Lesson 1249

(Lesson 1249)(02-28-15) 1 Corinthians 2:1-5

"And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God."

　

In today's quote Paul explained the simplicity of his gospel message. He assured the Corinthians that he offered them nothing more than the simple message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ crucified. Paul's words were never sprinkled with pompous and witty words meant more to esteem himself than the glory and power of God, sadly a trait common to too many of today's preachers.

As Paul summed up this lesson he again reassured the Corinthians that it is not the wisdom of the world that gives us the power of God unto eternal life, but rather it is spiritual wisdom of faith. Not faith in the actions or rituals of mankind, but rather faith in the power of almighty God to usward through Jesus Christ crucified.~

Lesson 1248

(Lesson 1248)(02-27-15) 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

"For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."

　

In today's quote Paul sums up the whole intent of his first letter to the Corinthians. Therein we read that nothing mortal man can do is wise enough or great enough to assure the eternal salvation of the soul.

Paul assured us that true wisdom does not come before God, but rather from God; "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."
Jesus brought His gospel to the lowest and least esteemed. He warned about, and was put off by, those who thought themselves to be high and mighty, those who practiced pomp and ritual who being so sure of themselves, thought they knew it all; "Then in the audience of all the people he said unto his disciples, Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts; "Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation." (Luke 20:45-47)

There is no ritual nor work of human hands that can ever be a part of God's redemption of the immortal soul of mankind; "No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:44) "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)~

Lesson 1247

(Lesson 1247)(02-26-15) 1 Corinthians 1:19-25

"For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men."

In today's quote Paul explained how it is the nature of mankind to try and put his/her own selfish reasoning above the wisdom God. Through the much demonstrated selfishness of mankind, and his/her desire to make salvation all about him/herself, he/she has only laid obstacles in the path to to that salvation. One such obstacle is the demand made by most of today's isms, that perfection must be attained in ones daily life before that one can be saved. That contention is nonsense, just as Paul made clear in the quote from Romans 4:4-5, "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." That quote means that if you must work for your souls salvation it cannot be considered a gift, rather it would be considered something you had earned and there would have been no need for the righteousness of Christ. If, on the other hand, salvation is truly by grace, a gift, then one need do nothing more than believe that God is willing and able to give eternal life and simply ask for it, taking on him/herself the righteousness of Jesus Christ through faith in Him. Throughout the Old Testament God gave the Hebrew people the chance to live above sin, He even gave them a means by which they could atone for their weaknesses. The Hebrews, however, failed miserably. Then God sent Jesus so that through faith in His righteousness the lost could indeed be saved or "justified" before God.

The simplicity of God's plan of salvation baffles the minds of those who consider themselves intellectually elite (The wise). However, to those who merely and humbly seek the comfort of knowing that their eternity is secured by the Holy Spirit, God's plan is as plain as the nose on your face. "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."~

Lesson 1246

(Lesson 1246)(02-25-15) 1 Corinthians 1:17-18

"For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."

　

Because, as Paul said, the gospel to some might appear to be "foolishness", I want to go over this quote again because it contains information that will maybe help clarify what was said in the previous two lessons.

I believe as Paul did that to the egotistical mind of mankind the simplicity of God's plan of salvation appears to be "foolishness".

It might appear foolish to believe that all one need do to attain eternal life is to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the only begotten Son of God, and that He was sent to be the perfect sacrifice for ALL sin, that He was killed, buried and then rose again alive to ascend back to God the Father with all power to save humanity, thereby fulfilling ALL the requirements of the Law.

As was proven by God's chosen Israel, mankind could never live a wholly righteous life. Therefore God Himself, in human form, came to earth as Jesus Christ to live a perfect, sin free life and then sacrifice Himself so that all who would place their faith in Him could take on His righteousness and thereby be reborn in the spirit so as to attain eternal life. Paul made that point very clear in Romans 4:4-5, "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."

Although God's plan might appear "foolishness" to the lost, "unto us which are saved it is the power of God." even unto eternal life.~

Lesson 1245

(Lesson 1245)(02-24-15) 1 Corinthians 1:1-18

"Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you:So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."

　

The last two of our lessons have been taken from the same quote we will recover today. I'm recovering this entire quote because it contains some information that can be very confusing to some. In today's lesson I'm going to try and with the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit, maybe clear up some of the confusing points.

When this passage was transliterated to English from the original Greek language the translators, in every instance where the term 'baptismo' appeared in the original writings, assigned it some grammatical form of the English word "baptize". They must have not understood that in the original ancient Greek language the term 'baptizo' was a one size fits all term that could describe several different occurrences and could define anything from a washing in water immersion to something as complicated as the learning and acceptance of a given doctrine. Sadly, too many of today's bible scholars automatically, lazily and wrongfully relate the transliterated term "baptize" to some form of a ritual involving water, either simple washing, total immersion or sprinkling.

Therefore it behooves us to parse this entire quote to find the different contextual intents of each and every application of the term "baptized" as it appears in this quote. The same scrutiny should be applied to the term every time it appears in the New Testament. We should ALWAYS let the context determine the intent of the usage.

Paul began today's quote by exposing the dissension in the early Corinthian Church concerning the very confusion over water baptism that is herein earlier described.

Some of the Corinthians had come to believe-and some of their preachers might have been wrongfully teaching-that the Jewish ritual of water immersion (baptism) was a required part the process of their eternal salvation. Some had ever begun to give more credit for their salvation to the preacher who had immersed them in water than they were giving to the true and ONLY savior, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul, by tersely stating, "I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." Paul made it vividly clear that water baptism has nothing to do with salvation when he said those things. He made it crystal clear that it was Jesus Christ through the preaching of the gospel that was to be given the praise for eternal salvation.

Paul very clearly said that he was NOT sent to baptize (which in this application means water immersion), but rather he was sent to preach the soul saving gospel of Jesus Christ crucified.~

NOTE: I know that this might still be confusing to some and I also know that I might have made it more confusing in my attempt at clarification so if anyone has questions about any part of this, or any other lesson, I hope you will feel free to ask so that we all can learn. I know full well that I am not the final authority. That recognition goes strictly and directly to God.

Please pray for me as I continue these lessons.

Lesson 1244

(Lesson 1244)(02-23-15) 1 Corinthians 1:14-18

"I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."

　

Paul made an astounding statements when he said "I thank God I baptized none of you" and "For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel".

In yesterday's lesson I correctly said that the term "baptized" as it was generally applied in the quote, was not in reference to a water immersion. The assertion was correct in that when Paul quoted the Corinthians as saying, "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ" he made the assertion that Christ must have been one of the baptismal options. Therefore, knowing that Christ never administered water baptism to anyone, Paul's reference to baptism must have been in regard to something other than immersion in water.

In today's quote, however, the use of the term "baptize" has mixed meanings and intents. When in today's quote, Paul said, "I thank God I baptized none of you" he was expressing gratitude for the fact that he had not been responsible for some of the Corinthians contentious and misguided beliefs. He was ALSO speaking to the water immersions that the Corinthians had been subjected to by whomever had administered their water "baptism".

NOTE: It behooves us to remember that water immersion "baptism" was, and still is, an ancient Jewish tradition and plays no part in the remission of sins nor the eternal salvation of the soul. The "baptism" that DOES remit sins and is indeed responsible for the salvation of the eternal soul is an immersion into the death burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ and NOT an immersion into water.

When Paul said, "For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel", he was clearly saying that immersing lost souls in water was not a part of the gospel nor was the responsibility of a preacher to teach it. He then explained why it is so difficult for many to grasp the simplicity of God's plan. "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."

It has always been the habit of mankind to try and make him/herself a part of their own salvation, just as the Corinthians were attempting to do. That is just one of the absurdities of mankind as Paul eloquently said, "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness, but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." No truer words have ever been spoken.~

This subject will be further examined as we continue these lessons.

Lesson 1243

(Lesson 1243)(02-22-15) 1 Corinthians 1:10-13

"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye *baptized in the name of Paul?"

　

Today's quote demonstrates the dissension that was brewing among the members of the Church, even as early as Paul's time. That same dissension is found among many supposed Christian Churches today. Im my lifetime I have witnessed the split up of several Church groups simply because of something the preacher said, or didn't say.

Paul said of the Corinthians; "every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ." This meant that the people were giving more credit for their salvation to the preacher than they were to God. Although some did give all the credit of Christ.

To address the problem, Paul asked the Corinthians, "Is Christ divided?". Knowing that Christ was NOT divided, and that there is only one savior and by asking that question, Paul challenged them to expose where their faith was truly placed. Was their faith in Christ Jesus, or was it in the preacher who had delivered the gospel to them, seeing that some said "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ."

As I said previously, that same problem remains in many of today's "Churches". There are some whom are clearly more devoted to the preacher than they are to the appointed work of the Church.

In the last verse of today's quote, Paul said; "was Paul crucified for you? or were ye *baptized in the name of Paul?" Herein, Paul was asking if their preacher (Whomever had taught them.) was the one who was sacrificed for their sins? The very obvious answer is that it was Jesus Christ who died for all sins.

When Paul asked, were ye *baptized in (into) the name of Paul, he was asking if they believed they had been immersed into Paul's saving grace and not the saving grace of God through Jesus Christ.~

NOTE: *The term "baptized", as it is applied in today's quote, is not in reference to an immersion into water. The term is in reference to the sanctification given to the Corinthians through the gospel message that had been brought to them by the disciples, Apollos, Cephas, et al.

This lesson will be expanded upon tomorrow.

Lesson 1242

(Lesson 1242)(02-21-15) 1 Corinthians 1:1-9

"Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord."

　

In today's quote, Paul sent salutations to the Church in Corinth and praised their steadfastness toward the gospel of our Lord.~

Lesson 1241

(Lesson 1241)(02-20-15) Romans Chapter 16

I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also. Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household. Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them. Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them. Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you. Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord. Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen."

　

In today's quote Paul passed his salutations to the members of the Church in Rome, guiding them to love and care for one another.

He complimented them for their diligence and warned them to stay away from those who would try to subvert the Church with evil tongues and deeds for their own gain.

Paul again reminded them to give the honor and glory to God always, "To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen."~

Lesson 1240

(Lesson 1240)(02-19-15) Romans 15:18-33

"For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation: But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand. For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you. But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you; Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company. But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints. For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things. When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me; That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints; That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen."

　

In today's quote Paul spoke of his diligence in assuring that the good news of Jesus Christ had been preached to the Gentiles from Jerusalem to Illyricum. He also spoke of taking gifts from the Gentiles to the Church in Jerusalem in hopes that they would allow him to personally take his gospel message into Rome.~

Lesson 1239

(Lesson 1239)(02-18-15) Romans 15:8-17

"Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God, That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost. I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God."

　

In today's quote, Paul verifies his duty and desire to continue preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, as Jesus had directed him.

As was prophesied from the beginning, upon the coming of Jesus Christ, and throughout His ministry, the gospel was preached to the Jews only, but after the vast majority of Israel's leadership had rejected it, Jesus designated Paul to bring the gospel to the Gentiles. In today's quote Paul verified that he had done what he was commanded to do.

"Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God, That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost. I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God."~

Lesson 1238

(Lesson 1238)(02-17-15) Romans 1-7

"We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God."

　

Today's quote restates and urges a commitment to the two "great" commandments. Herein, Paul reiterates that we are to be tolerant of the weaknesses of others. Not only forgiving the weaknesses of our brothers and sisters, but actually taking the blame for their lack of knowledge. We should never set ourselves apart from those in need of guidance, instead we should constantly make ourselves available to fill a need. We are to pull together toward the common goal of teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and doing everything we do for the honor and glory of the God the Father.~

Lesson 1237

(Lesson 1237)(02-16-15) Romans 14:10-23

"I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. Let not then your good be evil spoken of: For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin."

In today's quote Paul said, in essence, said that if a certain group of Christians disagree with the traditions of another Christian group, about such things as ritually eating different types of food, drinking wine, selecting different days to assemble, etc, that the first group should not interfere with, or condemn the practices of the second.

Paul said Christians, in whatever they do, are required only to conduct themselves in a manner that is pleasing to God and that the traditions of ALL Christians, are to be practiced in faith and toward the honor and glory of God.

Paul said, again in essence, that a child of God should never feel guilty about allowing others to practice their traditions without condemnation because it is a blessing unto you, "Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin."

Paul even said that if we do feel guilt for allowing others to do as they please, that guilt is a sin to us.

In short, the children of God are ONLY bound by the two "great" commandments that Jesus Himself left us; "The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:29-31 in part)

If we truly love our God above all else, and love our neighbors as we love ourselves, we will not place ourselves in authority over other Christians, nor will we interfere with their worship rituals.
NOTE: This lesson applies ONLY to the true children of God. Those groups whom have created their own gospel are not included. "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (Matthew 7:14)~

Lesson 1236

(Lesson 1236)(02-15-15) Romans 14:8-9

"For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.

This short quote contains a mighty precious promise that provides further security to those of us who believe in Jesus Christ for the redemption of our eternal souls. We ALL belong to Christ.

Along with part of yesterdays quote, herein we are assured that no matter what we do, how we do it, or whether we be alive or dead, we still belong to Christ.

The security of the believer is also firmly assured in Ephesians 4:30, "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby YE ARE SEALED UNTIL THE DAY OF REDEMPTION."~

Lesson 1235

(Lesson 1235)(02-14-15) Romans 14:1-7

"Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself."

In today's quote Paul advised that the children of God should look beyond the small differences of opinion that arise among the children of God concerning such things as what we should eat, and how and when; we should practice our worship.

In today's religious world many things that were vaguely hinted at in the New Testament have been made into absolute rules that all "good" Christians are to abide by. For example, the vague statement "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."(Hebrews 10:25), is a perfect example. That simple statement, over time, has been made into an outright commandment that means Christians are supposed to assemble to worship, at least every Saturday or Sunday when the original statement made no such assertion.

In today's quote Paul very clearly refuted that exact example; "One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it."

In essence, Paul instructed that the children of God each worship the Lord however he/she chooses so long as he/she keeps their worship practices within the boundaries of the gospel itself.

Jesus nor the Apostles left detailed instructions as to how and when we, God's children, are to worship Him.

No doubt we are to assemble ourselves together with other Christian people to exhort and edify each other as Paul directed, but how and when we do it is left entirely up to the individual.

Today's "Christians" spend far more time sitting in pews listening to the same "sermons" they've heard hundreds of times before, than they do actually spreading the good news of salvation through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ crucified.~

Lesson 1234

(Lesson 1234)(02-13-15) Romans Chapter 13

"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."

In today's quote, Paul continued giving instructions as to how Christian people are to conduct themselves in their daily lives. He makes the exact same point that Jesus made in Matthew 12:29-31: "The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Matthew 12:29-31)

The load we are to bear as the children of God is a light one. We are simply required to believe in Jesus Christ to the eternal redemption of our souls, to love God above all else and to be good to one another. We should always consider the needs of our fellow man/woman as we would consider our own needs.

Today it sadly seems that greed has taken over the hearts and minds of many who call themselves the children of God. Not only do they fail to put God first in all things, it seems they actually have enmity toward the poor and weak.

As Paul so clearly stated in Romans 2:1, the sins of those around us are not our concern because God is the ONLY judge of sin, but as Jesus said in Matthew 12:29-31, the welfare of our neighbors is one of our most important concerns.~

Lesson 1233

(Lesson 1233)(02-12-15) Romans Chapter 12

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."

In today's quote, Paul perfectly lays out what God desires of those who put on the Christian mantle.

In general this quote simply lays out what is involved in obeying the two "great" commandments, "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." (Matthew 22:28-29)

Everyone who claims to be a Christian should live their lives in accordance with these simple rules.

Beyond that, there is nothing I can add to this lesson that would make it any clearer than Paul has already done.~

Lesson 1232

(Lesson 1232)(02-11-15) Romans 11:25-36

For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins. As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes. For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counseller? Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen."

In today's lesson, Paul concluded that just as we are saved through the covenant between God and Abraham, in that through Abraham God sent our redeemer, Israel today is given a second chance to be saved through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

In the first part of this quote Paul said, "For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins." This promise assures both Israel and the Gentiles that all whom have believed in Jesus Christ are now to be considered collectively as "Israel" in that we (the saved), whether Jew or Gentile, are all the children of God through faith in the divine sacrifice of Jesus Christ for all sin.~

Lesson 1231

(Lesson 1231)(02-10-15) Romans 11:22-24

Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again. For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?"

In today's quote Paul warned the Gentiles to observe how with both severity and great goodness God treated His "chosen" Israel.

He warned that unless the Gentiles accepted the righteousness of Christ by the grace of God, they too would be "cut off", just as was Israel.

Paul also said that if the Jews would return to their faith in God and accept Jesus as savior, placing their faith in Him and not in themselves to do good works, they could be re-grafted onto the soul saving tree of life.

He went further to explain that it would be much easier for Israel to be re-grafted onto the tree from which they had been broken off, than it would be for the Gentiles to grafted to a new tree with roots that were alien to them.

This lesson is more proof that Israel was indeed "cut off" from God, so far as having a means by which they could achieve their own salvation through the works of the Law, and were instead, like the Gentiles, given a means by which they could receive salvation through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ crucified, buried, resurrected and ascended to the right hand of the Father.

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:9)~

Lesson 1230

(Lesson 1230)(02-09-15) Romans 11:13-21

"For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee."

Paul opens today's quote by professing that he, being God's chosen Apostle to the Gentiles, kept preaching to the Jews so that some of them might be saved, and that by doing so he expanded his work for the Lord.

What we should remember from the entirety of today's lesson is that the Jews were chosen by God so that through them came the prophesied tree of life, into which we Gentiles, through faith, can be grafted.

Referring to his Jewish brethren, Paul said, "because of unbelief they were broken off" therefore, by being grafted onto the tree through faith, the saved replace the Jews who were broken off when Jesus completed His divine sacrifice and fulfilled the Law.

That same *tree of life that is mentioned in Genesis is our savior Jesus Christ, and by being grafted into Him we are returned to the favor of God and thereby inherit the promise of eternal life.

"And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the *tree of life, and eat, and live for ever:" (Genesis 3:22)~

Lesson 1229

(Lesson 1229)(02-08-15) Romans 11:6-12

"And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day. And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling block, and a recompence unto them: Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway. I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?"

In today's lesson, Paul explains the importance of the Jews as their existence would benefit the whole world because through them the possibility of salvation would come to everyone.

It was not that the nation of Israel was "chosen" to rise above all other peoples to be eternally honored, they were "chosen" only to be the vessel by which salvation would come and after that was achieved their purpose, as a particular people, ended.

Israel was preordained to fail under the law so as to demonstrate the inability of mankind, through his/her/ own actions, to redeem him/herself to God. Through and because of that failure, and because of the faith of those who truly believed in God, Jesus was sent as a propitiation for all sin, the sins of the Jews included.

In the opening verse of today's quote, Paul again makes it clear that salvation comes wholly by faith, saying that the "works" we do, or don't do here on earth, have nothing to do with it.

As these lessons progress the new law of faith will be more and more established.~

Lesson 1228

(Lesson 1228)(02-07-15) Romans 11:1-5

"I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace."

The vast majority of today's "Christians" maintain that the Jews, still today, enjoy a "chosen" status with God and that we are to, by all means, support them in everything they do.

Paul began today's lesson by asking, "Hath God cast away his people?" The answer to that specific question, as Paul explains, is a definite no. However, the special, or "chosen" status of the Jews has certainly been replaced, or at least greatly diminished after the coming of Christ and salvation by grace.

There were many of the Jews who lived during Paul's time and after who believed in Jesus and were saved by the grace of God through that faith. Those Jews, along with all the Gentiles who believed, now make up God's "chosen" people. That status no longer uniquely belongs to the Jews.

In today's quote Paul, quoting Elias said, "they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace."

Just as were Elias and those "seven thousand" saved by the grace of God, the Jews of today are still a remnant of God's chosen.

The great majority of today's Jews still maintain the same religious practices they adhered to before the coming of Christ. Therefore, they are among those whom Elias said had, "killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars" and are certainly not among God's "chosen".

The next few lessons will further confirm the status of today's Jews.~

Lesson 1227

(Lesson 1227)(02-06-15) Romans 10:14-21

"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you. But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people."

In today's quote, referring to the Jewish nation, Paul praised those who carried the good word of God to the people. He explained how the word of God could never be heard if there was no one willing to preach it.

In the latter portion of the quote, Paul condemned all those, including the Jews, who hear and yet don't believe the precious word of God's grace.

He said that even Isaias said, "I was found of them that sought me not;" (The Gentiles) "I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people."

There are still preachers who preach the true, undistorted, word of God. We, the true Christians, should be grateful for their efforts praying for them daily. We should also join them in doing everything we can possibly do to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ crucified.

Our time is surely running out, "So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled" (Matthew 24:33-34)~

Lesson 1226

(Lesson 1226)(02-05-15) Romans 10:5-13

"For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)

But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

In today's lesson, Paul makes God's plan of eternal salvation so vividly clear that it cannot be misunderstood.

I am always amazed by the many attempts of modern "Christianity" to make salvation all about the individual when salvation is so clearly accomplished by God's grace through FAITH in His appointed redeemer.

The vast majority of religious isms WRONGLY want to make water baptism, and/or one's individual daily behavior, requirements for continued salvation. As Paul so clearly points out in this quote, neither of those things have anything to do with receiving, or maintaining, eternal salvation; "IF THOU SHALT CONFESS WITH THY MOUTH THE LORD JESUS, AND SHALT BELIEVE IN THINE HEART THAT GOD HATH RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, THOU SHALT BE SAVED."

The requirements for eternal salvation cannot be stated any plainer than that.~

Lesson 1225

(Lesson 1225)(02-04-15) Romans 10:1-4

"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth."

When Paul, in today's quote, said, "Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved." He could have just as rightly prayed for many who erroneously call themselves Christians today.

Most all religious isms today believe that, after having repented and accepted Christ as savior, in order to remain saved one must live a sinless life for the remainder of his/her existence here on earth, or, he/she must pray for forgiveness immediately after each inevitable "sin". They obviously never consider that if that were to be true, Jesus died for nothing more that to give the world a second chance at abiding by the old laws that so miserably failed the Jews.

Paul's letter to the Romans very clearly establishes that mankind will NEVER live above sin and that the only means by which the lost can achieve the righteousness required to gain eternal life is by having the righteousness of Jesus Christ imputed into them through faith in Jesus Christ crucified so as to have the the inevitable sins they DO commit, not merely forgiven, but JUSTIFIED.

In today's lesson, Paul so very truthfully said, "For I bear them" (The Jews and today's Christianity) "record that they have a zeal of God, BUT NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE. For they being IGNORANT OF GOD'S RIGHTEOUSNESS, and going about to establish THEIR OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS, have NOT submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. FOR CHRIST IS THE END OF THE LAW FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH."

It's understandable that humanity, with their pompous, self-inflated egos, want desperately to be a part of, and to be able to take credit for, their own salvation. But, that is not now possible, nor was it ever,nor will it ever be.

The only means by which a lost soul can receive salvation is through the righteousness of God imputed into him/her by faith in the blood of Jesus Christ crucified. "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." (Ephesians 2:8-9)~

Lesson 1224

(Lesson 1224)(02-03-15) Romans 9:27-33

"And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth."

In today's quote, Paul further explains that those of us whom are "called" of God (the eternally saved) are "justified" by the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus Christ crucified. "whom he called, them he also justified".

Paul also said, "If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things". This last quote assures us that God's saving grace is not restricted to only those who are "called", but rather God "delivered him up for us all".

Eternal salvation is there freely available to anyone who might choose to believe. Paul said, God delivered Jesus up as a sacrifice for the sins of "us all".~

Lesson 1223

(Lesson 1223)(02-01-15) Romans 9:14-26

What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth. Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory, Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God."

In today's lesson Paul makes it clear that God did indeed predestine some individuals, and even some entire peoples, to inherit His wrath because of things He (God) caused them to do so that He could institute His plan of redemption, (His operation).

Paul gave the example of how God kept hardening the heart of Pharaoh so that His plan for the redemption of the Israel could be fulfilled.

Judas Iscariot was another example of how one soul was predestined to be forfeited so that God's plan could be enacted.

This lesson explains how, and why, the Jews were used as pawns to help enable God's overall plan of salvation.

In essence, and in much simpler terms, the whole universe belongs to God to do with as He sees fit. Whether or not we accept that, or agree with it, is left up to us. That option is called "free will".

We should also remember that all the ancient Jews who lived believing that God would provide them a redeemer were saved by that faith just as we today are saved by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 1222

(Lesson 1222)(01-31-15) Romans 9:1-13

"I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.

Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son. And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated."

In today's lesson Paul begins to explain how the descendents of Abraham, (the Jews) were chosen by God to be the vessel by which He would send a savior to all the worlds people. However, with the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, the power of the Jewish "chosen" status was ended and was handed over to the Church.

Paul said, "They which are the children of the flesh, THESE ARE NOT THE CHILDREN OF GOD BUT THE CHILDREN OF THE PROMISE are counted for the seed. Therefore, the Jews were not, in effect, the "children of God", but rather, they were only to be the "seed" by which the ultimate Church would come. It was God's intent, from the beginning, that the "chosen" status of the Jews would become secondary to the ultimate "chosen" status of His Church once it was established and ordained by Jesus Christ.

Just as Cain lost the importance of his "firstborn" status to Abel and Esau lost his birthright to his younger brother Jacob etc, the Jews (the first) took second seat to the Church (the last). This is the meaning of; "first shall be last; and the last shall be first."

This ninth chapter of Romans demonstrates that what we see as fairness and justice does not always align with what God sees as fairness and justice. It will be made clear in these lessons that God predestined certain people to simply fill roles in order that His ultimate goal would be accomplished. That goal being to provide a savior for all the people of the world.~