Lesson 1307

(Lesson 1307)(04-30-15) 2 Corinthians 11:16-33

"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. 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."

Today's lesson demonstrates the frustrations and seeming contempt Paul felt toward the actions of the Jewish hierarchy.

Some of Paul's railing herein was also aimed at Peter and the other Apostles in the Church at Jerusalem whom had given in to some of the demands made by the Jewish Christians that Paul and Barnabus impose portions of the Law of Moses upon the new Gentile Christians whom they had converted as recorded in Acts 15:4-31:

"And when they were come to Jerusalem (Paul and Barnabus), they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them. But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter. And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they. Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me: Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up: That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day. Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren: And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia: Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment: It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth. For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well. So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle: Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation."

Those of us today whom have placed our faith in Jesus Christ should stand firm, applying the same principles upon which Paul stood in defense of the faith. We should NEVER allow outside influences alter the intent of the true gospel of Jesus Christ, which is simply this: "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved"~.

Lesson 1306

(Lesson 1306)(04-29-15) 2 Corinthians 11:5-15

"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."

In today's quote, Paul reiterated that he owed the people of Corinth nothing. He stressed that, while he was preaching among them, he had required nothing and reminded them that his needs had been fully supplied by the Church at Macedonia. He made that vividly clear so that the Corinthians would know that he had preached the true gospel of Jesus Christ purely out of absolute devotion to that gospel as well as out of a profound love for them.

Paul took a back seat to no one when it came to the defense of the his faith. In essence, he said, although he was coarse in manner and appearance, he was absolutely pure in his devotion to Jesus Christ.

Paul went further in today's quote to again warn of the false prophets who were already at work among the Churches and cautioned the Corinthians to separate themselves from those who would distort the "simplicity that is in Christ".~

　

Lesson 1305

(Lesson 1305)(04-28-15) 2 Corinthians 11:1-4

"Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him."

Today's short and simple quote is one of the most important in the entire New Testament when it is applied to the conduct of modern "Christianity".

Herein, Paul, knowing that there would be many false teachers who would come to destroy the simple doctrine of Jesus Christ, spoke of "the simplicity that is in Christ". That simple phrase had very powerful implications then and now as it explains the easy means by which God's grace can be received by the lost unto eternal salvation.

Today, Paul's fear has been realized many times over in that most every group claiming to preach Christianity, impose false restrictions on salvation by making it seem almost impossible for the common sinner to achieve.

Sadly, there are just a few remaining true Christian denominations who still preach "the simplicity that is in Christ" as the ONLY means by which one can achieve eternal salvation. Most other isms claim that one must either be immersed in water (baptized) or that one must repent then live a life completely above sin in the flesh, or both. Some put other unscriptural restrictions on salvation.

Jesus Himself gave explicit instructions as to how we are to achieve eternal salvation in John 5:24, when He said; "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, HATH everlasting life, and SHALL NOT COME INTO CONDEMNATION; but is IS PASSED from death unto life."

We should note that those instructions did not include water baptism as a requirement, and neither did they require living a perfect life after repentance. Jesus, when He was slain, buried, and rose again, did it all for us so that all we need to do is believe in him; "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." (Acts 16-31)

That is "the simplicity that is in Christ".~

Lesson 1304

(Lesson 1304)(04-27-15) 2 Corinthians Chapter 10

"Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you: But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh. For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's. For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed: That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters. For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible. Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present. For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you. For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth."

In today's quote, Paul explained what should be the true Christian attitude as opposed to the haughty appearance of most other religions (primarily the Jews). Unlike the hypocrites who believe their earthly behavior sets them apart from the lowly "sinners", the children of God set themselves apart by humbly going about their daily work recognizing that the flesh has weaknesses that cannot be overcome while yet in the flesh, and by relying on the blood of Jesus Christ to atone for those weaknesses.

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled."

Paul further accentuates this reality in his letter to the Ephesians; "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 1303

(Lesson 1303)(04-26-15) 2 Corinthians Chapter 9

"For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many. Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready: Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting. Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness. But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men; And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift."

Today's quote deals with Paul's request to the Christian's at Corinth that they make donations of goods to the saints in other locations and he also relates his instructions concerning the gathering, preparation and pick up time of those goods.

Paul again congratulated the Church for its good work in assisting the needy.~

Lesson 1302

(Lesson 1302)(04-25-15) 2 Corinthians Chapter 8

"Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack. But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you. And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us: Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you. Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ. Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf."

In today's quote, Paul expressed the gratitude of the saints toward the Church in Macedonia for their generosity toward the needy as well as toward their sister Churches. He also asked the Corinthians to be equally generous toward those needs with the assurance that God would return their generosity many times over.

This lesson as it should be applied by today's Churches, is that we should always be diligent in seeing to the needs of the true Christian fellowship wherever it may be found. We should be generous in every regard, giving of our wealth to whomever we find in need. If we do so, God will return our bounty "an hundredfold".~

Lesson 1301

(Lesson 1301)(04-24-15) 2 Corinthians Chapter 7

"Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man. I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you. Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation. For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more. For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season. Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you. Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all. For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth. And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him. I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things."

In today's lesson, Paul again expressed his love for the Corinthians and told them how glad he was that they had heeded his message in his first letter to them.

He told them that even though his first letter, wherein he pointed out their misunderstandings concerning baptism and those who performed them, had angered some, they had all eventually come to realize that his intent was to better serve the true gospel of Jesus Christ so far as they were concerned.

Paul then went on to express his faith in the people of Corinth and their love for, and devotion to, the perfect will of God.~

Lesson 1300

(Lesson 1300)(04-23-15) 2 Corinthians 5:10-18

"As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged. Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels. Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty."

Today's text contains yet another very important lesson that has been wrongfully interpreted and taught by many.

Verse fourteen of today's quote says in part, "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers:", after which Paul gave a list of reasons why Christian people should not be "unequally yoked" with unbelievers.

That statement has been greatly misunderstood to mean that a child of God should not marry someone who does not accept the true gospel of Jesus Christ.

In reality, this passage has nothing to do with marriage at all, instead, it is referencing the actions of the Church, declaring that the Church, as a group, should not make agreements with other groups or individuals whose aim it is to promote a belief system contrary to the true Gospel of Christ.

What I have said herein is backed up by what Paul wrote when expressly discussing how married people were to conduct themselves in 1 Corinthians 7:1-17 : "Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment. For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife? But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches."

In the above quote from 1 Corinthians 7, Paul was purely addressing marriage, whereas in the quote from 2 Corinthians 5 for as it applies to today's lesson, he was clearly addressing the actions and associations of the Church as a body, and not marriage between individuals seeing that, as he said, one unbelieving marriage partner might be "saved" by the believing partner.~

Lesson 1299

(Lesson 1299)(04-21-15) 2 Corinthians 5:1-9

"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him."

In this text, Paul tells us that those whom have placed their faith in Christ Jesus live in the eternal security of knowing that no matter where we are or what we might do with our earthly body, our soul is protected by the power of God through His Holy Spirit for all eternity.

We should thank God daily that He gave us such a glorious redeemer.~

Lesson 1298

(Lesson 1298)(04-12-15) 2 Corinthians Chapter 4

"Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."

In this chapter, Paul again stresses the cost that had fell upon himself and the other faithful disciples as they continued to spread the soul saving gospel of Jesus Christ beneath the constant threat of death. He also reiterated his absolute devotion to that gospel.

I am convinced that toward the return of Christ, it will become more and more dangerous to truly represent the gospel of Jesus, we will again fall under the constant fear of death in defense of our faith.

The wheat will definitely be separated from the chaff in those coming days.~

Lesson 1297

(Lesson 1297)(04-19-15) 2 Corinthians Chapter 3

"Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious. Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: And not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord."

In the above text, Paul explained that the Corinthian Church was a living example of the message of salvation that had come through the Holy Spirit and had been delivered by himself and the other disciples, straight from the gospel of Christ.

Paul, in essence, said, It is not necessarily the deeds we do that exemplifies us, but rather it is the spirit in which we do those things that truly separates us.

Whatever we do, we are to remember, ALWAYS give the glory to God.~

Lesson 1296

(Lesson 1296)(04-18-15) 2 Corinthians Chapter 2

"But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me? And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all. For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you. But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all. Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things. To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord, I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia. Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ."

In today's quote, Paul expressed his love for the Church at Corinth and taught them to always be forgiving of those who might stray. He made it clear that Satan is constantly at work trying to lure away the children of God. Therefore, we should live our lives in a constant state of forgiveness: "I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices."~

Lesson 1295

(Lesson 1295)(04-17-15) 2 Corinthians 1:15-24

"And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you before, that ye might have a second benefit; And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia unto you, and of you to be brought on my way toward Judaea. When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay? But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea. For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand."

In today's quote, Paul assured the Corinthians that every word he and the others had preached to them were from a devoted heart and were truly the divine word that God Himself had confirmed through the death, burial and resurrection of His only begotten Son.

Wouldn't this be a wonderful time if all those who profess to teach the true gospel of Jesus Christ, actually did it? Sadly, for the most part, today's "Christian" religion and it's heretical representatives are the greatest impediment to those who are truly devoted to the work the Lord has assigned.~

Lesson 1294

(Lesson 1294)(04-15-15) 2 Corinthians 1:1-14

"Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia: Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation. For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us; Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf. For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward. For we write none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to the end; As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus."

Today's quote relates Paul's greetings to the Corinthian Christians and expresses his gratitude for their steadfastness in the faith and their prayers during the time when he and some of the other disciples were facing death at the hands of the Romans and the Jewish council.

In the latter part of the lesson Paul expressed his desire to travel again to Corinth to visit with the Church there.~

Lesson 1293

(Lesson 1293)(04-14-15) 1 Corinthians 16:10-24

"Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do. Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren. As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity. I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such. The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss. The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand. If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen."

In today's quote Paul encouraged the Corinthians for the work they were doing for the Lord and asked them to be hospitable to the preachers and teachers that would be coming their way.

In closing his letter, Paul sent his salutations from himself and those who were in his company.~

Lesson 1292

(Lesson 1292)(04-13-15) 1 Corinthians 16:1-9

"Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me. Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia. And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go. For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit. But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries."

This lesson demonstrates how Paul, as he traveled among the early churches, insisted that they gather and make weekly offerings of their goods to be sent back to Jerusalem.

Although its not made clear herein, I would assume those goods were to be given in support of the wives and families of the disciples who were too busy with the work of the Church to effectively provide for the needs of their families. Deacons were selected from among the Church to administer the goods that were collected as per Acts 6:1-4; "And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word."

In the latter part of this lesson, Paul advised that he would soon go to Corinth by way of Macedonia and said, in essence that he was always careful about his travel because there were many who wished him dead.~

Lesson 1291

(Lesson 1291)(04-12-15) 1 Corinthians 15:51-58

"Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord."

Today's quote demonstrates how those of us whom have placed our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ will rise cleansed of all sin and immortal. What a glorious day that will be when we arise victorious over death and no longer burdened by the sin nature of our earthly bodies.

It behooves every child of God to work as diligently as is possible to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ that contains the word of God's amazing saving grace so that everyone we can persuade will have the opportunity to be there with us in that wonderful celebration.~

Lesson 1290

(Lesson 1290)(04-11-15) 1 Corinthians 15:33-50

"Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption."

In today's quote, Paul explained that those of us whom are saved by the blood of Jesus Christ will not be resurrected in these same old bodies we have worn here on earth, but rather, leaving all the things of this earth, we will be resurrected in new glorified spiritual bodies befitting the Godliness that will encompass heaven.~

Lesson 1289

(Lesson 1289)(04-10-15) 1 Corinthians 15:23-32

"But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead? And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die."

In today's quote Paul laid out the order of the resurrection. Christ having been the first to rise and then through His efforts the rest of us whom are saved will rise when He has overtaken all sin and returns to gather His own.

In the latter part of this quote, Paul made reference to being "baptized" for the dead. This reference causes confusion for some as to what is meant by the reference.

Being "baptized" for the dead is what Jesus accomplished for all those who, prior to His coming, had faith that God would eventually provide a redeemer for His people who had maintained faith in Him. Jesus, in that regard, was "baptized for the dead".

In this text, Paul, because he and all who are saved by the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, were and are to be deliverers of the gospel message, included us all with Christ as having been "baptized" for the dead; "I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily." When Paul said "I die daily" he was describing a daily baptism for the dead.~

Lesson 1288

(Lesson 1288)(04-09-15) 1 Corinthians 15:9-22

"For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive."

　

In today's quote Paul, hearing that their were some among them who didn't believe in the resurrection, reassured the Corinthians that Jesus Christ did indeed overcome death and that He rose again alive and glorified to claim victory over the sin that was inherent in mankind since the fall of Adam.

Herein Paul also assured the children of God, that we live with the assurance that through our faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we too shall arise from the grave to spend eternity in heaven.~

Lesson 1287

(Lesson 1287)(04-08-15) 1 Corinthians 14:34-40

"Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues." Let all things be done decently and in order.

I apologize for reverting back for today's lesson, but I overlooked a very important point that appears in the latter part of Corinthians 14.

In this quote, Paul said, "let your women be silent in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church."

There are many today, especially women, who take issue with this text in that it seems to block them out of any interaction within the Church.

I will take no stand on this issue since the text very clearly speaks for itself. I will however, draw your attention to Paul having said, "but they are commanded to be under obedience, AS ALSO SAITH THE LAW". This could mean that Paul's rule is taken from a tradition under the Law of Moses and should not be carried over to the modern churches since the meeting places of Christians Churches are no longer controlled by Jews and bound to the rules of Judaism.

It seems too that what is said in Galatians 3:26-29 contradicts what Paul said herein; "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."

The Galatians text clearly states that once a woman becomes a child of God she is to be seen as an equal in the Church.~

Lesson 1286

(Lesson 1286)(04-07-15) 1 Corinthians 15:1-8

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time."

In today's quote Paul listed the many who saw and walked with Jesus after He was resurrected. Jesus also appeared to Paul on the road near Damascus where Paul was converted and designated the Apostle to the Gentiles; "And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink. And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake." (Acts 9:3-16)

Jesus would appear to Paul a second time as is referred to in Acts 26:16-18, for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I WILL APPEAR UNTO THEE; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me."~

Lesson 1285

(Lesson 1285)(04-06-15) 1 Corinthians 14:29-40

"Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order."

In today's quote, Paul encouraged prophesy and explained how it was to be done.

The word "prophet", as it is applied in today's lesson, is defined by Strong's bible dictionary as: "in Greek writings, an interpreter of oracles or of other hidden things one who, moved by the Spirit of God and hence his organ or spokesman, solemnly declares to men what he has received by inspiration, especially concerning future events, and in particular such as relate to the cause and kingdom of God and to human salvation" This definition can easily be applied to any child of God who has received the full knowledge of the true gospel of Jesus Christ.

There area many today who seem to believe that a prophet must be someone who can foresee the future, that is true in a sense. However, anyone who has received the heavenly gift of salvation has been shown and fully understands the future that awaits those who will, or will not, place their absolute faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, in essence, a prophet, as Paul applied the term, is a born again child of God and a learned teacher of the gospel. Prophets, as Paul applied the term, are not people who can predict the future of the world other than as it concerns those who either deny, or accept the saving grace of God through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord.~

Lesson 1284

(Lesson 1284)(04-05-15) 1 Corinthians 14:1-28

Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, everyone of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God."

Today's quote demonstrates the importance of yesterday's lesson in that it warns against preaching, or teaching, in languages (unknown tongues) that no one other than oneself can understand. Herein Paul essentially said that to speak in such an "unknown tongue" simply serves to confuse the listeners and serves no purpose other than self gratification.

He also said, in essence, that if a preacher or teacher speaks to those who don't understand his/her language, he/she is to provide and interpreter so that the listeners may understand and be lifted up by what is being said.~

Lesson 1283

(Lesson 1283)(04-04-15) 1 Corinthians 12:28-31

"And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way."

Today's quote is taken from an earlier lesson. I thought it important to go back and cover this part of that lesson a bit more closely seeing that I neglected to cover it in detail.

In this quote, Paul lists "diversities of tongues" as a gift that could be given to the children of God through the Holy Spirit.

Oddly and even sadly, there are some today who, by wrongly applying the intent of this text, contend that there are a few in the Church who are given a special gift of speaking in "unknown tongues" whereas the speaker makes some vocal utterances that only the Holy Spirit and an interpreter can understand. The supposed purpose of speaking in such "tongues" varies from "church" to "church" and person to person, none of which can be verified by New Testament text.

It is reasonably obvious that when Paul spoke of the gift of "tongues" he was talking about those who were then, and those who are today, capable of speaking in more than one language so as to be able to communicate with the many different peoples of that region at that time. The "gift", or talent, of being multi-lingual was very important in that area where several different languages were commonly spoken among a relatively small population. Some examples are Greek, Aramaic, Hebrew, and Latin.

Strong's bible dictionary defines the word tongues as it is applied in this text as: "a tongue the language or dialect used by a particular people distinct from that of other nations"

Therefore for today's purpose, as it was then, when the gift of "tongues" was/is mentioned in the New Testament, it is simply a reference to someone who is able to speak in more that one language, or dialect.~

Lesson 1282

(Lesson 1282)(04-03-15) 1 Corinthians 12:29-Chapter 13

"Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."

In today's quote, Paul explains that no matter what talents or gifts a child of God might have, those gifts are to be applied with charity. Paul then explained the meaning of charity as that term is applied herein.

In essence, we are to do the will of God, using any and all the tools at our disposal and we are to do it with the honor and glory of God always foremost in our minds and with the ultimate intent of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ crucified.~

Lesson 1281

(Lesson 1281)(04-02-15) 1 Corinthians 12:15-28

"If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues."

In today's quote Paul further explained the diversity of purpose for each individual member of the body of Christ. (The body of Christ is the Church) Paul was careful to maintain that each member, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is just as important to the whole as is the most prominent member.

As the children of God, and as individual members of the body of Christ, we are to celebrate the least among us just as much as we celebrate the greatest, knowing that the least noticed members are the most missed when they are gone. For example, if we view the Church as a pyramid of stacked dominoes, removing the top domino causes no problem, the great majority of the pyramid remains standing, but if you remove one of the bottom or less prominent dominoes, the whole pyramid falls.

We are all given gifts according to the will of God and our abilities, we should always use them to further the gospel of Jesus Christ and to honor and glorify God.~

Lesson 1280

(Lesson 1280)(04-01-15) 1 Corinthians 12:8-14

"For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many."

In today's quote Paul defined the various and individual gifts that can be given to each of the children of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul made it very clear that each individual member plays unique part in making up the whole body of Christ, the "body of Christ" being today, His Church.

We as individual members of the body can do nothing on our own in our service to the Church. We must have the guidance and clarity of the Holy Spirit to unite us in our purpose, and through that same Holy Spirit, all praise, honor and glory, is to be given to God.

There is another very important point that is made in today's quote that demands our attention because so many, so called, Christian denominations wrongfully contend that water baptism is a required step in the process of salvation and establishes membership into the Church.

Paul said; "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body". This statement very clearly demonstrates that it is the "SPITIT" only that establishes membership in the Church. We are baptized into the body of Christ by "the spirit", NOT water.

The term "Spirit", as it is applied in today's quote, is defined by Strong"s bible dictionary as: "the third person of the triune God, the Holy Spirit, coequal, coeternal with the Father and the Son ". This definition of the term leaves no room for the contention that water is implemental or is is somehow implied by the use of the term "spirit".

Faith alone assures our membership into Christ's Church, No act of a man/woman has anything at all to do with it. "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) Water baptism is a work of man, not the "spirit".~