Lesson 533

(Lesson 533)(01-31-13) Philippians Chapter 3, "Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself."

In today's lesson, Paul first warns the Philippians to beware of the "dogs" and "evil workers". Then he says, "beware of the concision". That word "concision" describes those whom are circumcised, referring to the Jews. Therefore, Paul warned the Philippians to beware of the Jews.

He warned of the Jews because even some of the Apostles, Peter and others, were trying to impose the restrictions and demands of the old Jewish law on all those who would convert to Christianity. This is very important to todays bible student because the vast majority of the "churches" still teach that in order to maintain ones salvation, he/she must live a perfect, sin free life according to the rules set out in the old Jewish law. That premise is a false one.

Read carefully what Paul is saying in this lesson and you will learn how a true Christian cannot, and need not live above sin in the flesh as is defined in the old law. Paul said, that at one time he was a devout practicing Pharisee Jew who strictly adhered to the law (lived the perfect life) while persecuting Christianity.

After his encounter with Jesus, on the road to Damascus, Paul expressed his thoughts about the law, "Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:"

Paul states that he had given up a good and rich life, according to the standards of the times, and counted it as crap (today's term for dung) to serve our Lord Jesus Christ with every fiber of his being.

The warnings Paul made in the beginning of this lesson should be taken to heart by todays bible student. You, as a bible student, are warned of those who would try to have you "work out your salvation".

Whether or not one attains or maintains eternal salvation is in no manner tied to his physical actions here on earth, salvation comes by faith alone.

Are we to behave ourselves, and conduct our lives in a manner that reflects our faith and honors God? Absolutely! Does our eternity depend upon whether we do or do not commit "sin" after we have accepted Christ? Absolutely not!!!

Romans 4:4-8, "Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin."~

Lesson 532

(Lesson 532)(01-30-13) Philippians 2:19-30, "But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly. Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me."

In the beginning of this lesson, Paul, with his characterization of Timothy, established how hard it was, even in the days so close to the life of Jesus Christ, to find someone upon whom you could depend to truthfully deliver the word of God in it's purest form. Even then,while the true word of God was historically so close at hand, there were those who desperately tried to distort and confuse its true meaning.

In the latter portion of this lesson, Paul relates the devotion of Epaproditus as one of those who did diligently adhere to the gospel, even when he was very sick.
Its good to carefully scrutinize those upon whom you rely for your knowledge of what God's word actually says. Compared to listening to what someone else has to say about the gospel, do you believe its be better if you take the time to study it all and learn the undisputed truth for yourself?

We should continually encourage others to study, 2 Timothy 2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."~

Lesson 531

(Lesson 531)(01-29-13) Philippians 2:1-18, "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me."

In this lesson Paul exhorts the Philippians to continue doing the work of the Lord with the same zeal as they did in the beginning when he was with them. He instructs them to care more for those around them than they do themselves. Paul explains how Jesus came, in human form, to give all of us the means by which we could become the children of God. He tells us that every one of the saved will be made to confess, before Jesus, all of the things we have done in this life, "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Paul said, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." There are many who profess to believe that this statement means that we are to earn our salvation by living sin-free lives, or to continually demonstrate, by our complete abstinence from "sin", that we are worthy of salvation. That perception the above statement however, is a false one. If one merely reads the very next sentence one finds that the actions of the saved, no matter what they are, are the actions of God, "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure." 1 John 3:9, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God."~

Lesson 530

(Lesson 530)(01-28-13) Philippians 1:21-30, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me."

In today's lesson, Paul exposes his innermost feelings concerning his obligation to constantly attend to his duty as an Apostle of Christ. It appears there were times when he wished he could end his daily suffering, die and go on to be with the Lord. He knew he would be going to a far better place. However, he could not allow it because he knew his work was not yet done.

Those of us whom have tasted the heavenly gift, have the blessing of eternal life, and know the divine truth, are bound by the same obligation as that which burdened Paul. We should never waver in our efforts to teach the "operation of God", His plan for eternal salvation.

If there are any who doubt the need, they should simply read the obituary section of the daily paper. There are millions, both young and old, who die daily having never known the amazing grace of God. It is our duty, as Christians, to teach as many as we possibly can until that day God sees fit to call us home.~

Lesson 529

(Lesson 529)(01-27-13) Philippians 1:1-20, "Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

In today's lesson, Paul and Timotheus express there love and encouragement toward the Christians in Philippi.

Paul takes us into some of the details of things that were happening within the Church during that time and how the Jewish hierarch was still trying to stop him. It appears that there was, just as today, those who were teaching the gospel of Christ for their own personal purposes along with those who were only trying to get Paul into more trouble with the authority. However, Paul didn't seem to condemn them for that, as a matter of fact, he said, "Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice."
Paul didn't seem to care what their motivation was so long as the gospel of Jesus Christ was being preached. ~

Lesson 528

(Lesson 528)(01-26-13) Ephesians Chapter 6, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things: Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts. Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen."

Today's lesson is Paul instructions as to how Christian people are to conduct themselves in their everyday lives.

There is nothing I can add to what is said here except to advise that every one of us continually study, constantly reminding ourselves that everything we do is seen by those who are lost. We should always be diligent ambassadors for the gospel of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 527

(Lesson 527)(01-25-13) Ephesians 5:17-Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband."

In the first portion of today's lesson we are instructed, as Christians, to celebrate, and enjoy, our salvation. Paul said, And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;", this means that we are to refrain from consuming so much alcohol so as to lose control, instead we are to "get high" on the fact that we have eternal life through Jesus Christ. In the words of an old Merle Haggard son, "You don't have to be high to be happy", instead be drunk with the joy of the Lord.

Today's lesson covers another topic that in my opinion is not stressed nearly enough among Church members today. That is marriage, what constitutes it, and how the man and woman who are married to each other are to conduct themselves within that marriage.

Paul very clearly establishes the husband as the head of a marriage, "For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church:".

However, Paul also lays out a very distinct set of rules for the husband to follow as he leads the marriage. "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;" In other words, we husbands are not to consider ourselves controllers of our wives, but instead we are to cherish our wives, considering them first in our every action involving the union.
In a perfect marriage, a man and a woman become as one person, both minds striving for identical results. Married people should remember "there is no I in team". A marriage is the definition of "team".
I recommend that every person even considering marriage should read the fifth chapter of Ephesians over and over again.~

Lesson 526

(Lesson 526)(01-24-13) Ephesians 5:1-16, "Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."

In this lesson Paul encourages the Ephesians, and Christianity in general, to "walk in the light". This means that they should separate themselves from the very appearance of evil. They should hold themselves to a standard that exemplifies the righteousness of Jesus Christ, recognizing that that righteousness has been, through their faith, imputed to them.

Paul clearly establishes that those Christians, who relish in the common sins of the world, will be subjected to the wrath of God. "Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience."

Paul also encourages new believers to humbly tend the work of the Lord as little children, with an apatite to learn as they grow so that as their faith grows stronger with increasing knowledge of God's word the fruit of their labors is increased accordingly.

It is our responsibility as representatives of Christ's Church, to bring evil to no one. We are to be the beacon, the "light", that leads the lost out of "darkness" and into the knowledge of God's saving grace.~

Lesson 525

(Lesson 525)(01-23-13) Ephesians 4:17-32, "This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

This is yet another one of the most important lessons in the New Testament in regard to the "security of the believer".
We should note that Paul was writing to born again believers in Jesus Christ, saved people, yet he was encouraging them step away from their evil ways and to live lives that reflected the will of Jesus Christ. Therefore, what Paul says herein, as he encourages the Ephesians to turn away from the everyday sins of everyday people, applies to all of us who have been redeemed, and directly implies that saved people may still commit sins in the flesh and remain saved.
Paul makes it pretty clear that the Ephesians were still doing things that are contrary to the will of God, just as we do today. Those contrary actions, however, did NOT terminate their salvation, nor does the evil acts we commit today terminate our salvation, as some claim to believe.

You might ask how on earth could I say such a thing? Remember, whatever we, (those who believe) do in our daily life is "justified" by faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and does NOT appear as sin before God. Everything we do is filtered through the righteousness of Jesus and cannot be counted as sin, Romans 4:8, "Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin." John 3:9, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God."

Although those of us who have placed our faith in Jesus cannot be charged with sin, we should live lives that reflect the purpose of Jesus. We should do our very best to fulfill the two commandments Jesus left us with, "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."

Even though our souls are eternally secure, just as Jesus said, if we believe in Him, and abide by these two commandments, we will have done what He asked of us.~

Lesson 524

(Lesson 524)(01-22-13) Ephesians 4:1-16, "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

This lesson demonstrates the importance of each of us within the make up of the Church. Herein, Paul calls on the Ephesians to refrain petty jealousies and to stop attempting to separate out positions of authority within the Church. He explains that each individual member has their own role to play.

He was trying to get the Ephesians (as well as Church members today) to adopt a "we're all in this together" attitude. Some were given the ability to teach, while others would prophecy, others would attend to the needs of the weak among them, each position being of equal importance to the Church.
Paul, in essence, says the sole purpose of the Church membership is to spread the good news of grace through faith in Jesus Christ risen. Diligently maintaining the integrity of the gospel message, and continually uplifting and encouraging one another in our efforts. We are to use whatever individual talent we might have to fill the needs of the body of Christ (the Church), as a whole, whatever that need.~

Lesson 523

(Lesson 523)(01-21-13) Ephesians Chapter 3, "For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to youward: How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ[5] Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen."

In this lesson Paul recognizes the Ephesians as devoted and faithful people and prays for their increased and continued strength in their efforts to teach and abide by the gospel of Jesus Christ.
For a time, the Church at Ephesus was one of the most diligent of the Churches of Asia (Turkey).

Their leadership never fell for the Jews insistence that portions of the Law be incorporated into the new law of faith, as did some of the earliest Churches.~

Lesson 522

(Lesson 522)(01-20-13) Ephesians 2:11-22, "Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit."

In this Lesson Paul draws a clear picture describing how, before the coming of Christ, the Gentiles were outcasts, separated from the Jews and from God, with no hope of redemption. He further demonstrates that through Christ, after His coming, the Gentiles were, by faith, made equal heirs of the covenant between God and Abraham, with the Jews. By this means salvation is available to all mankind.

Many of the Jews of Paul's day furiously fought the keep themselves spiritually separated from the Gentiles. This battle still, in differing forms, rages within our "churches" today. There are still those who attempt to separate the spiritual "haves", from the "have nots".
Many of the problems that plague the Church today stem from Jewish tradition overlapped by, and mingled with, the pomp and ritual of the pagan system of Catholicism.

The use of altars, the wearing of fine priestly robes, the subgrouping of members into choirs, alter boys etc., water immersion, and in some extreme instances even circumcision, are practices that were ordered, in part, under the Law of Moses and, in part, undertaken by Catholicism, yet have been carried over to our modern "religious" custom.

It behooves all of us, who strive to glean the true gospel of Christ from the words of the bible, to first and above all, keep the lessons strictly in context, and then use common sense in relating the pure original intent of the gospel to our modern daily lives.

There are NO contrasts within the word of God. There are, however, many, many misinterpretations and misunderstandings applied to it's text by those who, at the guiding hand of Satan, distort and abuse its content.

I beg all of you to pray for me that the Holy Spirit guides my thoughts as I do this commentary.~

Lesson 521

(Lesson 521)(01-19-13) Ephesians 2:1-10, "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."

This lesson relates how, through the righteousness of Christ, those of us who are saved inherit that same righteousness and are protected by it throughout eternity.
Paul said, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

That statement makes it abundantly clear that, after we have accepted Christ, what we do in our everyday lives, has NOTHING to do with whether or not we are saved, nor does it make a difference as to whether or not we remain saved. Our salvation is NOT dependent upon whether or not we "sin" after we have been redeemed. When a person places his/her soul into the saving hands of Jesus Christ, nothing they do is sin.Those things we do after we have been saved are "justified" by God, through Jesus Christ. Remember Acts 13:38-39, "Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." and , John 3:9, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.

The majority of today's isms believe that it is possible to "fall from grace". However, as we see in this lesson, that is impossible according to the word of God. Further proof that once we are saved, we are indeed eternally saved, can be found in Hebrews 6:4-6, "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame." Ephesians 1:12-13, "That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise"

As is said here, if one could break the seal of the Holy Spirit and fall away from salvation, the only means of redeeming that salvation would be to re-crucify Jesus. We know that is not going to happen.
Those who fear the security of their souls should re-examine their faith, do you have faith in your own actions, or is your faith totally in Jesus Christ?

The Ephesians exemplified righteousness, not because it was necessary to their salvation, but because of their love of God.~

Lesson 520

(Lesson 520)(01-18-13) Ephesians 1:15-23, "Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all."

In today's lesson, Paul offers a prayer of encouragement, and gratitude, for the Ephesians and their righteous efforts in spreading the gospel. He praises their understanding of the endless power of Jesus Christ as mediator between mankind and God.

Paul also reaffirms that Christ is the head of the one true Church, that the Church is indeed the body of Christ. Sadly, there are many groups today who refer to themselves as "Churches" that have allowed the rule of Christ to be compromised and besmirched by the angels of Satan in the form of "bible scholars".

We will establish the correct structure of "The Church", and it's ordained function, as these lessons continue. Some will be astonished at how far today's isms have strayed from the intended Church according to the gospel of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 519

(Lesson 519)(01-17-13) Ephesians 1:1-14, "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory."

Paul begins this lesson by praising God, through Jesus Christ, on behalf of himself, the other faithful Apostles, and the membership of the Church at Ephesus. He goes on to establish his own authority, and that of the Church, by citing their credentials as adoptees of Jesus Christ through the abounding grace of God. He explained how they had all become predestined to inherit eternal life by their acceptance of that grace.

The final portion of this lesson verifies the assurance that comes with salvation, "In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory."

It is a wonderfully comforting feeling to know that the souls of those of us who believe are forever "sealed" by the Holy Spirit of God. We, ourselves, can't even undo that which has been given over to the Holy Spirit, Romans 8:38-39, "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."~

Lesson 518

(Lesson 518)(01-16-13) Galatians Chapter 6, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden. Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand. As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh. But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God. From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen."

This lesson contains one of the most notable of all bible quotes, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Truer words have never been spoken. We will NEVER be able to fool God. Those who sow the seed of unbelief will reap everlasting condemnation while those who sow the seed of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ will reap everlasting life in the presence of God the Father.
Paul again instructs us to take care of those in need, especially our brothers and sisters in Christ.

He again assures us that God is no respecter of persons, there is no individual who has inherited a leg up on the rest of us, we are all equal in the eyes of God.'

Paul stresses that if we are diligent in the work of the Lord, we will most assuredly receive our just reward.

The most important thing that we should take from Paul's letter to the Galatians is that we should not put un-necessary restrictions, such as the requirements of the old law, upon ourselves. We need only abide by the gospel as it was left to us by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ. We should simply place our faith in the sacrifice of Jesus, and love one another. If we do that, our eternity is secured.~

Lesson 517

(Lesson 517)(01-15-13) Galatians Chapter 5, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you. A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be. And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased. I would they were even cut off which trouble you. For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another."

In today's lesson, Paul admonishes the Galatians to stand true to the gospel and to ignore those who would have them revert to the law.

Paul again confirms that being a Jew (circumcised) carries no advantage because the law was of, and for, the Jews only. However, the saving grace of God through Jesus Christ is for all who will believe.

The entirety of the old law was fulfilled by the righteousness of Jesus, and was therefore done away. Those of us whom have been made free from sin have had that righteousness imputed to us by Jesus Himself, Romans 4:11, "And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:"

Does this imputed righteousness allow us to behave as we see fit? NO! We, as Christians, are bound to the commandments of Jesus, our Savior, Matthew 22:37-39, "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."

If we fail to obey these two simple commandments, we WILL face the wrath of Jesus in our lives and His judgment in the end.~

Lesson 516

(Lesson 516)(01-14-13) Galatians 4:20-31, "I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you. Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband. Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman. So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free."

In today's lesson, Paul compares the Law of Moses to Ishmael, the illegitimate son of Abraham and Hagar and explains why that law is ineffective as a portal to God's kingdom. Just as Ishmael was denied his birthright, because God had promised Abraham and Sarah a son that would be Abraham's heir and the father of the Jews, the Law of Moses was never given the power to insure eternal life. God had, from the beginning, promised a Messiah (Jesus) to save us from the bondage of the law.
Ishmael was born of the needs of the flesh, Isaac was born out of a promise from God. The Law of Moses was born out of the requirements of the flesh, it was NEVER a redeemer. Jesus was born of God's promise, and is the ONLY redeemer. "Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now."

Even today we the saved, the children of the promise, are denied and scorned by the children of the flesh.

It behooves us all read and learn the Old Testament. It is, just as Paul said, a "schoolmaster" and will enlighten those who read it, as to the whys and hows of the blessed and divine gospel of Jesus Christ.

Paul warned the Galatians, and thereby us, not to throw away their spiritual freedoms by reverting to the useless restrictions of the law.~

Lesson 515

(Lesson 515)(01-13-13) Galatians 4:8-19, "Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them. But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you. My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you."

This lesson tells of how some of the Jews in the early Church were attempting to bring back the restrictions and rituals of the law. Paul scolded them for, after having been freed from the bondage of the law, again reverting to it.

Many of the false isms of today, referring to themselves as Christian, are guilty of the exact same practices. Knowing that there is nothing to the gospel of Jesus Christ beyond that which He commanded in His own words, and further commanded through those things related by His appointed teachers, these isms demand that pompous rituals and meaningless restrictions be demanded of new converts to the Church.

Paul asks, "But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?"

Judging by all I've been able to glean from the pages of the New Testament, the relationship between a Christian, God, and the Church Jesus founded, is a personal one and requires NO explicit ritualistic effort beyond that of having faith in the amazing grace of God through Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 514

(Lesson 514)(01-12-13) Galatians 4:1-7, "Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ."

Today's lesson explains how, before the coming of Christ, both Jews and Gentiles were bound by the disobedience of Adam and in need of a redeemer. Jesus the Son of God in human form, a Jew born of a human woman, arose out of the covenant between God and Abraham, to be that redeemer for all who will believe. Therefore, ALL who come to the acceptance of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ are become brothers and sisters and thereby the children of God.~

Lesson 513

(Lesson 513)(01-11-13) Galatians 3:13-29, "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise. Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."

Today's lesson explains how all of those who accept Christ as intercessor for their sins, become the seeds of Abraham through the promise made to Abraham by God Himself, and are therefore brothers and sisters to the Jews. In becoming the seed of Abraham through acceptance of Christ, we become the heirs (beneficiaries) of the covenant.

This is another lesson that contains some of the most reassuring words to be found in the bible. It assures us that we need not fear the possibility of losing our salvation, and explains why. Herein it is made vividly clear that the restrictions of the law no longer apply to those of us whom have placed our faith in Jesus Christ.

Paul very eloquently explains that the Law of Moses was sent as a teacher, a "schoolmaster", and was made the definer of sin so that upon its fulfillment by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, to those of us who believe in Him, our sins are, not just forgiven, but JUSTIFIED.

We should all realize that the words of this lesson have, over the centuries, been so distorted that their meaning has, for all practical purposes, to some, been lost in the shuffle.

It also behooves us to note that although the Galatians appeared to have fallen away from the true gospel, their salvation was never compromised. "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ."
NOTE: The term "baptized", as it is applied in this passage, simply means 'immersed', the use of water as a medium is not implied. In modern English that portion of the passage would read, All whom have believed in Christ and been immersed into His Sacrifice and have been secured by His cloak of righteousness.

This opinion is substantiated by the Phrase that immediately follows which implies that those whom have been immersed into Christ, "have put on Christ."

There is NO reference to water baptism in this passage.

This lesson also clarifies the error made by those who, for whatever reason, chase after false doctrines, and spiritual romanticism, placing their faith in things other than the divine sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God's plan to send us a Savior is demonstrated throughout the Old Testament, an in depth study of the Old Testament, as well as the New, is essential to a complete understanding of the "operations of God" as that terminology defines a part of today's lesson and is applied in Colossians 2:12, "Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead." ~

Lesson 512

(Lesson 512)(01-10-13) Galatians 3:1-12, "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them."

In today's lesson, Paul continues his rant against the Galatians for attempting to interfuse the old Hebrew law and the new law of faith in Jesus Christ. To do so is like trying to mix oil and water.

I can't, by any discussion, make this text any clearer than Paul has written it. Therefore, I will end this short commentary hoping that those whom have doubts as to whether it is, or is not, their "good works" that maintains their salvation, will study and absorb what Paul is saying here.

In essence, if one places his/her faith in good works, they CANNOT also have faith in the blood of Christ. We all must choose one or the other.

If "good works" can save us, Jesus died in vain.~

Lesson 511

(01-09-13) Galatians 2:11-21, "But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain."

Today's lesson is a very powerful one and should be studied over and over by those who believe they are required to, after attaining eternal life and in order to keep it, live a life that is sin free and perfect according to the Old Testament commandments. There is NO requirement for one who has accepted Christ to live a sin free life, Jesus already did it for us.

Herein, Paul straightforwardly confronts Peter about his unwillingness to stand up for the pure gospel of Christ. He rightfully accused Peter and some of the others of diluting the new law of faith with the old Law of Moses. Paul knew they had done it out of fear of the Jewish leaders, nevertheless, in yielding to the Jews, Peter demonstrated a definite weakness as a teacher of Christ's gospel.

Although today's lesson deals with the differences between the traditions of the Jews as opposed to those of the Gentiles, and how Christian doctrine approaches each of those traditions, this same lesson can be applied to those today who claim that attaining eternal salvation takes more than the acceptance of, and total faith in, the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Nowhere in the text of the New Testament is it said that salvation is doled out in parts, one piece at a time, as certain steps are accomplished. Romans, 4:4-8, "Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin."

As these lessons continue we will find more dissensions among the early Churches and how Paul fought desperately to keep the purity of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am amazed that so many (Catholics) graciously accept Peter as "the father" of the "church" seeing that he was one of the weakest of the original Apostles.
Paul was hand selected by Jesus Christ to bring the gospel to the Gentiles (the vast majority of the world). He did it with and undying zeal and absolute faith in his message.~

Lesson 510

(Lesson 510)(01-08-13) Galatians 2:1-10, "Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain. But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised: And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me: But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do."

This lesson exposes the split between what Peter and the original Apostles, were preaching to the Jewish converts, as opposed to what Paul was teaching to the Gentiles.

It appears that, because of the pressure and threats, put upon them by the Jewish hierarchy and out of fear for their lives, Peter and the original Apostles were still insisting that portions of Moses' law, such as circumcision and not eating with the unclean (Gentiles), be required of the new converts to Christianity.

Paul, although at first relenting to small insignificant portions of the law, such as refraining from fornication and the consuming of animal blood, was adamantly against applying the requirements of the old law upon the Gentile converts. Paul was correct in this teaching because of what Jesus Himself had taught and the fact that Jesus, through His death, burial and resurrection, had fulfilled all of the requirements of the Law of Moses for those who would believe in Him. Matthew 5:17, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."

The definition of the word fulfill, according to Strong's is: "to render full, i.e. to complete; to fill to the top: so that nothing shall be wanting to full measure, fill to the brim; to consummate: a number; to make complete in every particular, to render perfect; to carry through to the end, to accomplish, carry out, (some undertaking). "

This definition releases those whom have accepted the sacrifice of Christ from ANY of the restrictions of the law. Those things that were declared sin under the law are NO LONGER sin to those who believe. Remember John 3:9, "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God."

Sadly, the dissension that has so distorted and watered down the pure gospel of Christ was started among the very Apostles that Jesus selected to preach it.

The weakness demonstrated by those closest to Jesus is still alive and well within many of us today. We should continually thank God that we have His Holy Word written down so that it cannot be distorted accept by those who choose to ignore the blatant truth. ~

Lesson 509

(Lesson 509)(01-07-13) Galatians 1:13-24, "For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. And they glorified God in me."

In this lesson, Paul explains that before he took up the cross of Christ he was a devout Jew and an avid persecutor of the Christians.
He also explains how, even though he was personally chosen by Jesus to preach the gospel to the Gentiles, he had converted many of the Jews, his own people, to the Lord Jesus.

Of the twelve other Apostles, Paul had only met Peter and James, he was taught the gospel by Jesus Himself.

The information in today's lesson further verifies that many of those early Christians, both among the Jews and Gentiles, were straying away from the pure gospel of Christ as it was established by Paul and the others. As we will learn during the continuance of these lessons, Paul fought constantly against false teachers and those who were trying to pervert Christianity with the Law of Moses.~

Lesson 508

(Lesson 508)(01-06-13) Galatians 1:1-12, "Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia: Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."

In this lesson, Paul sends greetings to the Christians in Galatia, very clearly emphasizing that his appointment to the Apostleship had come from God through Jesus Christ. He did this to re-establish his credentials as the true messenger of the gospel of Christ, as opposed to those who were trying to distort what he had taught. He reminded the Galatians that he was taken up and taught that gospel by Jesus Himself.

He immediately began to condemn them for their weakness in straying from the pure gospel he had before preached to them.

He urged the Galatians to separate themselves from anyone teaching anything other than the word that had delivered them to Christ, and to beware of those who would attempt to alter his message.
This lesson is more evidence that, even in the earliest days, and among some whom had personally known of Jesus and His ministry, Christianity was under constant attack by the workings of Satan and his angels.

Today there are countless false variations of the very simple plan of eternal salvation that was preached by Paul and the other Apostles. Mankind has continually tried to add unnecessary steps and pompous procedures to that plan, attempting to make themselves a part of something that comes ONLY, and purely, through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and God's grace.

Many profess the scripturally unfounded idea that they must be personally responsible for remitting their own sins by subjecting themselves to water baptisms and other meaningless rites.

It behooves all who seek eternal salvation to learn and place their faith in the only true means of achieving that salvation.

Acts 16:30-31 in part, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."~

Lesson 507

(Lesson 507)(01-05-13) 2 Corinthians Chapter 13, "This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you. Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection. Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction. Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you. Greet one another with an holy kiss. All the saints salute you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen."

This lesson tells us that just as the Hebrew people of Moses' day reacted by reverting to idolatry when Moses went up on Mount Sinai to receive the commandments, The Corinthians had begun to stray from their faith because Paul was not always there with them.

They acted as if Paul's presence gave them the strength they needed to adhere to the gospel he had so eloquently taught them.

We should all know that, just as Paul was telling the Corinthians, our spiritual strength comes from the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, through our belief and faith in the His message, it does NOT rely upon the presence of the messenger.

Through the actions of these early Church members and Paul's letters of admonition to them, we can easily understand why there is so much derision toward, and division among, today's "churches".

The inherent sin of Adam and the omnipresence of Satan are constantly pulling us away from what we know to be right in the sight of God. It is our individual duty, being one on one with God and represented in His presence by Jesus Himself, to maintain our zeal toward His righteousness. We cannot rely on some preacher, or any "church" personality, to keep us bound to our duty toward the fulfilling of Jesus command, we must be willing to step away and bear the cross of Christ on our own.~

Lesson 506

(Lesson 506)(01-01-13) 2 Corinthians 12:10-21, "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing. Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong. Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile. Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you? I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps? Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed."

In today's lesson, Paul continues his defense of how he had presented himself, and the gospel of Christ, to the Corinthians. The membership seemed to be upset because Paul had not, himself, come to them, and instead sent Titus, his emissary.

Just as some within the "churches" of today, many of the Corinthians seemed to rely more on the messenger than on the message.

It is our responsibility as followers of Christ, after having heard the gospel and taken on it's blessed salvation, to step out on our own continuing the work before us instead of simply sitting in our comfortable seats waiting for someone else to do the footwork.

Paul said, "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."
Instead of lying down and wallowing in self pity because of our lot, we should, like Paul, take pride in having the privilege of bearing the cross of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 505

(Lesson 505)(01-03-13) 2 Corinthians 12:1-9, "It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."

In this lesson, Paul reluctantly tells of having met a "MAN OF CHRIST", fourteen years in the past, who was taken up to heaven and told unspeakable things. He says he couldn't really tell if the man was actually real or if he was seeing a spiritual vision. No matter which version is true, Paul was profoundly and eternally changed by the experience.
I believe the man Paul speaks of having met, is Jesus Christ in His glorified body. During that encounter, I believe Jesus taught Paul the mystery of the operation of God, and those things he needed to know in preparation for his ministry to the Gentiles.

Paul said of Jesus, "Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities."

In this passage, Paul is stressing that his own authority comes solely from Jesus Christ and that he is constantly reminded of his earthly anchor by his physical ailments. He makes it vividly clear that he would NEVER attempt to set himself above Jesus Christ.

Paul goes further to tell us that after failing three times, in prayer, to have his infirmity removed he had accepted it and made it his strength.
Jesus told him, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."

We today, should also learn that those things we allow to stand in the way of our being more perfect ministers of the gospel, in most cases, can be used as an effective tool within that very ministry.~

Lesson 504

(Lesson 504)(01-02-13) 2 Corinthians 11:20-33, "For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face. I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also. Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I. Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands."

In this lesson, Paul, very vividly, describes the sufferings he endured while spreading the gospel of Christ. He is undoubtedly comparable to no man in his love of God and zeal to teach God's saving grace through Jesus Christ to all who required it of him.

We today have the workings of the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ and the divine written word of God upon which to base our faith. These things were given to us through God's grace and the efforts of those devout Christian Apostles and teachers, such as Paul.

Wouldn't it be wonderful to have teachers today with that much zeal toward spreading the promise of everlasting life? And, wouldn't it be amazing if everyone of us, like Paul, were to be so devoted that we could correctly guide ANY lost soul to the eternal salvation offered through the sacrifice of Christ?

It is past time for those of us who profess to bear the cross of Christ to first LEARN then get off our soft pews and TEACH.~

Lesson 503

(Lesson 503)(01-01-13) 2 Corinthians 11:5-19, "For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles. But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made manifest among you in all things. Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely? I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself. As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia. Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth. But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little. That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting. Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also. For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise."

In this lesson, Paul appears to be solidifying his credentials as an Apostle of Christ and letting the Corinthians know that, so far as his doctrine is concerned, he will take a back seat to no man.

He goes on to again warn the Corinthians of the presence of those who would falsely use the Apostleship for personal gain.

In the latter portion of the lesson, Paul begins to speak "foolishly", literally poking fun at the Corinthians in regards to how gullible some of them had been in accepting false teachers.

He said, "Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little. That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting."
The essence of the lesson, to us , is that we not be taken in by materially motivated "televangelists", mega-church "pastors" or other obvious scam artists, but instead put all teaching to the test of the New Testament of our Lord Jesus Christ.~