yoke” to harness farm animals). Through destruction or manipulation of markets, famine conditions are reached. The prices of wheat and barley are about twenty times the normal price, consuming an entire day's wages. Oil and wine, consumed more by the rich, are not to be touched. </div>
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6:7-8 The fourth is a pale horse ridden by Death, followed by Hades (the grave) who killed a quarter of the earth's population with war, famine, death, and wild animals. There is no record of anything like this in history (see another clearly yet future terror in the sixth seal).</div>
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6:9-11 The fifth seal reveals what should be vengeance and justice, but instead it reveals under the altar (before the throne cf. Ezekiel) the martyrs who had been killed for their faithfulness to the work of God, and the Lamb. They ask how long it will be until they are avenged. Their holy and true Master gives each of them a white robe (glory? cf. 19:8 where it is put for the righteous acts of the saints), and they are told to “rest” for a while until their fellow saints should join them (cf Heb 11:39-40 comments about the future glorification of the NT saints). There will come a time when they are avenged, but it is still future. </div>
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6:12-17 The sixth seal is unprecedented apocalypse of Biblical proportions. It's a global earthquake that moves every mountain, and every island out of its original placement, and which turns the sun black and the moon blood-red. Bunches of stars fall out of the sky to strike the earth like figs shaken from a tree. The sky is rolled back like a scroll (wonder what's under it). Everyone on earth heads for the hills to hide in terror from the face of the God who judges and the wrath of the Lamb. It's payback time and the great day of Christ's wrath has come. Only those rightly related to him can stand. </div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Malachi 3:1...Behold, He is coming," Says the LORD of hosts. 2 " But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner's fire And like launderers' soap. 3 He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi, And purge them as gold and silver, That they may offer to the LORD An offering in righteousness. 4 " Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem Will be pleasant to the LORD, As in the days of old, As in former years. 5 And I will come near you for judgment; I will be a swift witness Against sorcerers, Against adulterers, Against perjurers, Against those who exploit wage earners and widows and orphans, And against those who turn away an alien --- Because they do not fear Me," Says the LORD of hosts.</i></blockquote>
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<b>Application</b>: God will avenge the injustices His servants experience at the proper time. While waiting, we can rest in confidence that His holiness demands justice. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord Jesus, thanks for dying for me, and enabling me to live so as to be spared from the wrath to come. Amen.<br />
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<b>Revelation 7 <u>144,000 and a Whole Lot More</u></b></div>
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<i>7:1 After this, I saw <u>four</u> angels standing at the four <u>corners</u> of the <u>earth</u>, <u>holding</u> the four <u>winds</u> of the earth, so that <u>no</u> wind would <u>blow</u> on the earth, or on the sea, or on any tree. 2 I saw another angel <u>ascend</u> from the <u>sunrise</u>, having the <u>seal of the living God</u>. He cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was <u>given</u> to <u>harm</u> the earth and the sea, 3 saying, "Don’t <u>harm</u> the <u>earth</u>, neither the sea, nor the trees, <u>until</u> we have <u>sealed</u> the <u>bondservants</u> of our <u>God</u> on their <u>foreheads</u>!" 4 I heard the <u>number</u> of those who were <u>sealed</u>, <u>one hundred forty-four thousand</u>, <u>sealed</u> out of <u>every</u> <u>tribe</u> of the children of <u>Israel</u>: 5 of the tribe of <u>Judah</u> were sealed twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Reuben</u> twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Gad</u> twelve thousand, 6 of the tribe of <u>Asher</u> twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Naphtali</u> twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Manasseh</u> twelve thousand, 7 of the tribe of <u>Simeon</u> twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Levi</u> twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Issachar</u> twelve thousand, 8 of the tribe of <u>Zebulun</u> twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Joseph</u> twelve thousand, of the tribe of <u>Benjamin</u> were sealed twelve thousand. </i> </div>
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<i>9 After these things I <u>looked,</u> and behold, a <u>great</u> <u>multitude</u>, which <u>no</u> man could <u>number</u>, out of <u>every nation</u> and of <u>all tribes</u>, <u>peoples</u>, and <u>languages</u>, <u>standing</u> before the <u>throne</u> and before the <u>Lamb</u>, dressed in <u>white</u> <u>robes</u>, with <u>palm</u> <u>branches</u> in their hands. 10 They cried with a loud voice, saying, "<u>Salvation be to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!</u>" 11 <u>All</u> the angels were standing around the <u>throne</u>, the <u>elders</u>, and the <u>four living creatures</u>; and they <u>fell</u> on their <u>faces</u> before his <u>throne,</u> and <u>worshiped</u> God, 12 saying, "Amen! <u>Blessing</u>, <u>glory</u>, <u>wisdom</u>, <u>thanksgiving</u>, <u>honor</u>, <u>power</u>, and <u>might</u>, be to <u>our</u> God <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>! Amen."</i></div>
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<i>13 One of the <u>elders</u> answered, saying to me, "These who are <u>arrayed</u> in <u>white robes</u>, <u>who</u> are they, and from <u>where</u> did they come?" 14 I told him, "My lord, <u>you</u> know." He said to me, "These are those who came <u>out</u> of the <u>great tribulation</u>. <u>They</u> <u>washed</u> their <u>robes</u>, and <u>made</u> them <u>white</u> in the <u>Lamb’s</u> <u>blood</u>. 15 <u>Therefore</u> they are <u>before</u> the <u>throne</u> of God, they <u>serve</u> him <u>day</u> and <u>night</u> in his <u>temple</u>. He who <u>sits</u> on the <u>throne</u> will spread his <u>tabernacle</u> over them. 16 They will <u>never</u> be <u>hungry</u>, neither <u>thirsty</u> any more; <u>neither</u> will the <u>sun</u> beat on them, nor any <u>heat</u>; 17 for the <u>Lamb</u> who is in the <u>midst</u> of the <u>throne</u> <u>shepherds</u> <u>them</u>, and <u>leads</u> them to <u>springs</u> of <u>waters</u> of <u>life</u>. And <u>God</u> will <u>wipe</u> away <u>every tear</u> from <u>their</u> eyes."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 7:1-8 Four angels stand ready to unleash four winds upon the earth to destroy, but another angle ascending from the sunrise (where God's glory shines) has the seal of the living God to make secure the servants of God, first. He seals 144,000 Jewish believers, specified as coming equally from each of the twelve tribes. Sealing was done to identify and protect. No Gentiles are mentioned. </div>
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7:9-17 After the sealing of the 144,000 Jews, John sees an innumerable multitude of people from all nations standing before the throne to serve God and the Lamb. They have white robes (righteousness) and palm branches (cf Jn 12:13; Lev 23:40). The refrain of their praise is similar to that in chapter 5. They are those who came out of the Great Tribulation (of the preceding judgments -Mt 24:21; Jer 30:7; Dan 9:24) and washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb (note they are the active agents). They will no longer suffer, but the Lamb will shepherd them, and God will wipe away every tear (giving them joy instead). </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Those who suffer and serve, even to the point of tears and death, won't regret the sacrifices they have made for Christ. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord Jesus, thanks that You shepherd Your servants, and lead them to springs of living water, where lack is a forgotten memory. Amen.</div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God is the Creator and Sustainer of all, and worthy of all glory and honor. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is worthy to rule and receive all glory and honor with the Father because of His faithful obedience. In His rule He will pour out His wrath on the unjust and ungodly, yet still shepherd those who are loyal to Him.</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We have the responsibility to praise and worship God our entire lives, which isn't just singing songs, but dying for Him daily. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-74968543401202654852012-08-23T01:07:00.003-04:002014-10-24T06:45:08.127-04:00Revelation 1-3 A Peek into Heaven<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS 1 John 3:18 </b><u><b>True Love Loves Truly</b></u></div>
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<i>1 John 3:18 “My little children, </i> </div>
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<i>let us not <u>love</u> in <u>word</u> or in <u>tongue</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but in <u>deed</u> and in <u>truth</u>.”</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 3:18 It's easy to say “I love you” but following through on those words is a lot more difficult. Many say they love Jesus, but how many are actually loyal to Him, and exclusively His? Our love toward others must not be lip service to the concept, but demonstrated in our deeds as well. When was the last time you sacrificed something you wanted to do in order to serve someone else spiritually or materially? When did you last step out of your comfort zone and risk rejection and ridicule to reprove or rebuke a sinning believer? How about sharing your faith or witnessing to your Lord Jesus so they wouldn't spend an eternity separated from Him?</div>
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<b>Application</b>: True love loves truly (according to the truth), whether convenient, comfortable, or welcome.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord, thanks for loving me, and modeling the love You desire me to have towards others; please help me draw on Your strength and grace to love as You've loved me. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 1-3 </b>John gets a trip outside of time to see God's purposes for the earth and believers. He writes of what he saw and heard, and what will be, to encourage believers to be loyal to Christ. This post focuses on the message Jesus revealed to John to give to seven churches in Asia. The accompanying charts under Digging Deeper provide some interesting ways of interpreting the communication to the literal churches. </div>
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<b>Revelation 1 <u>A Peek into Heaven</u></b></div>
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<i>1:1 This is the <u>Revelation</u> of <u>Jesus Christ</u>, which <u>God</u> gave Him to <u>show</u> to His <u>servants</u> the things which <u>must</u> happen soon, which He <u>sent</u> and made known by His <u>angel</u> to His <u>servant</u>, <u>John</u>, 2 who <u>testified to God’s word</u>, and of the <u>testimony</u> of <u>Jesus Christ</u>, about <u>everything</u> that he <u>saw</u>. 3 <b>Blessed</b> is he who <u>reads</u> and those who <u>hear</u> the <u>words</u> of the <u>prophecy,</u> and <u>keep</u> the <u>things that are written in it</u>, for the time is <u>at hand</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>4 John, to the <u>seven</u> <u>assemblies</u> that are in <u>Asia</u>: <u>Grace</u> to you and <u>peace</u>, from God, who <u>is</u> and who <u>was</u> and who <u>is</u> to come; and from the <u>seven</u> <u>Spirits</u> who are <u>before</u> His <u>throne</u>; 5 <u>and</u> from <u>Jesus Christ</u>, the <u>faithful witness</u>, the <u>firstborn</u> of the <u>dead</u>, and the <u>ruler</u> of the <u>kings</u> of the <u>earth</u>. To Him who <u>loves</u> us, and <u>washed</u> us from our <u>sins</u> by <u>His blood</u>; 6 and He <u>made</u> us to be a <u>Kingdom</u>, <u>priests</u> to <u>His</u> <u>God</u> and <u>Father</u>; to <u>Him</u> be the <u>glory</u> and the <u>dominion</u> <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>. Amen. 7 Behold, He is <u>coming</u> with the <u>clouds</u>, and <u>every</u> <u>eye</u> will see Him, including those who <u>pierced</u> Him. <u>All</u> the <u>tribes</u> of the <u>earth</u> will <u>mourn</u> over Him. Even so, Amen. 8 "I am the <u>Alpha</u> and the <u>Omega</u>, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord God, "who <u>is</u> and who <u>was</u> and who <u>is</u> to come, the <u>Almighty</u>."</i></div>
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<i>9 I <u>John</u>, your <u>brother</u> and <u>partner</u> with you in <u>oppression</u>, the <u>Kingdom</u>, and <u>steadfastness</u> in <u>Christ Jesus</u>, was on the isle that is called <u>Patmos</u> <u>because</u> of God’s <u>Word</u> and the <u>testimony</u> of Jesus Christ. 10 I was <u>in the Spirit</u> on the <u>Lord’s day</u>, and I <u>heard</u> behind me a loud <u>voice</u>, like a <u>trumpet</u>... 11 saying, "<u>What</u> you <u>see</u>, <u>write</u> in a book and <u>send</u> to the <u>seven</u> <u>assemblies</u>: to <u>Ephesus</u>, <u>Smyrna</u>, <u>Pergamum</u>, <u>Thyatira</u>, <u>Sardis</u>, <u>Philadelphia</u>, and to <u>Laodicea</u>." 12 I turned to <u>see</u> the voice that spoke with me. Having turned, I saw <u>seven golden lampstands</u>. 13 And <u>among</u> the lampstands was One like a <u>Son of Man</u>, clothed with a <u>robe</u> reaching down to His feet, and with a golden <u>sash</u> around His chest. 14 His <u>head</u> and His <u>hair</u> were <u>white</u> as white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a <u>flame of fire</u>. 15 His <u>feet</u> were like burnished brass, as if it had been refined in a furnace. His voice was like the <u>voice</u> of many waters. 16 He had <u>seven stars</u> in His <u>right hand</u>. Out of His <u>mouth</u> proceeded a sharp <u>two-edged sword</u>. His <u>face</u> was like the <u>sun</u> shining at its <u>brightest</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>17 When I <u>saw</u> Him, I <u>fell</u> at His feet like a <u>dead</u> man. He <u>laid</u> His right <u>hand</u> on me, saying, "<u>Don’t be afraid</u>. I am the <u>First</u> and the <u>Last</u>, 18 and the <u>Living One</u>. I <u>was dead</u>, and behold, I <u>am alive</u> <u>forevermore</u>. Amen. I have the <u>keys</u> of <u>Death</u> and of <u>Hades</u>. 19 <u>Write</u> therefore the things which you have <u>seen</u>, and the things which <u>are</u>, and the things which <u>will happen</u> hereafter; 20 the <u>mystery</u> of the <u>seven stars</u> which you saw in My right hand, and the <u>seven golden lampstands</u>. The seven stars are the <u>angels</u> of the <u>seven</u> <u>assemblies</u>. The seven <u>lampstands</u> are seven <u>assemblies</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-3 John introduces the book with a statement of its contents and origin. It is revelation of what must take place (because it is God's plan) concerning Jesus Christ. John sees these things happening. Envision the events of time as occurring linearly on a table, from one end to the other. God is outside of time, seeing the end from the beginning, and everything in between, all at once. As an infinite, transcendent being, He is outside of time. Most questions about what God knows and does are raised by time-bound humans who can't see (or think) beyond their own finite perspective. John gets to view aspects of our reality from God's perspective, as they unfold sequentially from the human perspective. At the end of the book he sees the heavenly Jerusalem descending on a new earth. Obviously this is yet future from our time-bound perspective, but is already a reality from God's point of view. </div>
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Blessing is promised to the ones who read or hear, and keep or hold on to the words of this book. That means there will be things to do or obey, which if followed will result in blessing, and which, if ignored, will result in lack of blessing. The certainty of the return of the Lord Jesus the Messiah, to reward His faithful servants, and set up the rule of His Millennial Kingdom, should serve as motivation to be faithful until He returns. The Judgment is certain, John has already seen it. </div>
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1:4-8 John writes the seven assemblies/churches in Asia, wishing them the covenantal blessings of grace and peace from God, who is described in past, present, and future aspects, and from the seven Spirits before His throne, and from Jesus the Messiah, who is, among other things: the faithful witness (to God's will/revelation), the firstborn from the dead (which means there are more to come), and the ruler of the kings of the earth (these three descriptions might match the time designations of the Father). John ascribes glory to Jesus, who loves the readers, and washed them from their sins by His own blood, so that they could be priests to God. Jesus is coming with clouds (as promised in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-23-25-end-time-parables.html">Matthew 24:30</a>; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-26-28-make-disciples.html">26:64</a>) and every eye will see Him (which obviously hasn't happened yet, nor has the mourning). He is the Alpha and Omega (beginning of the alphabet and the end, encompassing all that is in between). He was, is, and is to come, matching the description of the Father (1:4), and sharing the title of the Almighty. Trinitarianism anyone?</div>
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1:9-16 John describes himself as a fellow-sharer/partaker with his readers in the affliction (he was exiled to Patmos), Kingdom (used 7 times in the book), and steadfast endurance (used 7 times in the book). His exile was due to his adherence to God's word and proclaiming the testimony/witness about Jesus the Messiah. He was the only apostle to not be martyred. He was “in the Spirit” probably as in praying in the Spirit on the Lord's Day, and heard a voice telling him to write what he sees and send it to the churches noted. They are in Asia, listed in a clockwise order (see map). When John looked, he saw seven golden lampstands, which stood for the seven churches (1:20). In the midst of the lampstands was One like the Son of Man in His glory. The seven stars in His hand are messengers or angels (same word since angels frequently delivered messages) of the churches. Considering this is a scene in heaven, the likely interpretation is that these are angelic beings, like guardian angels for the churches. Although because of the symbolism, of the lampstands being churches (that give God's light to those around them as Israel was supposed to do in the OT as symbolized by the lampstand in the Tabernacle and Temple), the stars might be emblematic or a symbolic “personification” of the message. They will show up again in the next two chapters. </div>
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Out of the mouth of Jesus proceeded a two-edged sword (the judging word of God - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-4-7-falling-away-or-following.html">Hebrews 4:12</a>; Revelation 2:12).</div>
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1:17-20 John does what any of us would do when confronted with the glory of God, and Jesus touched him (to revive and strengthen him), and elaborates on His identity and John's task. Jesus affirms that He is the Beginning and End (for whom all exists - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/colossians-1-2-pleasing-god.html">Colossians 1:16</a>), who was alive, dead, and alive again, permanently. He has the keys (power over) to Death and Hades (and all contained therein). He gives John the outline for what he is to write:</div>
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<li>what he has seen (this chapter);</li>
<li>what is (the letters to the seven churches in the next two chapters);</li>
<li>what will be (in the future).</li>
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Jesus then provides the interpretation of the stars and lampstands as noted above.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Jesus is in His glory, but has yet to come back to set up His kingdom and rule, but He will. In the meantime, He has expectations for those who believe in Him, that they would persevere and serve God as priests, offering Him what is pleasing in His sight.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord Jesus, You are the Exalted One, who died to cleanse me from my sin, and enable me to serve You; may I be faithful to accomplish the tasks for which You have me on earth. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 2-3</b> Each of the letters follows a pattern of evaluation, and commendation or condemnation of the church and those in it. Jesus says (through the Spirit) that He knows the works of the believers, and evaluates them. He knows the conditions under which they live, and takes everything into account. Those sinning are urged to repent and a promise of blessing is held out to those who become <u>overcomers</u>. A promise of judgment is held out to those who don't repent. This judgment of believers is for rewards or punishment. It is not about faith in Jesus' death for them (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/08/genesis-3-games-in-garden.html">the justification aspect</a> of salvation), but their sanctification and glorification. Jesus issued His calls to discipleship to those who had ears to hear, meaning those who were willing to listen. Each message ends with the same call. See the Chart here, and under Digging Deeper.</div>
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When a king in the Ancient Near East would return from conquering new territories, he could reward his faithful servants with rulership (power), priesthood (pleasure - the best food, music, and architecture), and riches, land, or possessions. These are similar to the basic motivations of power, pleasure and possessions, with which we are created and by which we are tempted (compare the temptation of Eve with that of Christ - see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/1john-1-2-fellowship-with-god-and-man.html">1 John 2:16</a>). When our Lord returns and sets up His Kingdom, He will reward faithful saints in a similar manner. </div>
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<b>Revelation 2 <u>Overcome for Glory and Blessing</u></b></div>
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<i>2:1 To the <u>angel</u> of the <u>assembly</u> in <u>Ephesus</u> write: "He who holds the <u>seven</u> <u>stars</u> in His <u>right</u> <u>hand,</u> He who <u>walks</u> among the seven golden <u>lampstands</u> says <u>these</u> things": 2 "I know your <u>works</u>, and your <u>toil</u> and <u>perseverance</u>, and that you <u>can’t tolerate</u> <u>evil</u> men, and have <u>tested</u> those who call themselves <u>apostles</u>, and they are <u>not</u>, and found them <u>false</u>. 3 You have <u>perseverance</u> and have <u>endured</u> for My <u>name’s</u> sake, and have <u>not grown</u> <u>weary</u>. 4 But I have <u>this</u> <u>against you</u>, that you left your <u>first love</u>. 5 <u>Remember</u> therefore from where you have <u>fallen</u>, and <u>repent</u> and <u>do</u> the first <u>works</u>; <u>or else</u> I am <u>coming</u> to you swiftly, and will <u>remove</u> your <u>lampstand</u> out of its place, <u>unless</u> you <u>repent</u>. 6 But this you <u>have</u>, that you <u>hate</u> the <u>works</u> of the <u>Nicolaitans</u>, which I also <u>hate</u>. 7 He who has an <u>ear</u>, let him <u>hear</u> what the <u>Spirit</u> says to the <u>assemblies</u>. To him who <u>overcomes</u> I will give to <u>eat</u> of the <u>tree of life</u>, which is in the <u>Paradise</u> of my <u>God</u>."</i></div>
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<i>8 To the <u>angel</u> of the <u>assembly</u> in <u>Smyrna</u> write: "The <u>First</u> and the <u>Last</u>, who was <u>dead</u>, and has <u>come</u> to <u>life</u> says these things": 9 "I <u>know</u> your <u>works,</u> <u>oppression</u>, and your <u>poverty</u> (but you are <u>rich</u>), and the <u>blasphemy</u> of those who <u>say</u> they are <u>Jews</u>, and they are <u>not</u>, but are a <u>synagogue</u> of <u>Satan</u>. 10 <u>Don’t be afraid</u> of the things which you are about to <u>suffer</u>. Behold, the <u>devil</u> is about to <u>throw</u> some of you into <u>prison</u>, that you may be <u>tested</u>; and you will have <u>oppression</u> for <u>ten</u> <u>days</u>. Be <u>faithful to death</u>, and I will <u>give</u> you the <u>crown of life</u>. 11 He who has an <u>ear</u>, let him <u>hear</u> what the <u>Spirit</u> says to the <u>assemblies</u>. He who <u>overcomes</u> won’t be <u>harmed</u> by the <u>second</u> <u>death</u>."</i></div>
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<i>12 To the <u>angel</u> of the <u>assembly</u> in <u>Pergamum</u> write: "He who has the sharp <u>two-edged</u> <u>sword</u> says these things": 13 "I <u>know</u> your <u>works</u> and <u>where</u> you <u>dwell</u>, where <u>Satan’s throne</u> is. You hold <u>firmly</u> to My <u>name</u>, and didn’t <u>deny</u> <u>My faith</u> in the days of <u>Antipas</u> My <u>witness</u>, My <u>faithful</u> <u>one</u>, who was <u>killed</u> among you, where <u>Satan</u> <u>dwells</u>. 14 But I have a <u>few things</u> <u>against</u> you, because you have there some who hold the <u>teaching</u> of <u>Balaam</u>, who taught <u>Balak</u> to throw a <u>stumbling</u> block before the <u>children</u> of <u>Israel</u>, to <u>eat</u> things <u>sacrificed</u> to <u>idols</u>, and to commit <u>sexual immorality</u>. 15 So you <u>also</u> have some who hold to the teaching of the <u>Nicolaitans</u> likewise. 16 <u>Repent</u> therefore, <u>or else</u> I am <u>coming</u> to you quickly, and I will make <u>war</u> <u>against</u> <u>them</u> with the <u>sword</u> of My <u>mouth</u>. 17 He who has an ear, let him <u>hear</u> what the <u>Spirit</u> says to the <u>assemblies</u>. To him who <u>overcomes</u>, to him I will <u>give</u> of the <u>hidden manna</u>, and I will give him a <u>white stone</u>, and on the stone a <u>new name</u> written, which <u>no</u> one <u>knows</u> but he who <u>receives</u> it."</i></div>
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<i>18 To the <u>angel</u> of the <u>assembly</u> in <u>Thyatira</u> write: "The <u>Son of God</u>, who has His <u>eyes</u> like a <u>flame</u> of fire, and His <u>feet</u> are like burnished <u>brass</u>, <u>says</u> these things": 19 "I <u>know</u> your <u>works</u>, your <u>love</u>, <u>faith</u>, <u>service</u>, patient <u>endurance</u>, and that your <u>last works</u> are <u>more</u> than the <u>first</u>. 20 <u>But</u> I have this <u>against</u> you, that you <u>tolerate</u> your woman, <u>Jezebel</u>, who calls herself a <u>prophetess</u>. She teaches and <u>seduces</u> My servants to commit <u>sexual</u> <u>immorality</u>, and to <u>eat</u> things <u>sacrificed</u> to <u>idols</u>. 21 I gave her <u>time</u> to <u>repent</u>, but she <u>refuses</u> to <u>repent</u> of her <u>sexual</u> <u>immorality</u>. 22 Behold, I will <u>throw</u> her into a <u>sickbed</u>, <u>and</u> those who commit <u>adultery</u> with her into <u>great affliction</u>, unless they <u>repent</u> of <u>her</u> <u>works</u>. 23 I will <u>kill</u> her <u>children</u> with <u>Death</u>, and all the <u>assemblies</u> will <u>know</u> that I am He who <u>searches</u> the <u>minds</u> and <u>hearts.</u> <u>I will give to each one of you according to your deeds</u>. 24 But to you I say, to the <u>rest</u> who are in Thyatira, as many as <u>don’t</u> have this <u>teaching</u>, who <u>don’t</u> know what some call ‘the <u>deep</u> things of <u>Satan</u>,’ to you I say, I am <u>not</u> <u>putting</u> any <u>other</u> <u>burden</u> on you. 25 Nevertheless, <u>hold</u> that which you have <u>firmly</u> <u>until I come</u>. 26 He who <u>overcomes</u>, and he who <u>keeps</u> My <u>works</u> to the <u>end</u>, to him I will give <u>authority</u> over the <u>nations</u>. 27 He will <u>rule</u> them with a <u>rod of iron</u>, <u>shattering</u> them like <u>clay</u> pots; as I <u>also</u> have <u>received</u> of My Father: 28 and I will <u>give</u> him the <u>morning</u> <u>star</u>. 29 He who has an <u>ear</u>, let him <u>hear</u> what the <u>Spirit</u> says to the <u>assemblies</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:1-7 The church at Ephesus had a lot going for it. It was the best taught church in the New Testament (see introduction to <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-1-eternal-plan-of-god.html">Ephesians</a>). Both Paul and John ministered there. As a result they knew the truth, and repulsed the onslaught of false teachers seeking to undermine it. They persevered and endured persecution for the name/glory of the Lord, and didn't give up. Yet there was a fault Christ found in them, which would result in loss of their light/glory if they didn't repent and overcome it. The condemnation was that they left or abandoned their first or priority love. Too many preachers/pastors who have been busy doing “ministry” at the expense of abiding in the Vine, have erroneously taught that this passage means the Ephesians had stopped loving Jesus. This is classic projectionism (thinking everyone has your problem). In <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-1-eternal-plan-of-god.html">Ephesians 1</a> Paul writes that the believers are to be blameless in their love for each other, and then throughout the book (at least eight times) exhorts them to love each other (not the Lord; cf <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/john-13-17-joyful-and-fruitful.html">John 13:34-35</a>). If the believers at Ephesus did not repent and love each other as Jesus wanted, they would lose their witness/light. Notice that the corrective is to repent and do works, not believe, to gain forgiveness, so the issue is not justification by faith, but rather sanctification (as is the case in most NT admonitions).</div>
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An additional commendation (sandwich rebuke) is given for their hatred of the works of the Nicolaitans. No one knows with certainty who these are or what were their deeds (they show up again in 2:15 as distinct from, not similar to, the doctrine of Balaam), but the etymology or derivation of the word yields two options. <i>Nikao</i> means “victory” or “to conquer” and <i>laos</i> means “people” or “laity.” <span style="font-family: inherit;">So it could mean “victory of the people” or “conquer the people or laity.” The former would refer to some anti-authoritarian anti-nominalism (anti-law), which would result in recognizing no Biblical authority or restraints on a believer's behavior. The latter would result in just the opposite, the imposition of a leadership hierarchy on the people as would surface as a distinction between the laity and “clergy,” with abuses of authority. Both were real problems then, and today, as people have trouble submitting to others, and power corrupts. Either flaw should be avoided, but neither might be the issue Christ addressed. A third option is that they were followers of Nicolas, a deacon in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/acts-4-7-obeying-god-rather-than-man.html">Acts 6:5</a>, of whom nothing else is known. Those who overcame or were victorious (same word as “niko”) over the flaw of failing to love their brothers and sisters in Christ, and became blameless in love (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-1-eternal-plan-of-god.html">Ephesians 1:4</a> KJV/NKJV) would be rewarded with the right to eat/partake of the tree of life, which is in the Paradise of God. Christ's desire is that believers be victorious overcomers, and only those are rewarded. Eating of the tree of life cannot be equivalent to getting one's sins forgiven, since it is a reward based upon works. The tree first appeared in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-1-whats-first-thing-god-said.html">Genesis 1:26</a>, sin deprived man from eating of it (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/08/genesis-3-games-in-garden.html">Genesis 3:22</a>) so they would not eat of it and live (in a glorified state) forever; and only glorified saints will have access to it again in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-21-22-new-heavens-and-earth.html">Revelation 22:14</a>, to use the leaves for the healing of the nations over which they rule. The understanding of “live” in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/08/genesis-3-games-in-garden.html">Genesis 3:22</a> and “life” is not mere continuous existence (for that is the destiny of all human and angelic life forms) but that of having glory and exercising dominion (as discussed in comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/08/genesis-3-games-in-garden.html">Genesis 3</a> and <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/11/deuteronomy-30-31-choose-life-or-die.html">Deuteronomy</a><a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/11/deuteronomy-30-31-choose-life-or-die.html"> 30:19</a> “choose life that you may live”). To equate “life” with forgiveness of sins, or to say that all believers are “overcomers” is to twist, torture, maim, and kill the context of the passages where the words are found (as well as doing similar harm to justification by faith).</span></div>
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2:8-11 Smyrna was about 40 miles north of Ephesus, the seat of Roman Emperor worship in Asia. Christ knows their works, affliction and poverty (although in His eyes they are rich). They apparently had much opposition from the Jews who really belong to the synagogue of Satan. Jesus has no words of reproof for them, but instead warns them not to be afraid of the persecution which they'll suffer. Satan will use his agents to throw them in prison, and afflict them, even to martyrdom. “Ten days” is probably a symbol for completeness, which would result in death. Those who remain faithful and not deny their loyalty to Christ will receive the crown of life. Crown is a reward (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-8-11-imitate-paul-and.html">1 Corinthians 9:25</a>; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/philippians-3-4-secrets-of-glory-peace.html">Philippians 4:1</a>; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/1thessalonians-1-2-joy-and-crown.html">1 Thessalonians 2:19</a>; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2timothy-3-4-keeping-faith.html">2 Timothy 4:8</a>); life is dominion. They would rule in Christ's kingdom. Those who overcome and are victorious through the trials would not be harmed by the second death (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20</a>). The second death is the lake of fire (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20:14</a>). The portion (inheritance) of the unfaithful is burned up in the lake of fire (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-21-22-new-heavens-and-earth.html">Revelation 21:8</a>). Interpreting this any other traditional way necessitates being victorious and overcoming all sin in order to have one's sins forgiven, an impossible position to defend Biblically. Equally impossible is the common but erroneous view that only those who are victorious are those who are born again, which negates faith and grace. These are passages about rewards or inheritance for the holy and victorious. The lack of harm from the second death counterbalances the physical death the martyrs would experience.</div>
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<i><a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/james-1-2-royal-law-of-freedom.html">James 1:12</a> "</i><i><u>Blessed</u></i><i> is the man who endures temptation, for when he has been approved, he will receive the </i><i><u>crown of life</u></i><i>, which the Lord promised to those who love Him."</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/revelation-19-20-return-of-king-of-kings.html">Revelation 20:6</a> “<u>Blessed</u> and holy is he that has his portion in the first resurrection: on such the <u>second</u> <u>death</u> has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall <u>reign</u> with Him a thousand years.”</i></div>
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2:12-17 Pergamum, about fifty five miles from Smyrna was where Satan kept his summer palace, and had more pagan temples than Jesus had disciples. Being a believer there must have been difficult not just because of the persecution, but because of the pervasive pressure to compromise. Christ commends their works and loyalty to the faith and His name, even when Antipas was martyred (we know nothing else about him). However, Jesus did have a few things against them. They had some who held to the teaching of Balaam, who when unable to curse the Israelites, taught Balak to derail God's people by enticing them into sensual pagan worship (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-20-22-first-use-of-worship-in.html">Genesis 22</a> for the difference between Yahweh and pagan worship). Participation in pagan idol worship usually involved feasting and sex, as one acted out the request for fertility. Many temples have excavated large numbers of chambers designed to house temple prostitutes of both sexes. In addition, there were some who held to the teaching of the Nicolaitans (see comments above, and in this context the meaning of “no restraints” would be a close fit). Jesus warns that if they don't repent, He will judge them with the “sword of His mouth” which was the word that said the immoral wouldn't have an inheritance in the kingdom (see comments on 1Cor 6:9-10; Eph 5:5, etc.). Instead of food offered to idols (the eating of which would give the strength of the God), the Messiah would give the hidden/secret manna (the miracle food which sustained Israel in the wilderness), and a white stone with a secret name on it. There are lots of conjectures about the meaning of the stone, many revolving around a white stone used for acquittal in a vote, but that view doesn't take into account the “name having been written on it" (perfect tense). An interpretation which comes close to fitting the context is the use of a stone with a special mark used to admit the possessor to an entertainment event like a play or concert. The counterpoint to pleasure of pagan sex would be the pleasure of entrance into the courts of the God in whose presence is fullness of joy (cx the unfaithful priests in Ezek 44, a key chapter to know in order to understand Revelation, see comments there). </div>
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2:18-29 Thyatira was forty miles south-east of Pergamum, and a center of commerce. Christ knows their works: their love, faith, service, and endurance. They had grown in usefulness to their Master, and were doing more as they matured than at the beginning (a great pattern that isn't always true today). Unfortunately, Jesus finds fault with their toleration (Gasp! Isn't open-mindedness a virtue? Not when sin is involved). It isn't enough to be busy serving the Lord and others, Christ demands purity of His Bride, the church. The assembly was allowing a woman, Jezebel, a false prophetess, probably energized by Satan to gain a following, to lead others astray. She taught and seduced Christ's servants to participate in sensual pagan worship just like at Pergamum above. God graciously gave time for repentance but because of her refusal, will afflict her and those who join with her with disease or sickness (cf 1Cor 11:30-31). When those who are the fruit of her evil are smitten and die, then all the churches will fear, and know that the Lord Jesus evaluates their minds and hearts and will give to each believer according to their deeds (cf 2Cor 5:10 comments). Those who haven't indulged in the “deep things of Satan” (probably the false esoteric knowledge the prophetess promoted as a means to power and success in life) have no other burden except to hold fast to the position they had achieved by their good works listed above, until Jesus returns to set up His kingdom. Those who remain victorious and keep doing Christ's works until the end will be given authority over the nations, to rule as the Messiah does (Ps 2). They will also get the morning star, a reference to partaking in the glory of the Messiah (Malachi 4:2; 2Pt 1:19; Rev 22:16). </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Those who desire the blessing and glory that comes from being faithful to Christ, must overcome the challenges and temptations of sin, to live victoriously now, and in the future. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord Jesus, search my heart and thoughts, and expose my sin, so I can repent of it now, and not miss out on the eternal delights of Your blessings in the future. Thanks. Amen.</div>
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<b>Revelation 3 <u>Losers and Winners</u></b> </div>
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<i>3:1 "And to the <u>angel</u> of the <u>assembly</u> in <u>Sardis</u> write: "He who has the <u>seven</u> <u>Spirits of God</u>, and the <u>seven</u> <u>stars</u> says these things: "I <u>know</u> your <u>works</u>, that you have a <u>reputation</u> of being <u>alive</u>, but you are <u>dead</u>. 2 <u>Wake up</u>, and <u>strengthen</u> the things that <u>remain</u>, which you were <u>about</u> to <u>throw away</u>, for I have found <u>no</u> <u>works</u> of yours <u>perfected</u> before my <u>God</u>. 3 <u>Remember</u> therefore how you have <u>received</u> and <u>heard</u>. <u>Keep</u> it, and <u>repent</u>. If therefore you <u>won’t</u> <u>pay attention</u>, I will <u>come</u> as a <u>thief</u>, and you won’t know what hour I will <u>come</u> <u>upon</u> you. 4 Nevertheless you have a <u>few</u> names in <u>Sardis</u> that did <u>not</u> <u>defile</u> their <u>garments</u>. They will <u>walk</u> with me in <u>white</u>, for they are <u>worthy</u>. 5 He who <u>overcomes</u> will be <u>arrayed</u> in <u>white</u> <u>garments</u>, and I will in <u>no way blot his name out of the book of life</u>, and I will <u>confess</u> his <u>name</u> before my <u>Father</u>, and before his <u>angels</u>. 6 He who has an <u>ear,</u> let him <u>hear</u> what the Spirit <u>says</u> to the <u>assemblies</u>.</i></div>
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<i>7 To the <u>angel</u> of the <u>assembly</u> in <u>Philadelphia</u> write: He who is <u>holy</u>, he who is <u>true</u>, he who has the <u>key</u> of <u>David</u>, he who <u>opens</u> and no one can shut, and who <u>shuts</u> and no one opens, <u>says</u> these things: 8 I <u>know</u> your <u>works</u> (behold, I have set before you an <u>open</u> <u>door</u>, which no one can shut), that you have a <u>little</u> <u>power,</u> and <u>kept</u> my word, and <u>didn’t</u> <u>deny</u> my <u>name</u>. 9 Behold, I give of the <u>synagogue</u> of <u>Satan</u>, of those who say they are <u>Jews</u>, and they are <u>not</u>, but <u>lie</u>. Behold, I will <u>make</u> them to <u>come</u> and <u>bow</u> before your <u>feet</u>, and to <u>know</u> that I have <u>loved</u> you. 10 Because you kept my <u>command</u> to <u>endure</u>, I also will <u>keep</u> you <u>from the hour of testing</u>, which is to <u>come</u> on the <u>whole</u> <u>world</u>, to <u>test</u> those who <u>dwell</u> on the <u>earth</u>. 11 I am <u>coming</u> <u>quickly</u>! <u>Hold firmly</u> that which you <u>have</u>, so that no one <u>takes</u> your <u>crown</u>. 12 He who <u>overcomes</u>, I will make him a <u>pillar</u> in the <u>temple</u> of my <u>God</u>, and he will <u>go</u> out from there <u>no</u> more. I will <u>write</u> <u>on him</u> the <u>name</u> of my <u>God</u>, and the <u>name</u> of the <u>city</u> of my God, the <u>new</u> <u>Jerusalem</u>, which <u>comes</u> down <u>out</u> of <u>heaven</u> from my God, and my <u>own</u> <u>new</u> <u>name</u>. 13 He who has an <u>ear,</u> let him <u>hear</u> what the <u>Spirit</u> <u>says</u> to the <u>assemblies</u>.</i></div>
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<i>14 To the <u>angel</u> of the <u>assembly</u> in <u>Laodicea</u> write: The <u>Amen</u>, the <u>Faithful</u> and <u>True</u> <u>Witness</u>, the <u>Head</u> of <u>God’s</u> <u>creation</u>, sa<u>y</u>s these things: 15 I <u>know</u> your <u>works</u>, that you are <u>neither</u> <u>c</u>old nor <u>hot.</u> I wish you <u>were</u> <u>cold</u> or <u>hot</u>. 16 So, because you are <u>lukewarm</u>, and neither hot nor cold, I will <u>vomit</u> you out of my <u>mouth</u>. 17 Because you say, ‘I am <u>rich</u>, and have gotten riches, and have <u>need of nothing</u>’; and <u>don’t</u> <u>know</u> that you are the <u>wretched</u> one, <u>miserable</u>, <u>poor</u>, <u>blind</u>, and <u>naked</u>; 18 I <u>counsel</u> you to <u>buy</u> from me <u>gold</u> refined by <u>fire</u>, that you may <u>become</u> <u>rich</u>; and <u>white</u> <u>garments</u>, that you may <u>clothe</u> <u>yourself</u>, and that the <u>shame</u> of your <u>nakedness</u> may not be <u>revealed</u>; and <u>eye</u> <u>salve</u> to anoint your <u>eyes</u>, that you may <u>see</u>. 19 As many as I <u>love,</u> I <u>reprove</u> and <u>chasten</u>. Be <u>zealous</u> therefore, and <u>repent</u>. 20 Behold, I <u>stand</u> at the <u>door</u> and <u>knock</u>. If anyone <u>hears</u> my <u>voice</u> and <u>opens</u> the door, then I will <u>come</u> in to <u>him</u>, and will <u>dine</u> with him, and <u>he</u> with me. 21 He who <u>overcomes</u>, I will give to him to <u>sit</u> <u>down</u> with me on my <u>throne</u>, as I also <u>overcame</u>, and <u>sat</u> <u>down</u> with my <u>Father</u> on <u>his</u> <u>throne</u>. 22 He who has an <u>ear</u>, let him <u>hear</u> what the <u>Spirit</u> <u>says</u> to the <u>assemblies</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 3:1-6 Drawing on another aspect of the portrait in chapter 1, Christ instructs John to write to the angel or messenger of the church at Sardis, thirty miles south-east of Thyatira, and about a hundred miles inland from Ephesus. Sardis had a reputation for rich and luxuriant living (home of Croesus, the proverbial uber rich man). Christ knows their works and they stink. They have a reputation for being alive, but are in fact dead (like many “big name” churches today resting on their former glories). Jesus tells them to wake up out of their stupor (cf Eph 5:14) and strengthen whatever vestiges they have of the faith, because He has found no works perfected or brought to completion. They need revival, being brought back to life, by remembering the truth they had heard and discarded rather than applied. There are no words of commendation (even Jesus who knows all, couldn't find anything positive to say about the church). They need to go back to the word of God and obey it, changing their thinking about life and their deeds (repentance). If they don't pay attention He will come like a thief, and they will suffer loss. There were a few at Sardis, who did not defile themselves as the rest of the church did (and were probably the fodder for much gossip). The holy ones will walk with Christ in His future Kingdom clothed in white (cf Rev 19:8), for they are worthy. Unsanctified believers are not worthy of blessing and reward. However, those who listen, repent, obey and overcome, will be also arrayed in white, and will not have their name blotted out of the book of life, but Jesus will acknowledge them before the Father when the glory is distributed. The Book of Life was a register of all those citizens who could vote or participate in the rulership of a city-state (see how life is used for ruling or glory). The names of all believers are entered in the Book of Life (Rev 20:15) but those whose names are crossed out lose the right to rule. This is the fate toward which the spiritual sluggards of Sardis were headed, unless they repented and became victorious in overcoming defiling sin.</div>
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3:7-13 Philadelphia was about 27 miles south-east of Sardis and receives commendation from Christ, who is holy and true, and holds the key of David (see Isaiah 22:22 and the Davidic Covenant 2Sam 7), the right to rule on the David throne in the Messianic Kingdom. He has set before them an open door (entrance to possession in the Kingdom) which no one could shut (prevent them from entering as the Jews sought to do). Even though the believers had little strength or power, they had kept Christ's word, and didn't deny His name (weren't unfaithful), despite the persecution of the Jews who really belonged to the synagogue of Satan. Christ will make them bow before the faithful believers (which might imply the bad guys are around in the future). Jesus has loved the faithful because they were loyal to Him, keeping His command to endure. Therefore, He will keep them from (<i>ek</i> = “out of” or “away from”) the hour of testing/trial that will come upon all those that dwell on the earth. This means that some believers will escape this universal trial. Some see in this a reference to the Rapture, which does explain the words, but raises a difficulty summarized in the question “why just these believers?” An answer can seen in the chart under Digging Deeper, where each church is thought to represent an type of church, or successive church periods (one problem with this last view is that it could make the last church exist when all believers had been removed from the earth, which isn't an insurmountable problem). Anyway, the certain application for the initial readers is for them to hold fast to what they have so they don't lose their crown/reward, a distinct possibility, otherwise they wouldn't be warned against it. The one who is victorious and overcomes the difficulties of being faithful to Christ will become a pillar (permanent fixture) in the house of God (see the faithful and blessed priests in Ezek 44). Christ will write on the faithful the name of God, just like the High Priest had Yahweh's name on him (Ex 28:36-38). There is no condemnation of this church which was totally pleasing in Christ's sight. </div>
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3:14-22 Laodicea, forty miles south-east of Philadelphia and forty miles east of Ephesus, is the lukewarm church. They think they have no needs because their wealth insulates them from dependence upon God. Christ know their works, and they are totally lacking. They think they're rich, but are wretched and poor. He counsels them to pay the cost to buy from Christ, by their effort and obedience, what will remedy their situation. They don't perceive accurately, and are naked (no glory suits for these bad believers - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/2corinthians-4-5-gaining-your-glory.html">2 Corinthians 5</a>). Yet Christ still loves them, even though he reproves and disciplines them. He exhorts them to be zealous and repent of their self-sufficiency and sin, and enter into fellowship with Him. Verse 20 is an invitation for intimacy, based upon them heeding His voice and opening their lives to Him. Then He will dine with them (a metaphor for not just fellowship but empowerment). Those who respond and are victorious, he will grant to sit on His throne (rule with Him), just as His right to rule was a function of overcoming the obstacles to do the Father's will, and as a result He sits/rules with the Father. Those who have ears to hear and obey should do so. It's eternally worth it.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Our participation in the blessings of Christ are dependence upon our dependent obedience, otherwise we lose.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Jesus, thanks for coming into my life and having a relationship with me; may I be zealous to maintain it, and enjoy Your company now and forevermore. Amen.</div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God shares His glory with Jesus so He can share it with us.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus evaluates the works of all believers and rewards them accordingly or disciplines those who are unfaithful.</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Believers must overcome the trials of persecution and temptations of their flesh, so they live in victory, and will share in Christ's victory in the future. Losers will continue to lose. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-9323836718961609602012-08-22T01:04:00.005-04:002014-10-21T06:59:45.621-04:00Jude and Philemon - Truth and Love<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS John 13:34-35 </b><u><b>True Love</b></u></div>
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<i>Jn 13:34 ”</i><i>A </i><i><u>new</u></i><i> </i><i><u>commandment</u></i><i> I </i><i><u>give</u></i><i> to you, </i> </div>
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<i>that you </i><i><u>love</u></i><i> </i><i><u>one another</u></i><i>; </i> </div>
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<i><u>as</u></i><i> I have </i><i><u>loved</u></i><i> you, </i> </div>
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<i>that you </i><i><u>also</u></i><i> </i><i><u>love</u></i><i> </i><i><u>one another</u></i><i>.</i></div>
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<i>35 By this <u>all</u> will <u>know</u> that you are <u>My</u> <u>disciples</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>if you have <u>love</u> for <u>one another</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 13:34-35 This is the major teaching of Jesus during the Last Supper as recorded by John (and elaborated upon in John's epistles as well). The hallmark of a disciple is the loyal love they have for their brothers and sisters in Christ. The OT taught that believers should love their neighbor (Lev 19:18) and Paul said such love summed up the law (Gal 5:14). Jesus' audience considered it the second greatest commandment upon which hung all the others. So what's new? The standard to which we are to measure our love is new. If we wish to obey this command, we must love others as Jesus modeled. His was a self-sacrificial love (yet at the time, He had not yet gone to the cross, but had spoken of laying down His life for others). In the earlier half of John 13, the only thing about the Lord's Supper which John recorded was the laying aside of Jesus' outer garments to wash the disciples' feet. Paul gives more insight on this in Philippians 2. Jesus modeled humbling oneself to meet the needs of others (for cleansing, but that might be pushing the analogy too far). In any event, in His life, Jesus loved others in teaching them truth that would benefit them eternally, and then gave the ultimate self-sacrifice on the cross.<br />
<b>Application</b>: Our love must be like Christ's in sacrificially serving others if we wish to obey God.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Jesus, thanks for loving me, dying for me, and giving me Your commandments; may I love others as I follow Your purposes for my life on this planet. Amen.</div>
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<b>Jude and Philemon </b>These two little letters pack powerful punches. The one to Philemon is the last and shortest of Paul's epistles (which are arranged by length). It addresses the forgiveness and reception of a runaway slave whom Paul led to Christ in prison, and was now sending back to his original master. It provides an allegorical picture of God's dealings with us, as well as a application of relationships characterized by love and forgiveness.</div>
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The last epistle of the NT, Jude was written by one of Jesus' half-brothers, and warns believers against abusing grace, denying the Lordship of Christ in their lives, and indulging their desires. The judgment awaiting such erring believers should motivate us to build ourselves up in our faith (whatever that means) and strive for future glory. </div>
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<b>Jude 1 <u>Faultless Faith</u></b></div>
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<i>1:1 <u>Jude</u>, a <u>servant</u> of Jesus Christ, and <u>brother</u> of <u>James</u>, to those who are <u>sanctified/loved</u> by God the <u>Father</u>, and <u>kept/guarded</u> by/in <u>Jesus</u> Christ, the <u>called</u>: 2 <u>Mercy</u> to you and <u>peace</u> and <u>love</u> be multiplied.</i></div>
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<i>3 <u>Beloved</u>, while I was very <u>eager</u> to write to you about our <u>common salvation</u>, I was <u>constrained</u> to write to you <u>exhorting</u> you to <u>contend</u> <u>earnestly</u> for the <u>faith</u> which was <u>once</u> for <u>all</u> <u>delivered</u> to the <u>saints</u>. 4 For there are certain men who <u>crept</u> in <u>secretly</u>, even those who were long ago marked out for this <u>condemnation</u>: <u>ungodly men</u>, <u>turning</u> the <u>grace</u> of our <u>God</u> into <u>indecency</u>, and <u>denying</u> our <u>only</u> <u>Master</u>, God, and <u>Lord</u>, Jesus Christ. </i> </div>
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<i>5 Now I desire to remind you, though you already <u>know</u> this, that the <u>Lord</u>, having <u>saved</u> a people <u>out</u> of the land of <u>Egypt</u>, afterward <u>destroyed</u> those who did <u>not believe</u>. 6 <u>Angels</u> who <u>didn’t</u> <u>keep</u> their <u>first domain</u>, but <u>deserted</u> their own <u>dwelling</u> place, he has <u>kept</u> in <u>everlasting</u> <u>bonds</u> under <u>darkness</u> <u>for</u> the <u>judgment of the great day</u>. 7 Even as <u>Sodom</u> and <u>Gomorrah</u>, and the <u>cities</u> around them, having, in the <u>same</u> way as these, <u>given</u> themselves over to <u>sexual</u> <u>immorality</u> and <u>gone</u> after <u>strange</u> <u>flesh</u>, are set forth as an <u>example</u>, <u>suffering</u> the <u>punishment/justice</u> of the <u>fire of the age</u>.</i></div>
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<i>8 Yet in the <u>same</u> way, these <u>dreamers</u> <u>defile the flesh</u>, <u>despise</u> <u>dominion/authority</u>, and <u>speak evil of glory/celestial beings</u>. 9 But <u>Michael,</u> the <u>archangel</u>, when <u>contending</u> with the <u>devil</u> and arguing about the <u>body</u> of <u>Moses</u>, <u>dared</u> not bring against him an <u>abusive</u> <u>condemnation</u>, but said, "<u>May</u> the <u>Lord</u> <u>rebuke</u> you!" 10 But these <u>speak</u> <u>evil</u> of <u>whatever</u> things they don’t <u>know</u>. What they <u>understand naturally</u>, like the <u>creatures without reason</u>; <u>by</u> these <u>things</u> they <u>corrupt/defile</u> themselves. 11 <u>Woe</u> to them! For they went in the <u>way</u> of <u>Cain,</u> and ran <u>riotously</u> in the <u>error</u> of <u>Balaam</u> for <u>hire</u>, and <u>perished</u> in <u>Korah’s</u> <u>rebellion</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>12 These are <u>hidden</u> rocky <u>reefs</u> in your <u>love</u> <u>feasts</u> when they <u>feast</u> with you, <u>shepherds</u> who <u>without fear</u> <u>feed</u> <u>themselves</u>; <u>clouds without water</u>, carried along by <u>winds</u>; autumn <u>leaves</u> <u>without</u> <u>fruit</u>, <u>twice dead</u>, <u>plucked</u> up by the <u>roots</u>; 13 wild waves of the sea, <u>foaming</u> out their own <u>shame</u>; <u>wandering stars</u>, for whom the <u>blackness</u> of <u>darkness</u> has been <u>reserved</u> <u>forever</u>. 14 About <u>these</u> also <u>Enoch</u>, the <u>seventh from Adam</u>, <u>prophesied</u>, saying, "Behold, the <u>Lord</u> <u>came</u> with ten <u>thousands</u> of his <u>holy</u> <u>ones</u>,15 to <u>execute judgment</u> on <u>all</u>, and to <u>convict</u> <u>all</u> the <u>ungodly</u> of <u>all</u> their <u>works</u> of <u>ungodliness</u> which they have <u>done</u> in an <u>ungodly way</u>, and of <u>all</u> the <u>hard</u> <u>things</u> which <u>ungodly sinners</u> have <u>spoken</u> against <u>him</u>." 16 These are <u>murmurers</u> and <u>complainers</u>, <u>walking</u> after their <u>lusts</u> (and their <u>mouth</u> speaks <u>proud</u> things), showing <u>respect</u> of <u>persons</u> to <u>gain advantage</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>17 But <u>you</u>, beloved, <u>remember</u> the words which have been <u>spoken</u> before by the <u>apostles</u> of our <u>Lord Jesus Christ</u>. 18 They said to you that "In the <u>last</u> <u>time</u> there will be <u>mockers</u>, <u>walking</u> after their own <u>ungodly</u> <u>lusts</u>." 19 These are they who <u>cause divisions</u>, and are <u>sensual</u>, <u>not having</u> the <u>Spirit.</u> 20 But <u>you</u>, beloved, keep <u>building up yourselves</u> <u>on</u> your most <u>holy faith</u>, <u>praying</u> <u>in</u> the <u>Holy Spirit</u>. 21 <u>Keep yourselves</u> in the <u>love of God</u>, <u>looking</u> for the <u>mercy</u> of our <u>Lord Jesus Christ</u> <u>to</u> <u>eternal life</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>22 And [have <u>mercy</u>, who are <u>doubting</u>] [<u>reprove</u>, who are <u>contending</u>] 23 and/but <u>de</u> <u>some</u> <u>save</u>, <u>snatching</u> them <u>out</u> of the <u>fire</u> with <u>fear</u>, <u>hating</u> <u>even</u> the <u>clothing</u> <u>stained</u> by the <u>flesh</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>24 Now to <u>him</u> who is <u>able</u> to <u>keep</u> you from <u>stumbling</u>, and to <u>present</u> you <u>faultless</u> <u>before</u> the <u>presence</u> of his <u>glory</u> in great <u>joy</u>, 25 to <u>God our Savior</u>, who <u>alone</u> is <u>wise</u>, be <u>glory</u> and <u>majesty</u>, <u>dominion</u> and <u>power</u>, both <u>now</u> and <u>forever</u>. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-2 Jude, as the brother of James would have been the half-brother of Jesus (see comments on James 1), yet refers to himself as the servant of Jesus the Messiah. He writes to believers who are loved or sanctified by the Father (a textual variant yields the two different translations), and kept by the power of Jesus the Messiah, who thus can be called “the called/invited.” This last word occurs at the end of the Greek text for emphasis (as in the KJV), although many translations put it at the beginning of the sentence. Believers who are sanctified and preserved or guarded in their relationship with Christ are the ones who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb. Jude wishes that three blessings be multiplied to them, which many erroneously think of as static forces in the past, rather than dynamic forces in the present and future, which can be had in varying degrees. Mercy is the usual LXX translation of <i>hesed</i> or loyal covenantal love which can be experienced differentially based upon our loyalty. The same goes for peace and love. </div>
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1:3 Jude wanted to write about the common salvation they share, probably not telling them about the fact that Jesus died for their sins, since unless they were complete morons, they wouldn't need constant reminders about the justification aspects of their salvation, since they didn't become believers without embracing the truth that Jesus died in their place. It's more likely that he intended to emphasize the glorification rather than sanctification aspect of their salvation since he ends the letter on that in verses 24-25. But instead of talking about glory and the means to attaining it, he was forced by the infestation of false teachers to exhort them to contend/fight (<i>epi-agonizomai</i> an intensive agonized fight, struggle or labor) for the faith once and for all delivered to the saints. This is not just the belief that Jesus died for their sins, but the expectation that He would be returning to set up His kingdom and reward those who diligently sought to please Him, which is what would bring their hope of glory into the reality of their experience (see comments on Heb 11:6). Jude tells them to build themselves up in the faith in verse 20 (which again is not somehow building the belief in the atonement, but is used in the NT of building on the foundation of Christ by ministering to others with the expectation of judgment and reward -1Cor 3:10,12,14; Acts 20:32). The fact that the content of the faith that holy ones (saints) need to believe and obey was once and for all delivered to them, precludes the need for any other revelation or prophet or prophetess getting or giving “revelation” to God's people. Any such “additional” revelation would not have its source in God. Faithful believers must fight against false teaching.</div>
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1:4 The reason for Jude's change of subject matter is the infiltration of the creepy crawly false teachers whom Paul (Acts 20:29-30; 1Tim 4:1) and Peter (2Pt 2:1) warned about (cf Jude 17-18). They sneak into the church unnoticed, which would be a pretty impressive feat of legerdemain, or an incredible indictment of the gullibility of believers, if no one noticed that the teachers were denying that Jesus existed or died for their sins (although in modern times they could get away with such brazen lies -2Tim 4:3-4). Jude tells us exactly what they were doing, they were turning the grace of God, which every believer had embraced and experienced in being regenerated (born-again) into a license for sin. They were denying the Lordship of Christ, and the right of God to rule or be Master in their lives. We are saved/justified by grace (Eph 2:8-9) through exercising faith, but that doesn't mean we should continue to sin (as Paul emphatically states in Romans 6). These folks aren't denying the deity of Christ, nor the efficacy of His atonement (the Saviorship of Christ) but that God is their Master, and Jesus the Messiah is their Lord (see comments on 2Pt 2:1 where the same word Master/despot is used). Long ago (Dt 28) God had sovereignly attached condemnation/cursing rather than blessing to such ungodly behavior (not knowing and doing what he wanted -see Titus 1). Those who are not concerned about knowing and doing God's will, who live for their pleasure and glory rather than God's, are engaging in ungodly behavior. “It's all under the blood” or “Grace has got it covered” is true with respect to an individual going into the lake of fire for their sins, because Jesus did die for all their sins, but that does not spare them the judgment and condemnation of those who disobey God, as Jude will now illustrate (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-5-7-sermon-on-mount.html">Mt 5-7</a>; and the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/power-outage-no-post-yet.html">warning passages in Hebrews</a>, more <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-4-7-falling-away-or-following.html">warning pasages in Hebrews</a>, <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-8-10-following-in-faith-hope.html">another warning passage in Hebrews</a>, <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-11-13-hall-of-fame-faith-hope.html">final warning passage</a>).</div>
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1:5-7 Jude reminds those who have bought into the lie that there are no negative consequences for those who are born again of some things that carnal Christians (those who live for their temporal desires -1Cor 2; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/romans-6-8-issues-of-life-and-death.html">Rm 8</a>) delight in being ignorant about. The parallel between the nation of Israel and NT believers is clearly spelled out in 1Corinthians 10, even down to having the Spirit and Christ as well as in other places (Rm 15:4). God saved/redeemed the Jews out of Egypt but then destroyed those who were not faithful to obey Him and enter the Promised Land. Jude uses the aorist participle, “those who were not believing.” What did they not believe? The promises of God to bless and curse (Exodus 20; Num 14:27-37; Heb 3:17-19). It's not that they didn't believe God redeemed them in the past, but that they had an obligation to serve and obey Him to enjoy the future. Angels who rebelled in following Satan, or perhaps those referred to in Genesis 6 who didn't follow God's order for them, suffered a similar discipline, losing their glorified status, and being kept in everlasting (not the word for “age,” but the word for “always”) chains in darkness awaiting greater judgment on the great Day of the Lord. Similarly Sodom and Gomorrah gave themselves over to their unrestrained passions, particularly immorality and homosexuality, and serve as an example of those who please themselves rather than God, and are suffering (present tense) the punishment of the age (not the eternal one of the angels, nor the past one of the Israelites). All three of those who failed to do what God desired are cited as an example of those who suffer punishment and loss for their unwise and unfaithful choices. All three judgments are different, and it could be argued are mutually exclusive, so Jude is not saying unfaithful believers who follow the false teachings will experience the same judgments, just that they will experience similar unpleasantness. </div>
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1:8-11 Returning to the false teachers, Jude calls them dreamers (out of touch with reality) who like those above defile the flesh, despise dominion/authority, and speak evil of glory (literally as in 2Pt 2:10, but translated as beings in light of the next verse). Even Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil about the body of Moses (who knew?), didn't speak evil (same word root as the previous verse) but asked the Lord to rebuke him. This account isn't in the Scripture, but was present in Jewish tradition. Jude appeals to it to make his case as did Paul to the Cretan poet in Titus 1. The false teachers speak evil about whatever they don't understand, a trait common among those who just parrot party lines without knowing the Scriptures in their context. What the false teachers do say are understood naturally, like brute beasts (as opposed to learned by the Spirit of Truth), and these things they teach result in their corruption (and eventual destruction). Jude pronounces a warning of woe upon them because they are following the ways of Cain (Gen 4) Balaam (Num 22) and Korah (Num 16), who all ended poorly. </div>
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1:12-16 Some consider the references to the love feast (Lord's Supper) to be the chiastic center of the book. Others argue for verse 9 which fits the theme of contending. What is clear to Jude (and us) is that the false teachers were dangerous, like hidden reefs waiting to shipwreck believers' faith (1Tim 1:19) which prevents one from reaching the intended safe harbor of peace. The false teachers will say they love Jesus, and commemorate Him, but lack fear of God (as do most who parrot lies -Mt 12:36). They pose as shepherds/pastors or teachers who only feed themselves. They don't provide words by which others can live, but are like clouds without rain, and fruitless leaves, without roots in the truth. There's a lot of emotion and froth, but no truth. They are like wandering stars (the word for heresy is from the same root as planet, which looked like wandering stars which had deviated from the right path), for whom was reserved the punishment of the darkness of the Age (2Pt 2:17).</div>
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The Book of Enoch is considered to be from first century BC, but is allegedly, based upon tradition, a preservation of what Enoch prophesied. It was also known to the church fathers in the second century AD, and a few fragments had been found, but an entire copy was found in AD 1773. Enoch, known to the NT audience, was the seventh person in the Genesis genealogy, perhaps a reference to the Millennial Age. Jude quotes him to illustrate the judgment that will come upon the ungodly ones in the Day of Judgment. Failure to be godly in one's words and ways sets one up for judgment. Jude describes the ungodly as those who grumble and complain, and walk/live for whatever pleases their temporal desires. They are proud (usually unteachable), and will show hypocritical deference to those who can profit them. </div>
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1:17-21 Jude reminds his readers of the words spoken by the apostles (2Pt 3:2-3; 1Tim 4:1; 2Tim 3:1), that in the end times people would mock the way of truth and walk in the way of temporal lust. These folks are not submitted to the Lord Jesus, so there is no basis for unity, and therefore they cause divisions, following their sensual or natural instincts as opposed to the Spirit. They don't have the Spirit indwelling, as in controlling them. See comments on Romans 8:9 where not having the Spirit is contrasted with the Spirit dwelling in those who please God. To make the equation that “not having Spirit” means unregenerate pagans misses the ellipsis, and the contexts of both texts. But some will manage to miss it, since they don't know how to trace an argument in context. These are the same false teachers that Jude has been warning his readers against. They are shepherds and teachers participating in the love feast of the Lord's Supper, the problem is not that they are unregenerate pagans who need to be evangelized but bad believers who need to repent and submit themselves to their Lord and Master. In contrast to them, the good believers need to build themselves up in their most holy faith (the expectation that the Lord would return to reward and rule -1Pt 1; Heb 11:6), and be praying in the Spirit (which is not babbling meaningless sounds) but seeking the mind and will of God as one expresses dependence upon Him to do His will. Such building and praying would be developing the traits that would result in God's reward (2Pt 1 “add to your faith...abundant entrance”). They need to keep/guard themselves so they will remain in the loyal love of God (owing allegiance only to Him), and be eagerly expecting the mercy (<i>hesed</i> - covenantal promise fulfillment) of God, with a view toward receiving dominion of the Messianic Age (eternal life). </div>
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1:22-23 Verse 22 has a textual variant (mercy/reprove) and word that has multiple meanings (judge/contend/doubt). The translation most in harmony with the context is the second one in brackets. In addition to following verse 21, believers should “reprove those who are contending (same meaning as the word when used in verse 9) against the faith”. Verse 23 opens with a “<i>de</i>” which joins two different or sequential concepts, rather than a “<u>kai</u>” which joins coordinate concepts. “Having mercy on some and saving others” doesn't take into account the “<i>de</i>” nor make a lot of sense. On the other hand the point of the letter is to have believers contend for the faith, and here in the conclusion, one would expect that to be emphasized. So Jude commands believers to reprove some and to save others, snatching them out of the fiery judgment that awaits them, while fearing God and hating even the clothing (outward trappings, or practices) that is defied by the defiled flesh of those following falsehood. </div>
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1:24-25 The letter ends with a great benediction, ascribing praise to our God who is able to keep us from stumbling (and falling short of the glory) and present believers faultless before the presence of His glory with great joy. To our God and Savior, who alone is wise, be glory, majesty, dominion, and power/authority, both now and in the Messianic Age.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Believers must learn to identify and refute false teachers who don't live under the Lordship of Christ; and build themselves up in the faith by drawing on the grace of God to live so as to be faultless when He returns.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, thanks for saving me by Your grace, and giving me the power to live faultless before You; may I live in tune with Your truth and Spirit, under Your Lordship every day, so that You will be glorified by my life. Amen.</div>
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<b>Philemon </b> This is Paul's most personal and persuasive letter, written primarily to Philemon in order to induce him to accept back Onesimus, his runaway slave. Paul had met Onesimus in prison and led him to the Lord. Paul gives a number of compelling (almost manipulative) reasons why Philemon should freely and willingly decide to do what is best, The letter also provides insights into relationships among believers in the early church which have modern applications as well.</div>
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<b>Philemon 1</b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P9y7HfyZ7i8/UDQ_Zfi8jSI/AAAAAAAAE78/dETV_FGiTZQ/s1600/freedom.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P9y7HfyZ7i8/UDQ_Zfi8jSI/AAAAAAAAE78/dETV_FGiTZQ/s200/freedom.bmp" height="158" width="200" /></a><i>1:1 <u>Paul</u>, a <u>prisoner</u> of Christ Jesus, and <u>Timothy</u> our brother, to <u>Philemon</u>, our <u>beloved fellow worker</u>, 2 to the beloved <u>Apphia</u>, to <u>Archippus</u>, our <u>fellow soldier</u>, and to the <u>assembly</u> in your <u>house</u>: 3 <u>Grace</u> to you and <u>peace</u> from God our <u>Father</u> and the <u>Lord Jesus Christ</u>. </i></div>
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<i>4 I <u>thank</u> my God always, making <u>mention</u> of you in my <u>prayers,</u> 5 <u>hearing</u> of your <u>love</u>, and of the <u>faith</u> which you have <u>with regard to</u> (pros) the <u>Lord Jesus</u>, and <u>toward</u> (eis) <u>all</u> the <u>saints</u>; 6 that the your <u>participation</u> in the <u>faith</u> may become <u>effective</u>, <u>by</u> the <u>knowledge</u> of <u>every</u> <u>good thing</u> which is in <u>us</u> in Christ Jesus. 7 For we have much <u>joy</u> and <u>comfort</u> in your <u>love</u>, because the <u>hearts</u> of the saints have been <u>refreshed</u> through <u>you</u>, brother.</i></div>
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<i>8 Therefore, though I have all <u>boldness</u> in Christ to <u>command</u> you that which is <u>appropriate</u>, 9 yet for <u>love’s</u> sake I rather <u>beg</u>, being such a one as <u>Paul</u>, the <u>aged</u>, but also a <u>prisoner</u> of Jesus Christ. 10 I <u>beg</u> you for <u>my child</u>, whom I have become the <u>father</u> of in my <u>chains</u>, <u>Onesimus</u>, 11 who once was useless to you, but now is <u>useful</u> to <u>you</u> and to <u>me</u>. 12 I am <u>sending</u> him <u>back</u>. Therefore receive him, that is, my <u>own</u> <u>heart</u>, 13 whom I <u>desired</u> to keep <u>with</u> <u>me,</u> that on <u>your</u> <u>behalf</u> he might <u>serve</u> <u>me</u> in my <u>chains</u> for the <u>Good News</u>. 14 But I was <u>willing</u> to do nothing <u>without</u> your <u>consent</u>, that your <u>goodness</u> would not be as of <u>necessity</u>, but of <u>free will</u>. 15 For perhaps he was therefore <u>separated</u> from you for a <u>while</u>, that you would have <u>him</u> <u>forever</u>, 16 no <u>longer</u> as a <u>slave</u>, but <u>more</u> than a slave, a beloved <u>brother</u>, <u>especially</u> to <u>me</u>, but how much <u>rather</u> to <u>you</u>, both in the <u>flesh</u> and in the <u>Lord</u>. </i></div>
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<i>17 If then you count me a <u>partner</u>, receive him as you would <u>receive</u> me. 18 But if he has <u>wronged</u> you at all, or <u>owes</u> you anything, put that to <u>my</u> <u>account</u>. 19 I, <u>Paul,</u> write this with my <u>own</u> <u>hand</u>: I will <u>repay</u> it (not to mention to you that you <u>owe</u> to <u>me</u> even your own <u>self</u> besides). </i></div>
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<i>20 Yes, brother, let me have <u>joy</u> from you <u>in</u> the <u>Lord</u>. <u>Refresh</u> my heart <u>in</u> the <u>Lord</u>. 21 Having <u>confidence</u> in your <u>obedience</u>, I write to you, <u>knowing</u> that you will <u>do</u> even <u>beyond</u> what I <u>say</u>. 22 Also, <u>prepare</u> a <u>guest room</u> for me, for I hope that through your <u>prayers</u> I will be <u>restored</u> to you. 23 <u>Epaphras</u>, my <u>fellow</u> <u>prisoner</u> in Christ Jesus, greets you, 24 as do <u>Mark</u>, <u>Aristarchus</u>, <u>Demas</u>, and <u>Luke</u>, my <u>fellow workers</u>. 25 The <u>grace</u> of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your <u>spirit</u>. Amen</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-3 Paul identifies himself a prisoner of the Messiah Jesus, and writes (along with Timothy) to Philemon, and two others, as well as the entire assembly/church which meets in Philemon's house. The number of people who know about the contents of the letter adds pressure for Philemon to act in response to it. Paul wishes Philemon the covenantal blessings of grace and peace.</div>
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1:4-7 Paul thanks God for Philemon's love toward the saints and faith in the Lord Jesus (chiastic structure helps us see that faith is not towards the saints, as is further validated by the use of two different prepositions as noted in the text above). Verse 6 is crucial for understanding the letter. Paul prays that Philemon's fellowship or participation (<i>koinonia</i> feminine noun for “having in common” see verse 17 for the masculine form) in the faith might become effective/effectual by the experiential knowledge of every good thing which believers have in their union with Christ. Some translations have “sharing” of his faith, in an evangelistic sense, but Paul's objective is to encourage Philemon to forgive and accept Onesimus, not win others to Christ. Forgiving his runaway slave, and the debt of whatever Onesimus had taken from him when he left would require drawing on the grace that God had extended to him in Christ. Paul refers to how Philemon had used that grace to minister to others in refreshing the hearts of the saints through his generosity to those in need. And thus asks him to extend the same Christlike grace toward Onesimus. </div>
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1:8-16 Forgiving and accepting Onesimus was the right thing to do and Paul says he could command Philemon to do what was right, but instead he appeals to him, or even begs him, as the old prisoner of Christ (tugging on the heart strings) to forgive Onesimus. Paul pleads for him as his own child, whom he had led to the Lord while in prison with him. He gives Philemon more reasons to do so, saying that previously Onesimus was an unprofitable servant, but has now become a useful believing brother to both Paul and Philemon. Impressing upon Philemon that “he owes Paul favors” Paul states that Onesimus had ministered to him while in prison, doing the job that Philemon should have done in serving Paul for the furthering of the Good News of the Kingdom of Christ. Paul wanted to keep Onesimus, but didn't want to do so without Philemon's permission, so that any good deed would not be done under compulsion, but as a free will act of Philemon (so there is free-will!). Paul then gives another incentive, pointing out that Philemon would now have Onesimus forever, not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. </div>
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1:17-19 Although Paul wants Philemon to willingly accept Onesimus, he makes such a strong case that it would be impossible to refuse with any shred of honor. If Philemon considers Paul a fellow partaker (<i>koinonos</i> the masculine form of the feminine noun in verse 6), then he should receive Onesimus as he would Paul. If Onesimus had wronged him in anything, Philemon should put it on Paul's account. Paul says that he is writing the letter with his own hand to guarantee his pledge, and then reminds Philemon that he owes his very self to Paul, because of Paul's ministry to him. Paul's willingness to go to bat for an escaped slave is an example of the kind of love committed believers showed toward each other. </div>
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1:20-25 Paul appears pretty bold in asking Philemon to give him joy and refresh his poor old imprisoned heart by accepting back Onesimus. He says he has confidence that Philemon will not only comply (literally the word for “obey” or “listen under”) with his “request,” but go beyond it, in reinstating Onesimus without prejudice. He also asks Philemon to prepare a guest room in anticipation of God answering his prayers and bringing about Paul's release from prison (a parallel to God answering Paul's prayers to have Onesimus being released form the prison of his debt to Philemon). Speaking of parallels, one can't help but notice the allegorical parallel of the believer being restored to the Father by the work of Christ (where Onesimus is the believer, Philemon is the Father, and Paul is Christ). Paul sends greetings and prays that the grace of Christ would strengthen Philemon's spirit in doing the right thing. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Believers must not harbor bitterness nor resentment towards believers who have wronged them, but extend Christlike forgiveness (regardless of whether or not they repent, to free themselves from bitterness) and acceptance to the repentant as God has done to us, so that our participation in the promises of the Gospel may make a difference in our lives, now and in the future. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Heavenly Father, I praise You for the forgiveness and acceptance You've shown me in Christ, may I know and demonstrate similar grace toward others. Amen.</div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God has forgiven us by His grace and reinstated us in His graces, and expects us to do the same for others. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is the Lord and Master whom we must serve in order to be blessed, or face negative consequences. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Believers need to draw upon God's grace to live so as to please Him, contending against those who teach falsely, and extending love to our fellow saints. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-17588507750663935782012-08-21T01:22:00.003-04:002014-10-20T08:30:08.241-04:002 John & 3 John Walking in Truth and Love<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS Mt 28:19-20 </b><u><b>The Great Omission</b></u></div>
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<i>Mt 28:18 “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.</i></div>
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<i>19 <u>Go </u>therefore and </i> </div>
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<i><u>make disciples</u> of all the nations,</i></div>
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<i><u>baptizing</u> them in the <u>name</u> of </i><br />
<i>the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,</i></div>
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<i>20 <u>teaching</u> them to observe/obey all things that I have <u>commanded</u> you; </i> </div>
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<i>and lo, I am <u>with </u>you always, </i> </div>
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<i>even to the end of the age." Amen</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 28:19-20 What is the Great Commission of Jesus, to make obedient disciples, has become the Great Omission of the modern church. With a focus on evangelism, growth, missions, outreach, and a host of other good, but secondary things. Churches exist to bring glory to God by making reproductive disciples. Anything less is missing the mark. Baptizing does presuppose converts which are the result of evangelism, but it is subordinate (grammatically and practically to making disciples). </div>
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There is one main verb in 19-20, the imperative command to make disciples (followers of Jesus). The imperative is modified by three participles: </div>
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<li>as you go/going (which means it's a lifestyle thing, starting where you are);</li>
<li>baptizing is more than a ritualistic getting wet, but is an immersion in the name/power of the triune God (see the upcoming Catacomb Church Blog for more about how to help people get plugged into the power of God);</li>
<li>teaching them to obey; this is the missing link of ministry, many focus on belief, but the Scriptures and Jesus focus on obedience for those who have believed. In some churches, people just show up on Sunday every now and then to make sure salvation is still by faith, and then go home to live lives that bring no glory to God (nor themselves in the final accounting).</li>
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For those who do obey Jesus and follow this command to make disciples (who can teach others to obey this command, ie, reproductive disciples), Jesus makes a promise of His abiding presence until He comes back for them at the end of this present age. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: The key test of a reproductive disciple is that they can repeat the process with someone else. See (and obey) the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/p/7-passages-introduction.html">7PASSAGES</a> in the Sidebar.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord, thanks that You give meaning and purpose in this life, as well as Your presence to those who believe and obey You, and glory in the next. Help me embrace Your commission as the guiding force for my life. Amen.</div>
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<b>2John & 3John </b>These two tiny letters from John the Apostle are much easier to understand than his other writings. The first is addressed to an elect/chosen lady and her children. It's most likely that John has personified the church as a chosen lady (matching the greeting in verse 13, possibly envisioning the church as the Bride of Christ, and the believers as her children). The second is to a man named Gaius, who might have been any one of the three men by that name mentioned in Acts 19-20 or Romans 16, or an unknown church leader. In both epistles John encourages his readers to walk in truth and love, and then gives some specific warnings and instructions to keep the believers from being sidetracked.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>2John 1 </b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>1:1 The <u>elder</u>, to the <u>chosen</u> <u>lady</u> and her <u>children</u>, whom I <u>love</u> in <u>truth</u>; and not I <u>only</u>, but also all those who <u>know</u> the <u>truth</u>; 2 for the <u>truth’s</u> <u>sake</u>, which <u>remains in us</u>, and it will be <u>with us forever</u>: 3 <u>Grace</u>, <u>mercy</u>, and <u>peace</u> will be <u>with us</u>, from <u>God</u> the Father, and from the Lord <u>Jesus</u> Christ, the <u>Son of the Father</u>, <u>in/by/en</u> <u>truth</u> and <u>love</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">4 I rejoice <u>greatly</u> that I have found some of <u>your</u> <u>children</u> <u>walking in truth</u>, even as we have been <u>commanded</u> by the Father.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>5 Now I <u>beg</u> you, dear lady, not as though I <u>wrote</u> to you a <u>new</u> <u>commandment</u>, but that which we had from the <u>beginning</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>that we <u>love one another</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>6 This is <u>love</u>, that we should <u>walk</u> <u>according</u> to his <u>commandments</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>This is the <u>commandment</u>, even as you heard from the <u>beginning</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">that you should <u>walk in it</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>7 For many <u>deceivers</u> have gone out into the world, those who don’t <u>confess</u> that <u>Jesus Christ</u> came in the flesh. This is the <u>deceiver</u> and the <u>Antichrist</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">8 <u>Watch</u> yourselves, that we don’t <u>lose</u> the things which <u>we</u> have <u>accomplished</u>, but that <u>we</u> receive a <u>full reward</u>. 9 Whoever <u>transgresses</u> and doesn’t <u>abide</u> in the <u>teaching of Christ</u>, doesn’t <u>have God</u>. He who <u>abides</u> in the <u>teaching</u>, the same has <u>both</u> the <u>Father</u> and the <u>Son</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">10 If anyone comes to you, and <u>doesn’t</u> bring this <u>teaching</u>, <u>don’t receive him into your house</u>, and <u>don’t</u> <u>welcome</u> him, 11 for he who <u>welcomes</u> him <u>participates</u> in his <u>evil works</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">12 Having many things to write to you, I don’t want to do so with paper and ink, but I hope to <u>come</u> to you, and to <u>speak</u> face to face, that <u>our</u> <u>joy</u> may be made <u>full</u>. 13 The <u>children</u> of your <u>chosen sister</u> <u>greet</u> you. Amen.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-3 John, the beloved disciple and apostle identifies himself as an elder (<i>presbuteros</i> cf 1Pt 5:1). He personifies the church he truly loves as a “chosen or elect lady” (cf verse 13), and the believers as her children (a verse demonstrating the corporate aspect of election). The reason for the figure of speech isn't given, but perhaps there was a need to keep the identity or location secret to avoid persecution. However, everyone who knows (perfect tense) the truth loves the recipients for the sake of the truth in them. He uses the perfect tense to indicate that the knowledge of the truth occurred in the past with continuing results into the present, and then he stresses the permanently abiding nature of the truth in the into the future (<i>eis</i> the Age). He then wishes them God's covenantal blessings of grace, mercy (usual translation of <i>hesed</i>) and peace which will be with them by means of (<i>en</i>) truth and love (themes in 1John). </div>
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1:4-6 John rejoices that he found “some” (no word in the Greek, but it fits the context from the preposition <i>ek</i>) of her children walking in the truth according to the commandment. He repeats the concept of walking according to the commandment in verse 6, forming an inclusio around “love” at the end of verse 5 and beginning of verse 6. The chief commandment Jesus gave His followers according to John in 13:34 is love, for one another. He exhorts the church to continue to manifest the love Jesus modeled (self-sacrificial service of another's needs).</div>
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1:7 He warns them of Satan's agents, the false teachers who seek to deceive believers to keep them from following the truth. They don't acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah in the flesh. In 1John 4:3-4, he wrote of Jesus having come in the flesh (perfect tense). Here he uses the present tense “coming” possibly looking forward to the second coming. In any event, the false teachers are anti-Messiah (Christ=Messiah, the Anointed One). They deny that the Messiah came, and would return, since He didn't come the first time. </div>
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1:8 John tells them to watch out that they aren't swayed from believing the truth, so that “we” don't lose (literally <i>apolllumi</i> “destroyed”) what “we've produced/worked for,” but might receive a full reward. Note three things: 1) John includes himself in those who would suffer loss if the readers stray from the truth; 2) reward is the result of laboring or working in helping others walk according the truth; 3) reward can be full, or partial, or lost (as in experience destruction). The word for reward is also used of paying wages. No work, no wages. This is one of the more ignored passages in modern evangelicalism, and it destroys a lot of bogus theology.</div>
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1:9 Whoever transgresses (steps over the line) and doesn't abide in the teaching of Christ (as in love one another) doesn't have God. To have God was explained in 1John, of having an abiding, intimate relationship with Him. To not have Him, is to not have that “abiding in the vine" relationship (Jn 15) which results in loss of reward (see comments on Mt 7 “I never knew you”). This does not mean that people never had, nor lose their forgiveness/justification, but they lose out on the blessings of God now, and in the future kingdom. Whoever abides in the teaching of Christ (through obedience) has both the Father and Son (Jn 14:21). The distinction between the Father and Son probably points to Judaizers who claimed God was their Father, and didn't give allegiance to His Son (Mt 3:9), but were instead trying to get believers to follow OT ritual. </div>
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1:10-13 John was all for love, but love must be guided by truth and discernment (Phil 1:9-10) if one is to reap reward. In fact those who don't bring the teaching about walking in love and obedience to gain and keep reward should not be welcomed, nor allowed into the house (church?) for those who welcome them share in their evil works and punishment. John has more to say, but wants to speak in person, so that his joy might be made full. He closes with a greeting from a sister church.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: What work have you done that God will reward? Are you in danger of losing it by valuing the acceptance of people more than the praise of God?</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, may I abide in Your truth, and Your commandments, and You, so that I keep away from what is false, and do the things for which You will reward me. Thanks for abiding with me. Amen.</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">3John 1 <u>Imitate what is Good</u></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">1:1 The <u>elder</u> to <u>Gaius</u> the beloved, whom I <u>love</u> in <u>truth</u>. 2 <u>Beloved</u>, I <u>pray</u> that you may <u>prosper</u> in <u>all things</u> and be <u>healthy</u>, even as your <u>soul</u> <u>prospers</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>3 For I <u>rejoiced</u> greatly, when brothers came and <u>testified</u> about your <u>truth</u>, even as you <u>walk in truth</u>. 4 I have <u>no greater joy</u> than <u>this</u>, to <u>hear</u> about my <u>children walking in truth</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">5 Beloved, you do a <u>faithful</u> <u>work</u> in whatever you <u>accomplish</u> for those who are <u>brothers</u> and <u>strangers</u>. 6 They have <u>testified</u> about your <u>love</u> before the <u>assembly</u>. You will <u>do</u> <u>well</u> to send them <u>forward</u> on their <u>journey</u> in a <u>way worthy of God</u>, 7 because for the <u>sake</u> of the <u>Name</u> they <u>went</u> out, taking <u>nothing</u> from the <u>Gentiles</u>. 8 We therefore ought to <u>receive</u> <u>such</u>, that we may be <u>fellow workers</u> for the <u>truth</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">9 I wrote to the <u>assembly</u>, but <u>Diotrephes</u>, who <u>loves</u> to be <u>first</u> among them, <u>doesn’t</u> <u>accept</u> what we <u>say</u>. 10 Therefore, if I come, I will <u>remember</u> his <u>deeds</u> which he does, <u>unjustly</u> accusing us with <u>wicked</u> <u>words</u>. Not <u>content</u> with this, neither does he himself <u>receive</u> the <u>brothers</u>, and those who <u>would</u>, he <u>forbids</u> and <u>throws</u> out of the <u>assembly</u>. 11 <u>Beloved</u>, don’t <u>imitate</u> that which is <u>evil</u>, but that which is <u>good</u>. He who <u>does good</u> is <u>of God</u>. He who <u>does evil</u> <u>hasn’t</u> <u>seen</u> <u>God.</u></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">12 <u>Demetrius</u> has the <u>testimony</u> of all, and of the <u>truth</u> itself; yes, we also <u>testify</u>, and you know that our testimony is <u>true</u>. 13 I had many things to write to you, but I am <u>unwilling</u> to write to you with ink and pen; 14 but I <u>hope</u> to <u>see</u> you soon, and we will <u>speak</u> <u>face to face</u>. <u>Peace</u> be to you. The <u>friends</u> greet you. Greet the <u>friends</u> by <u>name</u>.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-4 John writes to Gaius, whom he loves in truth (truly), and prays that Gaius might prosper in all things physical, including health, just as he is prospering spiritually. This raises the question of: “How does one have a prosperous soul?” Our soul consists of our mind, will/values, and emotions, and is what makes us distinctively us. It is what we exchange for things during our time on earth. It is what we must deny if we are to follow Christ, and lose if we are to gain heavenly or kingdom rewards (Lk 9:23-26). The testimony of the brothers let John know that his soul was prospering, by reporting how Gaius walked/live in the truth. He particularly demonstrated his commitment to truth by his love and service for others. John has no greater joy (as do most Biblical parents) than to hear that their children (in this case a spiritual one) walk in the truth. Worldling parents are proud that their children are successful in the world's eyes. Those who love God are most proud that their children are successful in God's sight. Being righteous is all about being careful to do what is right in God's sight, which means walking according to His commands, and loving others Biblically. </div>
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1:5-8 John commends Gaius for faithfully seeing to the needs of those itinerant ministers who were at or passing through his location. They were workers for the truth (verse 8) who went out (missionaries) for the sake of the Name of Jesus, receiving no support from the Gentiles (to whom they ministered). The recipients of Gaius' hospitality testified to the love he had shown them. John says he does well/good (good works) in sending them to their next destination provisioned in a manner worthy of the ambassadors of the Most High God. John says believers ought to receive/welcome such workers of the truth (as contrasted with 2John 10, where believers are told to reject the false teachers). Those who welcome and encourage workers for the truth (financially and otherwise) share in their work (<i>sun-ergos)</i> as fellow-workers.</div>
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1:9-11 John said he wrote (instruction/truth) to the church but one of Satan's agents, Diotrephes, was taken captive by pride (loves to be first) to do his will (cf 2Tim 2:24-26), and was opposing the written revelation of the apostles. If John comes to visit, he will highlight and admonish his deeds, which include maligning the apostles with wicked words (this usually happens to all who speak God's words, because Satan's agents are ubiquitous). Diotrophes wasn't just content to speak against the truth and those who communicated it, but he would reject those who brought itinerant workers who brought the truth and toss out of the chuch those who would welcome them. Here is a clear example of what Paul talked about in Acts 20:29-30. People would rise to position of power in the church, not to help others obey Jesus, but to do the devil's work. John counsels Gaius (in a good lesson for all believers) to not imitate what is evil, but follow the good examples. Those who do good, are of God. Those who do evil haven't seen God. In 1John is was made clear that to see God in John's thinking is to have an abiding, intimate relationship with Him.</div>
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1:12 In contrast to Diotrephes, Demetrius had a good testimony from all, and the truth as well. John even gave him honor with apostolic approval. We're not told what he did, but it would have been the opposite of Diotrephes, walking in truth and love for the service of others.</div>
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Like his last letter, John wants to say more, but hopes to do so in person. He wishes Gaius the covenantal blessing of peace, and extends greetings.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Believers need to be workers for the truth and join with others in imitating what is good, and opposing evil in the church.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Heavenly Father, I pray You would encourage and support those who work for sharing Your truth with others, and that You would restrain and rebuke the agents of the evil one who lead others astray. Amen.</div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God loves it when His children walk in the truth.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is the Messiah, who came in the flesh, and will come again to reward His faithful servants, who obey His command to love one another. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We need to walk in truth and love to gain our reward, welcoming those who do so, and rejecting those who don't. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-79277989274750156372012-08-20T01:48:00.004-04:002014-10-19T10:43:07.745-04:001 John 3-5 Eternal Life in Christ<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS Acts 1:8 <u>Holy Spirit Power</u></b></div>
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<i>Acts 1:6 “Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, "Lord, will You at this time <u>restore</u> the <u>kingdom</u> to <u>Israel</u>?" 7 And He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.</i></div>
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<i>8 But you shall receive <u>power</u> </i> </div>
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<i>when the <u>Holy Spirit</u> has come <u>upon</u> you; </i> </div>
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<i>and you shall be <u>witnesses</u> to <u>Me</u> </i> </div>
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<i>in <u>Jerusalem</u>, and in <u>all</u> Judea and Samaria, and to the <u>end</u> of the <u>earth</u>."</i></div>
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<i>9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven."</i> </div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:8 The disciples had forsaken all to follow Jesus with the expectation of receiving power and glory. Jesus had promised them reward in the Sermon on the Mount, and in His calls to discipleship, and spoke of His kingdom which He would share with them, so they were anxious to receive His promised power/authority. Jesus said it wasn't the right time for the restoration of the OT kingdom promised to Israel, but if they wanted power, they would get it when the Holy Spirit came upon them. As a result (use of kai for a consecutive sequence), they would be witnesses to Christ. They should start where they were, with those most similar to themselves, and then branch out to the surrounding areas, and finally reach to the ends of the earth. This is what happened in the book of Acts (see additional comments on Acts 1:8). Believers in Jesus all have the Holy Spirit (Eph 1; 1Cor 12) and as a result should be witnesses to Christ, first to those around them, and then as they mature to others that are dissimilar. A witness is someone who has heard, seen, or experienced something. Every Christian should have an abiding relationship with God in which they are experiencing things about God which they can share with others.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: God works in our lives so we can be witnesses of Him to those around us.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Lord, thanks for Your work in my life; please guide me in sharing You and Your work in my life with others. Amen.</div>
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<b>1John 3-5 </b>John continues to build the confidence of believers in the apostolic message against the false teaching of the anti-Messiahs. John gives a number of “tests” or validations that the experience of the believers is the real deal, so they won't fall for the devil's deceptions. Among those are victory over sin as a result of an abiding relationship with Christ, based upon obedience; a Christlike love for other believers; a vibrant prayer life; ministry to the sinning; inner conviction of the Holy Spirit that they are pleasing to God, validated by their love and obedience. John also affirms that God had given them eternal life in His Son, so they should continue to believe in Him, and not in any false gods the false teachers present. </div>
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<b>1John 3 <u>No Need to Sin</u></b></div>
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<i>3:1 Behold, how great a <u>love</u> the Father has <u>bestowed</u> on us, </i> </div>
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<i>that we should be <u>called</u> <u>children of God</u>! </i> </div>
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<i>For this cause the <u>world</u> doesn’t <u>know</u> us, </i> </div>
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<i>because it didn’t <u>know</u> <u>Him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>2 Beloved, now we are <u>children of God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and it is <u>not yet revealed</u> what we <u>will</u> <u>be</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>But we <u>know</u> that, when <u>He is revealed</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>we will be <u>like</u> <u>Him</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>for we will <u>see Him</u> </i> </div>
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<i>just <u>as</u> <u>He is</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>3 Everyone who has <u>this hope</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>set</u> on Him</i></div>
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<i><u>purifies</u> himself, </i> </div>
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<i>even as He is <u>pure</u>.</i></div>
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<i>4 Everyone who <u>sins</u> also <u>commits lawlessness</u>. </i> </div>
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<i><u>Sin</u> is <u>lawlessness</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 You know that He was <u>manifested</u> to <u>take away our sins</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>in</u> <u>Him</u> </i> </div>
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<i>is <u>no sin</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>6 Whoever <u>remains</u> <u>in Him</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>doesn’t</u> <u>sin</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>Whoever <u>sins</u> hasn’t <u>seen</u> <u>Him</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>neither <u>knows</u> <u>Him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>7 <u>Little children</u>, let no one <u>lead</u> you <u>astray</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>He who <u>does</u> <u>righteousness</u> is <u>righteous</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>even as <u>He</u> is <u>righteous</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>8 He who <u>sins</u> is of the <u>devil</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>for the <u>devil</u> has been <u>sinning</u> <u>from the beginning</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>To this <u>end</u> the Son of God was <u>manifested</u>, that He might <u>destroy</u> the <u>works</u> of the <u>devil</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>9 Whoever is <u>born of God</u> doesn’t <u>commit</u> <u>sin</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because His <u>seed</u> <u>remains</u> <u>in him</u>; and he <u>can’t sin</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because he is <u>born of God</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>10 In <u>this</u> the <u>children of God</u> are <u>revealed</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>children of the devil</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>Whoever doesn’t <u>do righteousness</u> is <u>not of God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i><u>neither</u> is he who <u>doesn’t love his brother</u>.</i></div>
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<i>11 For this is the <u>message</u> which you heard <u>from the beginning</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that we should <u>love one another</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>12 unlike <u>Cain</u>, who was <u>of</u> the <u>evil one</u>, and <u>killed</u> his <u>brother</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>Why did he <u>kill</u> <u>him</u>? </i> </div>
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<i>Because his <u>works</u> were <u>evil</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and his <u>brother’s</u> <u>righteous</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>13 Don’t be <u>surprised,</u> my brothers, if the <u>world</u> <u>hates</u> you.</i></div>
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<i>14 We <u>know</u> that we have <u>passed</u> out of <u>death</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>into</u> <u>life</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because we <u>love</u> the <u>brothers</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>He who <u>doesn’t love</u> his brother </i> </div>
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<i><u>remains</u> in <u>death</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>15 Whoever <u>hates</u> his <u>brother</u> is a <u>murderer</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and you know that <u>no murderer</u> has <u>eternal life</u> <u>remaining</u> in him. </i> </div>
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<i>16 By this we <u>know</u> <u>love</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because He <u>laid</u> down His <u>life</u> for <u>us</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>And we <u>ought</u> to <u>lay</u> down our <u>lives</u> for the <u>brothers</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>17 But whoever has the <u>world’s</u> <u>goods</u>, and <u>sees</u> his brother in <u>need</u>, and <u>closes</u> his <u>heart</u> of <u>compassion</u> <u>against</u> him, </i> </div>
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<i>how does the <u>love of God</u> <u>remain</u> <u>in him</u>? </i> </div>
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<i>18 My <u>little children</u>, let’s not <u>love</u> in <u>word</u> </i> </div>
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<i> neither with the <u>tongue</u> <u>only</u>, </i> </div>
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but in <u><i>deed</i> </u><i>and </i><i><u>truth</u>.</i></div>
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<i>19 And by <u>this</u> we <u>know</u> that we are of the <u>truth</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and <u>persuade</u> our <u>hearts</u> <u>before him</u>,</i></div>
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<i> 20 because if our <u>heart</u> <u>condemns</u> us, </i> </div>
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<i> God is <u>greater</u> than our <u>heart</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>knows</u> all things. </i> </div>
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<i>21 Beloved, if our <u>hearts</u> <u>don’t condemn</u> us, </i> </div>
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<i>we have <u>confidence</u> <u>toward God</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>22 and whatever we <u>ask</u>, we <u>receive</u> from Him, </i> </div>
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<i>because we <u>keep</u> <u>His commandments</u> </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>do</u> the things that are <u>pleasing</u> in <u>His sight</u>.</i></div>
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<i>23 This is <u>His commandment</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that we should <u>believe</u> in the <u>name</u> of His <u>Son</u>, <u>Jesus Christ</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>love</u> <u>one another</u>, </i><i>even as He <u>commanded</u>.</i></div>
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<i>24 He who <u>keeps</u> His <u>commandments</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>remains</u> <u>in Him</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>He</u> <u>in him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>By this we <u>know</u> that He <u>remains</u> <u>in us</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>by the <u>Spirit</u> which He <u>gave</u> us.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 3:1-6 Believers are children of God, but the future blessings they will have as a result of that status aren't yet seen. When Christ is revealed in His glory, those who are pure in heart will see Him (one of the beatitudes - Mt 5:8). Those who have this hope of glory, purify themselves so as not to be disqualified (1Pt 1:22; 1Tim 1:5; Heb 10:22). The purpose in Christ coming wasn't to die for our sins, but remove them from us so we could have a relationship with God. In Christ there is no sin, since He is holy. Those who abide/remain in union with Him (“in Him”) don't sin. If we are drawing our motivations and strength from the vine, there's no room to sin. Whoever sins hasn't “seen” (used in 1:1, 2, 3 to describe the fellowship the apostles had with Christ) nor “known” Christ. There are three lines of interpretation. No one who read chapter 1 would claim sinless perfection, since that is refuted there. The more common view is to translate the present tenses as “habitual” which means those who know Christ don't continue to habitually sin. That view has some merit, but misses John's point. The view closer to John's thinking is that those who abide or remain in Christ don't wander off into trouble. A child staying contentedly on a parent's lap isn't going to get themselves into all kinds of trouble that would displease the parent (see comments on abiding in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/john-13-17-joyful-and-fruitful.html" target="_blank">John 15</a>). </div>
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3:7-15 To prevent the false teachers from leading abiding believers astray John points out that the believer who does what is right in God's sight is righteous, but the one who sins is of the devil (drawing their motivation from him, and his world). The devil has been sinning since before the Garden, and the Son of God was manifested, as promised in Genesis 3, to destroy the devil and His works of deceiving people into being unfaithful to God. The atoning work, and the indwelling Spirit of Christ put the devil out of business in the lives of those who abide in Christ. Whoever is born of God doesn't sin, because the seed of the word of God, energized by the Holy Spirit (1Pt 1:23; John 3:6) remains/abides in the believer. Those whose actions are sourced in God, don't sin. Those who don't do what is right in the sight of God, have their actions sourced not in God, but the devil. This particularly applies to those who don't love their brother (like Cain). Those who don't love are akin to murderers (Mt 5:21-22), and do not have eternal life (dominion of the Age, reward in the Messianic Kingdom) remaining in him. This is not about losing forgiveness, which is a permanent possession of those who are justified/born again, but it is about losing reward in the the Messianic Kingdom as Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount. </div>
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3:16-24 Jesus sets the standard for the love glory-bound believers need to have for each other: self-sacrificial for the others' benefit. Those who love in word/truth and deed gain an assurance of their future reward, as well as confidence in praying. Those who keep God's commands, and do what is pleasing in His sight also have the assurance of answered prayer. This is because they are so in tune with God's will, that when they ask Him for help in doing what He wants them to do, He is more than happy to help them. John summarizes what God wants us to do: believe in the name/character/glory of His Son, Jesus the Messiah, and love one another as He commanded. The one who does this, abides/remains in Him, and He in them. Another source of confidence is the work of the Spirit (Phil 2:13). </div>
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<i>John 14:</i><i>21 He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him."</i></div>
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<b>Application</b>: Those who abide in Christ don't sin; if you find yourself sinning, you might want to move closer to God and do things His way. </div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Heavenly Father, thanks for Jesus, Your word, and Your Spirit, which make abiding in You possible, may I draw all my motivation and strength from You exclusively as I love others with a pure heart according to Your will. Amen.</div>
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<b>1John 4 <u>Victory</u></b></div>
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<i>4:1 <u>Beloved</u>, don’t <u>believe</u> every <u>spirit</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but <u>test</u> the <u>spirits</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>whether they are <u>of</u> <u>God,</u> </i> </div>
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<i>because many <u>false prophets</u> have gone <u>out</u> into the world. </i> </div>
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<i>2 By this you know the <u>Spirit of God</u>: </i> </div>
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<i>every <u>spirit</u> who <u>confesses</u> that Jesus Christ <u>has come</u> in the <u>flesh</u> is <u>of God</u>, </i> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PPogiBINZjo/UDGqd8FygFI/AAAAAAAAE4U/upjn8gcL6gQ/s1600/hero.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PPogiBINZjo/UDGqd8FygFI/AAAAAAAAE4U/upjn8gcL6gQ/s200/hero.png" height="200" width="136" /></a><i>3 and every <u>spirit</u> who <u>doesn’t confess</u> that Jesus Christ <u>has come</u> in the <u>flesh</u> is <u>not</u> <u>of God</u>, and this is the <u>spirit</u> of the <u>Antichrist</u>, of whom you have heard that it <u>comes</u>.</i></div>
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<i>Now it is in the world <u>already</u>.</i></div>
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<i>4 You are <u>of God</u>, <u>little children</u>, and have <u>overcome</u> them; </i> </div>
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<i>because <u>greater</u> is <u>He</u> who is <u>in you</u> </i> </div>
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<i>than <u>he</u> who is <u>in</u> the <u>world</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 They are of the <u>world</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>Therefore they speak of the <u>world</u>, and the <u>world</u> hears them. </i> </div>
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<i>6 We are <u>of God</u>. He who <u>knows God</u> <u>listens</u> to us. </i> </div>
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<i>He who is <u>not</u> <u>of God</u> <u>doesn’t</u> listen to us. </i> </div>
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<i>By this we know the <u>spirit</u> of <u>truth,</u> and the <u>spirit</u> of <u>error</u>.</i></div>
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<i>7 <u>Beloved</u>, let us <u>love one another</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>for <u>love</u> is <u>of God</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>and everyone who <u>loves</u> is <u>born</u> <u>of God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>knows</u> <u>God</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>8 He who <u>doesn’t</u> <u>love</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>doesn’t know</u> <u>God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>for <u>God is love</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>9 By this God’s <u>love</u> was <u>revealed</u> <u>in us</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that God has <u>sent</u> His <u>one</u> and <u>only</u> <u>Son</u> into the <u>world</u> </i> </div>
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<i>that we might <u>live</u> <u>through Him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>10 In this is <u>love</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>not that <u>we</u> <u>loved</u> God, </i> </div>
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<i>but that <u>He</u> <u>loved</u> us, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>sent</u> His <u>Son</u> </i> </div>
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<i>as the <u>atoning sacrifice</u> for <u>our sins</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>11 Beloved, if God <u>loved</u> us in this way, </i> </div>
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<i>we also <u>ought</u> to <u>love</u> <u>one another</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>12 No one has <u>seen</u> God at any time. </i> </div>
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<i>If we <u>love</u> <u>one another</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>God <u>abides</u> <u>in us</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and His <u>love</u> has been <u>perfected</u> <u>in us</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>13 By this we <u>know</u> that we <u>remain</u> <u>in Him</u> and He <u>in us</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because He has <u>given</u> us <u>of</u> his <u>Spirit</u>.</i></div>
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<i>14 We have <u>seen</u> and <u>testify</u> that the Father has <u>sent</u> the <u>Son</u> as the <u>Savior</u> of the <u>world</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>15 Whoever <u>confesses</u> that <u>Jesus</u> is the <u>Son of God</u>,</i></div>
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<i>God <u>remains</u> <u>in</u> <u>Him</u>, and He <u>in God</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>16 We <u>know</u> and have <u>believed</u> the <u>love</u> which God has <u>for</u> <u>us</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>God is <u>love</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and he who <u>abides</u> <u>in love</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>abides</u> <u>in God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and God <u>abides</u> <u>in him</u>.</i></div>
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<i>17 In this <u>love</u> has been made <u>perfect</u> <u>among us</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that we may have <u>confidence</u> in the <u>day of judgment</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because <u>as</u> He is, even so <u>are</u> we <u>in</u> this <u>world</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>18 There is <u>no</u> <u>fear</u> in <u>love</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>but <u>perfect(ed)</u> <u>love</u> <u>casts out</u> <u>fear</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because <u>fear</u> has <u>punishment</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>He who <u>fears</u> is not <u>made</u> <u>perfect</u> <u>in love</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>19 We <u>love</u> Him, </i> </div>
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<i>because He <u>first</u> <u>loved</u> <u>us</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>20 If a man says, "I <u>love</u> God," and <u>hates</u> his brother, he is a <u>liar</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>for he who <u>doesn’t</u> <u>love</u> his <u>brother</u> whom he has <u>seen</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>how can he <u>love</u> <u>God</u> whom he has <u>not</u> <u>seen</u>? </i> </div>
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<i>21 This <u>commandment</u> we have from Him, </i> </div>
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<i>that he who <u>loves</u> God should also <u>love</u> his brother.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 4:1-6 God has given us His Spirit, but that doesn't mean that every prophetic spirit is from God, because there is a world of evil spirits around us. Therefore, believers should apply this simple test to those “spirits” speaking though prophets: every spirit who confesses/acknowledges that Jesus is the promised Messiah who has come into the world in the flesh, is of God. Those that don't are anti-Messiah, empowered by the Anti-Messiah/Christ, Satan's chief agent. He is already in the world, but believers have nothing to fear, because greater is the One who is in them: the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, the Spirit of Glory. Verse 4 is a good one to memorize and meditate upon. The false teachers draw their motivation and message from the world (and the evil one who runs this present age -Eph 2:1-3) therefore the worldlings listen to them, rather than to the apostolic teaching. Those who are sourced in God, listen to revealed truth. So one can discern the spirit of truth and the spirit of error based receptivity.</div>
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4:7-15 The one who is born of God not only listens to truth and doesn't sin, but loves as God has modeled and commanded. The one who doesn't love, doesn't know God, since God is the source and expression of love, as expressed in Jesus dying for our sins. God's love for us is the standard for us loving each other. If we do so, God abides in us, and His love is perfected (brought to fulfillment/completion). When we love like God intended, the inner witness of the Holy Spirit confirms to our conscience that we are abiding, and doing what pleases God. The apostles have seen/know and testify that the Father sent Jesus (His beloved Son in whom He is well pleased) to be the Savior of the world (as in everyone, not just a select few - John 3:16). Whoever acknowledges/confesses that Jesus is the Son of God has the abiding relationship with God, that is only possible through Jesus. </div>
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4:16-21 The one who abides in love (and thus maintains an intimate relationship with the God of love) has love perfected or brought to its intended purpose, so that the believer can have confidence on Judgment Day. That confidence comes about from loving as God loved, which is the standard to which we are held. The one who has loved “perfectly” or in whom love has been “perfected” has nothing to fear on judgment day, because hitting and maintaining the standard God requires (which is only possible through an abiding relationship with the Vine), eliminates any possible negative consequences. The one who fears judgment needs to work on perfecting their love. The one who loves God is loyal to God (Jn 14:15) in response to the love God has shown him/her (<i>hesed</i>). The love God wants us to have will overflow into a love for other children of God. The one who doesn't desire what is in another's best interest, doesn't love God. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Love of truth and other believers (reflected in our ministry to them) are hallmarks of those who will do well on Judgment Day.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: God, thanks that Your Spirit dwells within me and is far greater than Satan or any of his minions; keep me from his deceptions, and guide me in loving others as You would. Amen.</div>
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<b>1John 5 <u>Life in the Son</u></b></div>
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<i>5:1 Whoever <u>believes</u> that <u>Jesus is the Christ</u> is <u>born</u> of God. </i> </div>
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<i>Whoever <u>loves</u> the Father also <u>loves</u> him who is <u>born</u> of Him. </i> </div>
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<i>2 By this we <u>know</u> that we love the <u>children</u> of God, </i> </div>
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<i>when we <u>love</u> God and <u>keep</u> His <u>commandments</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>3 For this is the <u>love</u> of God, </i> </div>
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<i>that we <u>keep</u> His <u>commandments</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>His <u>commandments</u> are <u>not</u> grievous. </i> </div>
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<i>4 For whatever is <u>born</u> of God <u>overcomes</u> the <u>world</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>This is the <u>victory</u> that has <u>overcome</u> the <u>world</u>: your <u>faith</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 Who is he who <u>overcomes</u> the world, </i> </div>
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<i>but he who <u>believes</u> that Jesus is the <u>Son of God</u>?</i></div>
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<i>6 This is He who <u>came</u> by <u>water</u> and <u>blood</u>, <u>Jesus Christ</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>not with the <u>water</u> <u>only</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but with the <u>water</u> and the <u>blood</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>It is the Spirit who <u>testifies</u>, because the <u>Spirit</u> is the <u>truth</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>7 For there are <u>three</u> who <u>testify</u>: 8 the <u>Spirit</u>, the <u>water</u>, and the <u>blood</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>three</u> agree as <u>one</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>9 If we <u>receive</u> the <u>witness</u> of <u>men</u>,</i></div>
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<i>the <u>witness</u> of <u>God</u> is <u>greater</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>for this is <u>God’s</u> <u>testimony</u> which He has <u>testified</u> concerning his <u>Son</u>.</i></div>
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<i>10 He who <u>believes</u> in the <u>Son of God</u> has the <u>testimony</u> <u>in himself</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>He who <u>doesn’t</u> believe God </i> </div>
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<i>has made Him a <u>liar</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because he has <u>not</u> <u>believed</u> in the <u>testimony</u> </i> </div>
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<i>that <u>God</u> has <u>given</u> concerning His <u>Son</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>11 The <u>testimony</u> is <u>this</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that God <u>gave</u> to us <u>eternal</u> <u>life</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and this <u>life</u> is <u>in His Son</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>12 He who <u>has the Son</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>has the life</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>He who doesn’t <u>have</u> God’s <u>Son</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>doesn’t</u> <u>have</u> the <u>life</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>13 These things I have <u>written</u> to you who </i><br />
<i><u>believe</u> in the <u>name</u> of the <u>Son of God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that you may <u>know</u> that you <u>have</u> <u>etern</u>al <u>life</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and that you may <u>continue</u> to <u>believe</u> in the <u>name</u> of the <u>Son of God</u>.</i></div>
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<i>14 This is the <u>confidence</u> which we have <u>toward</u> Him, </i> </div>
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<i>that, if we <u>ask</u> anything according to <u>His will</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>He <u>listens</u> to us. </i> </div>
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<i>15 And if we know that He <u>listens</u> to us, </i> </div>
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<i>whatever we <u>ask</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>we <u>know</u> that we <u>have</u> the <u>petitions</u></i></div>
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<i>which we have </i><i><u>asked</u> of <u>Him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>16 If anyone <u>sees</u> his <u>brother</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>sinning</u> a <u>sin</u> <u>not leading</u> to <u>death</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>he shall <u>ask</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and God will <u>give</u> him <u>life</u> for those who <u>sin</u> <u>not leading</u> to <u>death</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>There is a <u>sin</u> <u>leading to death</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>I <u>don’t</u> say that he should make a <u>request</u> concerning this. </i> </div>
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<i>17 <u>All</u> <u>unrighteousness</u> is <u>sin</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and there is a <u>sin</u> <u>not</u> <u>leading to death</u>.</i></div>
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<i>18 We <u>know</u> that whoever is <u>born of God</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>doesn’t sin</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but he who was <u>born</u> of <u>God</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>keeps himself</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>evil one</u> doesn’t <u>touch</u> him. </i> </div>
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<i>19 We <u>know</u> that we are <u>of God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>whole world</u> lies in the <u>power</u> of the <u>evil one</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>20 We <u>know</u> that the <u>Son of God</u> has <u>come</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and has <u>given</u> us an <u>understanding</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that we <u>know</u> Him who is <u>true</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and we are <u>in Him</u> who is <u>true</u>, </i> </div>
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<i><u>in</u> His <u>Son</u> <u>Jesus Christ</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>This is the <u>true</u> <u>God</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>eternal life</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>21 <u>Little children</u>, <u>keep</u> <u>yourselves</u> from <u>idols</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 5:1-3 Belief in Jesus as the Messiah promised in the OT (especially as the provision for our sins, the atoning sacrifice of Isaiah 53) results in being born again (Jn 1:12 the chiastic center of the prologue). Whoever loves the Father loves His children. When we love God and keep His commandments, we will love others. When our values change so that the sacrifices of love are not burdensome, we know we are loving as God desires.</div>
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5:4-10 The one who is born of God overcomes the world because of their faith in God's revelation. That revelation tells us that Jesus is the Son of God (the heir) who gives the Spirit to those who believe in Him, which makes overcoming and victory possible. Jesus came or was testified to by water and blood. When He was baptized, the voice of the Father testified that He was well pleased with His Son (Mt 3:17). The blood or sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection also testified to His identity, as did the ministry of the Holy Spirit in authenticating His works and His spokesman (particularly on the Day of Pentecost). Verse 7 has additional words in some versions which are most likely added in the eighth century, and are omitted in the WEB text above. The point is that there is more than one witness to the Sonship of Jesus, given by both men (the apostles) and God (in the life of Jesus). The one who believes has the testimony in themselves (their own lives), but the one who doesn't believe is calling God a liar, who authenticated Jesus. </div>
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5:11-15 The testimony is that God gives believers eternal life (dominion in the Age of the Messiah). This life is in His Son, the ruler of the Millennial Kingdom. The one who has an abiding relationship with the Son, has the life God promised. The one who doesn't have the relationship John has been talking about in the letter, doesn't have the life. It's one or the other. John says he is writing to those who believe in the name of the Son of God (Jesus -Jn 1:12) so that they may know they have eternal life (dominion in the coming Age), and that they may continue to believe, (so they don't forfeit what God has given them, like Israel did).</div>
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A relationship with God isn't just about what happens in the future, but has benefits in the present, like a vibrant prayer life. If we are abiding and knowing and doing His will, then asking anything according to His will gets a sure positive response from God. </div>
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5:16-21 While on the subject of praying according to God's will, if someone sees their brother in Christ sinning, he/she should intercede for the sinning believer, and God will give him life for those who are not sinning in such as way that they are headed to the discipline of deprivation of life. All unrighteousness is sin, but some have greater consequences than others. The one who is born of God, and in whom God's seed/Spirit remains/abides, doesn't sin (or continue to sin in the weaker alternative view). The one born of God keeps/guards him/herself so the evil one doesn't influence him/her. Believers are sourced in God's power, while worldlings are subject to the power of the evil one. Believers know that the Son of God has come in the flesh, and given them understanding so that they know Him who is true, and abide in Him who is true, that is Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. This is the testimony of the true God, and the testimony of eternal life. John closes with an admonition to keep themselves from idols which are false gods, rather than the true God. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Loving and obeying the Lord Jesus, the coming Messiah, is the best way to live happily ever after.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: Heavenly Father, thanks for giving me life in Jesus, both now and in the future; may I be on my guard and abide in You so that I may have confidence and joy when You return. Amen.</div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God gives us life in His Son when we believe, and gives us ample testimony to base our belief in Him.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is the authenticated Son of God, in whom God gives us forgiveness and eternal life. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We need to abide in Christ, obeying His commands, particularly loving other believers if we expect to live the victorious Christian life in this world, and the abundant life in the next. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-2412823896792253642012-08-19T01:48:00.001-04:002014-06-10T08:50:47.111-04:00Romans 11 Gentiles & Israel Get Blessed sermon<h4>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Romans 11 Gentiles & Israel Get Blessed </b></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> © 2012 WF Cobb Truthbase.net</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>DailyTruthbase.Blogspot.com</b></i></span></h4>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Background:</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i>8:28 all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified. </i></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">9:6 it is </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>not</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> that the </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>word of G</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">od has taken </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>no</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>effect</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. For not all </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><u>ek</u></i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><i> </i></span><span style="font-size: small;">Israel</span><span style="font-size: small;"> who are </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>of</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> Israel (Gal 3:7-9), 12 "The older shall </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>serve</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> the younger." 13 As it is written, "Jacob I have </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>loved</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">, but Esau I have </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>hated</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">." 17 For the Scripture says to the Pharaoh, "For this very purpose I have exalted/raised you up, that I may show My </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>power</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth." 18 Therefore He has </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>mercy</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> on whom He wills, and whom He wills He </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>hardens</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Ex 9:27 “I have sinned this time, the Lord is righteous?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">10:21 But to </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Israel</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> he says: "</span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>All</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> day long I have </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>stretched</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> out My </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>hands</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> to a </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>disobedient</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> and </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>contrary</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> people."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Heritage is not Holiness; Election is corporate and to Blessing (not individual forgiveness). Hardening/belief are consequences of our choices</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>I. National Blessing is by Grace; Individual Blessing is by Faith and Works; Blindness is by works.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">11:1 has God </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>cast</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>away</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> His </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>people</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">? Certainly </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>not</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">! For I also am an Israelite...2 God has not </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>cast</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> away His </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>people</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> whom He </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>foreknew</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">4 "I have <u>remaining/left over</u> for Myself 7000 men who have not bowed the knee to Baal." 5 Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace. 6 And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work. 7 What then? Israel has <u>not</u> obtained what it <u>seeks</u>; but the <u>elect</u> have <u>obtained</u> it, and the rest were/became <u>calloused</u> (Mt 6:52; Mr 8:17 they closed; Jn 12:3-:41) 8 “God has given them over to a spirit of <u>stupor</u>, eyes...not see, ears...not hear, to this very day." </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Isa 29:10; 9 Pause and wonder! Blind yourselves and be blind! They are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink.13 The Lord said, "Because this people draws near with their mouth and with their lips to honor me, but they have removed their heart far from me, and their fear of me is a commandment of men which has been taught; 22 Therefore thus says YAHWEH, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: "Jacob shall no longer be ashamed, neither shall his face grow pale. 23 But when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in the midst of him, they will sanctify my name. Yes, they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and will stand in awe of the God of Israel.24 They also who err in spirit will come to understanding, and those who grumble will receive instruction." </i></span><span style="font-size: small;">9 And David says (Ps 69:21-28): "Let their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>recompense</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> to them. 10 Let their eyes be darkened, so that they do not see, And bow down their back always. (69:26 Because...)" </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>II. Blessing requires faith in God's revealed promises, & in the means He specified (obedient goodness).</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">11 I say then, have they <u>stumbled</u> that they should <u>fall</u>? Certainly not! But through their fall, to <u>provoke</u> them to <u>jealousy</u>, salvation has come to the Gentiles. 12 Now if their <u>fall</u> is riches for the world, and their <u>failure</u> riches for the Gentiles, how much more their <u>f</u><u>ullness</u>! 13 For I speak to you Gentiles; inasmuch as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry, 14 if by any means I may <u>provoke</u> to <u> </u> those who are my flesh and <u>save</u> <u>some</u> of them. 15 For if their being cast away is the reconciling of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">16 For if the firstfruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches. 17 if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them, and with them became a <u>partaker</u> of the <u>root</u> and fatness of the olive tree, 18 do not boast against the branches..remember that you do not support the root, but the <u>root</u> supports you. 19 You will say, "Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in." </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">20 Because of </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>unbelief</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> they were </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>broken</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> off, and you </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>stand</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> by </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>faith</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. Do not be </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>haughty</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">, but </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>fear</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. 21 For if God did </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>not</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>spare</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> the </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>natural</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> branches, He </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>may not</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>spare</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>you</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> either. 22 Therefore consider the </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>goodness</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> and </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>severity</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> of God: on those who </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>fell</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">, </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>severity</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">; but toward you, </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>goodness</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">,</span><span style="font-size: small;"><u> if you continue in goodness/virtue</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Otherwise</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> you </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>also</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> will be </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>cut off</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. 23 And </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>they</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> also, if they do </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>not</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>continue in unbelief</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">, will be </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>grafted</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> in, for God is able to </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>graft</u></span><span style="font-size: small;"> them in </span><span style="font-size: small;"><u>again</u></span><span style="font-size: small;">. </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">APP: Justified believers will be cut off from blessing if they don't continue in goodness; those who repent and return will be blessed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>III. God keeps His sovereign promises, esp. Blessing the whole world through the descendants of Abraham</b><b> </b>(Gen 12)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">25 For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this <u>mystery</u>, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that <u>blindness</u> in <u>part</u> has happened to Israel <u>until</u> the fullness of the <u>Gentiles</u> has come in. 26 And so <u>all Israel will be saved</u>, as it is written: " The <u>Deliverer</u> will come out of <u>Zion</u>, and He will <u>turn</u> away <u>ungodliness</u> from <u>Jacob</u> (Isa 59:20) 27 For this is My <u>covenant</u> with them, <u>When</u> I <u>take away their sins</u>." 28 Concerning the <u>gospel</u> they are <u>enemies</u> for your sake, but concerning the <u>election</u> they are <u>beloved</u> for the sake of the <u>fathers</u>. 29 For the <u>gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable</u>. 30 For <u>as</u> you were once <u>disobedient</u> to God, yet have <u>now</u> obtained <u>mercy</u> <u>through</u> <u>their disobedience</u>, 31 even so these also have now been <u>disobedient</u>, that <u>through</u> the <u>mercy</u> shown you <u>they</u> <u>also</u> may <u>obtain</u> <u>mercy</u>. 32 For God has <u>committed</u> them <u>all</u> to <u>disobedience</u>, that He might have <u>mercy</u> on all<u>.</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">33 Oh, the depth of the riches both of the <u>wisdom</u> and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! 34 " For who has known the mind of the LORD? Or who has become His counselor?" 35 " Or who has first given to Him And it shall be repaid to him?" 36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be <u>glory</u> <u>forever</u>. Amen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1. Does this passage indicate that God has replaced Israel with the Church, or that Israel has permanently forfeited their blessings?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2. Why do people get or develop a spirit of “stupor”? How can you prevent that from happening in your life?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">3. How and when will Israel get blessed? Is there anything they or we can do to help or prevent it?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">4. How does God get glorified by our faith? How does He get glorified by our works? How does He get glorified by your life?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">5. How does knowing that God has a plan to glorify Himself through blessing the faithful have an influence in your life?</span></div>
Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-10618206733901818732012-08-18T01:48:00.002-04:002014-03-13T22:31:49.579-04:00Week in ReviewTruth is that which explains all the facts. The Epistles of James and Peter (especially 2 Peter) contain some key facts that people tend to ignore, because they conflict with their theology and lives. It's only when we bring our understanding of the truth into conformity with the facts, that our lives will start meshing with the truth, because our thinking is reflected in our actions.<br />
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So spend some extra time making sure you understand <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/1peter-1-2-merited-grace.html">1 Peter 1</a>.<br />
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Then see if you can explain that he says in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2peter-1-3-partake-of-divine-nature.html">2 Peter</a>. <br />
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It you didn't grasp the argument of <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/james-1-2-royal-law-of-freedom.html">James</a>, now is as good a time as any to do so.<br />
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Now you're left with <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/1john-1-2-fellowship-with-god-and-man.html">1 John</a>. One key to unlocking its secrets is to recognize that anti-Christ means anti-Messiah, opposed to Jesus being the Messiah. "Messiah" means "anoint" in Hebrew, as does "Christ" in Greek. Kings were anointed with oil as a symbol of divine empowerment. In the Old Testament this was accompanied by the giving of the Holy Spirit to have power to do God's will.<br />
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Another key is realizing that the Messiah was the one who would give the Holy Spirit, which was authenticated with signs and wonders (done by the power of the Holy Spirit) and further demonstrated by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, and through the charismatic gifts. The recipients of the Epistle of 1 John had received an anointing, or the Holy Spirit. The fact that they had the Holy Spirit teaches them all they need to know against the false anti-Christ/Messiah teachers. Since Christ gave the Holy Spirit, He was indeed the Messiah, and anything the anti-Christs said to the contrary, was clearly false. Thus the audience of 1 John didn't need the anti-Christs to teach them how to live so as to be blessed (by following the OT).<br />
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Clearly the audience still needed teaching from John, even about this topic, so any interpretation which concludes that having the Holy Spirit means you know all truth isn't true (although in the case of the Apostles it was true - <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/john-13-17-joyful-and-fruitful.html">John 16:13</a>; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-1-4-carnal-christians.html">1 Corinthians 2:12</a>).Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-1878804872503581672012-08-17T01:47:00.006-04:002016-09-20T09:14:32.668-04:001 John 1-2 Fellowship with God and Man<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 </b><u><b>Reaping What You Sow</b></u></div>
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<i>2 Corinthians 9:6 “But this I say: </i> </div>
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<i>he who sows <u>sparingly</u> will also reap <u>sparingly</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and he who sows <u>bountifully</u> will also reap <u>bountifully</u>.</i></div>
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<i>7 So let each one <u>give</u> </i> </div>
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<i>as he <u>purposes</u> in his heart, </i> </div>
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<i><u>not</u> <u>grudgingly</u> or of necessity; </i> </div>
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<i>for God loves a <u>cheerful</u> <u>giver</u>.</i></div>
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<i>8 And God is able to make all <u>grace</u> abound toward you, that you, always having all <u>sufficiency</u> in <u>all</u> things, may have an abundance for <u>every</u> good work.”</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 9:6-7 God doesn't need our money, but we need to give. God actually provides us with the means of giving, and we are just being stewards of His stuff when we give. So we want to determine what He wants us to do with His stuff. God wants us to give of our own free will (as He wants us to live all our lives), choosing to do what pleases Him, and benefits us. So we should determine God's will for our giving, and then give, knowing we will benefit in return. <b>We can't out-give God</b>, and He is totally just in recompensing those who honor Him. See the context in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/2corinthians-6-9-all-sufficient.html">2 Corinthians 9</a> for a better understanding of giving, and the series of being faithful with God's treasure at the end of the TOYL book on <a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a>.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Know that God gives you what you need, and will give you back more than you give or willingly “sacrifice.” (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/malachi-1-4-lord-of-leftovers-or-lord.html">Malachi 3:10</a> comments).</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, thanks that You have so graciously given of Yourself in providing my salvation in Christ, and in meeting all my needs; may I mirror Your grace and generosity in my giving. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>1 John 1-2 </b>The first epistle of John is considered the most difficult to outline in the New Testament, but it is fairly easy to understand and apply the individual verses without a thorough knowledge of the literary structure (like Proverbs). One commentator declared that the book made as much sense reading each sentence beginning at the last verse of chapter 5, as it did beginning in 1:1. However, there are discernible blocks of text (lots of structure in triads, etc,) and a logic flow, but the argument isn't as smooth due to our insufficient understanding, not John's writing. The apostle John writes to born-again believers so they may have fellowship with God and each other, and continue to abide in Christ (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/john-13-17-joyful-and-fruitful.html">John 15</a>) so they can reap the abundant life God offers. The epistle addresses a number of errors and false teaching that could keep believers from being blessed. Just like in the end of his gospel, John reveals his purpose in writing at the end.</div>
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<i>1 John 5:11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. </i> </div>
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<b>1 John 1 <u>Fellowship with God and Man</u></b></div>
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<i>1:1 That which was from the <u>beginning</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> that which we have <u>heard</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> that which we have <u>seen</u> with our eyes, </i> </div>
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<i> that which we <u>saw</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and our hands <u>touched</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>concerning the <u>Word of life</u> </i> </div>
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<i>2 and the <u>life</u> was <u>revealed</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and we have <u>seen</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and <u>bear witness</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and <u>declare</u> to you </i> </div>
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<i>that <u>eternal life</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> which was <u>with</u> the <u>Father,</u> </i> </div>
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<i> and was <u>revealed</u> to <u>us</u>;</i></div>
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<i>3 that which we have <u>seen</u> and <u>heard</u> </i> </div>
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<i> we <u>declare</u> to you, </i> </div>
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<i>that you <u>also</u> may have <u>fellowship</u> with <u>us</u>. </i> </div>
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<i> Yes, and <u>our</u> <u>fellowship</u> is <u>with</u> the <u>Father</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and <u>with</u> His <u>Son</u>, Jesus Christ. </i> </div>
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<i>4 And we <u>write</u> these things to you, that <u>our</u> <u>joy</u> may be <u>fulfilled</u>.</i></div>
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<i>5 This is the <u>message</u> which we have <u>heard</u> from Him and <u>announce</u> to you, </i> </div>
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<i>that <u>God</u> is <u>light</u>, and <u>in Him</u> is <u>no</u> <u>darkness</u> at <u>all</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>6 If we <u>say</u> that we have <u>fellowship</u> <u>with Him</u> </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>walk</u> in the <u>darkness</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>we <u>lie</u>, and <u>don’t</u> tell the <u>truth</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>7 But if we <u>walk</u> in the <u>light</u>, as <u>He</u> is in the <u>light</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>we have <u>fellowship</u> with <u>one another</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>blood</u> of Jesus Christ, his Son, </i> </div>
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<i><u>cleanses</u> us from <u>all</u> sin.</i></div>
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<i>8 If we <u>say</u> that we have <u>no</u> <u>sin</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> we <u>deceive</u> ourselves, </i> </div>
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<i> and the <u>truth</u> is not <u>in</u> us. </i> </div>
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<i>9 If we <u>confess</u> our <u>sins</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> He is <u>faithful</u> </i> </div>
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<i> and <u>just</u> </i> </div>
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<i> to <u>forgive</u> us the <u>sins</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and to <u>cleanse</u> us from <u>all</u> <u>unrighteousness</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>10 If we <u>say</u> that we haven’t <u>sinned</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> we make Him a <u>liar</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and His <u>word</u> is not <u>in</u> <u>us</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-4 John opens the epistle with words very similar to the prologue of his gospel: “in the beginning,” “the word”, and “life.” He testifies to Jesus (the word of life) so that the born-again readers may have fellowship/participation with the apostles in the life of God, so that their mutual joy might be full (because his children walk in the truth - 3 John 1:4). It might be worth making sure you understand what fellowship is: its root is “to have in common” and by extension “to share” or “participate in.” We share or participate in the life of Christ, both as the animating force of our spiritual existence, and the rule or practice of our lives. If Christ is not living in and through us, we won't have Biblical fellowship with each other. Unity is achieved, not by compromise, but by all parties moving to the truth.</div>
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1:5-7 Since God is light (another concept from John's prologue), and in Him is no darkness, then those who share His life (fellowship) can't walk in darkness, but must walk in the light (not live in sin). This general principle is stated in verse 5, and then elaborated in verses 6-10. Those who say they have fellowship with God, yet are sinning, are liars. But those who walk in the light, not only do have fellowship with God, but also have fellowship (as shared life) with other believers. This is not about sinless perfection, but about being forgiven through the sacrifice of Christ so that one can be cleansed from sin (see comments on Heb 9:14, where the blood of Christ cleanses our conscience from dead works so we can serve the living God). </div>
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1:8-10 Those who say they have no sin are deceived (psychologists say we're blind to most of our faults), and the truth is not in them. However, the corrective to sin, the Christian bar of soap, is to “name it and claim it.” Name the sin, and claim forgiveness. “Confess” means to “say the same thing” as God does about our behavior, that it is wrong, and leads to death. Acknowledging what is wrong is tantamount to forsaking it, for why would someone want to continue in what is wrong and deadly? Confession opens the door to cleansing. If we confess, God is faithful and just. The structure is chiastic, with God's justice being the basis of our forgiveness (Christ paid the penalty so we don't have to -Rom 3:23-26), and His faithfulness to His promises is the basis of our cleansing (1:7), so we can walk in the light of His truth. This is not justification, but the sanctification or holiness necessary for living in unity with a holy God (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-5-7-sermon-on-mount.html">Mt 6:15</a>). </div>
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Verse 10 essentially restates verse 8, forming an inclusio; those who would deny their sin are not only liars, but make God a liar as well. Such folks don't have the light of the truth in them, and are not in fellowship with God.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: God wants us to walk in the light so we can share His life; if we find ourselves slipping into the dark, use 1 John 1:9 to get back into the light.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, I praise You for wanting to share Your life with me; may I walk in the light and enjoy fellowship with You and my fellow forgiven believers. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>1 John 2 <u>Confidence at His Appearing</u></b> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ydVbT69j3aI/UC2wYmyPtqI/AAAAAAAAE3I/134lfNKK7Ec/s1600/heart+halo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ydVbT69j3aI/UC2wYmyPtqI/AAAAAAAAE3I/134lfNKK7Ec/s200/heart+halo.jpg" width="200" /></a><i>2:1 My <u>little children</u>, I <u>write</u> these things to you so that you may <u>not</u> <u>sin</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>If anyone <u>sins</u>, we have a <u>Counselor</u> with the Father, Jesus Christ, the <u>righteous</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>2 And He is the <u>atoning</u> <u>sacrifice</u> for our <u>sins</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and not for ours <u>only</u>, but also for the <u>whole</u> <u>world</u>.</i></div>
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<i>3 This is how we <u>know</u> that we <u>know Him</u>: </i> </div>
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<i>if we <u>keep</u> His <u>commandments</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>4 One who says, "I <u>know Him</u>," </i> </div>
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<i>and doesn’t <u>keep</u> His <u>commandments</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>is a <u>liar</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>truth</u> isn’t <u>in him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>5 But whoever <u>keeps</u> His <u>word</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>the <u>love</u> of <u>God</u> has most certainly been <u>perfected</u> <u>in him. </u></i> </div>
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<i>This is how we <u>know</u> that we are <u>in Him</u>: </i> </div>
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<i>6 he who says he <u>abides</u> <u>in Him</u> </i> </div>
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<i>ought himself also to <u>walk</u> just like He <u>walked</u>.</i></div>
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<i>7 <u>Brothers</u>, I <u>write</u> no <u>new commandment</u> to you, </i> </div>
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<i>but an <u>old commandment</u> </i> </div>
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<i>which you <u>had</u> <u>from the beginning</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>The <u>old</u> <u>commandment</u> is the <u>word</u> which you <u>heard</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>from the beginning</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>8 Again, I <u>write</u> a <u>new commandment</u> to you, </i> </div>
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<i>which is <u>true</u> <u>in Him</u> and <u>in</u> <u>you</u>; </i> </div>
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<i>because the <u>darkness</u> is <u>passing</u> away, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>true light</u> already <u>shines</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>9 He who <u>says</u> he is <u>in the light</u> </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>hates</u> his <u>brother</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>is <u>in the darkness</u> even until now. </i> </div>
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<i>10 He who <u>loves</u> his <u>brother</u> <u>abides in the light</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and there is <u>no</u> occasion for <u>stumbling</u> <u>in him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>11 But he who <u>hates</u> his <u>brother</u> </i> </div>
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<i>is <u>in the darkness</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and <u>walks</u> <u>in the darkness</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and doesn’t <u>know</u> where he is <u>going</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>because the <u>darkness</u> has <u>blinded</u> his <u>eyes</u>.</i></div>
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<i>12 I <u>write</u> to you, <u>little children</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> because your <u>sins</u> are <u>forgiven</u> you for <u>His name’s sake</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>13 I <u>write</u> to you, <u>fathers</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> because you <u>know Him</u> who is <u>from the beginning</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>I <u>write</u> to you, <u>young men</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> because you have <u>overcome</u> the <u>evil</u> <u>one</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>I <u>write</u> to you, <u>little children</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> because you <u>know</u> the <u>Father</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>14 I have <u>written</u> to you, <u>fathers</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> because you <u>know Him</u> who is <u>from the beginning</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>I have <u>written</u> to you, <u>young men</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> because you are <u>strong</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and the <u>word</u> of God <u>abides</u> <u>in you</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and you have <u>overcome</u> the <u>evil one</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>15 Don’t <u>love</u> the <u>world</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>neither the <u>things</u> that are <u>in the world</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>If anyone <u>loves</u> the <u>world</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>the <u>Father’s love</u> isn’t <u>in him</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>16 For <u>all</u> that is <u>in the world</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>the <u>lust</u> of the <u>flesh</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>the <u>lust</u> of the <u>eyes</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>pride</u> of <u>life</u>, </i> </div>
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<i><u>isn’t</u> the Father’s,</i></div>
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<i>but is the <u>world’s</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>17 The <u>world</u> is <u>passing</u> away with its <u>lusts</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but he who does <u>God’s will</u> <u>abides forever</u>.</i></div>
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<i>18 Little children, these are the <u>end</u> <u>times</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and as you heard that the <u>Antichrist</u> is <u>coming</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>even now many <u>antichrists</u> have <u>arisen</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>By this we <u>know</u> that it is the <u>final hour</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>19 They went <u>out</u> <u>from us</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> but they weren't of (ek)<u> us</u>; </i> </div>
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<i> for if they were <u>of us</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>they would have <u>continued</u> <u>with us</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>But they <u>left</u>, that they might be revealed that <u>none</u> of them were <u>of us</u>.</i></div>
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<i>20 You have an <u>anointing</u> from the <u>Holy</u> <u>One</u>, and you <u>all</u> have <u>knowledge</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>21 I have <u>not</u> <u>written</u> to you because you <u>don’t</u> <u>know</u> the <u>truth</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but because you <u>know</u> it, </i> </div>
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<i>and because <u>no lie</u> is <u>of</u> the <u>truth</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>22 Who is the <u>liar</u> but he who <u>denies</u> that <u>Jesus</u> is the <u>Christ</u>? </i> </div>
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<i>This is the <u>Antichrist</u>, he who <u>denies</u> the <u>Father and the Son</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>23 Whoever <u>denies</u> the <u>Son</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>the same <u>doesn’t</u> <u>have</u> the <u>Father</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>He who <u>confesses</u> the <u>Son</u> has the <u>Father</u> also. </i> </div>
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<i>24 Therefore, as for you, </i> </div>
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<i>let that <u>abide</u> <u>in you</u> </i> </div>
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<i>which you <u>heard</u> <u>from the beginning</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>If that which you <u>heard</u> <u>from the beginning</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>abides</u> <u>in you</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>you also will <u>abide</u> </i> </div>
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<i> <u>in the Son</u>, </i> </div>
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<i> and <u>in the Father</u>.</i></div>
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<i>25 This is the <u>promise</u> which He <u>promised</u> us, <u>the</u> <u>eternal life</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>26 These things I have <u>written</u> to you concerning those who would <u>lead</u> you <u>astray</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>27 As for you, the <u>anointing</u> which you <u>received</u> from <u>Him</u> <u>abides</u> in you, </i> </div>
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<i>and you don’t <u>need</u> for anyone to <u>teach</u> you. </i> </div>
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<i>But as His <u>anointing</u> <u>teaches</u> you concerning <u>all</u> <u>things</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and is <u>true</u>, and is <u>no lie</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and even as it <u>taught</u> you, you will <u>abide</u> in Him.</i></div>
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<i>28 Now, <u>little</u> <u>children</u>, <u>abide</u> <u>in Him</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that when He <u>appears,</u> </i> </div>
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<i>we may have <u>confidence</u>, and not be <u>ashamed</u> <u>before Him</u> at <u>his coming</u>.</i></div>
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<i>29 If you <u>know</u> that He is <u>righteous</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>you know that everyone who <u>practices righteousness</u> </i> </div>
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<i>is <u>born</u> <u>of Him</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:1-2 John said in chapter 1 that he wants his readers to walk in the light and not sin. He reiterates that intent, and adds that if we do sin, we have an Advocate or Counselor with the Father, Jesus the Messiah, the Righteous. He is the atoning/covering sacrifice for our sins. But wait, there's more! Jesus died for the whole world (John 3:16) so He is the sacrifice for all people who put their faith in Him.</div>
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2:3-4 John gives a number of benchmarks throughout the book, so we don't deceive ourselves into believing what isn't true. We can have confidence that we know God if we keep His commandments. As Jesus said: “If you love me, obey me” and “Why do you call me Lord and don't do what I say?” (John 14:15; Luke 6:46). So if we are intimately acquainted with God, we will be keeping His commands. Those who don't obey are lying when they say they have a good relationship with God. The truth isn't abiding in them and there will be no fruit either (John 15).</div>
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2:5-11 Those who keep (abide in) God's word, have the love of/for God (objective genitive) brought to completion in living loyally for Him. This is how a believer knows they are living “in union with Him” (a major concept in the epistle); they who abide in Him, walk/live, as Jesus did, particularly in relationships with other believers that reflect self-sacrificial love (agape). This is in accord with the summation of the law (love - Galatians 5:14), the old command which Jesus spoke in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:43), and the “new” major command Jesus gave his disciples at the Last Supper (John 13:34-45), expressing the higher standard to love self-sacrificially as Jesus loved them. The basis of the command is that the old dark order was passing away, and the new true light (of God's requirements) was already shining, for them to walk by. The one who hates his brother/sister is walking in the dark. The one who loves, abides in the light. One could argue that the old commandment was to believe and follow Christ (cf 3:23) but that command doesn't match the parallelism, nor the emphasis on loving others in the epistle. . </div>
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2:12-15 It would have been the better division of the chapters, to begin chapter 2 here, since the earlier section relates to the theme of fellowship with God and others by walking in the light, and now John turns his attention to overcoming satanic obstacles to fellowship with God. There is a stylistic change of “I am writing to you” and the naming of three groups, possibly related to stages of spiritual development (young believers, mature believers, and those in the middle). </div>
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In verse 12 he writes to the “little children” whose sins are forgiven for the sake of God's glory or name. In verse 13 John addresses the same group, who have progressed from being forgiven to knowing God.</div>
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John writes to the “fathers” who have had a mature relationship with God, from the beginning, and are abiding in it, so the same content in is both verses.</div>
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John writes to the “young men” who initially have overcome the evil one, and then progressed to maintaining their strength by having the word of God abide in them (an ongoing necessity for fellowship -John 15).</div>
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2:15-16 Next John addresses their desires and values, which could trip them up. Unsanctified desires, derived from Satan's world, are the major reason believers continue to sin, and don't live in victory. See comments on Eve's temptation Genesis 3 and Jesus' temptation in Matthew 3. The desire for temporal power (pride-security/significance), pleasure (flesh), and possessions (eyes) motivate us to seek those things in the world, rather than the delights of the Father. The world, with its temporal trinkets will pass away, but the one who does God's will (which is knowable and doable) will abide forever. See series on Deadly Desires on <a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a>.</div>
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2:18-19 John warns them of the chief agent of Satan, the Antichrist, and the lesser minions, the false teachers who would seek to dissuade them from following Christ in the light. These false teachers went out from the the apostles, but they were not of (literally “ek” denoting source or origin, as in sharing the same source of teaching and doctrine) them. If the false teachers were from the apostles, they would have continued in the apostolic teaching. Their departure from the apostolic doctrine proved they were not based in them, and thus should be ignored. This indicates that the problem facing the readers is the same as that of the rest of the NT, Judaizers, who were denying the validity of the believer's experience in Jesus the Messiah, and teaching the OT as the basis of righteousness, rather than the words of Jesus. In fact they would go on to deny that Jesus was the Messiah (same word as Christ) of the OT, come in the flesh. Those who posit some sort of Gnostic teaching are ignorant of the fact that Gnosticism didn't become a coherent philosophy until the second century after Christ. </div>
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2:20-23 John reminds his readers that they have an “anointing” from the Holy One, so they have the correct knowledge, and don't need the Judaizing teaching. Apparently they still need John's instruction, and were in danger of being led astray, so they didn't know everything. The fact that they had an “anointing,” a reference to the Holy Spirit which the Messiah was to give, validated the Messiahship of Christ, and their accurate/true belief in Him. That was all they needed, not the false teaching of the antichrists. John isn't writing because they don't know the truth, but because they do know it (and don't need anything additional). No lie comes out of the truth; the liar is the one who denies that Jesus is the Messiah. Note they are not denying what He did, but that He is the promised Messiah of Isaiah 40-66 fame (as well as other places in Isaiah and the rest of the OT). </div>
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Satan is the one who denies the Father (as he did in Isaiah 14) and the Son (as he was doing through his agents, the false teachers. Whoever denies the Messiahship of the Son, doesn't have the Father either (so don't pay attention to them). Whoever confesses/acknowledges the Son (as the believers did) have the Father also (and don't need anything else). </div>
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2:24-27 Therefore (conclusion of the above), the believers should abide/remain in the teaching they heard from the real apostles, and have it abide in them (John 15). If they abide/remain in the truth, they will abide in the Son and Father, and have the fellowship John promised in the beginning of the epistle, and the eternal life Jesus promised in the gospels (cf John 3:16, 36). So the recipients of the letter don't need anyone to teach them anything else. The anointing they received (the fact of receiving the Holy Spirit) teaches them all they need to know to ignore the false teaching. This is not a blanket statement to all believers that they don't need teaching, but is context specific to the audience, with regard to the error of the antichrists. Jesus gave the responsibility to teach people to obey (Mt 28:20); Paul instructed Timothy to teach people who could teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2); the Holy Spirit gave gifted men to teach (Ephesians 4); and the gift of teaching to the early church (1 Corinthians 12). The author of Hebrews outlined the Christian career path of progressing to be able to teach others (Heb 5), so obviously believers need teaching, just not the false teaching of the antichrists (those opposed to Christ as Messiah, and probably advocated Judaism as the means to getting blessed). John closes the chapter, and opens the next one with the instruction to abide in what they had been taught, so they would abide in union with Christ. </div>
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2:28-29 John exhorts the believers to abide/remain in union with Christ so that when He appears to judge and set up His Millennial Kingdom, they would have confidence to stand before His judgment seat (2 Corinthians 5:9-10). Those who were not loyal to Him, or who spent their time stumbling around in the dark, would be ashamed at His coming. </div>
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Knowing that Jesus is righteous (and requires righteousness for blessing) they know that everyone who is born of Him would also have/practice righteousness.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: If we abide in the truth and aren't deceived by the world or false teachers, we will live in love and righteousness, and thus have confidence to stand before the Messiah when He returns.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, I pray You would guide me in understanding and applying Your truth, so I will abide in You,and will not be ashamed to stand before You when You return. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God wants us to share in His life, and have proper relationships with others. He provides the means of doing that with His truth (light), and forgiveness, and wants to cleanse us from all our sin. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is the word of life and the coming Messiah, regardless of what anyone says. One day all will stand before Him and acknowledge that truth, even the Antichrist.</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We need to walk in the light and love each other if we are to share in the life of Christ. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-72412161970727180842012-08-16T01:47:00.007-04:002014-10-16T07:09:45.462-04:002 Peter 1-3 Partake of the Divine Nature <div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS Proverbs 3:9-10 </b><u><b>Give </b></u><u><b>First Fruits, Get Filled </b></u> </div>
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<i>Pr 3:9 “<u>Honor</u> the LORD with your <u>possessions</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>And with the <u>firstfruits</u> of all your <u>increase</u>;</i></div>
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<i>10 So your barns will be <u>filled</u> with <u>plenty</u>,</i></div>
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<i>And your vats will <u>overflow</u> with new <u>wine</u>.”</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 3:9-10 This is a great passage on giving God our best, to experience His best. If our giving honors God, He will honor us. Giving Him the first fruits means that He gets His “cut” of your increase (profit) first. In OT times, one gave the first fruits to God not just as a sign of His ownership, but also in faith that He would provide the rest to meet your needs. The author indicates that God will not just meet your needs, but do so abundantly (cf Philippians 4:19). This first fruits principle can also apply to your use of time. Give God the first portion of your life each day, and see how He provides during the rest of the day. Don't make Him “<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/04/malachi-1-4-lord-of-leftovers-or-lord.html">Lord of Your Leftovers</a>” as the Israelites did in Malachi. See comments in the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/11/judges-6-8-will-of-god-and-gideon.html">original post </a>and in the series on Faithfulness with our <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/?tx_kcsermonmgr_pi1%5BshowUid%5D=420&cHash=0967403e60">Giving to God</a> in the back of the TOYL book on <a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a>.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Honor God with what You give Him, and see how He will honor you.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, thanks that I can always trust You to protect and prosper me when I am rightly related to YOU, acknowledging Your right to first place in my life. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>2 Peter 1-3 </b>This epistle is packed full of practical exhortations and truth of which many are ignorant, and false teachers avoid (since it exposes their false thinking and lifestyles). Those who wish to be richly rewarded in the coming Kingdom of Righteousness, would do well to read and heed, very diligently (just like Peter commands). If they do they will receive a rich reward as they share in the very nature of God. Those who don't will remain tangled in their sin, and wish they had paid attention when Christ returns. </div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 Peter 1 <u>Partake of the Divine Nature</u></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>1:1 Simon Peter, a <u>servant</u> and <u>apostle</u> of Jesus Christ, to those who have <u>obtained</u> a <u>like</u> precious <u>faith</u> with us <u>in</u> the <u>righteousness</u> of our <u>God</u> and <u>Savior</u>, <u>Jesus</u> <u>Christ</u>: 2 <u>Grace</u> to you and <u>peace</u> be <u>multiplied</u> in/<u>by</u> the <u>knowledge</u> of <u>God</u> and of <u>Jesus</u> our <u>Lord</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLoPXq4R-Uo/UCxbzbJUNLI/AAAAAAAAEzc/J6YKQTi4y9E/s1600/galaxy+spiral+white.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLoPXq4R-Uo/UCxbzbJUNLI/AAAAAAAAEzc/J6YKQTi4y9E/s200/galaxy+spiral+white.jpg" height="130" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>3 seeing that his <u>divine</u> <u>power</u> has <u>granted</u> to us <u>all</u> things that <u>pertain</u> to <u>life</u> and <u>godliness</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>through</u> the <u>knowledge</u> of him who <u>called</u> us to his own <u>glory</u> and <u>virtue/excellence</u>; 4 <u>by/dia</u> which he has <u>granted</u> to us his <u>precious</u> and exceedingly <u>great</u> <u>promises</u>; that through/dia these you may become <u>partakers</u> of the divine <u>nature</u>, having <u>escaped</u> from the <u>corruption</u> that is in the world by/en <u>lust</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>5 Yes, and <u>for</u> this <u>very cause</u> giving/contributing <u>all</u> <u>diligence</u>, <u>supply</u> to/in your faith <u>virtue</u>/moral excellence; and to virtue/moral excellence, <u>knowledge</u>; 6 and to knowledge, <u>self-control</u>; and to self-control <u>patience/endurance</u>; and to patience/endurance <u>godliness</u>; 7 and to godliness <u>brotherly</u> <u>affection</u>; and to brotherly affection, <u>love</u>. 8 For <u>if</u> these things are <u>yours</u> and <u>abound</u>, they make you to be not <u>barren</u> nor <u>unfruitful</u> in/eis the <u>knowledge</u> of our Lord Jesus Christ. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">9 For he who <u>lacks</u> <u>these things</u> is <u>blind</u>, seeing <u>only</u> what is <u>near</u>, having <u>forgotten</u> the <u>cleansing</u> from his <u>old sins</u>. 10 Therefore, brothers, be more <u>diligent</u> to make your <u>calling</u> and <u>election</u> <u>sure</u>. For if you <u>do</u> these things, you will <u>never</u> <u>stumble</u>. 11 For <u>thus</u> you <u>will</u> be <u>richly</u> <u>supplied</u> with the <u>entrance</u> into the <u>eternal</u> <u>Kingdom</u> of our <u>Lord</u> and <u>Savior</u>, <u>Jesus Christ</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">12 <u>Therefore</u> I will not be <u>negligent</u> to <u>remind</u> you of these things, though you <u>know</u> them, and are <u>established</u> <u>in</u> the present <u>truth</u>. 13 I think it <u>right</u>, as long as I am in this <u>tent</u>, to <u>stir</u> you up by <u>reminding</u> you; 14 <u>knowing</u> that the <u>putting off</u> of my <u>tent</u> comes <u>swiftly</u>, even as our Lord Jesus Christ made <u>clear</u> to me. 15 Yes, I will make <u>every</u> <u>effort</u> that you may <u>always</u> be able to <u>remember</u> these things even <u>after</u> my <u>departure</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">16 For we did <u>not</u> follow cunningly <u>devised</u> <u>fables</u>, when we made <u>known</u> to you the <u>power</u> and <u>coming</u> of our <u>Lord Jesus Christ</u>, but we were <u>eyewitnesses</u> of his <u>majesty</u>. 17 For he <u>received</u> from God the Father <u>honor</u> and <u>glory</u>, when the <u>voice</u> came to him from the Majestic Glory, "This is my <u>beloved</u> <u>Son</u>, in whom I am <u>well</u> <u>pleased</u>." 18 We <u>heard</u> this <u>voice</u> come out of <u>heaven</u> when we were <u>with him</u> on the <u>holy</u> <u>mountain</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">19 We have the <u>more</u> sure word of <u>prophecy</u>; and you do well that you <u>heed</u> it, as to a <u>lamp</u> <u>shining</u> in a dark place, <u>until</u> the <u>day dawns</u>, and the <u>morning star</u> <u>arises</u> <u>in</u> your <u>hearts</u>: 20 <u>knowing</u> this first, that <u>no prophecy</u> of <u>Scripture</u> is of <u>private</u> <u>interpretation</u>. 21 For <u>no prophecy</u> ever came by the <u>will</u> of <u>man</u>: but <u>holy</u> <u>men</u> of <u>God</u> <u>spoke</u>, being <u>moved</u> by the <u>Holy Spirit</u>.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-2 Peter writes to believers who have the same faith he does (an important point to keep in mind), which is faith in the righteousness of God. He desires that his readers have grace and peace multiplied to them, which is a clear indication that these are covenantal blessings, not static items given in the past (cf 3:18 – grow in grace). The means by which grace and peace are multiplied is in the experiential knowledge of God and the Lord Jesus (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/titus-1-3-truthful-do-good.html">Titus 1</a> for how <i>gnosis</i>-knowledge differs from <i>epignosis</i>-experiential knowledge).</div>
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1:3-4 The reason grace is multiplied (as a covenantal blessing or reward) by incorporating the knowledge of God into our lives is because His divine power/authority has granted or bestowed on us all things that pertain to life (abundant life, dominion in the Age to come), but only through the knowledge (<i>epignosis</i>) of Him, who has called us to share in His glory and virtue (moral excellence). By His authority, He has also granted to us great promises, through which we can be be partakers of the divine nature (share in His glory), after having escaped the corruption/decay that is in the world via lust/desire. In other words, if we incorporate God's revelation into our lives, we will share in His glory/nature, and be free from the decay to which all temporal creatures are subject. Note that if in His promises we have all we need, then two ideas follow: we don't need anything else, be it additional revelation or a different doctrine; and there is no excuse for not sharing in God's glory, except our failure to know and apply (<i>epignosis</i>) His promises.</div>
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1:5-8 For the purpose of experiencing the blessing of sharing in His glory outlined above, Peter gives an outline of the steps believers must take to reach this goal. To their faith in the righteousness of God, believers are commanded (imperative mood) to give (literally “contribute” as “give along side”) all diligence/haste to sequentially add to their faith a list of character traits. The word for “add” is used of outfitting a chorus with all the supplies needed for a production. So we need to put a lot of effort into building upon our faith, so that it is ready for prime time (the return of Christ and Judgment Day).</div>
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The first item to add is: </div>
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Virtue (<i>arete</i> – the Greek word for virtue or excellence, considered the highest quality for the attainment of happiness). The English translation “virtue” isn't bad, but “moral excellence” captures the sense of applying what we know to be right in the moral realm so that we are not deficient; only then can we build to the next level:</div>
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Knowledge (<i>gnosis</i>) this isn't the word for experiential knowledge enjoined above, but probably relates more to knowing or having insight into God's will, on the more subjective level. If we're not obeying the objective revealed will, we will not be able to discern the subjective aspects of God's will (John 7:17);</div>
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Self-control (“power under control”) is used of controlling one's passions and desires so that we do what God wants rather than what we want. See the sermon on <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/?tx_kcsermonmgr_pi1%5BshowUid%5D=385&cHash=ff0e943ffa">Self-control</a> on Truthbase.net for how to develop the power to exhibit or inhibit an impulse. </div>
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Patience (“remain under”) is better translated “endurance,” the strength to continue to carry a load or remain under a burden when everything temporal within you wants to quit;</div>
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Godliness (knowing and doing what the gods require) was used of the pagan priests who learned what the gods wanted, and carried it out “religiously.” Paul was an apostle for the purpose of developing this trait in believers (see comments on Titus 1);</div>
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Brotherly kindness (<i>philadelphia</i>) is the fond affection that believers share as brothers and sisters in the family of God. It's difficult to have such affection for “black sheep” or selfish and self-centered unsanctified believers, hence the need for having the previous traits;</div>
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Love (<i>agape</i>) this is the crowning jewel of Christlike character, the loyal sacrifice of ourselves for the benefit of another. It is parallel to the OT <i>hesed</i>.</div>
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If believers put the effort into putting these qualities into their lives, to the extent that they own them and abound, they will be neither barren lazy/unproductive nor unfruitful in the <i>epignosis</i> of the Lord Jesus the Messiah, which is how one gets to share in the divine glory and nature.</div>
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1:9-11 The believer who has failed to incorporate these qualities into their lives, and has only their naked faith come judgment day, will not go into the lake of fire, but will not be clothed with glory (see<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/2corinthians-4-5-gaining-"> 2Cor 4-5 post</a>). They will be barren and unfruitful, and fail to realize the purpose for which Christ saved/justified them. Peter says they are blind (the work of Satan, blinding people to the light of the glory -2Cor 4:4), and short-sighted (seeing only the temporal things in front of them. The pairing of blind and short-sighted emphasized the lack of ability to see the glory God wants them to have). Not only is their vision and behavior bad, so is their memory. They have forgotten (literally ”taken hold of ignorance” which highlights the willful rejection of truth) the purging from their sins to live a new life. Instead of being barren and unfruitful, believers should give diligence (as instructed in verse 5) to make their call to glory, and election (select or choice) certain or steadfast. This is not about making sure they have believed that Jesus died for their sins, because election is not about forgiveness, and it is clear they already have faith. Nor is it about doing good works to prove they have faith and are saved/forgiven (a common, but totally ignorant and demonic deception. For those of you who have been following DTB from the beginning, we've yet to see a verse that supports this false teaching which is tantamount to faith in our works, rather than faith in the work of God). But it's about justified believers doing the will of God so they can receive the blessing of God (glorification), and not miss it. If believers “do” the things Peter instructs, they will never stumble (so as to miss their reward, cf Rm 11:11). Instead of stumbling, they will have a rich entrance into the eternal Kingdom of their Lord and Savior, Jesus the Messiah. Note that the kingdom is viewed as yet future, and this book is written at the end of Peter's life (1:14). There are differing degrees of entrance and reward. Those who have all their works burned up in Gehenna (1Cor 3:15) will be saved/justified, but miss the glorification of faithful believers. </div>
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1:12-18 Peter (or any Bible teacher) would be negligent if they failed to keep the promise of reward and possibility of missing it in the forefront of the thinking of those to whom they minister. The Lord Jesus revealed to Peter that he would shortly depart from this world, putting away the earthly tent to take up residence in his heavenly mansion. So Peter wants to make sure that believers will be able to remember what he had told, and is now writing to them. In relating the power and coming of the Lord, he didn't tell them legends or fables, but was an eyewitness to the glory of the Messiah. On the Mount of Transfiguration (Mt 17:1-13) Peter saw and heard the fulfillment of Jesus' promise in Matthew 16:28 that some of His disciples would not die until they saw the Son of Man coming in His kingdom. Peter here states that he was an eyewitness to the coming glory. He elaborates that he heard the Father gave Jesus honor and glory. Having experienced the Mount of Transfiguration, Peter affirms the certainty of the prophecies of the Messianic Kingdom, so that believers can be more careful to obey for glory. The message of glory is like a light shining in a dark place (world), giving guidance, until the Day of the Lord dawns, and the morning star (glory of Christ - Revelations 2:28; 22:16) arises in their hearts (they become partakers of the divine nature). </div>
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Peter reminds his readers that no prophecy is a matter of making things mean whatever you want them to mean, but there was an intended meaning as the Holy Spirit guided the prophets so they said what He wanted them to say. This is a cornerstone of Biblical revelation and inspiration (cf 2 Timothy 3:16).</div>
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<b>Application</b>: God has given us great promises of partaking of His nature and glory, which we can receive by diligently learning and applying the truth. That's the only way we'll experience the blessing He has in store for us in the future Kingdom of the Messiah.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, thanks for graciously saving me, and for the incredible promises of being able to share in Your very nature; may I spend my days on earth experiencing You in my daily life, so I can spend my eternity reveling in Your delights. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 Peter 2 <u>False Teachers Deny Lordship</u></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">2:1 But <u>false prophets</u> also <u>arose</u> <u>among</u> the <u>people</u>, as <u>false teachers</u> <u>will</u> <u>also</u> be among <u>you</u>, who will <u>secretly</u> bring in <u>destructive</u> <u>heresies</u>, <u>denying</u> even the <u>Lord/Master</u> who <u>bought</u> them, bringing <u>on</u> themselves swift <u>destruction</u>. 2 Many will <u>follow</u> their <u>destructive</u> <u>ways</u>, and as a <u>result</u>, the way of the <u>truth</u> will be <u>maligned</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 In <u>covetousness</u> they will <u>exploit</u> you with <u>deceptive words</u>: whose <u>sentence</u> now from of old <u>doesn’t</u> <u>linger</u>, and their <u>destruction</u> will <u>not</u> <u>slumber</u>. 4 For if God <u>didn’t spare</u> <u>angels</u> when they <u>sinned</u>, but <u>cast</u> <u>them</u> down to <u>Tartarus</u>, and <u>committed</u> them to pits of <u>darkness</u>, to be <u>reserved</u> for <u>judgment</u>; 5 and <u>didn’t spare</u> the <u>ancient</u> world, but <u>preserved</u> <u>Noah</u> with seven others, a <u>preacher of righteousness</u>, when he brought a <u>flood</u> on the world of the <u>ungodly</u>; 6 and <u>turning</u> the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into <u>ashes</u>, <u>condemned</u> them to <u>destruction</u>, having made them an <u>example</u> to those who would <u>live ungodly</u>;</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">7 and <u>delivered</u> <u>righteous Lot</u>, who was very <u>distressed</u> by the <u>lustful</u> life of the <u>wicked</u> 8 (for that <u>righteous man</u> dwelling <u>among</u> them, was <u>tormented</u> in his <u>righteous soul</u> from day <u>to</u> day with <u>seeing</u> and <u>hearing</u> <u>lawless deeds</u>): 9 the <u>Lord</u> knows <u>how</u> to <u>deliver</u> the <u>godly</u> out of <u>temptation</u> and to <u>keep</u> the <u>unrighteous</u> for the <u>day of judgment</u> to be <u>punished</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>10 but <u>chiefly</u> those who <u>walk</u> after the <u>flesh</u> in the <u>lust of defilement</u>, and <u>despise authority</u>. <u>Presumptuous</u>, <u>self-willed</u>, they are <u>not</u> afraid to <u>speak evil</u> of <u>glory</u>; 11 <u>whereas</u> angels, though <u>greater</u> in might and power, <u>don’t</u> bring a railing <u>judgment</u> <u>against them</u> before the Lord. 12 But these, as <u>unreasoning</u> <u>creatures</u>, born <u>natural animals</u> to be taken and <u>destroyed</u>, speaking <u>evil</u> in matters about which they are <u>ignorant</u>, will in their <u>destroying</u> surely <u>be</u> <u>destroyed</u>, 13 <u>receiving</u> the <u>wages</u> of <u>unrighteousness</u>; people who count it <u>pleasure</u> to <u>revel</u> in the <u>daytime</u>, <u>spots</u> and <u>blemishes</u>, <u>revelling</u> in their <u>deceit</u> while they <u>feast</u> with you; 14 having <u>eyes</u> full of <u>adultery</u>, and who <u>can’t cease</u> from <u>sin</u>; <u>enticing unsettled</u> <u>souls</u>; having a <u>heart</u> <u>trained</u> in <u>greed</u>; children of <u>cursing</u>; 15 <u>forsaking</u> the <u>right way</u>, they went <u>astray</u>, having <u>followed</u> the <u>way</u> of <u>Balaam</u> the son of Beor, who <u>loved</u> the <u>wages of wrongdoing</u>; 16 but he was <u>rebuked</u> for his own <u>disobedience</u>. A mute <u>donkey</u> <u>spoke</u> with a man’s voice and <u>stopped</u> the <u>madness</u> of the <u>prophet</u>. 17 These are <u>wells</u> without <u>water</u>, <u>clouds</u> driven by a storm; for whom the <u>mists</u> of <u>darkness</u> has been <u>reserved</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">18 For, uttering great swelling <u>words</u> of <u>emptiness</u>, they <u>entice</u> in the <u>lusts</u> of the <u>flesh</u>, by <u>licentiousness</u>, those who are indeed <u>escaping</u> <u>from</u> those who <u>live in error</u>; 19 <u>promising</u> them <u>liberty</u>, while they <u>themselves</u> are <u>slaves</u> of <u>corruption</u>; for a man is brought into <u>bondage</u> <u>by</u> whoever <u>overcomes</u> <u>him</u>. 20 For <u>if</u>, <u>after</u> they have <u>escaped</u> the <u>defilement</u> of the <u>world</u> <u>through</u> the <u>knowledge</u> of the <u>Lord and Savior</u> <u>Jesus Christ</u>, they are <u>again</u> <u>entangled</u> in it and <u>overcome</u>, the <u>last</u> state has become <u>worse for them</u> than the <u>first</u>. 21 For it would be <u>better</u> for them not to have <u>known</u> the <u>way of righteousness</u>, than, after <u>knowing</u> it, to <u>turn back</u> <u>from</u> the <u>holy</u> <u>commandment</u> <u>delivered</u> to <u>them</u>. 22 But it has happened <u>to</u> <u>them</u> according to the true <u>proverb</u>, "The <u>dog</u> <u>turns</u> to his <u>own vomit</u> <u>again,"</u> and "the <u>sow</u> that has <u>washed</u> to <u>wallowing</u> in the <u>mire</u>."</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:1-2 Just as there were false prophets among the people of Israel in the OT, so there will be false teachers among the Body of believers in the NT era. I've actually heard some say that nothing in chapter 2 applies to believers, in direct denial of the text. Those who distort truth wind up misleading people and doing the devil's work of keeping believers from glorifying God by gaining His glory. In NT times, Peter (and Paul -Acts 20:29) warned of teachers who would surreptitiously bring in teachings that would destroy believer's hope of reward, even denying the Lord who bought them. This is not denying Christ's existence, nor His death on their behalf. The thing that is being denied is the Lordship of Christ over their lives. The world for Lord is better translated “Master” (despotas – from which we get the English “despot” and is usually used of a Master's total ownership rights over a slave – see Synonyms in the OLB under Strong's #1203). There are those today who falsely teach we're free to do whatever we want because we're all under grace (cx Gal 5:13 and Rom 6 comments). There are others who teach that God has done it all, and we don't have to do anything (let go and let God) in contrast to what Peter taught in the previous chapter. There are a host of other false approaches to living the Christ-following, glory-gaining life, which at their root have a denial of God's ownership of us, and His will for our life. Notice the denial (which is sometimes translated “refuse”) is of the Master (who owns us). It's not a denial of the fact that He purchased us with His blood, but of His Lordship. Since He owns us, we should serve Him, seeking His will not our own, and be careful to add to our faith the things which result in glorification. </div>
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<i>1Corinthians 6:20 “For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.”</i></div>
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However, it is easier to follow teaching that accords with our unsanctified desires, but results in destruction rather than glorification, and loss of reward rather than sharing in the divine nature. Many follow the self-indulgent teaching of the false teacher and rather than living lives that result in God being glorified (1Pt 2:12) they selfishly live resulting in the truth being blasphemed (spoken against). </div>
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2:3-9 The false teachers will tell people what they want to hear (2Tim 4:3) for the sake of profit. Their judgment is sure. False teachers are redeemed believers (people who denied Jesus existed, or died for sins, wouldn't have been allowed in NT churches since that was the entrance prerequisite; sadly, it's a different story today). Those who think otherwise, are reading both their theology and modern context into the NT text and times. Peter is now going to give a number of reasons for why He says the judgment of false teachers is certain, so that his readers would be sure to avoid their teaching and share their fate.</div>
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God didn't spare sinning angels (who were better and brighter) so He won't spare these lesser lights. The angels were cast into Tartarus (used only here in the NT, a place in Greek thought reserved for the wicked dead) where they await judgment, which is different from where they are now. Peter doesn't say the false teachers go there (although it wouldn't be a bad idea) but that the teachers will be judged as certainly as the fallen angels are.</div>
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The second illustration of certain judgment is the flood on Noah's generation (see comments on 1Pt 3). Note that Noah is called a preacher of righteousness, through whom the Spirit of Christ preached to that generation.</div>
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Sodom and Gomorrah are next on the list of those experiencing catastrophic (<i>katastrophe</i>) judgment. All they had built was reduced to ashes (cf 1Cor 3:15). They serve as an example to those that would live in a ungodly manner (not those who haven't accepted Christ).</div>
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On the other hand, speaking of Sodom brought to mind Lot, Abraham's nephew, who is called righteous more than once (knowing and doing what is right in God's sight) and was distressed daily by the lustful life of his neighbors (maybe he should have considered moving). But the Lord knows how to deliver the righteous out of trials, and just like He delivered Lot, he can keep the unrighteous for the Day of Judgment to be punished (literally “cut off” or dwarfed). </div>
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2:10-17 Chief among those who will be punished are those who walk after the flesh (rather than the Spirit, a distinct possibility for believers -Rom 8:1-4; Gal 5:16). These folks get no pleasure from pleasing God, so they seek it in self-indulgence and pride. They are arrogant, self-willed, and clueless to the fact that they will be judged for every unprofitable word they speak (as Jesus promised in Mt 12:36). They even speak against glories (the word is literally “glory” and some translate it as “dignitaries” missing the argument of chapter one, and 1Peter, of self-denial for glory). Even angels, greater in power and might, are more circumspect in their speech. The false teachers live for the here and now, not the glories of God. </div>
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The false teachers are not controlled by Spirit, and live like the animals (natural rather than spiritual and unreasoning -<i>alogos</i>), headed for destruction (or the stew pot). The false teachers speak boldly about things they don't understand. They will receive the wages of unrighteousness as payback, rather than the recompense of reward. They attend the Christian feast (Lord's Supper???) not as holy saints, but as blemished sinners, enticing others to follow in their sin. They have forsaken the right way, which means they once knew it (2:21), and were on it. This is parallel to Israel forsaking the way of the Lord to do their own thing and thus forfeit their reward/blessing in the Promised Land. Like Balaam, a prophet of God, they loved the wages of wrongdoing and were on their way to being rebuked for their disobedience (not lack of faith or forgiveness). The false teachers are wells that produce no live giving water. They are like clouds driven into the darkness.<br />
2:18-23 By appealing to the unsanctified desires of those who are just escaping the defilement of the flesh, the false teachers keep them ensnared. They promise the untaught liberty and freedom, but the teachers themselves don't live in victory nor freedom. A person is the slave of whatever masters him (the sanctification argument of Paul in Romans 6). This truism applies to both the false teachers and their pupils, but Peter probably has the untaught in view, since the section began with those “just escaping” in verse 18, and he spent the earlier part of the chapter on the false teachers. If, after they have escaped the defilement of the world through the experiential knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (that pretty much makes them as born-again as one gets), they are again entangled in it (since they were out of it) and overcome (literally two verbs: “become” and “inferior or conquered”) by sin, the last state of “defeated defilement” is worse than the first state of defilement. It would be better for them not to have known the way of the righteousness God requires for blessing, than to have known it and turned form the holy commandment (not gracious gift of salvation by faith) delivered to them to obey.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IlqZkFkXIME/UCxes9yMFhI/AAAAAAAAEzs/hxBs0_n49cU/s1600/Peas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IlqZkFkXIME/UCxes9yMFhI/AAAAAAAAEzs/hxBs0_n49cU/s200/Peas.jpg" height="136" width="200" /></a>Those with a cranial capacity the size of a French pea (as in Veggie Tales), can't understand that this is not talking about sins being covered by the gracious provision of the blood of Christ's atoning sacrifice received by faith, but rather the diligent obedience God demands of His redeemed people for entrance into the promised blessings. Maybe they missed that righteousness for reward differs from the righteousness of redemption imputed on the basis of Christ's death and their faith. Or that faith and obedience are not the same word. Those who think so have to conclude that forgiveness from the penalty of sin is on the basis of obedient works rather than faith. Or maybe they missed the whole parallel between redeemed Israel failing to get the promised blessing and disobedient redeemed NT believers missing their reward which Paul talked about in 1Corinthians 10. In any event they are missing the truth (and the glory) like the false teachers and their pupils did. It could <u>not</u> be better to never have known the way escape from the lake of fire, than to have known it and turned from it (thus suffering eternal torment in the lake of fire). However, it would be better to have not known the commandment of God given them to obey (for then they would receive less discipline) than to have known it and ignored it (for those would receive greater discipline). For those who don't think bad things happen to bad believers, see comment on French peas above).</div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Luke 12:47 And that servant who knew his master's will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.</span></i></blockquote>
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Peter says that those who go back to the way they were (see warning passages in Hebrews; I'll avoid the temptation to insert the entire NT to prove this point...just read DTB) will be like a dog going back to what it once removed from it's system, or a pig that was washed, wallowing in the filth from which it was cleansed. Such defilement does not get a rich entrance into the Kingdom of glory, but disqualifies for priestly service in the coming Kingdom.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: False teachers and their followers take the self-gratifying path that leads to destruction (Mt 7), rather than the self-denying path that leads to life.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, I pray that Your Holy Spirit would convict the arrogant and ignorant who ignore Your truth to teach what tickles the ears; and that they would repent of living for their temporal pleasure, so they can reap Your glory and You will receive greater glory. Amen.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>2 Peter 3 <u>It's All Gonna Melt</u></b> </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvR8c9_VxHY/UCxfMRVJ-EI/AAAAAAAAE0o/QggIcW5SDgE/s1600/earth+melt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvR8c9_VxHY/UCxfMRVJ-EI/AAAAAAAAE0o/QggIcW5SDgE/s200/earth+melt.jpg" height="200" width="160" /></span></a></div>
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">3:1 <u>This</u> is now, beloved, the <u>second</u> letter that I have written to you; and in <u>both</u> of them I stir up your <u>sincere</u> mind by <u>reminding</u> you; 2 that you should <u>remember</u> the <u>words</u> which were <u>spoken</u> before by the <u>holy prophets</u>, <u>and</u> the <u>commandments of us</u>, the <u>apostles</u> of the <u>Lord</u> and <u>Savior</u>:</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">3 knowing this first, that in the <u>last days</u> <u>mockers</u> will come, <u>walking</u> after their <u>own lusts</u>, 4 and saying, "Where is the <u>promise</u> of <u>his coming</u>? For, from the <u>day</u> that the <u>fathers</u> fell asleep, <u>all</u> things <u>continue</u> as they <u>were</u> from the <u>beginning</u> of the <u>creation</u>." 5 For this they <u>wilfully</u> <u>forget</u>, that there were <u>heavens</u> from of old, and an <u>earth</u> formed out of <u>water</u> and amid water, <u>by the word of God</u>; 6 by <u>which</u> means the <u>world</u> that then <u>was</u>, being <u>overflowed</u> with <u>water</u>, <u>perished</u>. 7 But the <u>heavens</u> that now <u>are,</u> and the <u>earth</u>, <u>by the same word</u> have been <u>stored</u> up for <u>fire</u>, being <u>reserved</u> against the <u>day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">8 But don’t <u>forget</u> this one thing, beloved, that <u>one day</u> is with the Lord as a <u>thousand years</u>, and a <u>thousand years</u> as <u>one day</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">9 The Lord is <u>not</u> <u>slow</u> concerning his <u>promise</u>, as some count slowness; but is <u>patient</u> with <u>us</u>, <u>not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance</u>. 10 But the <u>day of the Lord</u> will <u>come</u> as a <u>thief</u> in the night; in which the <u>heavens</u> will <u>pass</u> away with a <u>great</u> <u>noise</u>, and the <u>elements</u> will be <u>dissolved</u> with <u>fervent</u> <u>heat</u>, and the <u>earth</u> and the <u>works</u> that are <u>in it</u> will be <u>burned</u> up.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>11 Therefore <u>since</u> <u>all</u> these things will be <u>destroyed</u> like this, <u>what kind of people</u> <u>ought</u> you to <u>be</u> in <u>holy living and godliness</u>, 12 <u>looking</u> for and <u>earnestly desiring</u> the <u>coming</u> of the <u>day of God</u>, which will <u>cause</u> the burning <u>heavens</u> to be <u>dissolved</u>, and the <u>elements</u> will <u>melt</u> with fervent <u>heat</u>? 13 But, according to <u>his promise</u>, we <u>look</u> for <u>new heavens</u> and a <u>new earth</u>, in which <u>righteousness</u> <u>dwells</u>. 14 Therefore, <u>beloved</u>, seeing that you <u>look</u> for these things, be <u>diligent</u> to be<u> found in peace</u>, <u>without blemish</u> and <u>blameless in his sight</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">15 <u>Regard</u> the <u>patience</u> of our Lord as <u>salvation</u>; even as our beloved brother <u>Paul</u> also, according to the <u>wisdom</u> given to <u>him</u>, <u>wrote</u> to you; 16 as also in <u>all</u> of his <u>letters</u>, speaking in them of <u>these</u> <u>things</u>. In those, there are some things that are <u>hard</u> to <u>understand</u>, which the <u>ignorant</u> and <u>unsettled</u> <u>twist</u>, as they <u>also</u> do to the <u>other Scriptures</u>, to their own <u>destruction</u>. 17 You therefore, beloved, <u>knowing</u> these things <u>beforehand</u>, <u>beware</u>, lest being <u>carried</u> away with the <u>error</u> of the <u>wicked</u>, you <u>fall</u> from your <u>own steadfastness</u>. 18 But <u>grow</u> in the <u>grace</u> and <u>knowledge</u> of <u>our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ</u>. To him be the <u>glory</u> both <u>now</u> and <u>forever</u>. Amen.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 3:1-2 Peter says that both of his letters are designed to remind them of the lifestyle commands of the OT prophets and NT apostles, so they would obey them, and receive praise glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus the Messiah (1Pt 1:7). The theme is glorification/reward by faithful obedience, not justification/forgiveness by faith. </div>
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3:3-8 Scoffers who walk/live for their lusts/desires rather than for God's will/desire deny not only His Lordship/Mastery over them, but also His second coming to reward the faithful. Just because He didn't return in their day, doesn't mean He won't return. His coming is based upon His word, as is our world. Peter gives a few illustrations (same modus operandi as the previous chapter) to prove his point. Creation is by the word of God, as was the flood of Noah's day. By the same word, the current world exists, and is appointed to future destruction. That destruction will come in God's impeccable timing. Since God is outside of time, He doesn't view it as we do. A thousand years is as a day, and a day as a thousand years. Some see in this “day” terminology a reference to the days of creation, others to the Millennial kingdom, and they both might be right. </div>
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3:9-10 The Lord is not slow concerning His promised coming, but is patient, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Plugging Strong's #622 into a concordance will reveal that “perish” is used most frequently (overwhelmingly actually) of losing reward or punishing unprofitable, disobedient servants. In its 92 occurrences, one would be hard pressed to find a reference to unbelievers being tossed into the lake of fire (happy hunting, check out the context of each on DTB if in doubt). God gives the disobedient time to repent because His plan to glorify Himself is by sharing His glory with them, but He has sovereignly decreed that blessings will only accompany obedience, just like discipline will accompany disobedience. When He returns, it will be suddenly and result in loss (like a thief who takes your stuff) for those who lived for the temporal, since everything temporal will be dissolved.</div>
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3:11-14 Drawing his conclusion, Peter asks a rhetorical question. Since everything is going to be destroyed, how should we then live? He does not make an appeal to accept Jesus as one's sin-bearer, but rather advocates holy living and godliness, and an eager zeal for the Day of the Lord, not for the pyrotechnics, but for the promised glory. According to His promise, faithful believers look for a new heavens and a new earth (the current one is cursed -Gen 3), where righteousness dwells (that will be a nice change). That would also be another piece of evidence that, since righteousness isn't dwelling here now, this isn't the Messiah's Kingdom (Kingdom of Righteousness ruled over by the King of Righteousness). </div>
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Those who look for such things are diligent (same word as 1:10, 15) to be found by Him in peace (cf 1Pt 3:11), holiness, without blemish, and blameless in His sight (as a result of adding the items in chapter 1 to our faith, not just making sure we believed that Jesus died for our sins). </div>
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3:15-18 Believers should regard the patient “delay” of the Lord as an opportunity to repent (salvation), as Paul wrote about. Peter here equates Paul's writings with the other Scriptures, furthering the case for NT inspiration. He notes, as most Bible students have, that Paul writes some things that are hard to understand (he should read some of what John wrote!). Peter notes that the French pea people and those not steadfast (only used elsewhere in 2:14), twist and torture (literally) to fit meanings and theologies never intended by the text, author, nor the Holy Spirit. Those who distort the text (rather than obey it) do so to their own destruction. </div>
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Peter now says the readers have foreknowledge (same word) indicating that they know what's going to happen (according to the promise of God) ahead of its actual occurrence, so they can be on their guard. They need to watch that they don't get carried away by the error of the wicked (a distinct possibility) nor fall from their own steadfastness (also a possibility, otherwise why watch?). Instead of going down the tubes with those who don't adhere to the truth, believers should grow in the grace and knowledge of their Lord, Savior, and Messiah, since that is how they will realize the hope for which they were saved, sharing in Jesus' glory when He returns to rule. Note that grace is not static, but has past justifying, present sanctifying, and future glorifying aspects, the latter two are meant here. See Survey of Glory on Truthbase.net if you've never studied the use of grace in the NT. Peter ends with an ascription of praise to our coming King.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Are you holy and blameless as you anticipate the destruction of everything you can touch and see and the reception of glory that never fades?</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, thanks for your patience with me when I am slow to learn; please help me know and embrace truth, so I can life the kind of life which pleases You, and which You are pleased to bless. Thanks again. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God wants us to share in His nature and glory, and has given us all we need to get there, biding upon our faith the characteristics that enable us to lead Christlike lives. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus is the coming King who owns us, and whom we should totally serve.</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: Believers must be diligent to grow in grace, and build upon their faith as God commanded if they wish to reap reward rather than discipline when Christ returns. </div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-90260275676075711552012-08-15T01:47:00.005-04:002014-10-15T07:29:13.649-04:001 Peter 3-5 Passport to Glory<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS 2 Corinthians 4:5 </b><u><b>Talking About Jesus</b></u></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jfLv5HYYDxc/UCsLkDZD2vI/AAAAAAAAEx4/JDTBEsA_hPo/s1600/mouth.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jfLv5HYYDxc/UCsLkDZD2vI/AAAAAAAAEx4/JDTBEsA_hPo/s200/mouth.png" height="197" width="200" /></a><i>2 Cor 4:4 “the god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelieving, lest the light of the gospel of the <u>glory</u> of Christ, Who is the image of God, should <u>shine</u> on them.</i></div>
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<i>5 For we do not preach <u>ourselves</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>but <u>Christ Jesus</u> the <u>Lord</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and ourselves your <u>bondservants</u> </i> </div>
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<i>for Jesus' <u>sake</u>.</i></div>
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<i>6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the <u>glory</u> of God in the face of Jesus Christ. </i> </div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 4:5 We should serve the needs of others for the sake of Jesus. We should talk about Him, rather than ourselves, except to authenticate the message. If we call Him our Lord, then we should live like His servants, and serve others in His name. The surrounding context (see post on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/2corinthians-4-5-gaining-your-glory.html" target="_blank">2Cor 4-5</a> details the motivation for such self-denying behavior, namely the reception of the glory of God.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: When we talk about our Lord, we should live like His servants.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, may I serve and love others as You have loved and served me, so I may be effective in sharing Your truth with them. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>1 Peter 3-5 </b>There is a lot to digest and apply in these chapters for those who seek to be recipients of the glory of God. From submissive and humble relationships to suffering and spiritual warfare, there are many ways we can be tripped up on our path to glory. Peter gives some commands and instruction to help us get to where God wants us to be. For those of you who want to take your Bible Study skills to the level of being able to trace an author's argument through a book, there are some 10MinuteBible.com YouTubes on these chapters. I started using video to answer questions I would get from folks in our church who were doing exegetical Bible Study, beginning with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3HFiCw0BKo&feature=plcp">chapter 3 of 1 Peter</a>, so that one starts out fairly slowly. You might want to view the video <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VKdea7L6II">Fun with Dick and Jane</a> first to understand the method. The videos contain information not in the post, and one which <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3Ny2lL0asM">traces the argument through the first half </a>of the book to understand the Noah and baptism section in 3:20-21. Whatever you do, don't skimp on mastering 1Peter; it is both a intensely practical book, and immensely important theologically. It is your passport to glory.</div>
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<b>1 Peter 3 <u>Sanctification for Glorification</u></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">3:1 In the <u>same</u> way, <u>wives</u>, be in <u>subjection</u> to your own <u>husbands</u>; so that, even if any <u>don’t</u> <u>obey</u> the Word, they may be <u>won</u> by the <u>behavior</u> of their wives <u>without</u> a <u>word</u>; 2 seeing your <u>pure</u> <u>behavior</u> in <u>fear/reverence</u>. 3 Let your <u>beauty</u> be not just the <u>outward</u> adorning of braiding the <u>hair</u>, and of wearing <u>jewels</u> of gold, or of putting on fine <u>clothing</u>; 4 but in the <u>hidden</u> person of the <u>heart</u>, in the <u>incorruptible</u> <u>adornment</u> of a <u>gentle</u> and <u>quiet</u> spirit, which is in the <u>sight</u> of God very <u>precious</u>. 5 For this is how the <u>holy</u> <u>women</u> before, who <u>hoped in God</u> also <u>adorned</u> themselves, being in <u>subjection</u> to their own <u>husbands</u>: 6 as <u>Sarah</u> <u>obeyed</u> <u>Abraham</u>, calling him <u>lord</u>, whose <u>children</u> you now are, if you <u>do well</u>, and are not put in <u>fear</u> by any <u>terror</u>. 7 You <u>husbands</u>, in the <u>same</u> way, <u>live</u> with your <u>wives</u> according to <u>knowledge</u>, giving <u>honor</u> to the <u>woman</u>, as to the <u>weaker</u> <u>vessel</u>, as being also <u>joint heirs</u> of the <u>grace</u> of <u>life</u>; that your <u>prayers</u> may not be <u>hindered</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>8 Finally, be <u>all</u> <u>like-minded</u>, <u>compassionate</u>, <u>loving</u> as <u>brothers</u>, <u>tenderhearted</u>, <u>courteous</u>, 9 <u>not</u> rendering <u>evil</u> for <u>evil</u>, or <u>insult</u> for <u>insult</u>; but instead <u>blessing</u>; knowing that to this were you <u>called</u>, that you may <u>inherit</u> a <u>blessing</u>. 10 For, "He who would <u>love</u> <u>life,</u> and <u>see</u> <u>good</u> <u>days</u>, let him <u>keep</u> his tongue from <u>evil</u>, and his <u>lips</u> from speaking <u>deceit</u>. 11 Let him <u>turn</u> <u>away</u> from <u>evil</u>, and <u>do</u> <u>good</u>. Let him <u>seek</u> <u>peace</u>, and <u>pursue</u> it. 12 For the <u>eyes</u> of the Lord are <u>on</u> the <u>righteous,</u> and his <u>ears</u> op<u>e</u>n to their <u>prayer</u>; but the <u>face</u> of the <u>Lord</u> is <u>against</u> those who <u>do</u> <u>evil</u>." </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">13 Now <u>who</u> is he who will <u>harm</u> you, if you become <u>imitators</u> of that which is <u>good</u>? 14 But even if you should <u>suffer</u> for <u>righteousness</u>’ <u>sake</u>, you are <u>blessed</u>. "Don’t <u>fear</u> what they <u>fear</u>, <u>neither</u> be <u>troubled</u>." 15 But <u>sanctify</u> the <u>Lord God</u> in your <u>hearts</u>; and always be <u>ready</u> to <u>give</u> an <u>answer</u> to everyone who asks you a <u>reason</u> concerning the <u>hope</u> that is in <u>you</u>, with <u>humility</u> and <u>fear/respect</u>: 16 having/holding a <u>good conscience</u>; that, while you are <u>spoken</u> <u>against</u> as <u>evildoers</u>, they may be <u>disappointed</u> who <u>curse</u> your <u>good</u> way of <u>life</u> in <u>Christ</u>. 17 For it is <u>better</u>, if it is <u>God’s will</u>, that you <u>suffer for doing good</u> than for <u>doing</u> <u>evil</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">18 <u>Because</u> Christ also <u>suffered</u> for sins <u>once</u>, the <u>righteous</u> for the <u>unrighteous</u>, that he <u>might</u> <u>bring you to God</u>; being put to <u>death</u> in the <u>flesh</u>, but made <u>alive</u> in the <u>spirit</u>; 19 in which he also went and <u>preached</u> to the spirits in <u>prison</u>, 20 who <u>before</u> were <u>disobedient</u>, when God waited <u>patiently</u> in the days of <u>Noah</u>, while the <u>ark</u> was being <u>built</u>. <u>In it</u>, <u>few</u>, that is, eight <u>souls,</u> were <u>saved</u> <u>through/by (dia)</u> <u>water</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">21 This is a <u>symbol</u> of <u>baptism</u>, which now <u>saves</u> you—<u>not</u> the putting away of the <u>filth</u> of the <u>flesh</u>, but the <u>pledge/inquiry</u> of a <u>good conscience</u> toward <u>God</u>, <u>through</u> the <u>resurrection</u> of <u>Jesus Christ</u>, 22 who is at the <u>right</u> <u>hand</u> of <u>God</u>, having gone into <u>heaven</u>, <u>angels</u> and <u>authorities</u> and <u>powers</u> being made <u>subject</u> to <u>him</u>.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 3:1-7 With the same trust in the God who judges righteously and rewards those who suffer for doing good, a wife should submit to (line up under the God-given authority of) her husband. Even if the guy is a spiritual dolt stumbling in darkness, he can be won to the light by the radiant behavior of his wife, without a nag, whine, or word. The word for “fear” is the same as that in 1:17; 2:18; 3:14, and 15, and is probably a reference to fear of God, rather than of man (which yields the respect translation). A wise woman would not find herself in the situation, of having to win her husband to obedience, being careful to seek God's will in a mate, and only developing a relationship with someone they would be willing to follow (see <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/title/happily-ever-after-waiting-for-prince-charming">Prince Charming</a> on truthbase.net). A woman's adornment should not be merely (appropriately added by translators) external, but priority should be given to the inner radiance which outshines any perishable externals, and is also very attractive to God (and godly guys). This is how holy women adorned themselves, with a gentle/meek and tranquil/peaceable spirit vis-a-vis their husbands. The model is Sarah submitting to Abraham, probably in Genesis 20 where she put herself in danger to protect Abraham, carrying out his plan to say she was his sister, a half-truth (although the only time she specifically called him “lord” was Gen 18:12). NT believing women are her “children,” sharing in her blessings, by following her example, doing what is good, and not fearing the consequences, since God will take care of them. </div>
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Husbands are not the “lords of their castle,” since only Jesus is Lord, but the husband has the responsibility to take the lead in following the Lord. In a similar way, doing what is good, and trusting that God is watching, husbands need to live with their wives in an understanding manner, giving honor to them as the “weaker” (without power) vessel. This is not a reference to physical or emotional strength, but in the context to the “subordinate” position God has assigned to the wife. Therefore the husband must “honor” her by seeking her input and preferences, and then do what is in her best interest (regardless of whether he or she likes it). Paul expressed this as husbands loving their wife as Christ loved the church and sacrificed Himself for her highest benefit (see Eph 5:25 comments and the <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/resources/family-life/">Family Life Resources</a> on Truthbase.net). God might assign a temporary functionality that is subordinate (see <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/title/the-s-word-submission">Submission: The S-word </a>if you haven't already done so), but He gives an eternal status that is total equality, joint heirs/inheritors of the grace of life/dominion (which Peter told them to fix their hope on in 1:13). If a husband fails to heed God's command to give honor to his wife, his prayers will be hindered (literally “cut off” as in having one's heavenly hotline disconnected).</div>
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3:8-12 All believers should live in a harmonious manner with each other in the fear of God (Eph 5:21) knowing that they were called to inherit a blessing, and bad behavior forfeits one's blessing. Peter quotes Psalm 34:12-16 to make the point that blessing (life, glory, dominion) requires being blessable, in behavior and speech, because the Lord listens to the righteous (those who are careful to do what's right in His sight), and opposes those who do what displeases Him. People who are ignorant of this reality don't have vibrant prayer lives. </div>
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3:13-17 If we are doing what is good, we shouldn't be harmed, but sometimes we do have to suffer for doing what is right. In such cases of smart suffering (persecution, martyrdom, and the general opposition one experiences swimming upstream against the world and carnal Christians), God promises to make it up to us with blessing (Matt 5:10-12; Heb 11). Therefore, we need not fear, nor be troubled, but we need to set apart (sanctify) the Lord as God in our hearts (where we make our decisions, His will rules), and be always ready to make a defense/answer (<i>apologia</i>) for the hope that is in us. This is not about making the case for the existence of God, necessity and reliability of Scriptures, etc., (although you should be able to do that, if not see the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">7QUESTIONS</a> in the Sidebar), but the <i>apologia</i> is for the hope of blessing/reward that is in us, which motivates us to endure suffering for doing good. Chapter 1 is a good place to start your “defense.” Our response should be in humility and fear of God (or respect towards the questioner, both are good ideas). Peter elaborates that we must hold on to a good conscience (sensitive and obedient to God's will) so that if accused, the accusation will be unjust and undeserved, which paves the way for blessing and witness. It just could be God's will that we suffer for doing good (like Jesus did), which is far better than suffering for doing what is evil. Note that these are instructions to born-again believers.</div>
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3:18-22 The reason it is better to suffer for doing good is because it not only follows the example of Christ, but results in blessing in the presence of God. Verse 18 is a great verse to memorize and use in sharing the Bridge to Life Illustration. Christ was totally righteous and suffered once (on the cross) for our sins so that He might bring us into a relationship with God. He was put to death in the realm of the flesh, and made alive in the realm of the spirit. Note the parallelism. There are a couple of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3Ny2lL0asM">10MinuteBible.com videos (part 1)</a> on YouTube that explain the context and passage in more depth than I'll do in this post, so <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FetcMvQyySs">click on them (part 2)</a> for more. (There are also sermons on 1Peter on Truthbase.net.) In the realm of the spirit, Christ preached through Noah to those who were disobedient in his day (Noah, the preacher of righteousness -2Pt 2:2) Peter singles out those of Noah's day, because he wants to use the audience and ark illustration for the present day. Those persecuting the NT believers were those to whom Christ had preached directly and through John and the apostles but they rejected the message. So He is patiently waiting until the day of judgment, when believers will reap the final aspect of their salvation, and those who reject God will be negatively judged. The ark might correspond to the church (1Pt 2:5-6). Noah and his family were saved through or by the judgment of water, which destroyed the evildoers around them. The preposition <i>dia </i>denotes the channel or means by which an action occurs. The salvation was accomplished by means of the water (not the ark). If Peter wanted to say the ark saved them from the water, he would have used <i>ek</i> or <i>apo</i>. The righteous NT believer would be saved from their corrupt generation, just like Noah was from his, by the water. So much for the audience allusion. </div>
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Next Peter says that baptism is an anti-type (<i>antitupos</i>), something that corresponds to an image or type in the OT (only other use of the word is Heb 9:24 to refer to the OT sacrificial system). Corresponding to the water that saved Noah from his generation, baptism saves us from our generation. It is not getting wet (which means it is not referring to the immersion or sprinkling of water that gets the external dirt off us, but the “pledge” or seeking (the word means to make an inquiry rather than “answer”) of a good conscience toward God, based upon the resurrection of Christ. Keeping in mind the context of the book (always a good thing to do) believers who have their hope fixed upon their reward, which they gain by faithful behavior and forfeit by bad behavior, pledge or seek a good conscience which results in God rewarding them, as He did Jesus (Phil 2:9-12). To live holy lives, one must distance themselves from their pre-Christian behavior and those who live just for this world (the generation of the Christ-rejecting Jews who were persecuting them). The way to do that in the early church was baptism, the first step of discipleship for those who were born-again by faith in Christ's death for them. Paul elaborated on the picture in Romans 6, that one died to the old way of life, when they were buried with Christ in baptism, and then rose up from the water to walk in newness of life. Peter is clearly writing to born-again believers (1:3), instructing them that they need to live righteously if they want to reap the reward God has planned for them. That will involve suffering for doing what is good, which requires a death to self so one can live for God. Baptism is a picture of that, not the getting wet, but the seeking of the heart which motivates the obedience in getting wet. When believers were baptized, the persecution normally intensified. But the holy living would result in their salvation/glorification. The opening verses of the next chapter should validate this interpretation if you're not already convinced.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Die to your old values, and pledge to live for what God values, particularly in your relationships with those around you.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 Peter 4 <u>Mental Armor and Obedient Behavior</u></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ <u>suffered</u> for us in the <u>flesh</u>, <u>arm</u> yourselves also with the same <u>mind</u>; for he who has <u>suffered</u> in the <u>flesh</u> has <u>ceased</u> from <u>sin</u>; 2 that you <u>no</u> <u>longer</u> should live the <u>rest</u> of your <u>time</u> in the <u>flesh</u> for the <u>lusts/cravings of men</u>, but for the <u>will/desire of God</u>. 3 For we have spent enough of our past time doing the <u>desire/will</u> of the <u>Gentiles</u>, and having walked in <u>lewdness</u>, <u>lusts</u>, <u>drunken</u> binges, <u>orgies</u>, <u>carousings</u>, and abominable <u>idolatries</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">4 They think it is <u>strange</u> that you <u>don’t</u> <u>run</u> with them into the same <u>excess</u> of <u>riot</u>, <u>blaspheming</u>: 5 who will <u>give</u> <u>account</u> to him who is <u>ready to judge</u> the <u>living</u> and the <u>dead</u>. 6 For <u>to this end</u> the <u>Good News</u> was <u>preached</u> even to the <u>dead</u>, that though they might be <u>judged</u> according to <u>men</u> <u>in</u> the <u>flesh</u>, but they might <u>live</u> according to <u>God</u> <u>in</u> the <u>spirit</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">7 But the <u>end</u> of <u>all</u> things is <u>near</u>. Therefore be of <u>sound mind</u>, and <u>watchful</u> for the purpose of (eis) <u>prayer</u>. 8 And <u>above</u> <u>all</u> things be <u>earnest</u> in your <u>love</u> among <u>yourselves</u>, for <u>love</u> <u>covers</u> a <u>multitude</u> of <u>sins</u>. 9 Be <u>hospitable</u> to one another <u>without</u> <u>grumbling</u>. 10 As each has received a <u>gracething</u>, <u>employ</u> it in <u>serving</u> <u>one another</u>, as <u>good stewards</u> of the <u>grace</u> of God in its <u>various</u> forms. 11 If anyone <u>speaks</u>, let it be as it were the <u>very</u> <u>words</u> of <u>God</u>. If anyone <u>serves</u>, let it be as of the <u>strength</u> which God <u>supplies</u>, <u>that</u> in <u>all</u> things <u>God</u> may be <u>glorified</u> through <u>Jesus</u> <u>Christ</u>, to whom belong the <u>glory</u> and the <u>dominion</u> <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>. Amen.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">12 <u>Beloved</u>, don’t be <u>astonished</u> at the <u>fiery</u> t<u>rial</u> which has come upon you, to <u>test</u> you, as though a <u>strange</u> thing <u>happened</u> to you. 13 But because you are <u>partakers</u> of Christ’s <u>sufferings</u>, <u>rejoice</u>; that at the <u>revelation</u> of his <u>glory</u> you also may <u>rejoice</u> with <u>exceeding</u> <u>joy</u>. 14 If you are <u>insulted</u> for the <u>name</u> of Christ, you are <u>blessed</u>; because the <u>Spirit of glory</u> and of <u>God</u> <u>rests</u> on <u>you</u>. On <u>their</u> part he is <u>blasphemed</u>, but on <u>your</u> part he is <u>glorified</u>. 15 For let <u>none</u> of you <u>suffer</u> as a <u>murderer</u>, or a <u>thief</u>, or an <u>evil</u> doer, or a <u>meddler</u> in other men’s matters. 16 But if one of you <u>suffers</u> for being a <u>Christian</u>, let him <u>not</u> be ashamed; but let him <u>glorify</u> God in <u>this</u> matter. 17 For the <u>time</u> has come for <u>judgment</u> to begin with the <u>household</u> of <u>God</u>. If it begins <u>first</u> with <u>us</u>, what will happen to <u>those</u> who don’t <u>obey</u> the <u>Good News</u> of <u>God</u>? 18 "If it is <u>hard</u> for the <u>righteous</u> to be <u>saved</u>, what will happen to the <u>ungodly</u> and the <u>sinner</u>?" 19 Therefore <u>let</u> them also who <u>suffer</u> <u>according</u> to the <u>will of God</u> in <u>doing good</u> <u>entrust</u> their <u>souls</u> to him, as to a <u>faithful</u> <u>Creator</u>.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 4:1-3 Since Christ suffered in the flesh in order to receive glorification by the Father (exalted to the right hand, ready to rule the future Kingdom), those who follow Him should arm themselves with the same mindset. Those who have died to their old values, and suffered in the pursuit of glory, have ceased (perfect tense, action completed in the past with ongoing results into the present) from sin. Mental armor is necessary since the battle is won or lost in our thinking. Peter tells his readers that they've had enough time to do what those who don't know God do, and realize it's not worth it. Some people are slow learners. It took Solomon a while to figure out that there was nothing under the sun that gave lasting pleasure apart from God (Ecclesiastes), but then he forgot his own advice. We need to keep this truth central in our thinking.</div>
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4:4-6 The former companions of the believers think it strange that those who learned to delight in God aren't as attracted to playing in the mud, and speak against them. But all will have to give account to God, who will judge (1:17) the living and the dead. The edited translation above is more in line with the Greek and context than most you'll find. In preparation, the Good News of the coming Kingdom was preached to all, including those who are now dead (possibly as a result of persecution) so that (purpose statement), even though they might or may be judged (subjunctive mood is that of uncertainty) on the one hand (a Greek particle, Strong's #3303 omitted by most translations) according to the standards of men in the realm of the flesh (by being martyred), they might live according to God's standards in the realm of the spirit (by believing the good news about the Kingdom). Note that “judged” is parallel to “live,” and the additional parallelism of “according to” and “in” is taken into account; as well as the immediate context of the Good News being proclaimed to them, the further context of living, and holy life, and the book context of gaining glory. It would be difficult to find another interpretation that takes the argument, grammar, syntax, and contexts into account. </div>
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4:7-11 The culmination of all things is near (which is how every generation should view things so as not to get complacent), therefore believers need to govern their life and actions by the objective of doing well at the judgment seat (be sound-minded), and have an accurate view of reality (sober) so they can pray appropriately and not just dribble meaningless words. Particularly believers need to be obeying the command to love each other, for such a love corrects and covers/hides (as in prevents) a multitude of sins (Js 5:20). Greater love has no one than this, that they risk rejection and ridicule and a diminished relationship by reproving (bringing to light) the flaws of a self-deceived believer. Hell knows no fury like a hypocrite exposed. Believers should use whatever gracething (<i>charisma</i>) they have for the benefit of their fellow believers, so that God is glorified. That means being a good steward of God's grace and using whatever the Spirit has given (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">1Cor 12</a>) to accomplish His purposes in building up others, be it speaking God's words, or serving with the strength God supplies. </div>
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4:12-19 Recalling the opening theme of their faith being refined by trials so they will gain greater reward (1:7), Peter reminds them that suffering frequently is the will of God for those who follow Christ to glory. But it is worth it, for to the degree they suffer, they will share in the glory. This is clearly teaching differential rewards for different levels of service (1Cor 15). Those who aren't suffering outward trials can join in the fun by daily denying themselves for the benefit of others. There's plenty of abuse to go around for those who seek to spur others on to Christlikeness. If one is insulted for the name of Christ, they are actually blessed, because the Spirit of Glory (note the name) rests upon them. The Holy Spirit is the first installment of our inheritance (Eph 1:13) which implies that future payments will be additional bestowals of the Spirit, to do God's will in the Millennium and beyond. The glory or power or energy of God is the only imperishable thing in the universe given to us. Note too, that the Spirit rests upon and remains with the faithful believer. The unfaithful and unbelieving will always speak against those serving God because faithful servants make the unprofitable servants feel guilty, and blame is a good way to balance out the guilt (repentance would be a better way). But on the part of the faithful, God is glorified, because when He pours out His glory as a reward, He is displaying it, which is what God being glorified is all about (He is inherently glorious). So if a believer is going to suffer, they should do so smartly or meritoriously, not stupidly or deservedly. The reason is because the time is coming for judgment to begin with the household of God, those who are His servants in His household. If the good guys are judged, what will be the outcome for those who don't obey (not don't believe) the gospel? The Good News is that Christ is coming to judge and reward His faithful followers (Isa 40:10). Believing that Jesus is the Messiah is one thing. Obeying Him is another. It is hard for the righteous to be saved/glorified, because it requires sacrifice and self-denial (see the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-5-7-sermon-on-mount.html" target="_blank">Sermon on the Mount Mt 5-7</a>). This salvation of which Peter speaks, is of works, hard work. Those who take the broad and easy road cannot look forward to glory, but to unpleasantness. The ungodly and sinner are those among the believers who don't know and do what God wants, but instead do their own thing. To fail to see this is to fail to receive one's eternal reward. Those who can't see that this passage is intended to motivate believers to obedience are demonically deceived and in all probability living in disobedience. But those who live in obedience, and suffer according to the will of God, should continue to do good, and commit their souls/interests to their faithful Creator, who created them in Christ Jesus for this purpose.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: One needs the same mental armor that helped Christ live sound-mindedly (knowing God would justly reward) to keep on the path of obedient suffering which is the only route to glory.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord, may I be strong and focused on doing Your will, and not my own, on my way to happily ever after. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 Peter 5 <u>Glory for the Vigilant and Humble</u></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">5:1 I <u>exhort</u> the <u>elders</u> among you, as a <u>fellow elder</u>, and a witness of the <u>sufferings</u> of Christ, and who will also <u>share</u> in the <u>glory</u> that will be <u>revealed</u>. 2 <u>Shepherd/pastor</u> the <u>flock of God</u> which is <u>among</u> you, <u>exercising</u> the <u>oversight</u>, not under compulsion, but <u>voluntarily</u>, not for <u>dishonest</u> <u>gain</u>, but <u>willingly</u>; 3 <u>neither</u> as <u>lording</u> it over those <u>entrusted</u> to you, but making yourselves <u>examples</u> to the <u>flock</u>. 4 When the <u>chief Shepherd</u> is <u>revealed</u>, you will <u>receive</u> the <u>crown of glory</u> that <u>doesn’t</u> <u>fade</u> <u>away</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">5 <u>Likewise</u>, you <u>younger</u> ones, be <u>subject</u> to the <u>elders</u>. Yes, <u>all</u> of you <u>clothe</u> yourselves with <u>humility</u>, to <u>subject yourselves to one anothe</u>r; for "God <u>resists</u> the <u>proud</u>, but gives <u>grace</u> to the <u>humble</u>." 6 <u>Humble</u> yourselves therefore under the mighty <u>hand</u> of <u>God</u>, that he may <u>exalt</u> you in due <u>time</u>; 7 <u>casting</u> all your <u>worries</u> on him, because he <u>cares</u> for <u>you</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">8 Be <u>sober</u> and <u>vigilant/self</u>-<u>controlled</u> because your <u>adversary,</u> the <u>devil,</u> walks around like a <u>roaring</u> <u>lion,</u> seeking whom he may <u>devour</u>. 9 <u>Withstand</u> him <u>steadfast</u> in your <u>faith</u>, <u>knowing</u> that your <u>brothers</u> who are in the <u>world</u> are <u>undergoing</u> the same <u>sufferings</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>10 But may the <u>God of all grace</u>, who <u>called</u> you to his <u>eternal</u> <u>glory</u> by <u>Christ</u> <u>Jesus</u>, <u>after</u> you have <u>suffered</u> a <u>little</u> while, <u>perfect</u>, <u>establish</u>, <u>strengthen</u>, and <u>settle</u> you. 11 To <u>him</u> be the <u>glory</u> and the <u>power</u> <u>forever</u> and <u>ever</u>. Amen. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">12 Through <u>Silvanus,</u> our <u>faithful</u> brother, as I <u>consider</u> him, I have <u>written</u> to you <u>briefly,</u> <u>exhorting,</u> and <u>testifying</u> that this is the <u>true grace</u> of God; <u>stand fast in it</u>. 13 She who is in <u>Babylon,</u> <u>chosen</u> <u>together</u> with you, <u>greets</u> you; and so does <u>Mark,</u> <u>my son</u>. 14 <u>Greet</u> one another with a <u>kiss of love</u>. <u>Peace</u> be to you all who are <u>in</u> <u>Christ Jesus</u>. Amen.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 5:1-4 Peter addresses the elders (who, as leaders, were singled out for grief by the external opponents and internal rebels), exhorting them as a fellow-elder (not pope). He saw the sufferings of Christ, and knows that he will share in the glories that follow (1:11) because he has been faithful (following his own advice). Peter tells the elders, to shepherd and oversee the flock, the same two tasks Paul entrusted to the elders in Acts 20:28 (see comments there, and in Ephesians 4). To shepherd is the word for pastor, and to oversee is the word for bishop. Both tasks are entrusted to elders (plural). There is not a separate “office” for each. He doesn't give the qualifications for elders that Paul gave Timothy and Titus for the Greek churches, since Peter is writing to a Jewish audience that had an elder leadership structure in both the villages and synagogues. Governance was carried out by the mature, who served and shepherded those under their care. When the chief Shepherd (this is the only legitimate occurrence of ”Senior Pastor”) is revealed with His glory -1:7 He will share it with those who have obediently done His will. He might not feel as gracious toward those who have used the flock as a source of worth and value (ego and monetary) nor those who've usurped His title when He's been away. The glory is described as a crown (rulership) that doesn't fade like earthly crowns of leaves. </div>
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5:5-7 The younger folks are commanded to be subject (imperative) to the elders and submissively (participle) be humble (imperative) to each other (cf Eph 5:21). The reason is because God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. James quoted Proverbs 3:34 to his readers (4:6) with an emphasis on the temporal grace, but Peter stresses the future grace/glory that God gives the humble obedient.</div>
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<i>Proverbs 3:32 "For the perverse person is an abomination to the LORD, But His secret counsel is with the upright. 33 The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, But He blesses the home of the just. 34 Surely He scorns the scornful, But gives grace to the humble. 35 The wise shall inherit glory, But shame shall be the legacy of fools."</i></blockquote>
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One humbles themselves by yielding their will for the benefit of another, rather than proudly questing for temporal worth and value. God will exalt the humble in due time, but in the meantime, they can cast the cares and concerns for the current and future well-being upon God (as Jesus did), because He cares for them. </div>
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5:8-11 Like James, Peter links pride with waving a red flag in front of the devil. If a lack of humble trust in God's goodness could trip up the highest created being, then we mere mortals are even more susceptible. (The same warning applies to the desires of the flesh from the life of world's wisest man, Solomon, in 1 Kings 10-11). Therefore believers need to be on their guard against the devil, having an accurate view of reality (a drunk person doesn't see clearly, nor accurately assess risks and rewards). Our adversary, the devil is described as a roaring lion, who roams about, seeking to devour the proud and disobedient. He also surreptitiously takes believers captive to do his will (2 Timothy 2:26) and inveigles false teachers into the church (Acts 20:29-30). Satan was defeated at the Cross, but is a lame duck ruler until the Messiah comes back, imprisons and finally destroys Him (Revelation 20:1-3). See <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/title/defense-against-the-dark-arts---part-1">Spiritual Warfare: Defense Against the Dark Arts</a> on Truthbase.net for resources, so you don't become a statistic. Peter gives another piece of mental armor in addition to those in verse 8. Believers should resist him, firm in their faith (1 John 4:4), knowing that suffering isn't something strange and alien to the Christ-following life, but rather the common experience of those who please God.</div>
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However, the suffering is temporary, and after what will seem like a very short time from the perspective of eternity (although suffering can seem to go on forever), the God of all grace/glory, who has called/invited them to the glory of the Messianic Age (same word as eternal) will perfect (bring to completion as in glorify them), establish, strengthen,and establish them (most likely a reference to their placement in the Millennial kingdom based upon the order and introduction to the prayer/benediction). </div>
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5:12-14 Peter writes through Silvanus, testifying that the glory believers will receive is the “true grace” of God. Then he commands them to stand fast in it (imperative according to the oldest manuscripts but distorted by many translations). Peter is not telling them the glory of God is something they all automatically have, but rather something they need to take their stand in by obeying his instructions in the epistle. Most people who bandy about the term “grace” haven't a clue about the true grace Peter described in this epistle, and will most likely miss it. See a Survey of Grace on Truthbase.net for the whole picture. Commentators are divided regarding the identity of “she who is in Babylon, some arguing for the literal city on the Euphrates, others seeing a veiled reference to his location at Rome. John Mark, Barnabas' cousin is considered to have written the second gospel under Peter's direction. Paul normally ended with an exhortation to a holy kiss to express affection among believers; Peter uses the term <i>agape</i> kiss, underscoring the self-sacrificial behavior they should have toward each other rather than superficial relationships. He concludes with a wish for the covenantal blessing of peace for all those who are in union with Christ Jesus.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Believers who live in humble unity and obedience will experience Satanic opposition, but eventually reach their final destination as glorified servants in the Messiah's Kingdom.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, thanks that You care for me, and I can entrust all my concerns to You; may I be vigilant and victorious in my faith until I realize my hope of Your glory. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God will judge both the living and the dead, to reward those who are faithful to Him. In this judgment, the righteous are saved/glorified with difficulty, the outcome for those who don't obey the good news isn't positive. God resists the proud and gives grace and glory to the humble.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus suffered to bring us into a relationship with God, so we could be blessed. He is coming back to reward those loyal to Him. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We are invited/called to inherit a blessing, but will only receive it if we are worthy of it, by demonstrating Christ-like behavior. Submissive suffering for the sake of Christ and righteousness is meritorious, and results in Millennial glory. Believers need to draw upon the strength God provides to do His will, and lovingly serve each other. Those who don't will miss out.</div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-52410217583066780622012-08-14T01:46:00.006-04:002014-10-14T08:49:15.658-04:001 Peter 1-2 Merited Grace<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS Mark 10:45 </b><u><b>Dare to Be Great</b></u></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NpcsMUtfIE/UCmpHfKvVvI/AAAAAAAAEvo/Sk0hnPhvmTg/s1600/freedom.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NpcsMUtfIE/UCmpHfKvVvI/AAAAAAAAEvo/Sk0hnPhvmTg/s200/freedom.bmp" height="158" width="200" /></a><i>Mk 10:44 “And whoever of you <u>desires</u> to be <u>first</u> shall be <u>slave</u> of all. </i><br />
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<i>45 For even the <u>Son of Man</u> did not come to <u>be served</u>, </i><br />
<i>but to <u>serve</u>, </i><br />
<i>and to <u>give</u> His life a <u>ransom</u> for <u>many</u>."</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 10:45 This verse occurs at the climax of Jesus' training of His disciples, sandwiched between the two accounts of healing blind men. The disciples understood that Jesus was the Messiah, but didn't get that the route to glory was along the road of suffering. The disciples were concerned about who was going to be greatest in the kingdom. Jesus didn't rebuke them for their desire, since the plan of creation is to glorify those faithful to God, but did correct their methodology. Greatness and glory weren't obtained by jockeying for position but by service, as Jesus demonstrated with His own life. The Son of Man, Jesus' favorite title for Himself, out of Daniel 7:13-14, is the one to whom all glory and dominion is given, which He shares with His loyal companions. He received the glory because of His service (Philippians 2:7-10), in which He laid aside His rightful glory to serve us by dying for our sins. </div>
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See comments on the two-stage miracle in<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/mark-8-12-royal-route-to-glory.html" target="_blank"> Mark 8-10</a> for the context. <br />
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<b>Application</b>: If we want to be great in God's kingdom, we need to serve the real needs of others like Jesus did. This might involve extreme suffering, but it will be totally worth it. As the Battle Hymn of the Republic exhorts: “As He died to make men holy, let us live to make them free.”<br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, thanks for Your model, and service on my behalf; please guide me in using the life You've given to me, for the purposes that would most please You. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>1 Peter 1-2 </b>Peter writes to the Jews who probably believed in Christ at Pentecost, and were being persecuted and scattered as a result. He reminds them of the hope that awaits those who are born-again by faith in Christ, so they will obey God and reap their reward or inheritance when the Messiah returns and is revealed. The first chapter is an excellent demonstration that the Christian life (salvation) doesn't end with being born again (justification) but continues through becoming purified and holy as God is holy (sanctification), and culminates in being given glory when God judges and rewards them (glorification). Please put the effort into understanding it; doing so will result in both you and God gaining glory. The second chapter exhorts us to abstain from temporal desires so we can do God's desires and merit grace (check it out). Christ died for us so we can die to sin, and live for God. </div>
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<b>1 Peter 1 <u>Go for the Glory</u></b></div>
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<i>1:1 Peter, an <u>apostle</u> of Jesus Christ, to the ones who are living as <u>strangers</u> in the <u>Dispersion</u> in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2 <u>Elect/choice</u> according to the <u>foreknowledge</u> of God the Father, <u>by</u> <u>sanctification</u> of the Spirit, that you may <u>obey</u> Jesus Christ and be <u>sprinkled</u> with his <u>blood</u>: <u>Grace</u> to you and <u>peace</u> be <u>multiplied</u>.</i></div>
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<i>3 <u>Blessed</u> be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great <u>mercy</u> has <u>begotten us again</u> <u>to a living hope</u> <u>through the resurrection</u> of Jesus <u>Christ</u> from the <u>dead</u>, 4 <u>to</u> an incorruptible and undefiled <u>inheritance</u> that doesn’t fade away, <u>reserved</u> in Heaven for you, 5 who <u>by</u> the <u>power</u> of God are guarded <u>through</u> <u>faith</u> for a <u>salvation</u> <u>ready to be revealed in the last time</u>.</i></div>
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<i>6 In <u>which</u> you greatly <u>rejoice</u>, though <u>now</u> for a little <u>while</u>, if need be, you have been put to grief in various <u>trials</u>, 7 <u>that</u> the <u>trying</u> of your <u>faith</u>, which is <u>more</u> precious than gold that <u>perishes</u> even though it is <u>tested</u> by fire, may be found to <u>result</u> in <u>praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ</u>— 8 whom <u>not</u> having <u>known</u> you <u>love</u>; in whom, though now you <u>don’t</u> <u>see</u> him, yet <u>believing</u>, you <u>rejoice</u> greatly with <u>joy</u> <u>unspeakable</u> and full of <u>glory</u>— 9 receiving the <u>result</u> of your <u>faith</u>, the <u>salvation of your souls</u>.</i></div>
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<i>10 Concerning this <u>salvation</u>, the prophets sought and searched diligently, who prophesied of the <u>grace</u> that would <u>come</u> to <u>you</u>, 11 searching for who or what kind of time the <u>Spirit</u> of <u>Christ</u>, which was in them, <u>pointed</u> to, when he predicted the <u>sufferings</u> of Christ, and the <u>glories</u> that would <u>follow</u> them. 12 To them it was <u>revealed</u>, that not to themselves, but to <u>you</u>, they <u>ministered</u> these things, which now have been <u>announced</u> to you through those who <u>preached</u> the <u>Good News</u> to you by the <u>Holy Spirit</u> sent out from heaven; which things <u>angels</u> <u>desire</u> to <u>look</u> into.</i></div>
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<i>13 Therefore, <u>prepare</u> your <u>minds</u> for action, be <u>sound-minded</u> and set your <u>hope fully</u> on the <u>grace that will be brought to you</u> at the <u>revelation</u> of <u>Jesus Christ</u>— 14 as children of <u>obedience</u>, <u>not</u> <u>conforming</u> yourselves according to your <u>former</u> <u>lusts</u> as in your <u>ignorance</u>, 15 but just <u>as</u> he who called you is <u>holy</u>, you yourselves also be <u>holy</u> in <u>all</u> of your <u>behavior</u>; 16 because it is written, "<u>You shall be holy; for I am holy.</u>" 17 If you <u>call</u> on him as <u>Father</u>, who without respect of persons <u>judges</u> according to each <u>man’s work</u>, pass the time of your <u>living</u> as <u>foreigners</u> here in <u>fear</u>: 18 <u>knowing</u> that you were <u>redeemed</u>, <u>not</u> with corruptible things, with silver or gold, <u>from</u> the <u>useless</u> way of <u>life</u> handed down from your <u>fathers</u>, 19 but with <u>precious</u> <u>blood</u>, as of a faultless and pure <u>lamb</u>, the <u>blood</u> of <u>Christ</u>; 20 who was <u>foreknown</u> indeed <u>before</u> the <u>foundation</u> of the <u>world</u>, but was <u>revealed</u> in these <u>end</u> <u>times</u> for your sake, 21 who <u>through</u> <u>him</u> are <u>believers</u> in <u>God</u>, who <u>raised</u> him from the <u>dead</u>, and gave him <u>glory</u>; so that your <u>faith</u> and <u>hope</u> might be <u>in</u> God. </i> </div>
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<i>22 Since <u>you</u> have <u>purified</u> your <u>souls</u> <u>by</u> your <u>obedience</u> to the <u>truth</u> <u>through</u> the <u>Spirit</u> for sincere <u>brotherly</u> affection, <u>love</u> <u>one another</u> from the <u>heart</u> <u>fervently</u>: 23 having been <u>born</u> <u>again</u>, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the <u>word</u> of God, which <u>lives</u> and <u>remains</u> <u>forever</u>. 24 For, "All <u>flesh</u> is like <u>grass</u>, and all of <u>man’s glory</u> like the <u>flower</u> in the grass. The grass <u>withers</u>, and its flower <u>falls</u>; 25 but the Lord’s <u>word</u> <u>endures</u> forever." This is the <u>word</u> of <u>Good</u> <u>News</u> which was <u>preached</u> to you.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-2 Peter writes to those who are special or select in God's sight, but dispersed and despised in the world's sight. The places where they were scattered are similar to the homelands of those who were present at the day of Pentecost in Acts 2. They are elect or choice according to the plan or foreknowledge (know ahead of time) of God, set apart or sanctified (for His purposes or to be His people) by (<i>en</i>=means) the work of the Holy Spirit, for the purpose (<i>eis</i>) of obedience and the sprinkling of the blood (basis of a covenantal relationship just like Moses made with Israel in Exodus 24:8). Note that this is not justification, and that obedience precedes the sprinkling. There is no mention of faith yet. Some people mistakenly think blood is always in reference to forgiveness of sins, but that's not true, and particularly doesn't fit this context, which is about having a covenantal relationship with Jesus the Messiah which results in the covenantal blessings of grace and peace being multiplied (again, not about forgiveness).</div>
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1:3-5 Peter blesses God because, according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again, to a living hope. Notice that the emphasis is not on being born again, but that to which we are born again, to (<i>eis</i>) a living hope. That hope is based upon not the death of Christ (which is what our being born again is based upon) but upon the resurrection of Christ. If He is resurrected, we will be as well (1Cor 15). Verse 4 elaborates that the hope is to (<i>eis</i>) an inheritance, reserved in heaven for God's people, but only those who are preserved by faith in God's power. Someone can reserve a hotel room, but unless they show up to occupy it, they don't enjoy or possess it. Similarly, born again believers have an inheritance reserved for them, and God's power can protect them from all the dangers that they will encounter from their present to their future, but unless they tap into that power by exercising faith, they might not arrive at the destination God has planned for them. This hope of reward is the salvation or glorification which is ready to be revealed in the last time. (cf Titus 2:14 “the blessed hope, the appearing of the glory”). Justification or forgiveness, the first aspect of our salvation is our present possession as a result of faith in God's gracious provision of Christ as our sin-bearing substitute. Glorification, the final aspect of our salvation is also a result of faith, but faith in God's power (which the epistle will tell us about). Glorification is the inheritance for which we hope, because it is not our present possession. It will be revealed at the revelation of Christ, as the rest of the chapter explains.</div>
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1:6-9 Even though many in Peter's audience are being chased for their faith, they are rejoicing in their inheritance, or hope of reward. Their faith in God's power is being tested and tried (refined like gold is, but the fire of affliction), and may result (subjunctive) in praise, glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus the Messiah. This is not praise, glory and honor given to Christ (although that is something which will happen, it is not what Peter is talking about), but the grace/power that is to be given to believers when Christ is revealed. See the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://truthbase.net/fileadmin/word_files/2006-9-17%2520PRAISING%2520GRACE%2520THE%2520COIN%2520OF%2520THE%2520REALM%2520OF%2520HEAVEN.doc&sa=U&ei=xeoNU9uqH4TksATxm4DoBw&ved=0CAUQFjAA&client=internal-uds-cse&usg=AFQjCNEmyAZLtGLvTiyfQWX-aIC0Pv-1LA" target="_blank">Survey of Grace </a>for the different aspects of past/justifying, present/sanctifying-enabling, and future/glorifying (and merited) grace, if you've never studied grace, or just use a concordance to study every occurrence of grace. Praise, glory and honor are rewards for faithful service according to both the gospels and the rest of the NT (as well as the OT), which can be forfeited through disobedience. This is why Peter told his readers to obey in verse 2 and will warn his audience to obey in verse 14. Remember the bookends of Romans: Paul was an apostle to bring about the obedience that should flow from faith. </div>
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The believers to whom Peter wrote were rejoicing in their future reward, which they didn't see (which is why it is their hope), and that same dynamic was shown in their relationship with Jesus. They didn't know Him during His time on earth, but they love Him, they don't see Him in the present, but believe in His return and are rejoicing in expectation of it even in the midst of trials. The cause for rejoicing is because they are receiving the end goal (not initial stage) of their faith, the salvation/glorification of their souls (soul is put for life, as it is frequently translated, consisting of our mind, will and emotions, which Jesus said we must exchange for eternal profit -Lk 9:25 and all the other calls to discipleship). The end goal of our faith is not forgiveness, but glory, which reverses the effects of the Fall, and glorifies God (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/ephesians-1-eternal-plan-of-god.html" target="_blank">see Eph 1 comments).</a></div>
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1:10-12 This salvation (glorification) was something the prophets, who spoke of the grace that would come to them (e.g., Isa 40:13; 53; Dan 12:3) when they were searching for the time of the Messiah and His kingdom, in predicting the sufferings of Christ, and the glories to follow, wanted to know more about. The glories of the Messianic Age that followed His sufferings. It was revealed to them for the benefit of those who had the Good News or gospel preached to them (see comments on the gospel in Matthew 4 or Romans 1). Angels are very interested in the time when believers are glorified because they not only come to earth when Christ glorifies His faithful servants, but part of obedient believers' reward consists of ruling angels (1Cor 6:3).</div>
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<i>Matthew 16:27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.</i></blockquote>
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1:13-21 In light of the future reward awaiting faithful believers, Peter exhorts his readers to strengthen themselves mentally, and be sound-minded (live their lives according to objectives not passions and emotions -<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/titus-1-3-truthful-do-good.html" target="_blank">see Titus comments</a>), and set their hope fully (not half-heartedly) on the grace that will be brought to them at the revelation of Jesus the Messiah, at the inauguration of the Messianic Age/Kingdom. Note the grace is the reward given to them, then. At the risk of being excessively boorish, this is not a reference to the present possession of forgiveness, which born-again believers have currently as recipients of God's justifying grace (Eph 2:8-9; Rom 3:24-26). Born-again believers, with their hope set on their glory, should be obedient children to reap the inheritance of sons. They should not continue in their former desires for temporal things, but should be holy in all their conduct, reflecting the holiness of their Heavenly Father (Lev 11:44-45). God clearly judges each believer's works (2Cor 5:9-10) so we should live in fear (<i>phobos</i>, from which we get the English phobia) of not being holy, and of disobeying and therefore reaping negative consequences at the judgment seat. Being holy in all we do, means not doing what the worldlings do for temporal motives, but doing all for the glory of God. Peter's audience is reminded that they were redeemed from the useless, unprofitable, and not reward-gaining way of life handed down by the ritual of their ancestors, so they could live differently. Just like God redeemed Israel out of Egypt, so they could live differently. They were not redeemed by perishable animal blood, but with the precious blood of Jesus, who was planned (foreknown) from eternity past but revealed in the end times (from their perspective). The decision to send Christ to die for their sins, was part of God's plan before He made the world, not an emergency measure to rescue people from sin (see Eph 1 for the eternal plan of God to set up a Kingdom to reward with glory those faithful to Him). Through Christ, we are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so our past faith (which secured our redemption) and future hope would be in God. </div>
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1:22 Believers have the responsibility to purify their souls (cf James 4:8). This didn't happen automatically at the cross, nor when we believed, but is a function of obeying the truth (means). Note that soul is put for life, the sum of what our mind, will/values, and emotions produce. We obey, or bring our lives into conformity with the truth, by the grace/power of the Holy Spirit, who works in us to will/desire and do/perform God's pleasure (Phil 2:13). He doesn't do it, we must by His power put to death the deeds of the flesh if we wish to live or have glory in the future kingdom (see Rom 8:13 comments). The major battle is against self-centeredness, living selfishly for our objectives. When we've purified ourselves by obeying the truth, we will have a brotherly affection for others, which we must employ in sacrificing ourselves for the benefit of others (<i>agape</i> love) as Jesus did for us. </div>
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The reason Peter gives for such Christlike behavior is not just that we've been born again, but born-again out of the incorruptible seed of word of God, which not only implies growth and future life, but that word tells us something about our future. The word tells us that earthly glory lasts about as long as a cut flower in the grand scheme of things. Life is like grass, and man's glory is even more fragile and transient. But, the word of the Lord, which promised future glory in the Good News of the Messiah's Millennial Kingdom, endures, and is the glory preached to them. So they, and we, should fix our hope on it, and endure.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Have you purified your life by Holy Spirit empowered obedience so you desire to sacrifice your life for the benefit of others and the gaining of your eternal reward? If so, go for it. If not, fear.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, thanks for the plans You have to bless me; may I be worthy of reward in Your kingdom, by doing what You desire here on earth. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>1 Peter 2 <u>Suffering For Glory</u></b></div>
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<i>2:1 <u>Putting away</u> <u>therefore</u> <u>all</u> <u>wickedness</u>, <u>all</u> <u>deceit</u>, <u>hypocrisies</u>, <u>envies</u>, and <u>all</u> <u>evil</u> <u>speaking</u>, 2 as <u>newborn</u> babies, <u>long</u> for the <u>pure</u> <u>milk</u> of the <u>Word</u>, that you may <u>grow</u> in respect to <u>salvation</u> (NASB), 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is <u>gracious</u>:</i></div>
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<i>4 <u>coming</u> to him, a <u>living</u> <u>stone</u>, <u>rejected</u> indeed by men, but <u>chosen</u> by <u>God</u>, <u>precious</u>. 5 You also, as <u>living stones</u>, are <u>built up</u> as a <u>spiritual</u> <u>house</u>, to be a holy <u>priesthood</u>, to <u>offer</u> up <u>spiritual</u> <u>sacrifices</u>, <u>acceptable</u> to God <u>through</u> Jesus <u>Christ</u>. 6 Because it is contained in Scripture, "Behold, I lay in Zion a chief <u>cornerstone</u>, <u>chosen</u>, and <u>precious</u>: he who <u>believes</u> in him will not be <u>disappointed</u>." 7 For you who <u>believe</u> therefore there is <u>honor</u>, but for those who are <u>disobedient</u>, "The stone which the builders <u>rejected</u>, has become the <u>chief</u> <u>cornerstone</u>," 8 and, "a stone of <u>stumbling</u>, and a rock of <u>offense</u>." For they <u>stumble</u> at the <u>word</u>, being <u>disobedient</u>, to which also they were <u>set/appointed</u>. 9 But you are a <u>chosen/choice</u> <u>generation</u>, a <u>royal</u> <u>priesthood</u>, a <u>holy nation</u>, a <u>people</u> for God’s own <u>possession</u>, that you may <u>proclaim</u> the <u>excellence</u> of him who <u>called</u> you out of <u>darkness</u> into his marvelous <u>light</u>: 10 who in time past were <u>no</u> <u>people</u>, but now are <u>God’s</u> <u>people</u>, who had <u>not obtained</u> <u>mercy</u>, but now have <u>obtained</u> <u>mercy</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>11 Beloved, I <u>beg</u> you as <u>strangers</u> and <u>pilgrims</u>, to <u>abstain from fleshly lusts</u>, which <u>war</u> against the <u>soul</u>; 12 having <u>good</u> <u>behavior</u> among the <u>nations</u>, so in that of which they <u>speak</u> <u>against</u> you as <u>evildoers</u>, they may <u>by</u> your <u>good works</u>, which they <u>see</u>, <u>glorify</u> <u>God</u> in the day of <u>visitation</u>.</i></div>
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<i>13 Therefore <u>subject</u> <u>yourselves</u> to <u>every</u> ordinance of <u>man</u> for the <u>Lord’s</u> <u>sake</u>: whether to the <u>king</u>, as <u>supreme</u>; 14 or to <u>governors</u>, as sent by him for <u>vengeance</u> on <u>evildoers</u> and for <u>praise</u> to those who <u>do</u> <u>well</u>. 15 For <u>this is the will of God</u>, that by <u>well-doing</u> you should put to <u>silence</u> the <u>ignorance</u> of <u>foolish</u> men: 16 as <u>free</u>, and <u>not</u> using your <u>freedom</u> for a <u>cloak</u> of <u>wickedness</u>, but as <u>bondservants</u> of God. </i> </div>
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<i>17 <u>Honor</u> all men. </i> </div>
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<i> <u>Love</u> the <u>brotherhood</u>. </i> </div>
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<i> <u>Fear</u> <u>God</u>. </i> </div>
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<i><u>Honor</u> the king. </i> </div>
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<i>18 <u>Servants</u>, be in <u>subjection</u> to your <u>masters</u> with all <u>fear</u>; not <u>only</u> to the <u>good</u> and <u>gentle,</u> but <u>also</u> to the <u>wicked</u>. 19 For it is <u>commendable/meritorious</u> if someone <u>endures</u> <u>pain</u>, <u>suffering unjustly</u>, <u>because</u> of <u>conscience</u> <u>toward</u> <u>God</u>. 20 For what <u>glory is it</u> if, when you <u>sin</u>, you patiently <u>endure</u> <u>beating</u>? But if, when you <u>do</u> <u>well</u>, you patiently <u>endure</u> <u>suffering</u>, this is <u>commendable</u> <u>with</u> <u>God</u>. 21 For to this you were <u>called</u>, because Christ also <u>suffered</u> for us, <u>leaving</u> you an <u>example</u>, that you should <u>follow</u> his <u>steps</u>, 22 who did <u>not sin</u>, "neither was <u>deceit</u> found in his <u>mouth</u>." 23 Who, when he was <u>cursed</u>, didn’t <u>curse</u> back. When he <u>suffered</u>, didn’t <u>threaten</u>, but <u>committed himself to him who judges righteously;</u> 24 who his own self <u>bore</u> <u>our</u> <u>sins</u> in his <u>body</u> on the <u>tree</u>, that we, having <u>died to sins</u>, might <u>live to righteousness</u>; by whose <u>stripes</u> you <u>were</u> <u>healed</u>. 25 For you <u>were</u> going <u>astray</u> like <u>sheep</u>; but now have <u>returned</u> to the <u>Shepherd</u> and <u>Overseer</u> of your <u>souls</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:1-3 In light of the plan of God to reward holy believers Peter exhorts his readers to get rid of all evil and hypocrisy and unedifying speech, and crave the nourishment of the word, like a newborn babe. This way they will grow with respect to their salvation/glorification. For those who don't understand the different aspects of salvation outlined in chapter 1, and incorrectly think salvation only means getting forgiven, this must be a confusing verse. How does one grow in getting more forgiven? Obviously, Peter meant to grow with respect to meriting the grace God plans to give faithful, and obedient believers, as noted in the first chapter. Peter's reason for this pursuit of growth and holiness is because they've tasted that God is gracious, and He's got a whole lot more grace to give. The rest of this chapter is going to tell believers how to do what is commendable/meritorious in the sight of God, so they can be rewarded. </div>
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2:4-10 Peter first notes the importance of living in unity with fellow-believers, as the Spirit of God chisels off their rough spots and shapes them to fit together into a spiritual house/temple (cf Paul in Eph 2:20-22 for the same imagery). Jesus is the chief cornerstone, chosen/choice and precious in the sight of God, but rejected by men, just like them. NT believers are the new priesthood, whose job is to offer spiritual sacrifices to God through Jesus, rather than killing animals in the name of God as did the OT priests. To those who believe, there is honor, as Peter said in the previous chapter. See the outline on Truthbase.net for NT sacrifices. </div>
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<i>Hebrews 13:15 Through him, then, let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which proclaim allegiance to his name. 16 But don't forget to be doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.</i></div>
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The cornerstone of the NT assembly, the Lord Jesus Christ, is not only the foundation of the church, but the stumbling stone over which those who reject God's revelation trip. The reason they stumble is because they are disobedient (not because they didn't believe nor because God didn't give them faith). Their stumbling is the consequence of their disobedience. The stumbling is the “appointed” or “set in place” consequence for those who disobey. People don't disobey because God “makes” them do so; they disobey because they choose to ignore His commands to be holy. </div>
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NT believers are a choice generation (here generation is used for the whole group), a royal priesthood, in the line of Melchizedek (see comments on Hebrews 8), a holy nation (as opposed to the unholy physical nation), and a people that belong to God, so they can declare the praises of Him who called/summoned them out of darkness into His light. Just like Israel was summoned out of slavery in Egypt to the blessings of the Promised Land so they could sing God's praises, so NT believers should be praising God for His blessings. Those who had not received mercy (the common translation of the OT <i>hesed</i> or covenantal love), have now entered into that relationship with God. </div>
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2:11-17 Peter begs his readers to abstain from the desire for temporal things which will make them a casualty in the Christ-following life, and war against their souls, doing eternal damage. They won't get tossed into the lake of fire, but will have loss of inheritance and displeasing God to fear when He judges them (1:17). As NT priests, not only is inner purity required, but so is praiseworthy behavior among unbelievers. The Gentiles would consider Christians to be evil since they didn't worship the pagan gods. But if the believers lived according to Christ's purpose and commands, doing the good works for which they were saved (Eph 2:10) and for which the Scriptures equipped them (2Tim 3:17), the Gentiles would be attracted to Christ, become believers, and glorify God when He comes to judge (Mt 5:17). <br />
So followers of Jesus Christ should submit themselves to authority, for the sake of the Lord. Another one of the objective will of God instructions is that by doing good, serving others and not indulging their own desires, the glory-bound believers would give fools nothing to complain about (that wouldn't necessarily totally silence them, but there would be no basis for their lies), and some might get saved. Verse 17 is in chiastic structure, the outer two elements addressing relationships with unbelievers, the inner two with believers and God. In chiastic structure, the inner elements have the priority. Agape, self-sacrificing love towards believers is the higher value than honoring the general populace. Fear of God is a higher value than honoring the kings. When God's commands and the world's demands come in conflict, God rules (Acts 5:29)</div>
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2:18-25 Peter continues the theme of submission in the rest of this, and the next chapter, addressing servants (slaves/employees), commanding them to obey their masters with all fear, not only the good and gentle, but also the pointy-haired bosses of the world. If one can't obey them, it's time to look for a new job. For the original audience, who didn't have that option Peter encourages them with the reason, that it is commendable or meritorious (literally the word is “grace”- the reward talked about in chapter 1) if a person suffers unjustly because of seeking to do what is right in God's sight (keep a clear conscience). It's no glory (note the equation of grace with glory) if we suffer for our stupidity, but if we do what is good and suffer abuse, this earns favor/grace with God. This is merited grace or favor. </div>
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It might be news to some folks, but this is the Christian calling (not to forgiveness by unmerited favor, but to merited favor/grace by good works). Who knew? Christ suffered unjustly to benefit us and do the Father's will, committing Himself to the Father who judges righteously, and will set everything right when He passes around the glory at the start of the Millennial Kingdom. We should do the same. When wronged unjustly, trust the infinitely just God to make it right. Jesus died for our sins, so that we having died to our sins, might live for the purpose of righteousness (doing what is right in God's sight). Peter reminds his readers of the fruit of the suffering of the Messiah in Isaiah 53. Christ's death was not just to secure forgiveness, but to heal us spiritually (from sick to holy) so that we might return from our straying to a relationship with the Shepherd and Overseer/Bishop of our souls (the two tasks entrusted to elders – see 1 Peter 5:1-4).</div>
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<i>Isaiah 53:5 “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”</i></blockquote>
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<b>Application</b>: Believers must abstain from their temporal desires, and live for doing what is right in God's sight, trusting that He will recompense any injustice we suffer in order to obey Him.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, thanks for sending the Lord Jesus to die for my sin, so I could die to them and live for Your blessing and glory. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God will judge all people, rewarding faithful believers with grace and glory.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus died for our sins so we could have the Holy Spirit and the power to die to our sins and live for the pleasure of God.</div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We are born-again, which starts the spiritual life, that must be nourished by the word, and progress through abstaining from temporal desires, and doing the good works for which God saved us, so we can get the glory for which He created us.</div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-54565854641055936052012-08-13T01:46:00.002-04:002015-02-02T07:42:40.619-05:00James 3-5 Endure for the Blessing<div class="new-post-style">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>TMS Hebrews 12:2-4 </b><u><b>Weary and Discouraged</b></u></span></div>
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<i>3 For <b>consider</b> Him </i> </div>
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<i>who endured such hostility </i> </div>
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<i>from sinners against Himself, </i> </div>
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<i>lest you become weary </i> </div>
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<i>and discouraged in your souls.</i></div>
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<i>4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.”</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 12:3 Following Christ in the midst of an apathetic or hostile world can easily cause discouragement to the point of quitting and sitting on the sidelines, or going back to the way we were. This was a temptation faced by the original audience (see context in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/hebrews-11-13-hall-of-fame-faith-hope.html">Hebrews 12</a>) and modern believers as well. The corrective is to fix our eyes on Jesus, who had His eyes fixed on the joy of the prize. If He became discouraged and quit, where would we be? The same Spirit and grace that energized Him is available to us. The same prize, to a lesser degree, awaits us if we endure and don't give up. (See James 5 below).<br />
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<b>Application</b>: If we keep our eyes on Jesus and God's promises, we'll keep heading to where God wants us to go; if we focus on the difficulties, we'll become discouraged and want to quit.<br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: Father God, thanks that Your Spirit dwells in me to give me both the motivation and power to do Your good pleasure like Jesus did; please help me follow in His footsteps. Amen.</div>
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<b>James 3-5 </b>In <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/james-1-2-royal-law-of-freedom.html">James 1:25</a> James stated that the one who would be blessed in the Kingdom was the one who was a performer/worker of the law of liberty. Then he taught that pure and undefiled (“blessable”) worship required controlling one's speech and meeting the needs of others. In chapter two he elaborated upon the importance of works for faith to be blessed, using an illustration of meeting the needs of those in need. He now picks up on the importance of speech and having an undefiled life. He will explore the sources of incorrect speech in both our unsanctified desires and demonic influences, and advocate solutions that will enable believers to have blessable lives and works. </div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">James 3 <u>Words and Wisdom</u></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>3:1 "Let </i><i><u>not</u></i><i> many of you be </i><i><u>teachers</u></i><i>, my brothers, knowing that we will </i><i><u>receive</u></i><i> </i><i><u>heavier</u></i><i> </i><i><u>judgment</u></i><i>. 2 For in </i><i><u>many</u></i><i> things we </i><i><u>all</u></i><i> </i><i><u>stumble</u></i><i>. If anyone </i><i><u>doesn’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>stumble</u></i><i> in </i><i><u>word</u></i><i>, the same is a </i><i><u>perfect</u></i><i> man, able to </i><i><u>bridle</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>whole</u></i><i> </i><i><u>body</u></i><i> also. 3 Indeed, we put </i><i><u>bits</u></i><i> into the </i><i><u>horses</u></i><i>’ </i><i><u>mouths</u></i><i> so that they may </i><i><u>obey</u></i><i> us, and we </i><i><u>guide</u></i><i> their whole </i><i><u>body</u></i><i>. 4 Behold, the </i><i><u>ships</u></i><i> also, though they are so </i><i><u>big</u></i><i> and are driven by fierce winds, are yet </i><i><u>guided</u></i><i> by a very </i><i><u>small</u></i><i> </i><i><u>rudder</u></i><i>, wherever the pilot desires. 5 So the </i><i><u>tongue</u></i><i> is also a </i><i><u>little</u></i><i> member, and boasts </i><i><u>great</u></i><i> things. See how a </i><i><u>small</u></i><i> </i><i><u>fire</u></i><i> can spread to a </i><i><u>large</u></i><i> </i><i><u>forest</u></i><i>! 6 And the </i><i><u>tongue</u></i><i> is a </i><i><u>fire</u></i><i>. The </i><i><u>world</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>iniquity</u></i><i> among our </i><i><u>members</u></i><i> is the </i><i><u>tongue</u></i><i>, which </i><i><u>defiles</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>whole body</u></i><i>, and sets on </i><i><u>fire</u></i><i> the course of nature, and is set on </i><i><u>fire</u></i><i> by </i><i><u>Gehenna</u></i><i>. 7 For every kind of </i><i><u>animal</u></i><i>, bird, creeping thing, and thing in the sea, is </i><i><u>tamed</u></i><i>, and has been </i><i><u>tamed</u></i><i> by mankind. 8 But </i><i><u>nobody</u></i><i> can </i><i><u>tame</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>tongue</u></i><i>. It is a </i><i><u>restless evil</u></i><i>, full of deadly </i><i><u>poison</u></i><i>. 9 With it we </i><i><u>bless</u></i><i> our God and Father, and with it we </i><i><u>curse</u></i><i> men, who are made in the </i><i><u>image of God</u></i><i>. 10 Out of the </i><i><u>same</u></i><i> mouth comes forth </i><i><u>blessing</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>cursing</u></i><i>. My brothers, these things ou</i><i><u>g</u></i><i>ht </i><i><u>not</u></i><i> to </i><i><u>be</u></i><i> so. 11 Does a </i><i><u>spring</u></i><i> send out from the same opening </i><i><u>fresh</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>bitter</u></i><i> water? 12 Can a </i><i><u>fig</u></i><i> tree, my brothers, yield </i><i><u>olives</u></i><i>, or a vine </i><i><u>figs</u></i><i>? Thus </i><i><u>no</u></i><i> spring yields both </i><i><u>salt</u></i><i> water and </i><i><u>fresh</u></i><i> water.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>13 Who is </i><i><u>wise</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>understanding</u></i><i> among you? Let him </i><i><u>show</u></i><i> by his </i><i><u>good conduct</u></i><i> that his </i><i><u>deeds</u></i><i> are done in </i><i><u>gentleness/humility</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>wisdom</u></i><i>. 14 But if you have </i><i><u>bitter jealousy</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>selfish ambition</u></i><i> in your </i><i><u>heart</u></i><i>, don’t </i><i><u>boast</u></i><i> and don’t </i><i><u>lie</u></i><i> against the </i><i><u>truth</u></i><i>. 15 This </i><i><u>wisdom</u></i><i> is not that which comes down from </i><i><u>above</u></i><i>, but is </i><i><u>earthly</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>sensual</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>demonic</u></i><i>. 16 For where </i><i><u>jealousy</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>selfish ambition</u></i><i> are, there is </i><i><u>confusion</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>every evil deed</u></i><i>. 17 But the </i><i><u>wisdom</u></i><i> that is from </i><i><u>above</u></i><i> is first </i><i><u>pure</u></i><i>, then </i><i><u>peaceful</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>gentle</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>reasonable</u></i><i>, full of </i><i><u>mercy</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>good</u></i><i> </i><i><u>fruits</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>without partiality</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>without hypocrisy</u></i><i>. 18 Now the </i><i><u>fruit of righteousness</u></i><i> is </i><i><u>sown</u></i><i> in </i><i><u>peace</u></i><i> by those who </i><i><u>make peace</u></i><i>."</i></span></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 3:1 It's amazing how many “Bible teachers” say there are no consequences for how believers live their lives on earth once they accept Christ, nor differentiation of blessedness in heaven. James says that teachers need to know that they, in particular, will receive greater judgment. The fact that there is greater judgment means there is judgment. Judgment necessitates consequences. It's not like: “Good teacher...enter into the joy of your Lord” and “Bad teacher...enter into the joy of your Lord.“ </div>
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It's more like “Well done, good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of your Lord” and “Bad teacher...no biscuit.” </div>
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As Jesus taught in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-23-25-end-time-parables.html">Matthew 25:21-30</a> and <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/luke-18-21-will-you-be-considered.html">Luke 19:17</a>, <b>reward is dependent </b>upon having “done well,” and been good, faithful, and a servant. The key element is <u>being faithful with what God has entrusted to us</u>. Teachers have a stricter judgment because they have been entrusted with more truth (or at least should have more truth) with which to be faithful, and they multiply truth (or error) by their teaching. Surveys indicate that only <b>10%</b> of those who teach the Scriptures professionally have actually read the entire Bible even once. One has to wonder if they are teaching the truth, or just parroting some party line, or what people want to have tickle their ears. Teachers who don't see or walk in the light keep their listeners in the dark (in more ways than one). Come judgment day, some will be blessed with reward and joy in the Kingdom of light, and some will be in the outer darkness lamenting that they have “no biscuit.” </div>
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3:2-12 The reason James warns about the judgment of teachers, is because we all stumble (offend), but if one doesn't stumble in word, that person is mature/perfect, and able to control (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/james-1-2-royal-law-of-freedom.html">James 1:26</a> for only other use) the whole body. Arguing by analogy, bridles and rudders exert a control far greater than their size. The tongue has a similar influence, but it is difficult to control. Words can cause great defilement (and loss of blessing), and destruction. James compares the destructive power of the tongue to a fire that consumes one's life with the fire of Gehenna. Gehenna is the garbage dump outside the city of Jerusalem where unprofitable things are burned. It should not be confused with the lake of fire, the place of eternal punishment. The majority of uses of Gehenna occur in Matthew, being introduced in the Sermon on the Mount referring to unpleasant consequences for unpleasant believers (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-5-7-sermon-on-mount.html">Matthew 5:22,29,30</a>). This is the only use of the term outside the Gospels. James says the tongue can't be tamed, but alludes to the source of the defilement, one's heart, which can be purified. He will discuss the cure in the next chapter, but first he highlights the incompatibility of blessing God and cursing men who are made in the image of God, which is like a spring sending out fresh and bitter water or a tree bearing figs and olives. </div>
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3:13-18 The person who is wise and has insight will demonstrate his/her wisdom with good and humble conduct. But if jealousy and selfish ambition reside in his/her heart, he/she is living inconsistently with the truth. Such self-centeredness is not from God, but is demonic. It is a product of earthly and sensual motivation rather than Spirit-led thinking. Self-centeredness results in disorder/contention and evil works rather than love and good deeds. Wisdom that comes from God is pure, peaceful, gentle, reasonable (easily entreated), demonstrating mercy, fruitfulness, and without partiality nor hypocrisy. Godly wisdom results in the fruit of righteousness, doing what is right in God's sight, which would include harmonious relationships with other believers.<br />
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<b>Application</b>: Those who are wise teach truth that bears the fruit of righteousness.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, may my words reflect Your wisdom and result in a reflection of Your character, for Your glory. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">James 4 <u>Grace for the Humble</u></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ7ChgD67jo/UCh2XsHDw8I/AAAAAAAAEus/4i1WDw00A8s/s1600/heart+wicked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ7ChgD67jo/UCh2XsHDw8I/AAAAAAAAEus/4i1WDw00A8s/s200/heart+wicked.jpg" height="200" width="181" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>4:1 "Where do </i><i><u>wars</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>fightings</u> </i><i>among you come </i><i><u>from</u></i><i>? Don’t they come from your </i><i><u>pleasures/lusts</u></i><i> that </i><i><u>war</u></i><i> in your members? 2 You </i><i><u>lust</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>don’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>have</u></i><i>. You </i><i><u>kill</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>covet</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>can’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>obtain</u></i><i>. You </i><i><u>fight</u></i><i> and make </i><i><u>war</u></i><i>. You </i><i><u>don’t have</u></i><i>, because you </i><i><u>don’t ask</u></i><i>. 3 You </i><i><u>ask</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>don’t receive</u></i><i>, because you ask with </i><i><u>wrong motives</u></i><i>, so that you may </i><i><u>spend</u></i><i> it for your </i><i><u>pleasures</u></i><i>. 4 You </i><i><u>adulterers</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>adulteresses</u></i><i>, don’t you know that </i><i><u>friendship</u></i><i> with the </i><i><u>world</u></i><i> is </i><i><u>enmity</u></i><i> with </i><i><u>God</u></i><i>? Whoever therefore wants to be a </i><i><u>friend</u></i><i> of the </i><i><u>world</u></i><i> makes himself an </i><i><u>enemy</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>God</u></i><i>. 5 Or do you think that the Scripture says in </i><i><u>vain</u></i><i>, "The </i><i><u>Spirit</u></i><i> who </i><i><u>lives in us</u></i><i> </i><i><u>yearns</u></i><i> </i><i><u>jealously</u></i><i>"? </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>6 But He </i><i><u>gives</u></i><i> </i><i><u>more</u></i><i> </i><i><u>grace</u></i><i>. Therefore it says, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"</i><i><u>God resists the proud</u></i><i>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>but gives </i><i><u>grace to the humble</u></i><i>." </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>7 Be </i><i><u>subject</u></i><i> </i><i><u>therefore</u></i><i> to God. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>But </i><i><u>resist</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>devil</u></i><i>, and he will </i><i><u>flee</u></i><i> from you. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>8 Draw </i><i><u>near</u></i><i> to </i><i><u>God</u></i><i>, and He will </i><i><u>draw</u></i><i> </i><i><u>near</u></i><i> to </i><i><u>you</u></i><i>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><u>Cleanse</u></i><i> your hands, you </i><i><u>sinners</u></i><i>; and </i><i><u>purify</u></i><i> your </i><i><u>hearts</u></i><i>, you </i><i><u>double-minded</u></i><i>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>9 </i><i><u>Lament</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>mourn</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>weep</u></i><i>. Let your </i><i><u>laughter</u></i><i> be turned to mourn</i><i><u>in</u></i><i>g, and your </i><i><u>joy</u></i><i> to </i><i><u>gloom</u></i><i>. 10 </i><i><u>Humble yourselves</u></i><i> in the </i><i><u>sight</u></i><i> of the Lord, and he will </i><i><u>exalt</u></i><i> you.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>11 Don’t </i><i><u>speak</u></i><i> </i><i><u>against</u></i><i> </i><i><u>one another</u></i><i>, brothers. He who </i><i><u>speaks against</u></i><i> a </i><i><u>brother</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>judges</u></i><i> his </i><i><u>brother</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>speaks</u></i><i> </i><i><u>against</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>law</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>judges</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>law</u></i><i>. But if you </i><i><u>judge</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>law</u></i><i>, you are not a </i><i><u>doer</u></i><i> of the </i><i><u>law</u></i><i>, but a </i><i><u>judge</u></i><i>. 12 Only </i><i><u>one</u></i><i> is the </i><i><u>lawgiver</u></i><i>, who is able to </i><i><u>save</u></i><i> and to </i><i><u>destroy</u></i><i>. But who are you to </i><i><u>judge</u></i><i> </i><i><u>another</u></i><i>? 13 Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow let’s </i><i><u>go</u></i><i> into this city, and </i><i><u>spend</u></i><i> a year there, </i><i><u>trade</u></i><i>, and make a </i><i><u>profit</u></i><i>." 14 Whereas you </i><i><u>don’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>know</u></i><i> </i><i><u>what</u></i><i> your </i><i><u>life</u></i><i> will be like </i><i><u>tomorrow</u></i><i>. For </i><i><u>what</u></i><i> is your </i><i><u>life</u></i><i>? For you are a </i><i><u>vapor</u></i><i>, that </i><i><u>appears</u></i><i> for a </i><i><u>little</u></i><i> time, and then </i><i><u>vanishes</u></i><i> away. 15 For you ought to say, "</i><i><u>If the Lord wills</u></i><i>, we will both </i><i><u>live</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>do</u></i><i> this or that." 16 But now you </i><i><u>glory</u></i><i> in your </i><i><u>boasting</u></i><i>. All such boasting is </i><i><u>evil</u></i><i>. 17 To him therefore who </i><i><u>knows</u></i><i> to </i><i><u>do good</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>doesn’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>do it</u></i><i>, to </i><i><u>him</u></i><i> </i><i><u>it is sin</u></i><i>."</i></span></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 4:1-5 The reason some of James' audience have intrapersonal discontent and interpersonal difficulties is because they have unsanctified desires/lusts, developed in Satan's world, and not renewed by the Spirit. Their desires are unsatisfied because they are looking to their self-gratification, rather than seeking and trusting God to meet their needs (you don't have because you don't ask). When they do turn to God, it's to demand the the fulfillment of their temporal desires, rather than seeking His will (you ask amiss). There is no abiding contentment in the goodness and timing of an infinitely good God (Psalm 84:11; <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/philippians-3-4-secrets-of-glory-peace.html">Philippians 4</a>). James accuses such worldlings of adultery, being friendly with the world, and disloyal to God. By seeking their temporal pleasures (as well as power and possessions) they become enemies of God (not a good place to be if they wish His blessings). James cites a principle from the Ten Commandments (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/exodus-19-24-ten-commandments-given-and.html">Exodus 20:5</a>) although there a number of passages that have roughly the same idea, that God wants the sole allegiance of His people, and gets rather peeved when we are disloyal. The Spirit that dwells in us wants us to Himself (which is why God isn't thrilled with idolatry in either testament). So those who have a higher loyalty to the their pursuit of pleasure and prosperity in the world than they do to God, are not only His enemies, but are adulterers headed for judgment, and nowhere near the blessings promised in the Good News.</div>
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4:6-10 Speaking of good news, there is a solution for all who find themselves not living the abundant life that Jesus came to give. It is to draw on His grace to do His will. There is a limitless supply of God's power/grace available to live the victorious Christian life. And God gives it to those submitted to Him and His revealed will. God actively resists (stand in battle against) the proud (those who consider themselves above others). Those who set them up as lord of their own life and master of their fate, will find a fearsome opponent in God. Imagine having the Creator of the universe thwarting your efforts. On the other hand, imagine having Him as your Helper. The choice is yours. He gives grace/power to the humble, those who have a proper estimation of themselves as His dependent creatures. Therefore, we should submit to (line ourselves up under) God's rightful authority in our life. Living dependently is the path to blessing; living independently is the path to ruin. Note what we have to do:</div>
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<li>subject ourselves – place ourselves under God's rule to get His grace;</li>
<li>resist the devil (and his temptations – so he will flee (more below);</li>
<li>draw near to God (it's our move, then He responds; He doesn't intrude where not invited);</li>
<li>cleanse our hands (stop playing in the mud of the world) otherwise we remain defiled sinners;</li>
<li>purify our hearts from our double-mindedness (decide once and for all that God's way is the only way, and do whatever it takes to not deviate from it).</li>
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A couple things worth elaboration, beyond what you can find in “<a href="http://truthbase.net/sermons/title/it-aint-gonna-reign-no-more-2012/" target="_blank">It Ain't Gonna Reign No More</a>” are <a href="http://truthbase.net/sermons/title/defense-against-the-dark-arts---part-1/" target="_blank">Defense Against the Dark Arts</a>, and being <a href="http://truthbase.net/sermons/title/caleba-whole-hearted-believer" target="_blank">wholehearted like Caleb</a>, rather than double-minded. </div>
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We are supposed to flee temptation, but resist the devil. Anyone unaware of the devil's schemes and dirty tricks of twisting truth and distorting reality is most likely stumbling around in the dark. The way to resist the devil, is as Jesus did (and Eve didn't), with truth. When he can’t get you to buy a lie, he might try to scare you, which is just another lie (see, and memorize <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/1john-3-5-eternal-life-in-christ.html">1 John 4:4</a>). We must cleanse our hands and purify our hearts by washing them with truth. Verse 9 is my favorite verse to write on birthday cards and for other happy occasions. What it means is that sinners need to change their hearts, so their value system is brought into conformity to God’s values. The things that they once thought were fun, are now poison to them. It’s difficult to drink poison and expect happy consequences. So if we humble ourselves in submitting to what is right in God’s sight, we can trust that He will give grace and exalt us in the proper time.</div>
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4:11-17 James addresses some behaviors that should flow from hearts that are cleansed and submitted to God. Not speaking against or judging each other (except as God has mandated) is how to be a doer of the law. Another is depending upon God for our plans making sure they are in line with God’s will, rather than just tacking “God willing” onto our statements. He can help or hinder our plans, or rescue us from trouble, or bring calamity. So it makes sense to seek His will, which He will bless. Those who glory in their accomplishments aren't holy. If we know what we should do to please God, and don’t do it, it’s sin. Paul also said that whatever is not of faith is sin (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/romans-12-16-butterfly-believers.html">Romans 14</a>).</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Humbling ourselves to draw upon God’s grace and do His will is our position of protection and prosperity.<br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, You are my Master, I exist to do Your will; please guide me and protect me, so I may do what is pleasing in Your sight. Thanks. Amen.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>James 5 </b><u><b>Endure For Blessing</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>5:1 "Come now, you </i><i><u>rich</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>weep</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>howl</u></i><i> for your </i><i><u>miseries</u></i><i> that are </i><i><u>coming</u></i><i> on </i><i><u>you</u></i><i>. 2 Your </i><i><u>riches</u></i><i> are </i><i><u>corrupted</u></i><i> and your </i><i><u>garments</u></i><i> are </i><i><u>moth-eaten</u></i><i>. 3 Your </i><i><u>gold</u></i><i> and your </i><i><u>silver</u></i><i> are </i><i><u>corroded</u></i><i>, and their </i><i><u>corrosion</u></i><i> will be for a </i><i><u>testimony</u></i><i> </i><i><u>against</u></i><i> </i><i><u>you</u></i><i>, and will </i><i><u>eat</u></i><i> your flesh like </i><i><u>fire</u></i><i>. You have </i><i><u>laid</u></i><i> up your </i><i><u>treasure</u></i><i> in the </i><i><u>last days</u></i><i>. 4 Behold, the </i><i><u>wages</u></i><i> of the </i><i><u>laborers</u></i><i> who mowed your fields, which you have </i><i><u>kept back</u></i><i> by </i><i><u>fraud</u></i><i>, </i><i><u>cry out</u></i><i>, and the </i><i><u>cries</u></i><i> of those who </i><i><u>reaped</u></i><i> have </i><i><u>entered</u></i><i> into the </i><i><u>ears</u></i><i> of the </i><i><u>Lord of Hosts</u></i><i>. 5 You have lived </i><i><u>luxuriously,</u></i><i> on the earth, and taken your </i><i><u>pleasure</u></i><i>. You have </i><i><u>fattened</u></i><i> your </i><i><u>hearts</u></i><i> as in a day of </i><i><u>slaughter</u></i><i>. 6 You have </i><i><u>condemned</u></i><i>, you have </i><i><u>murdered</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>righteous</u></i><i> one. He </i><i><u>doesn’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>resist</u></i><i> you. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>7 Be </i><i><u>patient</u></i><i> therefore, </i><i><u>brothers</u></i><i>, until the </i><i><u>coming of the Lord</u></i><i>. Behold, the </i><i><u>farmer</u></i><i> </i><i><u>waits</u></i><i> for the precious </i><i><u>fruit</u></i><i> of the earth, being </i><i><u>patient</u></i><i> over it, until it receives the early and late </i><i><u>rain</u></i><i>. 8 You also be </i><i><u>patient</u></i><i>. </i><i><u>Establish</u></i><i> your </i><i><u>hearts</u></i><i>, for the </i><i><u>coming of the Lord</u></i><i> is </i><i><u>at hand</u></i><i>. 9 </i><i><u>Don’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>grumble</u></i><i>, brothers, </i><i><u>against</u></i><i> </i><i><u>one another</u></i><i>, so that you won’t be </i><i><u>judged</u></i><i>. Behold, the </i><i><u>judge</u></i><i> stands </i><i><u>at</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>door</u></i><i>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>10 </i><i><u>Take</u></i><i>, brothers, for an </i><i><u>example</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>suffering</u></i><i> and of </i><i><u>patience</u></i><i>, the </i><i><u>prophets</u></i><i> who spoke </i><i><u>in</u></i><i> the </i><i><u>name</u></i><i> of the </i><i><u>Lord</u></i><i>. 11 Behold, we </i><i><u>call</u></i><i> them </i><i><u>blessed who endured</u></i><i>. You have heard of the </i><i><u>patience</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>Job</u></i><i>, and have </i><i><u>seen</u></i><i> the Lord in the </i><i><u>outcome</u></i><i>, and how the Lord is </i><i><u>full</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>compassion</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>mercy</u></i><i>.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>12 But above all things, my brothers, </i><i><u>don’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>swear</u></i><i>, neither by heaven, nor by the earth, nor by any other oath; but let your "</i><i><u>yes</u></i><i>" be "</i><i><u>yes</u></i><i>," and your "</i><i><u>no</u></i><i>," "</i><i><u>no</u></i><i>"; so that you don’t fall into </i><i><u>hypocrisy</u></i><i>. 13 Is any among you </i><i><u>suffering</u></i><i>? Let him </i><i><u>pray</u></i><i>. Is any </i><i><u>cheerful</u></i><i>? Let him sing </i><i><u>praises</u></i><i>. 14 Is any among you </i><i><u>sick</u></i><i>? Let him </i><i><u>call</u></i><i> for the </i><i><u>elders</u></i><i> of the </i><i><u>assembly</u></i><i>, and let them </i><i><u>pray</u></i><i> over him, </i><i><u>anointing</u></i><i> him with </i><i><u>oil</u></i><i> in the </i><i><u>name</u></i><i> of the </i><i><u>Lord</u></i><i>, 15 and the </i><i><u>prayer</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>faith</u></i><i> will </i><i><u>save/heal</u></i><i> him who is </i><i><u>sick</u></i><i>, and the Lord will </i><i><u>raise</u></i><i> him </i><i><u>up</u></i><i>. If he has </i><i><u>committed</u></i><i> </i><i><u>sins</u></i><i>, he will be </i><i><u>forgiven</u></i><i>. 16 </i><i><u>Confess</u></i><i> your </i><i><u>offenses</u></i><i> to </i><i><u>one another</u></i><i>, and </i><i><u>pray</u></i><i> for </i><i><u>one another</u></i><i>, that you may be </i><i><u>healed</u></i><i>. </i><i>The pryer of a </i><i><u>righteous</u></i><i> person is </i><i><u>powerful</u></i><i> and </i><i><u>effective</u></i><i>.(NIV)</i><i> 17 </i><i><u>Elijah</u></i><i> was a man with a </i><i><u>nature</u></i><i> like ours, and he </i><i><u>prayed</u></i><i> </i><i><u>earnestly</u></i><i> that it might </i><i><u>not</u></i><i> </i><i><u>rain</u></i><i>, and it </i><i><u>didn’t</u></i><i> </i><i><u>rain</u></i><i> on the earth for three years and six months. 18 He </i><i><u>prayed</u></i><i> </i><i><u>again,</u></i><i> and the sky gave </i><i><u>rain</u></i><i>, and the earth brought forth its </i><i><u>fruit</u></i><i>. 19 </i><i><u>Brothers</u></i><i>, if any </i><i><u>among you</u></i><i> </i><i><u>wanders</u></i><i> from the </i><i><u>truth</u></i><i>, and someone </i><i><u>turns</u></i><i> him </i><i><u>back</u></i><i>, 20 let him know that he who </i><i><u>turns a sinner</u></i><i> from the </i><i><u>error</u></i><i> of his </i><i><u>way</u></i><i> will </i><i><u>save</u></i><i> a </i><i><u>soul</u></i><i> from </i><i><u>death</u></i><i>, and will </i><i><u>cover</u></i><i> a </i><i><u>multitude</u></i><i> of </i><i><u>sins</u></i><i>."</i></span></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 5:1-6 Those who've spent their time accumulating temporal wealth at the expense of doing God’s will and loving others will regret the judgment day, when their ill-gotten gain is called as a witness against them. Gain gotten at the expense of fulfilling God’s purpose for being on earth, is ill-gotten. Just because we can do something, doesn't mean we should. Just because we don’t experience immediate negative consequences, doesn't mean that we won’t.</div>
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5:7-11 In the closing “book-end” James advocates that believers wait patiently for the coming of the Lord, like a farmer waits for the fruit of his labors. This requires having a fixed heart, waiting for the return of the Lord. He will not only bring our reward, but will judge our behavior, therefore we must be careful to have proper relationships with one another. As an example of patience in the fire of suffering, Job should give us hope. The story didn't end until the Lord doubly blessed him for his sinless response. (See <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/02/job-121319-righteous-suffer.html">comments</a> on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/02/job-36-42-righteous-reap-rewards.html">Job</a>). James is clearly talking about blessing and reward, not forgiveness and the substitutionary atonement. </div>
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5:12-20 James admonishes believers to be truthful in their speech, meaning what they say. If any suffer, they should pray (rather than complain). If cheerful, they should sing praises. If sick, they should call for the elders, who using medical (oil) and spiritual means (prayer), should save/heal the sick, and the Lord will raise them up. James uses a more common word for putting oil on the body, that some suggest should be translated "rub." If the person has committed sins they will be forgiven as a result of the prayer (which would have included confession or acknowledgement of sin if it were present). The fact that the elders are called for suggest that this is a spiritual sickness, or one brought on by sin. This passage indicates that sin is at the root of some sickness. Not all sickness (physical and/or spiritual) is healed. Paul left Trophimus sick in Miletus (<a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/08/2timothy-3-4-keeping-faith.html">2 Timothy 4:20</a>), and <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/philippians-1-2-secret-of-joy.html">Ephaphroditus</a> was sick while with Paul. Some think that this is only a reference to elders who had the supernatural gift of healing, or that this was a temporary bestowal of God's grace. Others suggest that anyone who is sick today lacks faith. The one thing that is clear is that believers who aren't functioning to their full potential physically or spiritually should take whatever steps are necessary to live as God intended. </div>
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Believers should confess their sins to one another (not some intermediary) and pray for each other so they may be healed. James notes that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective, citing Elijah’s prayers in the days of Ahab. </div>
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If a believer wanders from the truth, and another believer turns then from the error of their way back to the truth, a multitude of sins will be prevented, and the sinning person would be spared from death (either physical discipline as in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-8-11-imitate-paul-and.html">1 Corinthians 11</a>, or spiritual as in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/romans-6-8-issues-of-life-and-death.html">Romans 8)</a>.<br />
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<b>Application</b>: Believers should prayerfully endure suffering knowing that the Lord will return, rectify, and reward those who remain faithful to Him.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, thanks that I can trust You to be faithful and just in all your dealings with me. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper:</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God gives grace to the humble, blessings to the righteous, and opposition to the proud and sinful.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus isn't mentioned in these chapters, but His example of resisting the devil is implied. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We need to watch our words and walk to receive the blessings God has planned for those who are loyal to Him. We have the responsibility to work at our relationship with God, from submitting to His will, resisting the devil, drawing on His grace to purify our hearts and clean up our act. If we do, we will be blessed. If we don't...what do you think happens?</div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-88033654292509185942012-08-12T01:46:00.001-04:002014-05-31T08:01:23.906-04:00Romans 10 sermon Good News<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Romans 10 Good News </b></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> © 2012 WF Cobb Truthbase.net </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>DailyTruthbase.Blogspot.com</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>I. Heritage is not Holiness; Election is corporate and to Blessing (not individual forgiveness). Hardening is in our choices.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">9:6 it is <u>not</u> that the <u>word of G</u>od has taken <u>no</u> <u>effect</u>. For they are not all <i>ek </i><u>Israel</u> who are <u>of</u> Israel (Gal 3:7-9), 12 "The older shall <u>serve</u> the younger." 13 As it is written, "Jacob I have <u>loved</u>, but Esau I have <u>hated</u>." 17 For the Scripture says to the Pharaoh, "For this very purpose I have exalted/raised you up, that I may show My <u>power</u> in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth." 18 Therefore He has <u>mercy</u> on whom He wills, and whom He wills He <u>hardens</u>. <i>Ex 9:27 “I have sinned this time, the Lord is righteous?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">APP: God can harden/fix people in their bad choices to display His glory/power in justly judging them; so be quick to obey<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (Rm 11:20).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>II. Those who want righteousness from God must be careful to do what is right in His sight</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">10: 1 Brethren, my heart's <u>desire</u> and <u>prayer</u> to God for Israel is that they may be <u>saved</u>. 2 For I bear them witness that they have a <u>zeal</u> for God, but <u>not</u> according to <u>knowledge</u>. 3 For they being <u>ignorant</u> of God's <u>righteousness</u>, and seeking to <u>establish</u> their <u>own</u> righteousness, have not <u>submitted</u> to the <u>righteousness of God</u>. 4 For Christ is the <u>end</u> of the law for <u>righteousness</u> to everyone who <u>believes</u>. 5 For Moses writes about the <u>righteousness</u> which is of the <u>law</u>, "The man who <u>does</u> those things shall <u>live</u> by them."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">APP: The righteousness required for blessing is being careful to do what is right in God's sight, from initial reception to obedient receptivity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>III. We all have faith to believe that God is who He said He is, and will do what He said He'll do </b>(Heb 11:6)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">6 the <u>righteousness</u> of faith <u>speaks</u> 8 "The word is <u>near</u> you, in your <u>mouth</u> and in your <u>heart</u>" (the <u>word</u> of <u>faith</u> which we preach):</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">9 if you <u>confess</u> with your <u>mouth</u> the <u>Lord Jesus</u> and <u>believe</u> in your <u>heart</u> that God has <u>raised</u> Him from the dead, you will be <u>saved</u>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">10 For with the <u>heart</u> one <u>believes</u> unto <u>righteousness</u>, and with the mouth <u>confession</u> is made unto <u>salvation/glorification</u>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">APP:Wholehearted belief and acknowledgment of Christ's Lordship is necessary for glorification. How is He your Lord?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>IV. Faith relies on the Revelation of God about what has occurred, and will or won't happen in the future, and calls upon Him</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">11 For the Scripture says, "Whoever <u>believes</u> on Him will not be put to <u>shame</u>." 12 For there is <u>no</u> distinction between Jew and Greek, for the <u>same</u> <u>Lord</u> over all is rich to all who <u>call</u> upon Him 13 "whoever <u>calls</u> on the <u>name</u> of the LORD shall be <u>saved</u>." (Joel 2:32)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">14 How then shall they <u>call</u> on Him in whom they have <u>not believed</u>? And how shall they <u>believe in Him</u> of whom they have not <u>heard</u>? And how shall they <u>hear</u> without a <u>preacher</u>? 15 And how shall they <u>preach</u> unless they are <u>sent</u>? As it is written: " How beautiful are the feet of those who <u>preach</u> the <u>gospel of peace</u>, Who bring <u>glad tidings</u> of <u>good things</u>!" (Isa 52:7 Our God reigns)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">16 But they have <u>not</u> all <u>obeyed</u> the <u>gospel</u>. For Isaiah says, "LORD, who has <u>believed</u> our <u>report</u>?" (Isa 53:1)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">17 So then <u>faith</u> is <i>ek</i> <u>hearing</u>, and hearing by/<i>dia</i> the <u>word</u> of God.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">APP: Our faith/belief must be based upon the Revelation of God, and our behavior based upon our belief, if we're to reap the benefits.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>V. God repeatedly reaches out to those who disobey and reject Him in an effort to get them to repent so it's totally their choice. </b></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">18 ...have they not <u>heard</u>? Yes indeed: "Their sound has gone out to <u>all</u> the earth, and their <u>words</u> to the ends of the world." 19 But I say, did Israel not <u>know</u>? First Moses says: " I will provoke you to <u>jealousy</u> by those who are not a nation, I will move you to <u>anger</u> by a foolish nation." 20 But Isaiah is very bold and says: " I was <u>found</u> by those who did not seek Me; I was made manifest to those who did not ask for Me." 21 But to <u>Israel</u> He says: "<u>All</u> day long I have <u>stretched</u> out My <u>hands</u> to a <u>disobedient</u> and <u>contrary</u> people."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">APP: Failure to submit to God's will is sourced in our willing ignorance and satanically influenced self-will, which we can change.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>VI. God always keeps His sovereign promises, especially that of Blessing the whole world through the descendents of Abraham</b></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Gen 12)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">11:1 has God </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>cast</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>away</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> His </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>people</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">? Certainly </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>not</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">! For I also am an Israelite...2 God has not </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>cast</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> away His </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>people</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> whom He </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>foreknew</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. 11..have they stumbled that they should </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>fall</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">? Certainly not! But thru their </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>fall</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">, to provoke them to </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>jealousy</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">, </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>salvation</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> has come to the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>Gentiles</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">20 Because of </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>unbelief</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> they were </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>broken</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> off, and you </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>stand</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> by </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>faith</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. Do not be </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>haughty</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">, but </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>fear</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. 21 For if God did </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>not</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>spare</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>natural</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> branches, He </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>may not</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>spare</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>you</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> either. 22 Therefore consider the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>goodness</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> and </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>severity</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> of God: on those who </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>fell</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">, </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>severity</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">; but toward you, </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>goodness</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">,</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u> if you continue in goodness/virtue</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>Otherwise</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> you </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>also</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> will be </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>cut off</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. 23 And </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>they</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> also, if they do </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>not</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>continue in unbelief</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">, will be </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>grafted</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> in, for God is able to </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>graft</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> them in </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>again</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. 29 For the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>gifts</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> and the </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>calling</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> of God are </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><u>irrevocable</u></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">APP: Justified believers will be cut off from blessing if they don't continue in goodness; those who repent and return will be blessed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">1. Why would someone think that their ideas about what's right in God's sight are correct? How can a finite being know infinite truth?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">2. Does praying for someone's salvation make a difference? How would God answer that prayer if the person/nation is uncooperative?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">3. If we don't believe and act upon God's promises, nor deny ourselves daily to follow the Lord Jesus, what kind of “salvation” can we expect?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">4. When and how do you call upon the Lord? What happens? For what benefits are you believing Him?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">5. What can you do to experience the benefits of the good news and share them with others?</span></div>
Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-10920278208311733072012-08-11T01:45:00.001-04:002012-08-11T16:44:55.070-04:00Week in ReviewThis would be a good time to get a grip on justification by faith and justification by works.Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-44936750436833187282012-08-10T01:45:00.006-04:002014-10-12T09:03:13.350-04:00James 1-2 The Royal Law of Freedom<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS 1 Corinthians 15:58 </b><u><b>It's Always Too Soon To Quit</b></u> </div>
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<i>1Cor 15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brethren, </i>
<i>be <u>steadfast</u>, <u>immovable</u>, </i>
<i>always <u>abounding</u> in the <u>work</u> of the <u>Lord</u>, </i>
<i>knowing that your <u>labor</u> is <u>not</u> in <u>vain</u></i>
<i>in the <u>Lord</u>.</i> </div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 15:58 Concluding the great chapter on the good news and the resurrection, Paul exhorts the believers to not give up serving the Lord. The word for labor means “to be beat up” as in work that sucks everything out of you. Believers are tempted to quit or slack off when the going gets tough, but in doing so they would miss out on the glory God has planned for faithful believers who please Him by doing His will. It there is no resurrection and reward of the faithful, then we might as well eat, drink, and be merry, for when we die, it's all over. But if there are rewards and differing degrees of glory as the gospel clearly taught (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/1corinthians-15-16-gospel-of.html">1 Corinthians 15</a> comments if you don't totally believe this), then it's time to buck up and face the wild beasts. God gives enabling grace to do His will in this life (2 Corinthians 12:9), and glorifies us with grace in the next life for doing His will in this one (1 Peter 1:13). It's all of grace, but works are still needed.<br />
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<i>1 </i><i>Peter 1:13 “Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”</i></blockquote>
<b>Application</b>: When tempted to take the easy road, remember that the path to glory which Jesus trod is difficult, and uphill (that's where you'll find Him with your reward).<br />
<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, may I follow in Your footsteps as Your disciple, doing the works You saved me to do, faithfully and steadfastly by Your grace. Amen.</i><i>
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<b>James 1-2 </b>The epistle of Jacob (which was translated as James to secure the backing of a certain king for a famous translation -KJV) was probably the earliest epistle written and one of the last to be accepted into the canon. Medieval Martin Luther didn't regard James as authoritative because “In the first place it is flatly against St. Paul and all the rest of Scripture in ascribing justification to works 2:24.” He also wrote “...the epistle of St. James is an epistle full of straw, because it contains nothing evangelical.” Like many today Luther read his pre-suppositions and experiences into the text, rather than letting the Scriptures shape his understanding; he also failed to understand that words have different meanings in different contexts. While James clearly teaches justification by works, he isn't teaching forgiveness by works, but rather being just/righteous for the purpose of reward on the basis of our works, a distinction many modern interpreters still miss. The letter was written to forgiven believers, who already had put their faith in Christ (which was why they were scattered by persecution), to help them endure trials so they could be blessed when the Lord returns (which is why there isn't an emphasis on Jesus dying for their sins).
The epistle has two bookends which make the purpose clear:<br />
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<i>1:12 <b>Blessed</b> is the man who <u>endures</u> temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.</i><br />
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<i>5:7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. 8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9...Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! 10 My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. 11 Indeed we count them <b>blessed</b> who <u>endure</u>. </i>
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A difficulty modern readers (and even medieval ones) have is in reading James after all of the epistles directed toward Gentiles. Much of James' thinking is rooted in the OT (especially Proverbs), and the Gospels (especially Matthew, written to the Jews), so one needs to read it in that context to enter into James' thinking.
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<b>James 1 <u>Those Who Endure Are Blessed</u></b>
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<i><i>1:1 James, a <u>servant</u> of <u>God</u> and of the <u>Lord</u> Jesus Christ, to the <u>twelve tribes</u> which are in the <u>Dispersion/scattered abroad</u>: Greetings.</i> </i></div>
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<i><i>2 <u>Count it all joy</u>, my brothers, when you fall into various <u>trials</u>, 3 knowing that the <u>testing</u> of your <u>faith</u> <u>produces endurance</u>. 4 Let <u>endurance</u> have its <u>perfect</u> <u>work</u>, that you may be <u>perfect</u> and <u>complete</u>, <u>lacking</u> in <u>nothing</u>. 5 But if any of you <u>lacks</u> <u>wisdom,</u> let him <u>ask</u> of God, who gives to <u>all</u> <u>liberally</u> and <u>without reproach</u>; and it will be <u>given</u> to him. </i></i></div>
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<i><i>6 But let him ask in <u>faith</u>, <u>without</u> any <u>doubting</u>, for he who <u>doubts</u> is like a <u>wave</u> of the sea, driven by the <u>wind</u> and <u>tossed</u>. 7 For let that man <u>not</u> think that he will <u>receive</u> <u>anything</u> from the <u>Lord</u>. 8 He is a <u>double-minded</u> man, <u>unstable</u> in <u>all</u> his <u>ways</u>. </i></i></div>
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<i>9 But let the brother in <u>humble</u> circumstances <u>glory</u> in his <u>high position</u>; 10 and the <u>rich</u>, in that he is made <u>humble</u>, because like the <u>flower</u> in the <u>grass,</u> he will <u>pass</u> away. 11 For the <u>sun</u> arises with the scorching wind, and <u>withers</u> the grass, and the flower in it <u>falls</u>, and the <u>beauty</u> of its <u>appearance</u> <u>perishes</u>. So also will the <u>rich</u> man <u>fade</u> away in his <u>pursuits</u>.</i></i></div>
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<i>12 <u><b>Blessed</b></u> is the man who endures <u>trials/temptation</u>, for when he has been <u>approved</u>, he will receive the <u>crown of life</u>, which the Lord <u>promised</u> to those who <u>love</u> him.</i></div>
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<i>13 Let no man say when he is <u>tempted</u>, "I am <u>tempted</u> by God," for God can’t be <u>tempted</u> by <u>evil</u>, and he himself <u>tempts</u> <u>no</u> one. 14 But <u>each</u> one is <u>tempted</u>, when he is <u>drawn away</u> by his <u>own lust</u>, and <u>enticed</u>. 15 Then the <u>lust</u>, when it has <u>conceived</u>, <u>bears/gives birth to sin</u>; and the <u>sin</u>, when it is <u>full grown</u>, brings forth <u>death</u>. </i></div>
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<i>16 Don’t be <u>deceived</u>, my beloved brothers. 17 Every <u>good gift</u> and every <u>perfect gift</u> is from <u>above</u>, coming down from the <u>Father</u> of <u>lights</u>, with whom can be no <u>variation</u>, nor <u>turning shadow</u>. </i></div>
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<i>18 Of his <u>own</u> <u>will</u> he <u>brought</u> us forth by the <u>word of truth</u>, that we <u>should</u> be a kind of first <u>fruits</u> of his <u>creatures</u>.</i> </div>
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<i>19 So, then, my <u>beloved brothers</u>, let every man be <u>swift</u> to <u>hear</u>, <u>slow</u> to <u>speak</u>, and <u>slow</u> to <u>anger</u>; 20 for the <u>anger</u> of man doesn’t <u>produce</u> the <u>righteousness</u> of God. 21 Therefore, <u>putting</u> away <u>all</u> <u>filthiness</u> and overflowing of <u>wickedness</u>, <u>receive</u> with <u>humility</u> the <u>implanted</u> <u>word</u>, which is able to <u>save your souls</u>. </i></div>
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<i>22 But <u>be</u> <u>doers</u> of the <u>word</u>, and <u>not</u> only <u>hearers</u>, <u>deluding</u> your own <u>selves</u>. 23 For if anyone is a <u>hearer</u> of the word and not a <u>doer</u>, he is like a man looking at his natural face in a <u>mirror</u>; 24 for he <u>sees</u> himself, and <u>goes</u> away, and immediately <u>forgets</u> what kind of man he <u>was</u>. 25 But he who <u>looks</u> into the <u>perfect law of freedom</u>, and <u>continues</u>, <u>not</u> being a <u>hearer</u> who <u>forgets</u>, but a <u>doer/performer</u> of the work, this man will be <u><b>blessed</b></u><u> in/by what he does/performs</u>. 26 If anyone among you <u>thinks</u> himself to be <u>religious</u> while he <u>doesn’t</u> <u>bridle</u> his <u>tongue</u>, but <u>deceives</u> his <u>heart</u>, this man’s <u>religion</u> is <u>worthless</u>. 27 <u>Pure</u> <u>religion</u> and <u>undefiled</u> before <u>our</u> <u>God</u> and <u>Father</u> is this: to <u>visit</u> the <u>fatherless</u> and <u>widows</u> in their <u>affliction</u>, <u>and</u> to <u>keep oneself unstained by the world</u>.</i>
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<b>Observations</b>: 1:1-8 James is considered by most to be the half-brother of Jesus, since James the brother of John was martyred very early according to Acts 12:2. He writes to the twelve tribes of Israel who were scattered abroad by the early persecution to encourage them to be faithful to the Lord Jesus the Messiah in the midst of their trials. Notice that the early believers are considered Jewish. In general terms, a trial is a temptation to quit following Jesus for eternal gain, and to settle for a temporal gain like power (security/significance), pleasure, or possessions, none of which endure. This would apply to loving one's life more than loyalty to the Lord, or loving the things of this world (like Demas) more than those of the next.<br />
The correct perspective toward trials/temptations should be joy if one knows that the trying (refining – a term used for purifying metals) of their faith will produce endurance (the strength to remain under a burden). Letting endurance have (present imperative-command) its end goal will result in the sufferer having a perfected character, so that they lack nothing (at the return of Christ). Jesus had taught that fruit is a function of endurance (Lk 8:15) and in Luke 21:12-19 He warned of the persecutions His followers would endure, and then concluded that “by endurance you will possess/obtain your souls.” This meant they would obtain the exchange of their souls (put for their lives) in this world for life/dominion in the next, to which He had invited them in the call to discipleship (Lk 9:23-26).<br />
If anyone lacked wisdom in their trials (in knowing how to chose the right objectives and the right means of obtaining them) which Proverbs said resulted in enduring riches, honor, and righteousness (8:18), all they had to do was ask. God wants people to know His will, so they can do it. The stipulation that the person ask in faith, without wavering, probably has an emphasis on faithfulness rather than confidence, since the antonym is being double-minded, and wavering between commitment to God and commitment to their temporal well-being. God is not going to withhold His wisdom for someone who isn't sure that He will give it, but will definitely withhold His guidance from someone who isn't committed to following it and Him wholeheartedly (Jn 7:17).<br />
1:9-12 In persecution those who were among the haves, became the have-nots, as they frequently lost their wealth, status, and honor. James instructs the brother in humble/poor circumstances to rejoice in his high position in God's economy, and the rich to rejoice in their humbling. The reason is because riches don't endure, but God's blessing in return for suffering for His name's sake does (Mt 5:10-12).<br />
Therefore, the one who is blessed (major theme of the Wisdom Literature as well as the rest of the OT, and Sermon on the Mount), is the one who successfully endures trials (like Job did -Js 5:11) for when he is approved (used of a proof coin struck in refined metal), he will receive the crown of life (rulership and dominion in the Kingdom) which the Lord promised to those who loyally love Him (Mt 19:28; Lk 22:30). This is the opening bookend of the epistle, answered by 5:11. It is a book about getting rewarded, not forgiven. That's why it doesn't talk about the cross and the blood and all the other “evangelical” things Martin Luther was looking for, but it is the Good News/Gospel of the Kingdom that John, Jesus, Peter and Paul talked about all the time.<br />
1:13-15 Having stated his thesis in the previous verse, James explores the source of the trials and temptations which believers must endure. God doesn't tempt us to sin; He wants us to be holy. The source of our temptations are our unsanctified and deadly desires/lusts. For years we've fed ourselves with spiritual junk food, and have no appetite for the real thing. But once we understand the sin process, we can flip it around and use it for holiness. We sin because we want to. We want to sin, because our value system tell us that a certain behavior will yield more benefit than another. So we indulge in sin, and refrain from holiness because we value the fruit of our wrong decisions. Each of us is tempted when enticed by our desires/lusts. Temptation isn't sin, but becomes so when we embrace it (literally the word is used for conception). Then sin is born, and when it is fully grown, it brings forth death (loss of life/dominion). When we succumb to temptation, it is sin (a missing the mark or standard). If we fail to abandon sin, but let it grow in our lives, it will kill us, depriving us of our abiding relationship with God in this life, lack of fruit, and lack of reward in the next.<br />
The flip side is how really good (or is it bad?) sinners can become really good saints. If sin is drooling over then embracing and holding onto a desire for what is evil, then holiness is drooling over then embracing and holding on to a desire for what is good. If we set our mind on fleshly things, we will do them. If we set our minds on spiritual things we will do them. Being strong-willed is good if our will is set on things above (like Paul said in Romans 8, and Colossians 3, and Jesus did in Matthew 5:6; 6:21). So the key is to value the right things, which is a function of having our minds renewed with God's truth (see Romans 12:1-2; and the sermon on <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/title/values-change-what-do-you-want--why-do-you-want-it">Sanctification: It Ain't Gonna Reign No More</a>, on Truthbase.net).<br />
1:16-21 Believers should not be deceived about the nature of the Christian life. God caused us to be born again by the word of truth, so we could live in the light. As the Father of light, He gives birth to light, so that we should be firstfruits of light. Therefore every child of God should put away dark behavior and receive/obey the word that saves our souls (as we walk as children of light). Although verse 19 does wonders for interpersonal relationships, that's not the primary application James had in mind. Believers should be swift to hear God's word, (James 1:21), slow to speak (James 1:13) and slow to grumble or complain about the circumstances God has allowed into their lives for their benefit, because complaining doesn't produce the righteousness God requires for reward. Remember righteousness is doing what is is right in His sight. They should eliminate all defiling and naughty (KJV) behavior (literally abundant or profitable evil/malice), and accept/receive the application of the implanted/engrafted word (the message of Christ and His Kingdom, that they heard) which is able (has power) to save their souls. It should be obvious to any reader of DTB that this is the third and final aspect of salvation which reverses the effects of the Fall, the glorification of believers (restoration to glory). See comments on the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-1-4-king-and-kingdom-come.html">introduction to Matthew</a> if you missed the distinctions between forgiveness/justification, holiness/sanctification and reward/glorification (James however uses justification to refer to the righteousness God blesses/rewards). This is salvation by works, addressed to believers.<br />
1:22-25 Therefore, every believer should be a doer/performer of the word, and not just a hearer. Those who hear and don't do, deceive themselves into thinking that God doesn't require holiness. One who hears the word and doesn't incorporate it into their life through value and behavior change is like someone seeing themselves in the mirror, and then forgetting what they see. The usual application is that the word points out flaws that need to be fixed; if we ignore the flaws, we still have them. The believer who looks into the perfect law that gives freedom/liberty from sin (John 8:34-35), and continues in it (literally “abides alongside” it) is the one who will be blessed by (<i>en</i>) means of his/her performance (dative of means). This is not forgiveness by faith, but reward by works.<br />
1:26-27 James adds two aspects of pure religion/worship which believers can be deceived about. If our “religion” doesn't affect our inner and outer life it's worthless (won't result in blessing/reward). James focuses on speech and other-centeredness. An unbridled tongue, which reflects an untamed heart, doesn't please God. Seeking to meet the needs of those for whom God particular cares (orphans and widows) is meritorious, if accompanied by holiness.<br />
<b>Application</b>: If we want to be blessed, we need to endure the difficulties of following Christ, develop holiness and other-centeredness, as we learn and do God's will.<br />
<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, I praise You for giving me new life in Christ; may I live a new way, according to Your light, and experience the freedom and blessing You desire for me. Thanks. Amen.</i><i>
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<b>James 2 <u>The Royal Law of Freedom</u></b>
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<i><i>2:1 My <u>brothers</u>, don’t <u>hold</u> the <u>faith</u> of our <u>Lord Jesus Christ of glory</u> with <u>partiality</u>. 2 For if a man with a <u>gold</u> ring, in <u>fine</u> clothing, comes into your <u>synagogue</u>, and a <u>poor</u> man in <u>filthy</u> clothing also comes in; 3 and you <u>pay</u> <u>special</u> <u>attention</u> to him who wears the <u>fine</u> clothing, and say, "<u>Sit</u> here in a <u>good</u> place"; and you tell the <u>poor</u> man, "<u>Stand</u> there," or "Sit by my <u>footstool</u>"; 4 haven’t you shown <u>partiality</u> among yourselves, and become <u>judges</u> with <u>evil</u> <u>thoughts</u>? 5 Listen, my beloved brothers. Didn’t God <u>choose</u> those who are <u>poor</u> in this world to be <u>rich</u> in <u>faith</u>, and <u>heirs</u> of the <u>Kingdom</u> which he <u>promised</u> to those who <u>love</u> him? 6 But you have <u>dishonored</u> the <u>poor</u> man. Don’t the <u>rich</u> <u>oppress</u> you, and personally <u>drag</u> you before the <u>courts</u>? 7 Don’t they <u>blaspheme</u> the <u>honorable name</u> by which you are <u>called</u>?</i> </i></div>
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<i><i>8 However, if you fulfill<u> the royal/kingdom law</u>, according to the Scripture, "You shall <u>love</u> your <u>neighbor</u> <u>as yoursel</u>f," you <u>do</u> well. 9 But if you show <u>partiality</u>, you <u>commit sin</u>, being <u>convicted</u> by the law as <u>transgressors</u>. </i></i></div>
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<i>10 For whoever <u>keeps</u> the <u>whole law</u>, and yet <u>stumbles</u> in <u>one point</u>, he has become <u>guilty</u> of <u>all</u>. 11 For he who said, "Do not commit <u>adultery</u>," also said, "Do not commit <u>murder</u>." Now if you do <u>not</u> commit <u>adultery</u>, but <u>murder</u>, you have become a <u>transgressor</u> of the <u>law</u>. 12 So <u>speak</u>, and so <u>do</u>, as men who are to be <u>judged</u> by a <u>law of freedom/liberty</u>. 13 For <u>judgment</u> is <u>without</u> <u>mercy</u> to him who has shown <u>no</u> <u>mercy</u>. <u>Mercy triumphs/rejoices over judgment</u>.</i>
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14 What <u>profit</u> is it, my brothers, if a man says he <u>has faith</u>, but has <u>no works</u>? Can <u>faith</u> <u>save</u> <u>him</u>? 15 And if a brother or sister is <u>naked</u> and in <u>lack</u> of daily <u>food</u>, 16 and <u>one</u> of you tells them, "<u>Go</u> in <u>peace</u>, be <u>warmed</u> and <u>filled</u>"; and <u>yet</u> you <u>didn’t</u> <u>give</u> them the things the <u>body</u> <u>needs</u>, what <u>profit/good</u> is it? 17 Even so <u>faith</u>, if it has <u>no</u> <u>works</u>, is <u>dead</u> in <u>itself</u>. 18 Yes, a man will say, "You <u>have</u> <u>faith</u>, and I <u>have</u> <u>works.</u>" <u>Show</u> me your <u>faith</u> <u>without</u> <u>works</u>, and I by my <u>works</u> will <u>show</u> you my <u>faith</u>. 19 You <u>believe</u> that God is <u>one</u>. You <u>do well</u>. The <u>demons</u> also <u>believe</u>, and <u>shudder</u>. </i>
<i>20 But do you want to know, <u>vain</u> <u>man</u>, that <u>faith</u> <u>apart</u> from <u>works</u> is <u>dead</u>? 21 Wasn’t <u>Abraham</u> our father <u>justified</u> <u>by works</u>, in that he <u>offered</u> up <u>Isaac</u> his son on the altar? 22 You see that <u>faith</u> <u>worked</u> with his <u>works</u>, and <u>by</u> <u>works</u> <u>faith</u> was <u>perfected</u>; 23 and the <u>Scripture</u> was <u>fulfilled</u> which says, "Abraham <u>believed</u> God, and it was <u>accounted</u> to him as <u>righteousness</u>"; and he was <u>called</u> the <u>friend of God</u>. 24 You see then that <u>by works</u>, a man is <u>justified</u>, and <u>not</u> <u>only</u> <u>by faith</u>. 25 In the <u>same</u> way, wasn’t <u>Rahab</u> the prostitute <u>also</u> <u>justified</u> <u>by works</u>, in that she <u>received</u> the <u>messengers</u>, and <u>sent</u> them out <u>another way</u>? 26 For as the <u>body</u> apart from/without the <u>spirit</u> is <u>dead</u>, even so <u>faith</u> apart from/without <u>works</u> is <u>dead</u>.</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:1-9 Believers, who possess faith in the Messiah of glory, should not show partiality to the rich at the expense of the poor, hoping to get benefit from the rich. In doing so, they will forfeit benefit from the Lord of glory for failing to love as He commanded. God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith (because they would have to trust Him more), and consequently to be heirs of the Kingdom which He promised to those who loyally love Him (not to those who just believe that He died for their sins). Those who show partiality despise those God will honor, and honor those who despise anyone not like them. Those who don't get worth and value from being pleasing to God, try to get it from being better than others, which makes for unpleasant relationships. Apparently the rich to whom James refers were also speaking against (blaspheming) Christ as well. If believers want to do well, the route they need to take is that of fulfilling the kingdom (or kingly, hence the meaning royal) law of loving their neighbor as themselves. They can only do this if they are not looking to others to meet their needs (the cause of most dysfunctional relationships). It is only as we experience the love of God in His meeting of our needs, that we are free to meet the needs of others. We don't experience the abiding love of God unless we are keeping His commandments (John 14:21; John 15). So the law of liberty (1:25 and 2:12), also known as the royal/kingdom law goes something like this:<br />
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<b>God's love meets my needs (while I'm obeying) so I'm free to meet the needs of others, expecting nothing from them in return (but expecting Christ's reward). </b></blockquote>
This is the law that God expects us to fulfill (2:8), and which we will be judged by according to verse 12. Those who show partiality in putting down those who are not in a position to help them, and honoring the dishonorable in hopes of temporal blessing commit sin, and are lawbreakers. The OT moral law (as opposed to the ritual, sacrificial and ceremonial law) revealed the righteousness God wanted from His people so He could bless them. That's why a good definition of righteousness is: being careful to do what is right in His sight. Only those who demonstrated that righteousness were blessed in the OT. The majority didn't, and weren't.<br />
2:10-13 Whoever breaks one part of the law, has in fact broken the entire law (like breaking a window). People love to define righteousness as not doing what they don't like to do, so they are free to do what they want. This isn't God's standard. God's standard is the law of liberty, which He expects to govern our speech and actions. He promises that our speech and actions will be judged by the law of freedom (which is news to most Christians, who couldn't tell you what it is if their life depended upon it). Believers will be judged without mercy if they have shown no other-centered concern for the needs of others. But God will show mercy in judging those who have sought to live in love as Christ commanded. This is not judgment to determine whose sins are forgiven, and who goes into the lake of fire, for forgiveness is by faith in Christ's substitutionary atonement, which alone can satisfy God's justice and pay the penalty for our sin (see comments on Romans 3).<br />
2:14-19 Having established that believers are going to be judged by the Kingdom law of liberty, which requires their speech and deeds to be done in loyal love, and that mercy is shown to those who have shown mercy, James then elaborates on the necessity of those works. He is not talking about the judgment of the lake of fire in which unbelievers pay the death penalty for their own sins, but instead for the judgment which determines their blessing of glory in the Kingdom (just re-read 2:1-13 for the context).<br />
The very first Bible "study" I attended was in a dorm room at college, where this passage was being discussed. Some were arguing for faith, others for works. I didn't know the correct interpretation at the time since I wasn't clued into context, but I did know that neither camp made sense. That's been my experience in looking at most commentators (people who make comments) on difficult or disputed passages. Unless one determines the meaning of words from the context of the author's argument, there is more heat than light.<br />
Can faith without works profit or save/glorify someone? The last use of “save” was in 1:21 of the obedience necessary for glorification and being blessed (1:25 by works). Just having faith gets one into heaven (rather than the lake of fire) but a unemployed faith doesn't profit one at the judgment seat of Christ (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/2corinthians-4-5-gaining-your-glory.html">2 Corinthians 5:10</a>). Just saying be warmed and filled doesn't profit a brother or sister in need, unless there are works to benefit them. So too, faith without works is dead, giving no Kingdom life/dominion/glory to its confessor. Faith that God rewards (see Hebrews 11, particularly verse 6), must have works, for faith that pleases God must believe that He rewards those who diligently seek Him. One can demonstrate one's faith by good works (for which we were created in Christ Jesus – see comments on Ephesians 2:8-10), but it's hard to show one's faith without them. It does not follow that one doesn't have faith if there are no works (a major modern misunderstanding). It just means that the unemployed faith one has won't be laying up any treasure in heaven. A faith without works doesn't mean that a person isn't a born again child of God, it just means that they are not a very good child. It is through belief in Christ, not works that we are given forgiveness. It is through faithful works that we gain reward. The demons have belief in one God, but it doesn't do them any good in terms of their future (Jesus didn't die for demons).
2:20-24 James now turns to two OT examples of how faith with works resulted in blessing. Abraham was justified by works when He offered Isaac on the altar. Readers of the OT or Hebrews 11 will have noted that this is after he had believed God and had demonstrated Hall of Fame faith. In Genesis 12 Abraham first responded to God's revelation by faith. In Genesis 15:6 it is stated that he believed God's promise of blessing and it was credited to him as righteousness. Then, in Genesis 22:12 he demonstrated fear of God and obedience, and God responds with doubly blessing him (22:16-18). The issue is obedience and blessing, not initial faith.
Now we need to understand James' use of justified. From the context it is clear that it has to do with reward and blessing, not in the justification/forgiveness by faith Paul usually talks about. Justified means to be just or righteous. It can be something demonstrated or declared, depending upon the context (see Thayer's Lexicon in the OLB or Biblos Strong's #1344). The condition of being just or righteous has many possible meanings. It can mean being just in one's dealings with others, or rightly related to God, or being careful to do what is right in His sight, etc. The fundamental lexical skill of Bible Study is to determine the specific nuance or meaning an author intended from the range of possible meanings found in a lexicon. The same applies to issues of grammar and syntax. The way one determines the meaning is to understand the context, and plug in each possible meaning for each variable until everything fits together according to the argument of the author. </div>
The argument in James is pretty clearly about blessing and glorification of believers rather than forgiveness of pagans. Verse 22 spells out what meaning of justified James had in mind: faith being perfected, or brought to its fulfillment by bringing the worker to glory. Abraham had faith, which when combined with his works, realized the end goal of his faith, his blessing/glorification. An oft-repeated theme in the NT is that being forgiven is not the goal of life on this planet, but being brought into the glory of the Messiah in His kingdom is, the blessed hope of the believer (see comments on Eph 1; Heb 2:10; Titus 2:13; 1Peter 1, etc). As a result of Abraham's faithful works he demonstrated the righteousness God desired, and the Scripture of Genesis 15:6 was fulfilled. In addition, Abraham was called a friend of God.<br />
This use of justified to refer to something other than forgiveness by faith is also used by Paul in Galatians. This excerpt from the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/07/justification-by-faith.html">introduction to the post on Galatians 1-3</a>:<br />
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“The justification in chapter 2 is most likely not forgiveness (since they already had that) but a declaration of the righteousness they needed for blessing (inheritance and reward) in the future Age of the Messiah (kingdom). This is just like the OT requirement to do what is right in God's sight (righteousness) to receive the promised blessings. The just, (as in justified/forgiven), shall live (as in receive the blessings of the Messianic kingdom) by faith (as in continuing to believe that God will do what He said He'll do -Heb 11:6). The righteousness God requires extends beyond forgiveness, as the rest of the epistle demonstrates. People cannot read their preconceptions into chapter two and then ignore all the evidence in the rest of the epistle, and be right." </blockquote>
And this from Galatians 2:<br />
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“Justification usually refers to being declared righteous in reference to the penalty of sin, also known as the forgiveness aspect of salvation (see <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-1-4-king-and-kingdom-come.html">introduction to Matthew</a> for the different aspects of salvation). Here Paul is looking beyond forgiveness to the righteousness God requires for reward in the Kingdom. To receive this declaration the just person needs to live by faith. Living by faith is more than a one time belief in the substitutionary atonement, but an ongoing trust in the promises of God (see <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/title/faith-actuates-gods-promises">Faith Actuates God's Promises</a> on Truthbase.net if you've never studied what the Scripture says faith is). To live is not just a deliverance from the lake of fire, but to exercise dominion/glory in the realm of God's promises (Dt 30:19). This is the only understanding that is consistent with all the facts. It's not about past forgiveness, nor present position, but future righteousness (knowing and doing what is right in God's sight.)" </blockquote>
Despite what Martin Luther thought, Paul and James were saying the same thing; he just didn't understand what either of them was saying because of his preconceptions from Catholicism.
A person is declared righteous by God as a result of faith in Christ's death on their behalf, and demonstrates the righteousness God rewards as a result of their faithful works, done in faith.
2:25-26 The example of Rahab, a non-Israelite, illustrates the same concept. Her reception of the spies who came to Jericho was based upon her hearing about and believing that the God of the Israelites was the one true God (Joshua 2:9-11) and her protection of them was (Joshua 2:12-14) the basis of her blessing. Thus, by her works she demonstrated her righteousness, which God rewarded, not only with protection, but with inclusion in the Messianic lineage. God always saves on the basis of faith. The content of the faith, and the exact nature of the salvation or deliverance is dependent upon understanding the context. Here James concludes with saying that as the body without the spirit (<i>pneuma</i>, breath) is dead, dominionless, and useless, so too faith without works is dead, dominionless, and useless. Remember the issue is reward and blessing not forgiveness.<br />
<b>Application</b>: What works accompany your faith? What glory will accompany your works?<br />
<b>Prayer</b>:<i> God, thanks for forgiving and loving me, and meeting my needs, so I'm free to meet the needs of others in loving them; may I do so in a righteous manner that pleases You. Amen.</i><i>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God judges believers on the basis of how they have lived in light and love. Those who do so will be blessed; those who don't will lose out on blessings (but are still forgiven).
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus gave the Kingdom Command: love your neighbor as yourself. He loves us and meets our needs so we're free to meet the needs of others.
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We are justified or declared righteous on the basis of our faith in Christ, but we are just and demonstrate our righteousness by our works done in faith that God blesses those who do what is pleasing in His sight. How we treat others is a good indication of our heart and values, and to whom we are looking for reward. If we focus on sin, we will wind up doing it; if we focus on righteousness, we will wind up getting it.
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:<br />
<a href="http://truthbase.net/">Truthbase.net</a></div>
Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-40036209800953321422012-08-09T01:45:00.002-04:002015-02-03T19:45:38.205-05:00Hebrews 11-13 Hall of Fame Faith, Hope, and Love<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS Romans 12:2 </b><u><b>Secret to Sanctification</b></u></div>
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<i>12:1 “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your priestly service of worship.</i></div>
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<i>2 And do <u>not</u> be <u>conformed</u> to this world, </i> </div>
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<i>but be <u>transformed</u> </i> </div>
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<i><u>by</u> the <u>renewing</u> of your <u>mind</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>that you may <u>prove</u> what is that <u>good</u> and <u>acceptable</u> and <u>perfect</u> <u>will of God</u>.”</i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: Romans 12:1-2 This is the key passage on the Holy Spirit and Sanctification in the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/p/7-passages-introduction.html" target="_blank">7PASSAGES</a> (in the sidebar). If believers don't renew their minds by the word of God, replacing Satan's lies with the Spirit's truth, they will continue to desire and do the wrong things. Verse 2 tells you how to be the living sacrifice of verse 1, which is our priestly service of worship (response to God's revelation). </div>
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We must first stop allowing the world to press us into its mold,</div>
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then we need to be metamorphosized (change of form; going from a caterpillar to a butterfly) which occurs by the renewing of our mind with truth.</div>
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Only then can we prove or manifest in our lives the good, acceptable, and perfect (as in nothing better than it) will of God.</div>
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The Spirit of God uses the word of God to produce in us the mind of Christ. See the post on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/06/romans-12-16-butterfly-believers.html" target="_blank">Romans 12</a> for more insights and context.</div>
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<b>Application</b>: If we're not renewing our minds with God's truth, we can't experience God's perfect best.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, You are worthy of my entire life; may I live it for You by doing Your perfect will every day. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Hebrews 11-13 </b>These final chapters show believers how to live in faith, hope and love, and reap the reward God has planned for them. The inspiring list of those in Faith's Hall of Fame should inspire us to persevere and endure the difficulties we will encounter in going after our hope, by living in love. Chapter 11 tells us that we can't please God unless we believe He rewards those who diligently seek Him. Chapter 12 gives us the example of Jesus to keep in front of us, and warns believers of what will happen to those who go back to they way they were. Chapter 13 gives two sacrifices NT priests should offer, as well as a couple of clues to the author of the letter.</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hebrews 11 <u>Faith's Hall of Fame</u></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">11:1 "Now <u>faith</u> is the <u>substrate</u> of things <u>hoped</u> for, <u>groundspring</u> of things <u>not</u> <u>seen</u>. 2 For <u>by</u> this, the elders <u>obtained</u> <u>testimony</u>. 3 By <u>faith</u>, we <u>understand</u> that the universe has been framed by the <u>word</u> of God, so that what is <u>seen</u> has <u>not</u> been <u>made</u> out of things which are <u>visible</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>4 By <u>faith</u>, Abel <u>offered</u> to God a more <u>excellent</u> <u>sacrifice</u> than Cain, through which he had <u>testimony</u> given to him that he was <u>righteous</u>, God <u>testifying</u> with respect to his <u>gifts</u>; and through it he, being <u>dead</u>, still <u>speaks</u>. 5 By <u>faith</u>, <u>Enoch</u> was <u>taken</u> away, so that he wouldn’t see <u>death,</u> and he was <u>not</u> <u>found</u>, because God <u>translated</u> him. For he has had <u>testimony</u> given to him that before his translation he had been <u>well pleasing to God</u>.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>6 <u>Without</u> faith it is <u>impossible</u> to be <u>well pleasing to Him</u>, for He who <u>comes</u> to God must believe that He <u>is</u>, and that He is a <u>rewarder</u> of those who <u>diligently seek</u> Him.</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>7 By <u>faith</u>, <u>Noah</u>, being warned about things not yet seen, <u>moved</u> with godly <u>fear</u>, <u>prepared</u> a <u>ship</u> for the <u>saving</u> of his <u>house</u>, through which he <u>condemned</u> the <u>world</u>, and <u>became</u> <u>heir</u> of the <u>righteousness</u> which is according to <u>faith</u>. 8 By <u>faith</u>, <u>Abraham</u>, when he was <u>called</u>, <u>obeyed to go</u> out to the place which he was to <u>receive</u> for an <u>inheritance</u>. He <u>went</u> out, not <u>knowing</u> where he went. 9 By <u>faith</u>, he <u>lived</u> as an <u>alien</u> in the <u>land of promise</u>, as in a land not his own, <u>dwelling</u> in <u>tents</u>, with Isaac and Jacob, the <u>heirs</u> with him of the <u>same promise</u>. 10 For he <u>looked</u> for the <u>city</u> which has the <u>foundations</u>, whose <u>builder</u> and <u>maker</u> is <u>God</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>11 By <u>faith</u>, even <u>Sarah</u> herself <u>received power</u> to <u>conceive</u>, and she bore a child when she was past age, <u>since</u> she <u>counted him faithful</u> who had <u>promised</u>. 12 Therefore as <u>many</u> as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as innumerable as the sand which is by the sea shore, were <u>fathered</u> by one man, and him as good as <u>dead</u>. 13 These <u>all died</u> in <u>faith</u>, <u>not</u> having <u>received</u> the <u>promises</u>, but having <u>seen</u> them, and were <u>persuaded</u> of them and <u>embraced</u> them from <u>afar</u>, and having <u>confessed</u> that they were <u>strangers</u> and <u>pilgrims</u> on the <u>earth</u>. 14 For those who say such things make it clear that they are <u>seeking</u> a country of their <u>own</u>. 15 If indeed they had been <u>thinking</u> of that <u>country</u> <u>from which</u> they <u>went out</u>, they would have had enough time to <u>return</u>. 16 But now they <u>desire</u> a <u>better</u> <u>country</u>, that is, a <u>heavenly one</u>. <u>Therefore</u> God is not <u>ashamed</u> of them, to be <u>called</u> their <u>God</u>, for he has <u>prepared</u> a <u>city</u> for them. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>17 By <u>faith</u>, <u>Abraham</u>, being <u>tested</u>, <u>offered</u> up Isaac. Yes, he who had gladly <u>received</u> the <u>promises</u> was <u>offering</u> up his one and only <u>son</u>; 18 even he to whom it was said, "I<u>n</u> <u>Isaac</u> will your <u>seed</u> be <u>called</u>"; 19 <u>concluding/reckoning</u> that God is <u>able to raise up even from the dead</u>. Figuratively speaking, he also did <u>receive</u> him back from the <u>dead</u>. 20 By <u>faith</u>, Isaac <u>blessed</u> Jacob <u>and</u> Esau, even concerning <u>things to come</u>. 21 By faith, <u>Jacob</u>, when he was dying, <u>blessed</u> each of the <u>sons</u> of <u>Joseph</u>, and <u>worshiped</u>, leaning on the top of his staff. 22 By <u>faith</u>, <u>Joseph</u>, when his <u>end</u> was near, made mention of the <u>departure</u> of the children of Israel; and gave <u>instructions</u> concerning his <u>bones</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>23 By <u>faith</u>, <u>Moses</u>, when he was born, was <u>hidden</u> for three months by his <u>parents</u>, because they <u>saw</u> that he was a <u>valuable/goodly</u> child, and they were <u>not</u> <u>afraid</u> of the king’s commandment. 24 By <u>faith,</u> <u>Moses,</u> when he had <u>grown</u> up, <u>refused</u> to be called the <u>son</u> of <u>Pharaoh’s</u> <u>daughter</u>, 25 <u>choosing rather</u> to <u>share</u> ill treatment with <u>God’s people</u>, than to <u>enjoy</u> the <u>pleasures</u> of sin for a <u>time</u>; 26 <u>accounting</u> the <u>reproach</u> of <u>Christ</u> <u>greater</u> <u>riches</u> than the <u>treasures</u> of <u>Egypt</u>; <u>for</u> he <u>looked to the reward</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">27 By <u>faith,</u> he <u>left</u> <u>Egypt</u>, <u>not</u> <u>fearing</u> the <u>wrath</u> of the <u>king</u>; for he <u>endured</u>, as <u>seeing him</u> who is <u>invisible</u>. 28 By <u>faith</u>, he <u>kept</u> the <u>Passover</u>, and the <u>sprinkling</u> of the <u>blood</u>, that the <u>destroyer</u> of the <u>firstborn</u> should <u>not</u> <u>touch</u> them. 29 By <u>faith</u>, they <u>passed</u> through the <u>Red Sea</u> as on <u>dry land.</u> When the <u>Egyptians</u> tried to do so, they were <u>swallowed</u> up. 30 By <u>faith,</u> the <u>walls</u> of Jericho <u>fell down,</u> <u>after</u> they had been <u>encircled</u> for <u>seven</u> days. 31 By <u>faith,</u> <u>Rahab</u> the prostitute, <u>didn’t</u> <u>perish</u> with those who were <u>disobedient</u>, having <u>received</u> the spies in <u>peace</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">32 What <u>more</u> shall I say? For the <u>time</u> would <u>fail</u> me if I told of <u>Gideon</u>, <u>Barak</u>, <u>Samson</u>, <u>Jephthah</u>, <u>David</u>, <u>Samuel</u>, and the <u>prophets</u>; 33 who, <u>through faith</u> <u>subdued</u> <u>kingdoms</u>, <u>worked out righteousness</u>, <u>obtained promises</u>, <u>stopped</u> the mouths of <u>lions</u>, 34 <u>quenched</u> the <u>power</u> of <u>fire</u>, <u>escaped</u> the edge of the <u>sword</u>, from <u>weakness were made strong</u>, <u>grew mighty</u> in <u>war</u>, and caused <u>foreign</u> <u>armies</u> to <u>flee</u>. 35 <u>Women</u> received their <u>dead</u> by <u>resurrection</u>. <u>Others</u> were <u>tortured,</u> <u>not</u> <u>accepting</u> their <u>deliverance</u>, that they <u>might obtain a better resurrection</u>. 36 Others were <u>tried</u> by <u>mocking</u> and <u>scourging</u>, yes, moreover by <u>bonds</u> and <u>imprisonment</u>. 37 They were <u>stoned</u>. They were <u>sawn</u> apart. They were <u>tempted</u>. They were <u>slain</u> with the <u>sword</u>. They went around in sheep skins and in goat skins; being <u>destitute</u>, <u>afflicted</u>, <u>ill-treated</u> 38 (of whom the <u>world</u> was <u>not</u> <u>worthy</u>), wandering in deserts, mountains, caves, and the holes of the earth. 39 These <u>all</u>, having had <u>testimony</u> given to them through their <u>faith</u>, <u>didn’t receive the promise</u>, 40 God having <u>provided</u> some <u>better</u> thing concerning us, so that apart from us they should not be made <u>perfect</u>."</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 11:1-3 The author is now going to give a litany of the OT saints who demonstrated the faith that pleases God, and received the testimony from Him that they were pleasing to Him. First we need to understand what faith is, and then we'll see multiple examples of it to imitate.<i> </i> </div>
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<i>Hebrews 6:11 “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”</i></blockquote>
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Faith in the promises of God brings them to fruition in our lives. Faith is what stands under the things hoped for. Sub-stance (hupo-stasis) literally means “stand under.” Faith is the basis or foundation for what is built upon it but it is dynamic not static (note how it is the force that seeks to bring the promises into reality in the rest of chapter 11 of Hebrews). Most translations misunderstand the meaning, giving some idea of confidence (in accord with Paul's usage in 2 Corinthians), but this incorrectly leads to the silly idea of faith in faith, as if just being confident or positive thinking makes things happen. Three other pieces of evidence validate this interpretation of faith being the means, agent, or vehicle of our hope: how the author used the word previously, and the two illustrations which follow. In Hebrews 1:3 Jesus is said to be the radiance of God's glory, and express image of His person/substance (hupostasis). Now obviously Jesus is not the image of God's “confidence.” He is the radiance (rays of light) that emanate from God's glory and the image/character of the underlying reality (substance) of God. The real substance or nature of God expresses itself in the form or character (marks made on a tablet by a stylus) of Christ. If there were no underlying reality, there would be no Christ. If there were no sun, there would be no rays of light. If there were no faith, there would be no realization or possession of our hope of reward. It is faith in what God has revealed, that brings into being (our frame of experiential reference) our hope which God promised to those who exercise faith. </div>
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In Hebrews 3:14 the author says that believers become partakers or sharers in the Messiah's blessings if we hold fast the beginning of our “hupostasis” firm until the end. Most versions will follow Paul's usage to translate “hupostasis” as confidence/assurance here, as well as in 11:1. But what is the beginning or starting point of realizing our expectations for the future? It's faith. So the author is telling believers to continue to believe the promises of Christ, as they had at first, so they would reap their reward/hope, unlike the Exodus generation. </div>
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In the last half of 11:1 the author uses the word usually translated “reprove” to further define faith. “Reprove” means to bring to light, or establish something. In a court of law, or in confronting sinners (Eph 5:13), one provides evidence to prove one's case (which is why some versions will poorly translate “reprove” as “proof” or “evidence”). Faith “brings to light” or makes visible the promises of God in the experience of the faithful believer. </div>
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It was by demonstrating faith in God's revelation that the ancients obtained a good report or testimony from God, which the rest of the chapter will delineate. In verse 3 the author elaborates on the nature of faith in saying that by means of faith in what God has revealed about creation we understand (see in our minds) that the worlds were framed by the world of God. We weren't there at creation when He said: “Let there be...and there was” but we understand that the word of God brought what we see into being. On the other hand, we don't see the reward God has promised, but we understand that the word of God will bring that into being, so that what is not seen (our reward) will be brought into being by what is seen (God's promises). Faith is the dynamic which brings about fulfillment of the word of God. See more on verse 6.</div>
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11:4-5 The author gives two examples of faith which result in being righteous and pleasing God. By faith, Abel offered a better sacrifice than Abel, and God testified that he was righteous as a result. God told Cain that if he wanted to be accepted he needed to do what was right (like Abel in offering the best to God -see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-4-5-do-you-give-god-what-he.html">Genesis 4</a>). God's testimony about Abel still continues. The implication for the original audience is that they need to offer the better sacrifice of Christ to God if they wish to have the righteousness God rewards (12:24). Enoch also received the testimony that he pleased God (because he walked with Him) and was translated (changed) as a blessing, so that he would not see death.</div>
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11:6 This is a verse worth memorizing and applying. It explains why Abel and Enoch pleased God. Without faith we can't please God (notice this is about pleasing Him for reward/glorification not believing Him for justification/forgiveness). The reason we can't please God unless we demonstrate faith is because the one who comes to God (in worship) must believe that He is (who He revealed Himself to be) and that He rewards (pays back wages) those who diligently seek Him. Or, put another way: “We can't please God unless we believe He is who He said He is, and will do what He said He'll do (reward those who diligently seek Him).” It is impossible to please God if you say there are no rewards for faithful believers. If someone doesn't know much about rewards, or isn't motivated by what God has promised, the odds are they are not very pleasing to God.</div>
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11:7 Noah believed God's revelation about the upcoming flood, and motivated by fear of God, built the ark, saving his family (and humanity). In the process he condemned the rest of the world by showing that faith and resultant obedience were possible. Thus he became an heir (inheritor) of righteousness (knowing and doing what is right in God's sight).</div>
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11:8-16 Abraham, the “father of faith” faithfully obeyed when God told him to go to a place not specified. He didn't know where, but he knew God said “Go,” so he went, looking for the inheritance or reward God would give him. He sojourned in the promised land, not putting down roots, because he was looking for a city which would endure, built by God (heavenly Jerusalem??). Sarah also believed God's promise of a son, and received power to conceive. Her faith brought into being God's promise of a son, because she reckoned Him faithful who had promised. She believed that God is who He said He is, and would do what He said He'd do. Abraham, Sarah, Isaac and Jacob all died still believing God for His promises, but not having obtained them on earth. They received some of the blessing (like the descendants) but not all the promises. They “saw and embraced” them from afar, recognizing that this earth isn't all there is, but there is something better coming. They made it clear that they were seeking a country of their own, not the temporal one here on earth. If they had been focused on getting just earthly blessings, they would have returned to the way they were (like the original audience would have been tempted to do), and not kept on believing God for what He had promised. As a result of demonstrating Hall of Fame Faith in believing God for His promised blessings/rewards even though they couldn't have them yet, He is proud to be called their God and has prepared that eternal city for them.</div>
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11:17-22 Abraham did some reckoning of his own (as did Sarah). His faith in God's promises was tested when God told him to sacrifice Isaac, the product of Sarah's faithful reckoning). He knew two pieces of revelation from God: 1) God promised that he would have grandkids from Isaac; 2) God told Him to kill Isaac. As he and Isaac went to worship (first use term in the scriptures: a response to revelation -see Genesis 22 comments), he had a lot of time to think. He reasoned or reckoned that if God was going to fulfill His promise of grandkids from Isaac, and Isaac was going to be dead as a result of Abraham obeying Him, then God was just going to have to resurrect Isaac from the dead! That's an amazing piece of logic (reckon or account is <i>logizamenos</i>, from which we get the English “logic”). Abraham reckoned the resurrection (and this was in the days before the Easter Bunny; no one had ever heard of such a thing)! Faith and reason are totally compatible (see the <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/p/7-passages-introduction.html" target="_blank">7QUESTIONS</a> in the sidebar for the argument that it is more reasonable to believe than not, and that those who don't have faith are unreasonable or irrational). In his commitment to obey God, Abraham viewed Isaac as dead and thus figuratively received Him back from the dead. By faith in God's future promises Isaac blessed both His sons concerning the future; and Jacob blessed both of Joseph's sons in accordance with the older serving younger (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/09/genesis-48-50-how-can-good-god-allow.html">Genesis 48</a>). Joseph also expressed faith in God's promises of blessing the descendants of Israel in the Promised Land, and gave instruction that his bones should be brought back there rather than honored in Egypt.</div>
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11:23-26 Speaking of wanting to be in the Promised Land of God rather than being honored in Egypt brings us to Moses. His parents demonstrated faith in the God of the Hebrews (even though He wasn't looking too powerful) and were not afraid to disobey the mighty Pharaoh, so they preserved Moses, seeing his value. Following in his parent's footsteps of faith, Moses refused the honor of being the only son of Pharaoh's daughter, and chose instead to suffer mistreatment with God's people than enjoy the passing pleasures of sin. How could he turn down being treated like a god in Egypt to be abused with (and by) the people of God? Another simple reckoning (different word than Abraham's logic, but same idea of objectively weighing or considering the facts -see OLB Synonyms on Strong's #2233). Moses determined that reproach or abuse for the sake of Christ was of greater value and long term benefit than all the treasures of Egypt, because He was looking ahead to his reward. Those pitifully hypocritical “saints” who consider themselves to be too pious to be motivated by reward, might want to consider that both Abraham and Moses, were very much motivated by their reward and commended by God for being so. If they insist on maintaining that they are “holier” than Abraham and Moses, they might want to give some thought to what they have done in the service of God and how pleased He is with them, because we can't please God unless we believe He rewards those who diligently seek Him (11:6). We'll talk about Jesus' motivation in the next chapter. </div>
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11:27-31 So with belief/faith in the fulfillment of God's promises, Moses left Egypt and endured the wrath of Pharaoh, as seeing Him who is invisible. His view of God being greater than the Bogeyman enabled Him to trust that God would take care of and reward Him. He obeyed, as did Abraham, in keeping the Passover, following God's revelation which protected the nation. By faith the entire nation passed through the Red Sea (Ex 14:31) which destroyed their enemies who tried to follow them. By faithful obedience to God's revelation the walls of Jericho fell. Rahab, a non-Israelite of dubious profession, was preserved, not perishing with the disobedient pagans (who had rejected the available revelation about God's dealings with humanity), because she not only believed, but acted upon that belief in protecting the spies.</div>
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11:32-35a Time and parchment fail the author to tell of how other OT characters made it into God's Hall of Fame of Faith. The first four were most unlikely candidates, but see the sermon on <a href="http://www.truthbase.net/sermons/title/judges-5-16-unlikely-candidates-for-faiths-hall-of-fame/">Truthbase.net </a>which tells how they demonstrated the faith that pleased God. Daniel, Samuel and the prophets did some amazing things by believing what God had revealed and acting upon it. Mere mental assent to God's promises, without accompanying actions/works, doesn't reap rewards, because there is none of the diligent seeking (killing giants, dancing in furnaces, petting lions) that pleases God. People who demonstrate Hall of Fame Faith are rarely naturally strong and might (like the unlikely candidates in verse 32), but they become strong and mighty by their trust in and obedience to what God has promised (which opens the gates for God's grace to empower them -cf 2 Corinthians 12:9). The climax of the examples of faith is armies being caused to flee, and people being resurrected. Faith triumphs over death.</div>
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11:35b However, there is the flip side of faith that pleases God, suffering to remain loyal to Him. Instead of being delivered from torture, many died and were martyred. God didn't respond to their prayers for temporal deliverance/salvation because He has better plans for their eternal deliverance/salvation. Some, like Moses, consciously chose to refuse deliverance from torture (by burning a pinch of incense to the flag or standard of the emperor; or recanting Christ) because they wanted a better resurrection (with more glory/reward). See 1 Corinthians 15 for Paul's teaching on differing degrees of glory. This truth might cause pause for thought among those who don't think how believers live their life matters. Denying Christ in an hour of torture or days of self-indulgence doesn't result in loss of being born again, but does give us some difficult explaining to do come Judgment Day (2 Timothy 2:12; Hebrews 10:30). The abuse suffered by the choice/elect servants of God is documented throughout history. One of the contributing factors for the spread of Christianity (taking over most of the Roman Empire while Christians were being used as cat-food and candles pre AD 315) was the fact that Christians “died well.” </div>
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All these faithful believers died without having received the promise of blessings in the Kingdom (which tells us that the Kingdom isn't here and now, but yet future). The reason they didn't receive the end goal of their faith (1Pt 1:9 – the salvation of their souls/glorification), is because God has something better planned, for us (that's the author's audience, and you and me). That better plan is found in Ephesians 1 (see comments) that apart from NT saints, OT saints, should not be made perfect, as in glorified in the Kingdom by receiving their reward. This concept of perfect or being brought to completion is the final aspect of salvation, reversing the effects of the Fall. It is the goal of Jesus coming to earth, not just to give us forgiveness, but return us to pre-Fall glory. See Hebrews 2:10; 7:11,19; 10:1, (and even 10:14) in light of this. See sermon on <a href="http://truthbase.net/sermons/title/faith-actuates-gods-promises/" target="_blank">Faith Activates God's Promises</a> for a survey of faith and how to live by faith.<br />
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<b>Application</b>: Are you demonstrating Hall of Fame faith, which pleases God and seeks His reward? How so, or why not?</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>God, I believe You are who You said You are, and will do what You said You'll do; help me diligently seek You. Thanks. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hebrews 12 <u>Hang on to Your Heavenly Hope</u></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-txxQ6dVYzRc/UCMdz_ce32I/AAAAAAAAErQ/d1cZTptbb1Q/s1600/anchor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-txxQ6dVYzRc/UCMdz_ce32I/AAAAAAAAErQ/d1cZTptbb1Q/s200/anchor.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></span></a><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">12:1 "Therefore let us also, seeing we are <u>surrounded</u> by so great a <u>cloud</u> of <u>witnesses</u>, <u>lay aside</u> <u>every</u> <u>weight</u> and the <u>sin</u> which so <u>easily</u> <u>entangles</u> us, and let us <u>run</u> with <u>patience</u> the <u>race</u> that is <u>set before</u> us, 2 <u>looking</u> to <u>Jesus</u>, the <u>captain</u> and <u>perfecter</u> of <u>faith</u>, who <u>for</u> the <u>joy</u> that was <u>set before him</u> <u>endured</u> the <u>cross</u>, <u>despising</u> its <u>shame</u>, and has <u>sat</u> <u>down</u> at the <u>right</u> <u>hand</u> of the <u>throne</u> of <u>God</u>. 3 For <u>consider</u> <u>him</u> who has <u>endured</u> such <u>contradiction</u> of <u>sinners</u> <u>against</u> himself, that you don’t <u>grow weary</u>, <u>fainting</u> in your <u>souls</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>4 You have not yet <u>resisted</u> to <u>blood</u>, <u>striving against sin</u>; 5 and you have <u>forgotten</u> the <u>exhortation</u> which <u>reasons</u> with you as with children, "My son, don’t <u>despise</u> the <u>discipline</u> of the Lord, nor <u>faint</u> when you are <u>reproved</u> by him"; 6 "For whom the Lord <u>loves,</u> he <u>disciplines</u>, and <u>scourges</u> every <u>son</u> whom he <u>receives</u>." 7 <u>Endure</u> <u>hardship</u> as <u>discipline</u> (NIV). God deals with you as with <u>children</u>, for what son is there whom his father <u>doesn’t</u> <u>discipline</u>? 8 But if you are <u>without</u> <u>discipline</u>, of which all have been made <u>partakers</u>, then are you <u>illegitimate</u>, and <u>not</u> <u>children</u>. 9 Furthermore, we had the <u>fathers</u> of our flesh to <u>chasten</u> us, and we <u>paid</u> them <u>respect</u>. Shall we not much rather be in <u>subjection</u> to the Father of spirits, and <u>live</u>? 10 For they indeed, for a few days, <u>punished</u> us as seemed <u>good</u> to them; but he for our <u>profit</u>, that we may be <u>partakers of his holiness</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">11 All <u>chastening</u> seems for the present to be <u>not joyous</u> but <u>grievous</u>; yet <u>afterward</u> it <u>yields</u> the <u>peaceful</u> <u>fruit of righteousness</u> to those who have been <u>exercised</u> thereby. 12 Therefore, <u>lift up</u> the hands that <u>hang down</u> and the <u>feeble</u> knees, 13 and <u>make straight paths</u> for your feet, so that which is <u>lame</u> may not be <u>dislocated</u>, but rather be <u>healed</u>. 14 <u>Follow</u> after <u>peace</u> with <u>all</u> men, and the <u>sanctification</u> <u>without which no man will see the Lord</u>, 15 <u>looking</u> <u>carefully</u> lest there be any <u>man</u> who <u>falls short of the grace</u> of God; lest any <u>root of bitterness</u> springing up <u>trouble</u> you, and many be <u>defiled</u> by it; 16 lest there be any <u>sexually</u> <u>immoral</u> person, or <u>profane</u> person, like <u>Esau</u>, who <u>sold</u> his <u>birthright</u> for one <u>meal</u>. 17 For you know that even when he afterward desired to <u>inherit</u> the <u>blessing</u>, he was <u>rejected</u>, for he found no <u>place</u> for a <u>change of mind/repentance</u> though he sought it diligently with <u>tears</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">18 For you have <u>not</u> come to a mountain that might be <u>touched</u>, and that <u>burned</u> with <u>fire</u>, and to <u>blackness</u>, <u>darkness</u>, storm<u>,</u> 19 the sound of a <u>trumpet</u>, and the voice of <u>words</u>; which those who heard it <u>begged</u> that <u>not</u> one <u>more</u> word should be <u>spoken</u> to them, 20 for they could <u>not</u> <u>stand</u> that which was <u>commanded</u>, "If even an animal touches the mountain, it shall be <u>stoned</u>" 21 and so <u>fearful</u> was the <u>appearance</u>, that Moses said, "I am <u>terrified</u> and <u>trembling</u>." 22 But you have come to <u>Mount</u> <u>Zion</u>, and to the <u>city</u> of the <u>living</u> <u>God</u>, the <u>heavenly</u> <u>Jerusalem</u>, and to innumerable multitudes of <u>angels</u>, 23 to the <u>general</u> <u>assembly</u> and <u>assembly of the firstborn</u> who are <u>enrolled</u> in <u>heaven</u>, to <u>God</u> the <u>Judge of all</u>, to the <u>spirits</u> of <u>just</u> men <u>made perfect</u>, 24 to <u>Jesus</u>, the <u>mediator</u> of a <u>new covenant</u>, and to the <u>blood</u> of <u>sprinkling</u> that speaks <u>better</u> than that of <u>Abel</u>. 25 See that you don’t <u>refuse</u> him who <u>speaks</u>. For if they didn’t <u>escape</u> when they <u>refused</u> him who <u>warned</u> on the <u>earth</u>, how much more will we <u>not escape</u> who <u>turn away</u> from him who <u>warns</u> <u>from</u> <u>heaven</u>, 26 whose <u>voice</u> <u>shook</u> the earth then, but now he has <u>promised</u>, saying, "Yet <u>once</u> <u>more</u> I will <u>shake</u> not only the <u>earth</u>, but also the <u>heavens.</u>" 27 This phrase, "Yet <u>once</u> more," signifies the <u>removing</u> of those <u>things</u> that are <u>shaken</u>, as of things that have been <u>made</u>, that those things which are <u>not</u> <u>shaken</u> may <u>remain</u>. 28 Therefore, <u>receiving</u> a <u>Kingdom</u> that <u>can’t</u> be <u>shaken</u>, let us have <u>grace</u>, through which we <u>serve</u> God <u>pleasingly</u>, with <u>reverence</u> and <u>receptivity</u>, 29 for <u>our God is a consuming fire</u>."</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 12:1-3 This chapter expands upon the exhortation in 10:23 to hold fast the profession of our hope of reward, without wavering in the midst of opposition and difficulty. The great group of witnesses to the benefit of demonstrating enduring faithfulness for future reward should motivate us to run to win the prize of God's pleasure (and consequent reward). Such examples should motivate us to get rid of anything that would hinder us from hearing “Well done, good and faithful servant” and avoid any sin that would entangle us so we trip. The author is not referring to a single sin (although doubt and disbelief in God's promises would rank near the top of what prevents people from receiving glory, as it did the Exodus generation), but any sin that would prevent us from reaching the end goal of our faith (glorification). You might profit from looking at yourself from Satan's perspective and think what he would use to prevent you from getting the glory he grasped at and missed. Know your weak points (power, pleasure, possessions, security, significance, safety, success, etc.), get rid of what's not helpful and shore up your defenses if you hope to succeed in the Christian life. Then run the race course God has for you (of course it would be a good idea to know that good works God has prepared for you to do - Ephesians 2:10).</div>
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As a model and motivation for endurance, look to Jesus, the captain and perfecter of your faith. The thing you should note while contemplating Him is that He was motivated by the joy that was set before Him. In 1:9 and 2:10-13, the joy of sitting at the right hand of God is enhanced by the sharing of that rule with faithful companions. The pain and suffering necessary to please the Father and receive His blessing and exaltation was something Jesus despised (to think little of) compared to the eternal glory He would enjoy. </div>
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It's worth noting that this is similar to Paul's lightly esteeming the pain and suffering he experienced in comparison to the eternal weight of glory he would receive (2 Corinthians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 9:26-27). Both Jesus and Paul were motivated by reward. When we add in Abraham and Moses (and all the other giants of the faith) who were motivated by reward, and the fact that God specifically notes that He is pleased with them because they sought their reward (and that you can't please Him unless you believe He rewards those who diligently seek Him), why would anyone be opposed to rewards? On what basis? Where are the verses? Gratitude is an acceptable motivator (although it can degenerate into trying to pay back God for your salvation), but it is not highlighted nor taught to the disciples as the basis of Christ's call to discipleship, nor in the Sermon on the Mount, nor in most of the NT. Why is there a bias against rewards? Because Satan is alive and well on planet earth feeding a corrupt oral tradition to people who don't study their Scriptures (Matthew 15:9). So consider Jesus' example, and follow it, despite the opposition Satan has planned to dishearten you (soul is put for mind, will and emotions). </div>
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12:4-10 Here's another truth absent from the oral tradition. Believers need to strive against sin (no "let go and let God" here). Resist to the point of shedding blood is more like it, rather than wimping out at the slightest temptation, due to lack of Spirit-led self-control. God always makes available all we need to do His will (which is our sanctification that pleases God -1 Thessalonians 4:1-3). Those who spinelessly succumb to sin have forgotten that God wants to benefit us by having us partake in His holiness through the process of discipline. The author quotes Proverbs 3:11-12 which, apart from being a good passage to show the applicability of the OT to the Christian life, is a good reminder that we need to be receptive and cooperative with God's efforts to conform us to the image of Christ. God points out our errors, and gives us negative consequences for our sin to train us to be godly 1Tim 4:7). God wants us to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:16).</div>
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12:11-17 No discipline is naturally a joyous occasion, but afterward the results are worth it. The gain is the fruit of righteousness (which God rewards). But this is only for those who train and endure. Therefore believers need to fix their hope and move their feet in the right paths. We need to pursue peace with all (as much as it depends upon us Romans 12:18). We also need to pursue the holiness/sanctification without which no man will see the Lord. This is not justification by faith, nor some kind of “positional” state, but something to chase after with all we've got. It was Jesus who said that the blessing of the pure in heart is that they will see God. What do you think is the outcome of those whose heart is set on earthly things and have the sanctification of a slimy slug (cf comments on Ezekiel 44)? The author isn't just giving suggestions, he's making Holy Spirit inspired commands/promises. The Body of believers also has the loving responsibility to help each other do well at the judgment seat of Christ. We need to be diligently looking out for each other (this isn't just the job of elders), and weeding out any roots of bitterness (digging down to the causes) so that a lack of forgiveness won't result in dissension and defilement in the Body, a favorite tactic of the evil one. Not just corporate harmony but personal holiness is the purview of the purified. We need to help the profane people who live like worldlings rather than saints not missing out on their blessings. Those who are sexually immoral will lose their reward (no inheritance for them -1 Corinthians 5:9-11; 6:9; Ephesians 5:5). Those who exchange their eternal delight for a dumb morsel of temporary pleasure (that often causes bellyache) are dumb and deceived. Recall that Esau exchanged his birthright for a bowl of beans. Bad choice. There are some decisions that have irreversible consequences (Numbers 14) so get in the habit of choosing God's pleasure rather than your own. </div>
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12:18-28 The author provides another warning passage to reinforce the church's responsibility to look out for each other, so no one winds up like Esau, the firstborn who lost his inheritance. The initial audience was in danger of following his example by going back to Judaism because the path of following Christ got too difficult. A modern reader is more likely to go back to the way they were, indulging the desires of the mind and flesh (Ephesians 2:3), because following Christ does take self-denial. The author reminds his readers that they haven't come to the OT Mt. Sinai, where the OT law was given, but to something far better, to Mt. Zion, the home city of the living God. The heavenly Jerusalem was the home of angels and the general assembly of believers and the called out assembly of the firstborn who are written or enrolled in heaven. Some see the “general assembly” and the “called out assembly” as one and the same, but lexical, grammatical, and contextual evidence argues for them being two different things. The general assembly was used of a gathering of everyone in a city for a festival. The smaller “called out assembly” was just that a group called out of the general populace for a specific purpose, usually the governance of the city. This is further supported by the additional note of this group having their name written or enrolled in heaven. This list of citizens who could rule or vote was written in a book. Not everyone living in the location had this privilege. There is no definite article separating any of the items in the list beginning in verse 22, just the conjunction <i>kai</i> is used to separate items, so the normal expectation would be to see a differentiation between the two groups. The argument of the author is that not all will have the privilege of reigning and ruling with Christ, only those who are holy, faithful, and pleasing to Him. Esau is an example of someone who lost his privileges as firstborn, so the context supports this view of two different groups as well. The audience will stand before God, the Judge of all, with some being rewarded and others not. They are coming to the gathering of just men (justified) made perfect (glorified). They are coming to Jesus, who mediates the New Covenant and the Holy Spirit, and whose blood can cleanse the conscience so believers can serve the living God and gain God's approval (unlike Abel's offering). </div>
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Therefore, they must pay careful attention that they are receptive to God's instructions, warnings, reproofs and discipline. In the OT those who refused to obey warnings given by God through Moses on earth did not escape negative judgment; so much more those who ignore God's warnings from heaven will not escape negative judgment. The Lord's voice shook the earth in the giving of the OT law at Sinai (Exodus 19). The author quotes Haggai 2:6 to refer to the greater shaking and removal of the heavens and earth at Christ's return. The only thing that will eventually remain is the Messiah's Kingdom, ruled by the select assembly of the firstborn, the just men/women made perfect. Therefore since faithful believers are receiving a kingdom that will endure, they should draw upon God's grace/power to serve Him in a manner that pleases Him, for our God is a consuming fire, and those who don't please Him will suffer loss. </div>
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<b>Application</b>: Draw motivation and encouragement from the example of Jesus, and use the grace/power He offers to serve and please God to ensure your future reward in the kingdom.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, may You be my example and motivation as I seek to do what pleases the Father; help me resist sin, and serve as You did. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hebrews 13 <u>Practical Love and Submission</u></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>13:1 "Let <u>brotherly love</u> <u>continue</u>. 2 Don’t forget to show <u>hospitality</u> to <u>strangers</u>, for in doing so, some have <u>entertained</u> <u>angels</u> without knowing it. 3 <u>Remember</u> those who are in <u>bonds</u>, <u>as</u> bound with them; and those who are <u>ill-treated</u>, since you are <u>also</u> in the <u>body</u>. 4 Let <u>marriage</u> be held in <u>honor</u> among all, and let the bed be <u>undefiled</u>: but <u>God</u> will <u>judge</u> the <u>sexually immoral</u> and <u>adulterers</u>. 5 Be <u>free</u> from the <u>love of money</u>, <u>content</u> with such things as you <u>have</u>, for he has said, "I will in no way <u>leave</u> you, neither will I in any way <u>forsake</u> you." 6 So that with <u>good courage</u> we say, "The <u>Lord is my helper</u>. I will <u>not fear</u>. What can <u>man</u> <u>do</u> to me?" </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>7 <u>Remember</u> your <u>leaders</u>, men who <u>spoke</u> to you the <u>word</u> of <u>God</u>, and <u>considering</u> the <u>outcome</u> of their <u>way of life</u>, imitate their <u>faith</u>. 8 <u>Jesus Christ</u> is the <u>same</u> <u>yesterday</u>, <u>today</u>, and <u>forever</u>. 9 Don’t be carried away by <u>various</u> and <u>strange</u> <u>teachings</u>, for it is good that the hea<u>r</u>t be <u>established</u> by <u>grace</u>, not by <u>food</u>, through which those who were <u>so</u> occupied were <u>not</u> <u>benefited</u>. 10 We have an <u>altar</u> from which those who <u>serve</u> the <u>holy tabernacle</u> have <u>no</u> <u>right</u> to eat. 11 For the bodies of those <u>animals</u>, whose <u>blood</u> is brought <u>into</u> the <u>holy place</u> by the <u>high</u> <u>priest</u> as an <u>offering</u> for <u>sin</u>, are <u>burned</u> <u>outside</u> of the <u>camp</u>. 12 Therefore <u>Jesus</u> <u>also</u>, that he might <u>sanctify</u> the people <u>through</u> his own <u>blood</u>, <u>suffered</u> <u>outside</u> of the <u>gate</u>. 13 Let us <u>therefore</u> <u>go out</u> to <u>him</u> <u>outside</u> of the <u>camp,</u> bearing his <u>reproach</u>. 14 For we <u>don’t</u> have <u>here</u> an <u>enduring city</u>, but we <u>seek</u> that which is <u>to come</u>. 15 Through <u>him</u>, then, let us <u>offer</u> up a <u>sacrifice</u> of <u>praise</u> to <u>God</u> <u>continually</u>, that is, the <u>fruit of lips</u> which <u>proclaim</u> <u>allegiance</u> to his <u>name</u>. 16 But don’t <u>forget</u> to be <u>doing good</u> and <u>sharing</u>, for with such <u>sacrifices</u> God is <u>well pleased</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">17 <u>Obey/be persuaded about</u> your <u>leaders</u> and <u>submit</u> to them, for they <u>watch</u> on behalf of your <u>souls</u>, as those who will <u>give account</u>, that they may do this with <u>joy</u>, and not with <u>groaning</u>, for that would be <u>unprofitable</u> for <u>you</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">18 <u>Pray</u> for us, for we are <u>persuaded</u> that we have a <u>good conscience</u>, <u>desiring</u> to live <u>honorably</u> in <u>all</u> <u>things</u>, 19 but I strongly <u>urge</u> you to do <u>this</u>, that I may be <u>restored</u> to you sooner. 20 Now may the <u>God of peace</u>, who brought again <u>from</u> the <u>dead</u> the <u>great shepherd of the sheep</u>, our <u>Lord Jesus</u>; with the <u>blood</u> of an <u>eternal covenant </u>21 make you <u>complete</u> in every <u>good work</u> to <u>do his will</u>, <u>working</u> <u>in</u> <u>you</u> that which is well <u>pleasing</u> in <u>his</u> <u>sight</u>, <u>through Jesus</u> Christ, to whom be the <u>glory</u> forever and <u>ever</u>. Amen. 22 But I <u>exhort</u> you, <u>brothers</u>, <u>endure</u> the word of <u>exhortation</u>, for I have written to you in <u>few</u> words. 23 Know that <u>our</u> brother <u>Timothy</u> has been <u>freed</u>, <u>with whom</u>, if he comes shortly, I will <u>see</u> you. 24 <u>Greet</u> <u>all</u> of your <u>leaders</u> and <u>all</u> the <u>saints</u>. The <u>Italians</u> greet you. 25 <u>Grace</u> be with you <u>all</u>. Amen."</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 13:1-6 Picking up on the third aspect of the hinge in chapter 10, “considering one another to provoke to love and good deeds,” the author encourages them to do just that. Brotherly love (<i>philos</i>) should continue and be expanded to showing hospitality to those outside their normal circle who were probably in need of hospitality (literally <i>philos</i>/love of strangers) due to the persecution from the Jews and Romans. He also encourages them to remember those who are imprisoned for their faith. He warns that the marriage bonds and bed should be undefiled, which would be a temptation with the disruption of normal home life, and reminds them that God will judge the immoral. Finances would also be disrupted, so he warns them to be free from the love of money by loving God and looking to Him to meet their needs. He probably freely quotes Joshua 1:5 and Psalm 118:6 to show that God is with His servants and will help them, although the quotes could have come from a number of other sources, to show that they need to keep their focus on God for their needs rather than depending upon people, including themselves. </div>
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13:7-16 Verse 7 is probably not so much an exhortation to submission (as in 1 Thessalonians 5:12, and in 13:17 below) but rather a reminder to consider the words they spoke and the end result of their life of following Christ, and then imitate their faith, rather than the ritual of the Judaizers. The believers should establish their hearts with the grace of God, not temple sacrifices, nor strange teachings. NT believers have an altar which provides nourishment, namely the cross of Christ. Some see a reference to the Lord's Supper, but the grace which comes through the words of Christ are what strengthens (cf John 6:63 comments).</div>
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<i>John 6:63 “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.”</i></blockquote>
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In describing the incompatibility of continuing in both Judaism and Christianity (13:10), the author shows that Christ was rejected by the establishment and suffered outside the camp, where the bodies of the animals offered for sin were buried. The blood of those animals was carried into the holy of holies to make atonement or covering for sin. But Jesus' blood, which he earlier described as being carried into the sanctuary of heaven itself (the earthly being a mere copy) did more than cover sin, it sanctified or cleansed the beneficiaries completely. Therefore those who follow Christ should go out from Judaism to join Jesus in sharing His reproach/suffering. The temporal Jerusalem was just that (and would shortly be destroyed in AD 70). The heavenly city of which faithful believers are citizens would endure (11:10; 12:22,28). The author mentions two God pleasing sacrifices which NT believing priests should offer. The first is the sacrifice of praise, which is clarified as the fruit of lips which proclaim allegiance (or confess) His name. The Psalms are replete with examples of faithful trust in the God in the midst of adverse circumstances, followed by God's deliverance of those who trusted Him, resulting in the ascription of praise and glory to the name/reputation of the God who is our Helper. This is what should happen in praise and worship time in churches, rather than the mindless lip service to a catchy tune. Remember, worship is a response to revelation. If God has revealed Himself to be your Helper, tell others about it. If He hasn't revealed Himself to be your Helper, you really need to ask yourself why that is and do something corrective. </div>
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The second sacrifice which pleases God that a NT believer priest should offer is that of blessing believers. Doing good and sharing, take time, money, and strength, as well as denial of our desires for the benefit of others. As such, they are very Christ-like things to do. With such sacrifices (as in it costs you, sometimes painfully so) God is well pleased (and will reward those who diligently seek to please Him). </div>
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13:17 This verse has some key insights on leadership, authority, and submission. The text does not say to blindly obey, but rather uses the word for “be persuaded about.” One should be persuaded about one's leaders and then submit (line up under their authority). Submission is not in the black and white commands of Scripture, for there simple obedience is required, but submission occurs in the gray subjective areas, which sometimes are really black or white but sinning and deceived believers don't always see clearly. But what should one be persuaded about regarding their leaders? First and foremost is that they are Biblical, following what the Scriptures say. Meeting the qualifications for leadership outlined in 1Timothy 3 and Titus 1 (see list of characteristics there) would be a good checklist. Then this chapter provides a couple of items to look at as well. Back in verse 7, the leader is supposed to have spoken the word of God to you, and have a life that will be rewarded. Finally in this section, the leader is supposed to be looking out for your soul. This is not to make sure you get to heaven, Jesus has already done that, but to make sure you exchange your soul for something of eternal value. Your soul is your mind, will/values and emotions. Those can be fixed on temporal goods or eternal betters. Biblical leaders want to make sure those under their care do well at the judgment seat of Christ. So submissive believers make their job easy for them. Stupid, stubborn, wandering and wayward sheep that create havoc and discord among other sheep and demand a lot of attention do not make the shepherds job easy. When believers appear before Christ's judgment seat, those who have shepherded them will be called to give an account of how watching over them has been. If there is more grief than joy, it will not be a profitable time for the silly sheep. They will have forfeited eternal glory by being displeasing to the Chief Shepherd, and those who watch His sheep for Him. If you aren't persuaded about the Scriptural basis of the leadership where you are, talk to them. If you can't resolve things and submit where you are, find a place where you can, and make their job easy. If you can't find a place where you can submit, and the problem isn't you, consider starting a Biblical church (see the upcoming Catacomb Church Blog for something you can actually try at home). But first, take every effort to make where you are work. </div>
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13:18-25 The author asks for prayer. He knows that he has a good conscience and desires to live honorably in all things, but he wants prayer that he will see them again soon. He begins to close with a common benediction, asking that the God of the covenantal blessing of peace, who resurrected the Great Shepherd of the sheep, the Lord Jesus, make them, by means of the blood of the everlasting (of the Age) covenant, complete (equipped) in every good work to do His will, working in them what is pleasing in His sight, through the mediating grace of Jesus, to whom should be glory and honor forever. </div>
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He encourages them to bear with his brief!! word of encouragement/exhortation. Seven times he uses the noun or verb for encouragement which is a clue to His identity. The author is obviously a Levite, well trained in the OT law and sacrificial system. His theology is remarkably similar to Paul, but as discussed in 2:3 and 1:1 comments, it can't be Paul. He is a companion of Timothy, and so well known that there is no need for him to identify himself. The letter was well accepted by the church, even without a specified author, so the recipients must have known who wrote it and accepted their authority. The most likely candidate is Barnabas, the son of encouragement (Acts 4:36), whose signature is in his encouragement. If you want to believe it is someone else, please do so, since it doesn't affect the interpretation nor application of the letter. He informs them that Timothy has been released and will hopefully join him when he visits them. He closes with a greeting from the brothers at Rome and its surrounds, and a blessing of God's grace.<br />
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<b>Application</b>: As NT priests, we should be regularly offering the sacrifices of praise and good works to please God.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your grace that You have lavishly bestowed on Your </i><br />
<i>people; may I draw upon it to do the things that are pleasing in Your sight, for the glory of my Lord, Savior, and Shepherd, Jesus. Thanks. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper:</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God is pleased to reward those who diligently seek Him, and commends those throughout history who sought to please Him and be rewarded by Him. He has not yet given them all He has promised, and is waiting to glorify us together with them. </div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: Jesus endured the cross and its shame for the joy the Father set before Him of reigning with faithful companions in His Kingdom. </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: We must believe that God rewards those who diligently seek Him if we wish to please Him. Then we must live in holiness, faith, hope and love to reap our reward. If we don't we will regret it. We need to be concerned about the spiritual welfare and reward of our fellow believers, as we serve them in our service to God.</div>
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<u><b>Where to Go for More:</b></u></div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4957958158052483709.post-27880786799383673242012-08-08T01:44:00.003-04:002014-12-28T08:52:23.644-05:00Hebrews 8-10 Following in Faith, Hope, and Love<div class="new-post-style">
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<b>TMS 1John 2:15-16 </b><u><b>Your Three Temptations</b></u></div>
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<i>1Jn 2:15 “Do <u>not</u> <u>love</u> the <u>world</u> or the <u>things</u> in the <u>world</u>.</i></div>
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<i>If anyone <u>loves</u> the <u>world</u>, the <u>love</u> of the <u>Father</u> is <u>not</u> in him.</i></div>
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<i>16 For <u>all</u> that is in the <u>world</u> -</i></div>
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<i>-- the <u>lust</u> of the <u>flesh</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>the <u>lust</u> of the <u>eyes</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>and the <u>pride</u> of <u>life</u> </i> </div>
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<i>--- is <u>not</u> <u>of</u> the <u>Father</u> but is <u>of</u> the <u>world</u>.</i></div>
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<i>17 And the <u>world</u> is <u>passing</u> away, and the <u>lust</u> of it; </i> </div>
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<i>but he who <u>does</u> the <u>will of God</u> <u>abides</u> forever. </i> </div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 2:15-16 God made us with desires for power (security/significance), pleasure, and possessions, and has a plan to fulfill those desires, according to His will. Satan also has a will for our lives, which is to take a temporal short-cut to fulfilling our desires, rather than doing God's will to get them. Adam and Eve took the bait, and chomped down on the temporal and fatal short-cut (see comments on <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2011/08/genesis-3-games-in-garden.html" target="_blank">Genesis 3</a>). Jesus refused to follow Satan's will for His life to take the easy way to what the Father wanted for Him (see His temptations and comments in <a href="http://dailytruthbase.blogspot.com/2012/05/matthew-1-4-king-and-kingdom-come.html" target="_blank">Mt 4</a>). John tells us not to love all the stuff in Satan's world: the lust of the flesh (pleasure), the lust of the eyes (possessions), and the pride of life (power, success/safety). If anyone loves those things, they can't love God (Js 4:4). The double-edged key to not loving the things of the world is to love or be loyal to God, and to see the things of the world as they really are (Proverbs is great for teaching this). Once we've unmasked the deceitfulness of Satan's temptations, and considered the consequences of indulging in them, they're not so appealing. Once we've set our affections on things above (Col 3), and experienced the delights of abiding in Christ (Jn 15) the world is downright unappealing. The one who does God's will rather than Satan's abides forever, getting both temporal and eternal benefit. The worldling loses both eternally, and temporally (eventually). <br />
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<b>Application</b>: Work on purifying your desires, and don't develop an appetite for things that aren't eternally good for you.<br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord, thanks for loving me; may I loyally love You, and delight in Your presence and will more than any created thing. Amen.</i></div>
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<b>Hebrews 8-10 </b>These chapters continue to make the case for the superiority of Christ, particularly mediating the blessings of the New Covenant which enable believers to have a cleansed conscience by the working of the Holy Spirit in renewing their hearts, so they serve God and do His will. The author summarizes the book in the “hinge” near the end of chapter 10, and then gives another stern warning passage of the punishment that awaits unfaithful believers who succumb to the temptation to go back to the way they were. However, he is expectant that his readers will press on to perfection and reap the reward God has planned for those who serve Him.</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hebrews 8 <u>New Covenant</u></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">8:1 Now in the things which we are saying, the <u>main point is this</u>. We have <u>such</u> a <u>high</u> priest, who <u>sat</u> down on the <u>right</u> <u>hand</u> of the <u>throne</u> of the <u>Majesty</u> in the <u>heavens</u>, 2 a <u>servant</u> of the <u>sanctuary</u>, and of the <u>true</u> <u>tabernacle</u>, which the <u>Lord</u> <u>pitched</u>, not man. 3 For every <u>high</u> <u>priest</u> is <u>appointed</u> to offer both <u>gifts</u> and <u>sacrifices</u>. Therefore it is <u>necessary</u> that this <u>high</u> <u>priest</u> also have <u>something</u> to <u>offer</u>. 4 For if he were on <u>earth</u>, he would <u>not</u> be a priest at all, seeing there are priests who offer the gifts according to the <u>law</u>; 5 who serve a <u>copy</u> and <u>shadow</u> of the <u>heavenly</u> things, even as <u>Moses</u> was warned by God when he was about to make the <u>tabernacle</u>, for he said, "See, you shall make everything <u>according</u> to the <u>pattern</u> that was <u>shown</u> to you on the <u>mountain</u>."</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>6 But now he has <u>obtained</u> a more <u>excellent</u> <u>ministry</u>, by so much as he is <u>also</u> the <u>mediator</u> of a <u>better</u> <u>covenant</u>, which on <u>better</u> <u>promises</u> has been given as <u>law</u>. 7 For if that <u>first</u> <u>covenant</u> had been <u>faultless</u>, then <u>no</u> place would have been sought for a <u>second</u>. 8 For finding <u>fault</u> with them, he said, "Behold, the <u>days</u> <u>come</u>," says the Lord, "that I will make a <u>new</u> <u>covenant</u> with the <u>house</u> of <u>Israel</u> and with the <u>house</u> of <u>Judah</u>; 9 <u>not</u> according to the <u>covenant</u> that I made with their <u>fathers</u>, in the <u>day</u> that I took them by the hand to <u>lead</u> them <u>out</u> of the land of <u>Egypt</u>; for they <u>didn’t</u> <u>continue</u> in my <u>covenant</u>, and I <u>disregarded</u> <u>them</u>," says the Lord. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">10 "For this is the <u>covenant</u> that I <u>will</u> make </span></i> </div>
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<i>with the <u>house</u> of <u>Israel</u>. </i> </div>
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<i><u>After those days</u>," says the Lord; </i> </div>
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<i>"I will <u>put</u> my <u>laws</u> into their <u>mind</u>, </i> </div>
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<i>I will also <u>write</u> them on their <u>heart</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>I will be <u>their God</u>, and they will be <u>my people</u>. </i> </div>
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<i>11 They will <u>not</u> <u>teach</u> every man his fellow citizen, and every man his brother, saying, ‘<u>Know</u> the <u>Lord</u>,’ for <u>all will know me</u>, from their least to their greatest. </i> </div>
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<i>12 For I will be <u>merciful</u> to their <u>unrighteousness</u>. I will <u>remember</u> their <u>sins</u> and <u>lawless</u> deeds <u>no</u> <u>more</u>." </i> </div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">13 In that he says, "A <u>new covenant</u>," he has made the <u>first</u> old. But that which is becoming <u>old</u> and <u>grows</u> <u>aged</u> is near to <u>vanishing</u> away.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 8:1-5 The superiority of what believers in Christ have over what they had in Judaism is further demonstrated by the position of Christ in the heavens where the real tabernacle is, sitting, after completing His work, and mediating a New Covenant. The tabernacle on earth was a mere copy and shadow of the real deal in heaven. </div>
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8:6-9 The ministry Christ now has is that of the mediator of a better covenant, which is based upon better promises. The first offered temporary forgiveness and temporary blessings in the land. The second, new and improved, offers permanent forgiveness and permanent blessings in the Messianic Kingdom. It is not like the covenant God made with Israel in the day He took them out of Egypt (Ex 15:26 or Ex 20), which they broke, therefore this is a covenant that will not be forsaken by Israel (and thus is yet future).</div>
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8:10-13 Here are some more noteworthy features of the New Covenant</div>
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1) It is with the house of Israel (not the church).<br />
2) It is made with Israel after the days when God regathers Israel and resettles them in the land.<br />
3) God will put His laws into their mind, which means God still requires obedience of His people (Isa 59:20-21 indicates that this is a function of the Holy Spirit, after the Redeemer comes to Zion).<br />
4) God will also write His laws on their heart, which means the spot where they make their decisions will have God's values; in Proverbs 3:1-3 and 7:1-3 the wise write God's law on their own heart.<br />
5) He will be their God, and they will be His people, which means they will live in covenantal loyalty with Him, keeping His requirements, and looking only to Him for help and protection.<br />
6) All will know God, probably because of His presence in the Millennial temple, so that there will be no need for teaching.<br />
7) God will be merciful, no longer holding their sins and lawless deeds against them, but will reinstate them as His privileged people.<br />
The fact that a New Covenant was promised showed that the Old Covenant was not permanent and would become obsolete. See comments on Jeremiah 31:31 for a deeper understanding of the New Covenant. New Testament believers receive the blessings of the Holy Spirit, especially in His sanctifying and renewing work, but the New Covenant as promised to Israel in the OT is still future.<br />
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<b>Application</b>: If the Holy Spirit has free reign in our life, His law will be on our heart, controlling our actions, so we do God's will.<br />
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Heavenly Father, help me know and do Your will, so that the righteous requirements of Your law might be fulfilled in me as I walk according to the guidance and grace of Your Holy Spirit. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hebrews 9 <u>Christ's Return to Bring Salvation</u></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">9:1 Now indeed even the <u>first</u> <u>covenant</u> had <u>ordinances</u> of divine <u>service</u>, and an <u>earthly</u> sanctuary. 2 For a <u>tabernacle</u> was prepared. In the first part were the <u>lampstand</u>, the <u>table</u>, and the show <u>bread</u>; which is called the <u>Holy Place</u>. 3 After the <u>second</u> <u>veil</u> was the <u>tabernacle</u> which is called the <u>Holy of Hollies</u>, 4 having a <u>golden</u> <u>altar</u> of <u>incense</u>, and the <u>ark</u> of the <u>covenant</u> overlaid on all sides with gold, in which was a <u>golden</u> <u>pot</u> holding the <u>manna</u>, <u>Aaron’s</u> <u>rod</u> that budded, and the <u>tablets</u> of the <u>covenant</u>; 5 and above it <u>cherubim</u> of glory overshadowing the <u>mercy</u> <u>seat</u>, of which things we <u>can’t</u> speak now in detail. 6 Now these things having been thus prepared, the priests go in <u>continually</u> into the <u>first</u> tabernacle, accomplishing the <u>services</u>, 7 but into the <u>second</u> the <u>high</u> <u>priest</u> <u>alone</u>, <u>once</u> in the <u>year</u>, not without <u>blood</u>, which he offers for <u>himself</u>, and for the <u>errors</u> of the <u>people</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">8 The <u>Holy Spirit</u> is indicating this, that the <u>way</u> into the <u>Holy Place</u> wasn’t <u>yet</u> <u>revealed</u> while the <u>first</u> <u>tabernacle</u> was still <u>standing</u>; 9 which is a <u>symbol</u> of the <u>present</u> <u>age</u>, where gifts and <u>sacrifices</u> are <u>offered</u> that are <u>incapable</u>, concerning the <u>conscience</u>, of making the <u>worshiper</u> <u>perfect</u>; 10 being <u>only</u> (with meats and drinks and various washings) <u>fleshly</u> <u>ordinances</u>, imposed <u>until</u> a time of <u>reformation</u>. 11 But <u>Christ</u> having come as a <u>high</u> <u>priest</u> of the <u>coming good things</u>, through the <u>greater</u> and more <u>perfect</u> <u>tabernacle</u>, <u>not</u> made with hands, that is to say, <u>not</u> of this <u>creation</u>, 12 <u>nor</u> yet <u>through</u> the <u>blood</u> of <u>goats</u> and <u>calves</u>, but <u>through</u> his <u>own blood</u>, entered in <u>once for all</u> <u>into</u> the <u>Holy</u> <u>Place</u>, having obtained <u>eternal</u> <u>redemption</u>. 13 For if the <u>blood</u> of <u>goats</u> and <u>bulls</u>, and the ashes of a <u>heifer</u> <u>sprinkling</u> those who have been <u>defiled</u>, <u>sanctify</u> to the <u>cleanness</u> of the <u>flesh</u>: 14 how much <u>more</u> will the <u>blood of Christ</u>, who through the <u>eternal</u> <u>Spirit</u> <u>offered</u> himself <u>without</u> <u>blemish</u> to God, <u>cleanse</u> your <u>conscience</u> from <u>dead works</u> to <u>serve</u> the <u>living God</u>?</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">15 For this <u>reason</u> he is the <u>mediator</u> of a <u>new covenant</u>, since a <u>death</u> has occurred for the <u>redemption</u> of the <u>transgressions</u> that were under the <u>first covenant</u>, <u>that</u> those who have been <u>called</u> may <u>receive</u> the <u>promise</u> of the <u>eternal inheritance</u>. 16 For where a <u>last will and testament</u> is, there must of <u>necessity</u> be the <u>death</u> of him who <u>made</u> it. 17 For a <u>will</u> is in <u>force</u> where there has been <u>death</u>, for it is never in <u>force</u> while he who made it <u>lives</u>. 18 <u>Therefore</u> even the <u>first covenant</u> has <u>not</u> been <u>dedicated</u> without <u>blood</u>. 19 For when every <u>commandment</u> had been <u>spoken</u> by <u>Moses</u> to all the people according to the <u>law</u>, he took the <u>blood</u> of the <u>calves</u> and the <u>goats</u>, with <u>water</u> and scarlet <u>wool</u> and <u>hyssop</u>, and <u>sprinkled</u> both the <u>book</u> itself and all the <u>people</u>, 20 saying, "This is the <u>blood of the covenant</u> which God has <u>commanded</u> you." 21 Moreover he <u>sprinkled</u> the <u>tabernacle</u> and <u>all</u> the <u>vessels</u> of the ministry in the same way with the <u>blood</u>. 22 According to the <u>law</u>, nearly <u>everything</u> is <u>cleansed</u> with <u>blood</u>, and <u>apart from shedding of blood there is no remission</u>.</span></i></div>
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<i>23 It was <u>necessary</u> therefore that the <u>copies</u> of the things in the <u>heavens</u> should be <u>cleansed</u> with these; but the <u>heavenly</u> things <u>themselves</u> with <u>better sacrifices</u> than these. 24 For Christ hasn’t entered into holy <u>places</u> made with <u>hands</u>, which are <u>representations</u> of the <u>true</u>, but into <u>heaven</u> itself, now to <u>appear</u> in the <u>presence of God</u> <u>for us</u>; 25 nor yet that he should <u>offer</u> himself <u>often</u>, as the high priest <u>enters</u> into the <u>holy place</u> year <u>by</u> year with <u>blood</u> <u>not</u> his own, 26 or else he must have <u>suffered</u> <u>often</u> since the <u>foundation</u> of the <u>world</u>. But now <u>once</u> at the <u>end of the ages</u>, he has been <u>revealed</u> to <u>put away sin</u> by the <u>sacrifice</u> of <u>himself</u>. 27 (NIV) Just as people are destined to <u>die once</u>, and <u>after</u> that to <u>face judgment</u>, 28 so Christ was <u>sacrificed once</u> to <u>take</u> <u>away</u> the sins of <u>many</u>; and he will <u>appear</u> a <u>second time</u>, <u>not</u> to bear <u>sin</u>, but to <u>bring salvation</u> to those who are <u>waiting</u> for him </i> </div>
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<b>Observations</b>: 9:1-7 The author reviews the set up of the sacrificial system, giving details of what was in the ark of the covenant not found in the OT. Exodus 16:32-34 said the manna was to be kept before the Lord and Numbers 17 speaks of Aaron's rod. But the point is that the high priest entered the Holy of Hollies only once every year to sprinkle blood on the mercy seat which sat on top of the Ark/Chest that contained the Covenant. The idea was that God's presence, dwelling in between the Cherubim would look down and see the Law which pointed out the sin of the people, and called for their death was violated. But the mercy seat, between His presence and the law, would be covered over with blood (the word for atone means to cover) thus covering the people's sin, and satisfying God's wrath temporarily until a more permanent solution would come. </div>
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9:8-15 A veil stood between God and the people indicating that there was not free access to Him, due to the sins which separated them from Him. The ritual sacrifices were incapable of making the worshiper “perfect” according to the measure of (<i>kata</i> with the accusative) their conscience. “Perfect” was used earlier of completion or bringing to the glorified state (2:10; 5:9; 7:11 -noun, 19) and later (10:1, 14, 11:40; 12:23) which is dependent upon fulfilling, perfecting or bringing to completion God's plan (via living in accord with His will). The conscience, our governing sense of right and wrong, is what guides our actions. The OT sacrificial system, which was a matter of flesh rather than Spirit, was not able to “re-program” our conscience by having the Holy Spirit write God's law on our heart (a condition which the New Covenant changes, as explained in chapter 10). At Christ's death the veil was torn from top to bottom (Mt 27:51), indicating the way was now accessible. As the high priest of the coming good things (among them being the Holy Spirit) He entered once for all into the Holy place after having secured eternal redemption (payment for sin). The blood of animals sanctify or cleanse the flesh, but the blood of Christ goes to the core of the problem, cleansing our conscience from acts that lead to death (NIV or dead works) so that we can serve the living God. If our “governor” of what's right and wrong is programmed by the worldly values, we will choose to do what's wrong, rather than serve God. If our conscience is cleansed by the blood, and rewritten by the Spirit of God with His truth, we will choose to serve God, and wind up getting blessed/glorified.</div>
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9:16-22 For this reason of cleaning up and renewing our conscience, Christ is the mediator of the New Covenant (and the work of the Spirit), so that those, who have been redeemed from their transgressions pointed out by the Law, may receive the promise of inheritance in the Age. In order for a covenant (as in last will and testament) to take effect, there needs to be the death of the person making it. The first covenant went into effect with the blood of animals. In the Ancient Near East, when a covenant was made, animals were sacrificed, and the halves laid apart from each other. The parties making the covenant would join hands and walk through the animals saying something to the effect of “may what happened to these animals happen to us if we violate the terms of this covenant.” This is the background to God's covenant with Abraham in Genesis 15 (see comments there) although only God passed through the covenant, indicating that His promises to bless Abraham was solely dependent upon His efforts. When Moses was making the covenant with the nation of Israel, he sprinkled blood on the nation, as a symbol of the normal covenant making practice. Similarly using hyssop and blood, Moses sprinkled blood over everything in the tabernacle to cleanse it from sin, by covering it over with the blood, which was the required payment for sin. Without the shedding of blood, there is no covering nor forgiveness (Lev 17:11). </div>
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9:23-26 It was necessary for the earthly copies of the heavenly things to be cleansed with the blood of animals, but the heavenly things are cleansed with the blood of Jesus. Christ didn't enter a man made tabernacle multiple times, but a heavenly one, once for all with His own blood. The timing was one time only, at the end of the OT age, to put away/make void or annul sin (only used elsewhere in 7:18 of the law).</div>
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9:27-28 These last two verses are worth knowing well. Humans get one chance at life, and then face judgment. There are no second chances; there is no re-incarnation. Just like Christ died once, so do humans; flipping the analogy around, just like humans die once, so did Christ. The whole argument in the preceding verses is that Christ died once, because that is all that was necessary to permanently pay for all sin for all time. Those who think they are re-sacrificing Christ on an altar must be ignorant of this passage . Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many (since not all will accept His death on their behalf and choose to die for their own sins). Christ will return again, but not in reference to sin (“to bear sin” is a good interpretation -NIV), because He already did that. He will return at His second coming to bring salvation (glorification, since justification is already our present possession) to those who eagerly await Him. Those who aren't looking forward to His return are probably not busy laying up rewards in heaven according to His instructions (Mt 6:19-20).</div>
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<b>Application</b>: Since it's inevitable that we die and face judgment, it might be a good idea to use the time we have on earth preparing to do well at the judgment seat of Christ.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, please guide me in living to please You so I can eagerly anticipate Your return in glory. Amen.</i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hebrews 10 <u>Faith, Hope and Love</u></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJfMe4rXo8U/UCHCVGh0suI/AAAAAAAAEqA/LzOepqxIiXA/s1600/faith+hope+love+symbol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJfMe4rXo8U/UCHCVGh0suI/AAAAAAAAEqA/LzOepqxIiXA/s200/faith+hope+love+symbol.jpg" height="200" width="87" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>10:1 For the <u>law</u>, having a <u>shadow</u> of the <u>good to come</u>, <u>not</u> the <u>very</u> <u>image</u> of the things, can <u>never</u> with the <u>same</u> <u>sacrifices</u> year <u>by</u> year, which they offer <u>continually</u>, make <u>perfect</u> those who <u>draw near</u>. 2 Or else wouldn’t they have <u>ceased</u> to be <u>offered</u>, because the <u>worshipers</u>, having been <u>once</u> <u>cleansed</u>, would have had <u>no</u> <u>more</u> <u>consciousness</u> of <u>sins</u>? 3 But <u>in</u> those <u>sacrifices</u> there is a <u>yearly</u> <u>reminder</u> of <u>sins</u>. 4 For it is <u>impossible</u> that the <u>blood</u> of <u>bulls</u> and <u>goats</u> should <u>take away</u> <u>sins</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">5 Therefore <u>when</u> he comes into the world, he says, "<u>Sacrifice</u> and <u>offering</u> you didn’t <u>desire</u>, but you <u>prepared</u> a <u>body</u> for me; 6 You had <u>no</u> <u>pleasure</u> in whole burnt <u>offerings</u> and <u>sacrifices</u> for <u>sin</u>. 7 Then I said, ‘<u>Behold</u>, I have <u>come</u> (in the <u>scroll</u> of the book it is <u>written of me</u>) to <u>do</u> <u>your</u> <u>will</u>, O <u>God</u>.’" 8 Previously saying, "<u>Sacrifices</u> and <u>offerings</u> and whole burnt offerings and sacrifices for <u>sin</u> you <u>didn’t</u> <u>desire</u>, neither had <u>pleasure</u> in them" (those which are <u>offered</u> according to the <u>law</u>), 9 then he has said, "Behold, I have come to <u>do your will</u>." He takes <u>away</u> the <u>first</u>, that he may <u>establish</u> the <u>second</u>, 10 by which <u>will</u> we have been <u>sanctified</u> <u>because of (dia)</u> the <u>offering</u> of the <u>body of Jesus Christ</u> <u>once for all</u>. 11 Every priest indeed stands day <u>by</u> day <u>serving</u> and often <u>offering</u> the <u>same</u> <u>sacrifices</u>, which can <u>never</u> <u>take away sins</u>, 12 but he, when he had <u>offered</u> <u>one</u> <u>sacrifice</u> for <u>sins</u> <u>forever</u>, <u>sat down</u> on the <u>right hand</u> of <u>God</u>; 13 from that time <u>waiting</u> until his <u>enemies</u> are made the <u>footstool</u> of his <u>feet</u>. 14 For by one <u>offering</u> he has <u>perfected for all time</u> those <u>who are being sanctified</u>. 15 The Holy Spirit also <u>testifies</u> to us, for after saying, 16 "This is the <u>covenant</u> that I <u>will</u> make with <u>them</u>: ‘<u>After</u> <u>those</u> <u>days</u>,’ says the Lord, ‘I will put <u>my</u> <u>laws</u> on their <u>heart</u>, I will also <u>write</u> <u>them</u> on their <u>mind</u>;’" then he says, 17 "I will <u>remember</u> their <u>sins</u> and their <u>iniquities</u> <u>no more</u>." 18 Now where <u>remission</u> of these is, there is <u>no</u> <u>more</u> <u>offering</u> for <u>sin</u>.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>19 <u>Having</u> therefore, brothers, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><u>confidence</u> to <u>enter</u> into the <u>holy place</u> <u>by</u> the <u>blood of Jesus</u>, 20 by the <u>way</u> which he <u>dedicated</u> for us, a <u>new</u> and <u>living way</u>, <u>through</u> the <u>veil</u>, that is to say, his <u>flesh</u>; </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>21 and <u>having</u> a <u>great</u> <u>priest</u> over the <u>house</u> of <u>God</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>22 let us <u>draw near</u> with a <u>true heart</u> in <u>fulness</u> of <u>faith</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>having our <u>hearts</u> <u>sprinkled</u> from an <u>evil</u> <u>conscience</u>, and having our <u>body</u> <u>washed</u> with <u>pure</u> <u>water</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>23 let us <u>hold fast</u> the <u>profession</u> of our <u>hope</u> <u>without wavering</u>; </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>for he who <u>promised</u> is <u>faithful</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>24 Let us <u>consider</u> how to <u>provoke</u> one another to <u>love and good works</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>25 <u>not</u> <u>forsaking</u> our own <u>assembling</u> together, as the custom/manner of some is, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>but <u>exhorting/encouraging</u> <u>one another</u>; </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>and so much the <u>more</u>, as you <u>see</u> the <u>Day</u> <u>approaching</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>26 For if we <u>sin</u> <u>willfully</u> <u>after</u> we have <u>received</u> the <u>knowledge</u> of the <u>truth</u>, there <u>remains</u> <u>no</u> more a <u>sacrifice</u> for <u>sins</u>, 27 but a <u>certain</u> <u>fearful</u> <u>expectation</u> of <u>judgment</u>, and a <u>fierceness</u> of <u>fire</u> which will <u>devour</u> the <u>adversaries</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>28 A man who <u>disregards</u> <u>Moses</u>’ <u>law</u> <u>dies</u> <u>without</u> <u>compassion</u> on the <u>word</u> of two or three <u>witnesses</u>. 29 How much <u>worse</u> <u>punishment</u>, do you think, will he be <u>judged</u> <u>worthy</u> of, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>who has <u>trodden</u> under <u>foot</u> the <u>Son of God</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>and has <u>counted</u> the <u>blood</u> of the <u>covenant</u> with which he <u>was</u> <u>sanctified</u> an <u>unholy</u> thing, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>and has <u>insulted</u> the <u>Spirit of grace</u>? </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>30 For we <u>know</u> him who said, "<u>Vengeance</u> belongs to <u>me</u>," says the Lord, "<u>I will repay</u>." Again, "The <u>Lord will judge his people</u>." 31 It is a <u>fearful</u> thing to <u>fall</u> into the <u>hands</u> of the <u>living</u> <u>God</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>32 But <u>remember</u> the <u>former</u> days, in which, <u>after</u> you were <u>enlightened</u>, </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>you <u>endured</u> a great <u>struggle</u> with <u>sufferings</u>; 33 partly, being <u>exposed</u> to both <u>reproaches</u> and <u>oppressions</u>; and partly, becoming <u>partakers</u> with those who were <u>treated</u> so. 34 For you both had <u>compassion</u> on <u>me</u> in my <u>chains</u>, and <u>joyfully</u> <u>accepted</u> the <u>plundering</u> of your <u>possessions</u>, <u>knowing</u> that you have for yourselves a <u>better</u> <u>possession</u> and an <u>enduring</u> <u>one</u> in the <u>heavens</u>. </i> </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">35 Therefore <u>don’t</u> <u>throw</u> away your <u>confidence</u>, which has a <u>great reward</u>. 36 For you ne<u>e</u>d <u>endurance</u> so that, having <u>done the will of God</u>, you may <u>receive</u> the <u>promise</u>. 37 "In a very <u>little</u> while, he <u>who</u> <u>comes</u> will <u>come</u>, and will <u>not wait</u>. 38 But the <u>righteous</u> will <u>live by faith.</u> If he <u>shrinks</u> back, my <u>soul</u> has <u>no pleasure</u> in him." 39 But we are <u>not</u> of those who <u>shrink back</u> to <u>destruction</u>, but of those who have <u>faith</u> to the <u>saving</u> of the <u>soul</u>.</span></i></div>
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<b>Observations</b>:10:1-5 The OT ritual and sacrificial law was just a shadow of the good to come, because they could never make perfect (bring to completion/fulfillment or glorification) those who draw near to worship. If they could do that, they wouldn't be continually offered, because the worshipers would no longer have a consciousness of sins (because they wouldn't be consciously sinning). But in the sacrifices of the Day of Atonement there is an annual reminder of sins. </div>
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10:6-18 Quoting Psalm 40 to show that God doesn't desire sacrifices but prefers obedient service, the author stresses the importance of having the law within one's heart (a function of the Holy Spirit in the New Covenant).</div>
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<i>Psalm 40:6 Sacrifice and offering You did not desire; My ears You have opened. Burnt offering and sin offering You did not require. 7 Then I said, "Behold, I come; In the scroll of the book it is written of me. 8 I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart."</i></div>
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God gives us ears so we can hear His will, and do it. He gave the sacrificial system for when we failed to do His will, which He would prefer. Jesus takes away the sacrifices (and the need for them) so He can establish (set in place) the second, which is the doing of God's will, on the basis of His law being internalized by the Holy Spirit. By Christ doing the will of God, we are in the condition of having been sanctified/set apart (present indicative plus perfect participle, like in Eph 2:8, stressing the ongoing nature of a previous event). Note that verse 14 refers to the ongoing (present tense) aspect of being sanctified. </div>
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Daily Levitical sacrifices can never take away sins, but Jesus, by one sacrifice, did, and has sat down (in contrast to the standing priest) after having finished His work, and is now awaiting future glorification. As verse 14 emphasizes, by means of one offering Jesus has perfected (perfect tense) for all time (continuously) those who are being sanctified. His death removes all barriers to their glorification. The Holy Spirit testifies to this in the terms of the New Covenant. The law will be internalized, and God will no longer hold their sins against them, but instead will be their God, and they will be His people. Where there is remission (sending away or forgiveness) of sins, there is no more offering for sin, and thus no need for the daily sacrifices, nor the system. </div>
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10:19-25 Now the author summarizes what believers have in Christ, and outlines the three major areas in which they should progress in doing God's will on the press to perfection/glorification. This is the “hinge” of Hebrews (it's also called the “salad” passage, since it's comprised of three kinds of “let us”). Believers/brothers have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, through a new way, through his flesh (put for His sacrificial death) which cleansed them of their sin, and cleansed their consciences so they can serve God. They also have a great and faithful high priest who lives to make intercession for them and help them. Therefore they need to progress in faith, hope, and love, which will be expanded upon in the following three chapters (faith in 11, hope in 12, love in 13). But first the author gives a summary statement and then another warning passage, and encouragement to persevere.</div>
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First believers should draw near (used of approaching a deity in worship) to God with a true (rather than hardened or false or lie-filled) heart in fullness of faith (no room for anything else). He further elaborates that the heart is sprinkled/cleansed (only used elsewhere in 9:13, 19, 21) from an evil conscience (by the Holy Spirit renewing our heart), and our body washed with pure water (clean of dead works).</div>
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Secondly, believers should hold fast the profession of their hope (expectation of the Messiah's return to reward the faithful in His kingdom) without wavering (succumbing to the temptation to be unfaithful to avoid persecution), because the God who promised to do so is faithful.</div>
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Thirdly, believers should live in love, by not thinking only about themselves, but considering one another for the purpose of stimulating the love and good deeds that God will reward. Believers should not forsake assembling together, although their Jewish families and neighbors would be pressuring them to. When gathered with other believers, the goal should be to encourage one another (call up the mountain) with increased fervency as they see or recognize the future Day of judgment (return of the Lord) approaching. The author warns against not doing this in the next verses. </div>
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10:26-30 In this third warning passage the author again address an “enlightened” audience (10:32) who had been walking in God's will, and were being tempted and pressured to go back to the way they were. The “willful sin” is not a momentary rebellion or relapse that is part of the normal growth and maturity pattern, but, like chapter 6, a return to Judaism (which the whole letter warns against by showing the superiority of Christ over Judaism). The ones warned have “received the truth” (cf Jn 1:12), and then by going back to Judaism left the sphere where forgiveness was found (by the blood of Christ, described earlier in the chapter). In the Levitical sacrifices there was no longer a sacrifice for sins, but only the expectation of judgment, and the fire which will consume the adversaries. This is the judgment John spoke of in Matthew 3:12. It is not being tossed into the lake of fire with the unforgiven and unregenerate, but being judged in the fire of the garbage dump of Gehenna where fire will test the quality of each man's work (1Cor 3:15). Believers don't face the former, only the latter. </div>
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The author clearly states that believers who behave badly will face discipline as did Jesus (see comments on Luke 12:47 and the unprofitable servants -Mt 25:30). Anyone who disregarded the lesser law of Moses would die (be deprived of dominion) on the testimony of witnesses. Those who disregard and despise the rule of the Son of God in their lives are worthy of greater punishment. Note the three aspects of the sin:</div>
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trampling under foot the Son of God in their denial of the Lord who bought them (cf 6:6);</div>
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considered the blood of Jesus, which sanctified them (set them apart for New Covenant blessings) an unholy, profane, or common thing;</div>
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insulted/despised or abused the Spirit of Grace who saved, sanctified, and “indwelt” them.</div>
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These are clearly bad believers. If one's theology doesn't allow for such critters, one is not only unbiblical, but incredibly naive. It might be time to bring one's theological thinking into harmony with the truth. </div>
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The reason the believer will be disciplined/punished is because our infinitely just God has said</div>
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<i>Dt 32:35 “It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them. 36 For the Lord will judge His people...” </i> </div>
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This is in the context of God promising to judge His unfaithful children who deserted the God who made/fathered them, and Rock who saved them (32:15, 18). The parallel, cited also by Paul in Romans 12:19 should be obvious to all except the most obstinate. It is indeed a fearsome thing to fall into the hands of the living and livid God for judgment. It is better to not fear those who can kill the body than to not fear Him who can destroy both body and soul in Gehenna (Mt 10:28).</div>
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10:32-39 The author provides positive encouragement to persevere, by reminding his audience of the earlier times after they were born again/enlightened. They endured persecution and afflictions from the Jews, and shared in the sufferings of the apostles and other of God's people, joyfully accepting the loss of their possessions because they knew that had better and enduring possessions in heaven (which is a whole lot more than many modern believers know and do). The author exhorts them to not throw away their confidence in Christ, which has great reward. The issue is reward or loss thereof, not undoing justification. </div>
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The corrective is to exercise endurance, so that after having done the will of God (obviously something that is attainable and doable – see Eph 5:17 comments if in doubt), they may receive the promised blessing in the Kingdom (not a reference to getting forgiveness on the basis of works). Loosely quoting Habakkuk 2:3-4 <i>“For the vision is yet for the appointed time, and it hurries toward the end, and won’t prove false. Though it takes time, wait for it; because it will surely come. It won’t delay. 4 Behold, his soul is puffed up. It is not upright in him, but the righteous/just will live by his faith.” </i>the author reminds that God's promise will arrive. In the meantime the just (those who are already justified -see comments on Romans 1:17) will live (exercise dominion) by faith in God's promises. If anyone fails to follow in faith, and shrinks back from the difficulties of enduring denial and opposition, God will have no pleasure in that person. God only blesses those with whom He is pleased. The author groups himself with his audience in asserting that they are not among those who shrink back to destruction but who continue to have faith to the end goal of saving their souls (glorification -cf Lk 9:23-27 and the calls to discipleship in the gospels). </div>
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<b>Application</b>: God has given us all we need to progress in faith, hope and love as we await His return to reward His faithful servants.</div>
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<b>Prayer</b>: <i>Lord Jesus, thanks for all You've done to save and sanctify me, and make possible a great future with You; help me draw on Your Spirit to keep my conscience and actions aligned with Your will. Amen.</i></div>
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<u><b>Digging</b></u><u> </u><u><b>Deeper</b></u></div>
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<u>God in a nutshell</u>: God has given us ears so we can hear and do His will, and He can bless us. He provided the sacrificial system as a temporary measure for dealing with sins, until Christ would come and put an end to sin. He provides the Holy Spirit to enable us to be perfected.</div>
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<u>Build-a-Jesus</u>: As our High Priest, Jesus paid for our sins with His own blood securing total redemption for us. As the mediator of the New Covenant, Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to apply the benefits of His death in cleansing our consciences from sin and dead works so we can serve the living God </div>
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<u>Us in a nutshell</u>: NT believers participate in the blessings of the Holy Spirit in His sanctifying and perfecting us. If we follow God's will, particularly in the areas of faith, hope and love, we will be rewarded, if we don't, we will be punished with destruction (it's a promise).</div>
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<b>Where to Go for More</b>:</div>
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Truthbase.net</div>
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Bill Cobbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13773113548769757614noreply@blogger.com0