Lesson 1430

(Lesson 1430)(08-31-15) 1 Peter 1:1-12

"Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into."

In today's lesson Peter greeted and and gave spiritual reassurance to the "strangers" who were scattered throughout the land. He praised them for their faith and again related the promise that was God has given to all who will accept Jesus Christ as savior.

I believe that we, today's children of God, are a part of the "strangers" to whom Peter addressed this letter.

This lesson again confirms the security of the believer, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, RESERVED IN HEAVEN FOR YOU, WHO ARE KEPT BY THE POWER OF GOD THROUGH FAITH UNTO SALVATION ready to be revealed in the last time."~

Lesson 1429

(Lesson 1429)(08-30-15) James 5:7-20

"Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy. But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins."

In today's lesson, James encouraged us to be patient and faithful, always diligent with our prayers. If we have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, anything we need is always only an humble prayer away. However, as James pointed out earlier in this text, those prayers must be from the heart toward a better end and not from a heart of greed or spite.

"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.", therefore we should, in faith, join with our fellow Christians, caring for each other while leaning on Jesus Christ through prayer.~

Lesson 1428

(Lesson 1428)(08-29-15) James 5:1-6

"Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten.Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you."

In today's quote, James relates the condemnation of the rich who have worshiped their wealth more than God. Because of their greed they wager their eternity against the riches of a very short life and eventually lose both.~

Lesson 1427

(Lesson 1427)(08-28-15) James Chapter 4:13-17

"Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin."

This quote is a powerful lesson and should be taken seriously to heart by every child of God.

Our lives are far to short and unpredictable to rely on tomorrow because there well may not be a tomorrow. Knowing this we should devote every precious minute we might have left to making sure that those around us are aware of God's saving grace. We should present ourselves as living examples of the benefits of living within that grace.

As James pointed out in the last part of the quote, "to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." We will definitely atone for that sin, one way or another.

"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad."(2 Corinthians 5-10

Lesson 1426

(Lesson 1426)(08-27-15) James Chapter 4:4-12

"Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you. Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy. But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation."

The gist of today's lesson is that good things always come to those who have faith and the patience to wait. Herein, James used the example of Job and his horrible suffering to make that point.

In the last part of the lesson, we are encouraged to be straightforward and to accept things as they are without placing blame.

We should never "swear" nor make threats and promises we may not be able to keep remembering that our dealings with one another has a direct impact upon how we are seen by the lost.

Our duty is to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ and live our lives so as to reflect His grace in everything we do.~

Lesson 1425

(Lesson 1425)(08-26-15) James Chapter 4:1-3

"From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts."

In today's short lesson, James explained why so many who presume to pray don't have their prayers answered in the way they prefer.

God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, will indeed give us anything we ask for so long as our prayers don't run contrary to the good of others, and, if they are always asked from a heart that is truly concerned with the common good instead of our own selfish advantage. That means that if we pray to take away someone else's wellbeing, or if we pray to cause them harm or just to increase our own wealth or better our own earthly situation, that prayer will not be granted. However, if we pray for wealth so as to better and more comfortably minister to our own needs as well as the needs of those around us, I believe those prayers will always be answered.~

Lesson 1424

(Lesson 1424)(08-25-15) James Chapter 3

"My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing.

My brethren, these things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace."

Today's lesson is a very important one in that it concerns the communications of mankind and whether they are made beneficial or detrimental to the purposes of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In the mind, thoughts and ideas are conceived and through our voices they are proposed to others. Those thoughts and ideas, as they proceed out of our mouths, should always be filtered through a purely Christian mind set so as to only allow goodness toward others to proceed forth.

As children of God, we are to never allow evil, or hurtful thoughts to roll off our tongues.

Evil communication will only allow our thoughts to be developed into evil outcomes, whereas, good and decent conversation almost always produces good and honorable results.~

Lesson 1423

(Lesson 1423)(08-24-15) James 2:13-26

"For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also."

Today's quote is another one of the most misinterpreted and misunderstood lessons in the entire New Testament. This is evident by the many supposed Christians who contend that James herein implies that whether or not an individual has eternal salvation is dependent upon whether or not that one practices "good works".

If that contention is true then the New Testament is in direct contradiction with its own teaching and is therefore a lie. That truth is borne out by what Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:8-9; "FOR BY GRACE ARE YE SAVED THROUGH FAITH; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: NOT OF WORKS, lest any man should boast."

James did NOT herein imply that faith is NONEXISTENT without works, he simply stated that "faith without works is "dead", or inactive, which, by the way, is very true. However, a dead or inactive horse is still a horse, it just accomplishes nothing in the physical sense. Faith is spiritual and whether physically exercised or not, faith still accomplishes spiritual things. Reference Job, he physically did nothing to change his horrible circumstances, yet his spiritual faith eventually brought back all he owned.

Granted, if one does nothing to exercise his/her faith it is, for all outward appearances, "dead", being inactive. However, being "dead" or inactive does NOT mean that faith does not exist just as Paul made very plain in the quote from Ephesians.

If we, as Christians, fail to practice our faith outwardly, it will never be apparent to those lost souls around us that our faith is present at all. However, if we practice our faith by praying for the things we need in absolute confidence that we will receive them and then allowing the fruits of our faith to be seen, our faith will be an active faith in the earthly sense, as was herein described by James.

We should certainly and continually practice our faith openly so as to be bright beacons toward salvation for all who seek God's divine truth.~

Lesson 1422

(Lesson 1422)(08-23-15) James 2:1-12

"My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty."

In today's lesson we are commanded to treat the poor and downtrodden with the exact same respect and admiration as we would treat the richest and most highly regarded among us.

We must always remember that God is no respecter of persons. In His eyes we are all the same, nor matter our social or financial status.

Sadly, there are "churches" today that separate their membership by status in complete rejection of this lesson.

One of the most apparent and common ways that is accomplished is by creating select groups, such as choirs or "ministries" that are set apart from the rest of the congregation. Many even dress those groups differently and seat them in areas of the "church" not accessible to the commoners.

It is a pitiful shame that what today is looked upon as representative of the Church that our Lord Jesus Christ founded has drifted so very far away from what was originally intended by Jesus Himself.

We should vow to love one another no matter who we are, how we appear or where we come from.~

Lesson 1421

(Lesson 1421)(08-22-15) James 1:17-27

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."

Today's is another lesson on how the children of God are to conduct themselves in our daily lives.

I behooves us to be the sort of Christians that we present to others, in other words, we should always practice what we preach, whether in public or private. If we always do the right thing we will never be bothered by the outcome. If we always practice what we preach, we will never be questioned as to our Christian sincerity. If we always practice what we preach, our hearts will be reflected by our actions.

We should always do the right thing, having faith that the outcome will be the right one, while always giving the honor and glory to God through our Lord Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 1420

(Lesson 1420)(08-21-15) James 1:9-16

"Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do not err, my beloved brethren."

In today's lesson James encouraged his Jewish Christian brethren to remain humble when they were blessed with riches.

It is well known that wealth affords all manner of temptation and few are they who are able to withstand it.

Herein, James encouraged humility and grace among the children of God, no matter what their worth in earthly goods. He instructed the "haves" to give of their own to uplift the "have nots".~

Lesson 1419

(Lesson 1419)(08-20-15) James 1:1-8

"James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways."

NOTE: Before we get into the lesson from todays quote, it behooves us to note to whom James addressed this letter. It was written directly to the Jewish Christians "the twelve trives", and was not specifically intended for Gentile Christians.

Although, in some manner, every word of the New Testament is significant to every Christian, we should remember that the context and intent of some texts can only be determined by considering to whom and for what purpose the words were directed.

In this quote, James encouraged the Jewish Christians to rely entirely on faith when offering up their prayers. This part of the lesson applies equally to every child of God, even today. If we expect God to answer our prayers, we must first believe He is able and that He will indeed follow through. In John 16:23, in part, Jesus said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you." Therefore, James was simply repeating what Jesus himself had also promised.

The most important thing we should take from this text is that if we ask God through Jesus Christ, having absolute faith that He will answer our prayers, we will receive whatever we ask.

Faith is the key to everlasting life and faith is also the key to earthly happiness and contentment.~

Lesson 1418

(Lesson 1418)(08-19-15) Hebrews Chapter 13
"Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle. For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp. Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach. For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. But I beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner. Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. And I beseech you, brethren, suffer the word of exhortation: for I have written a letter unto you in few words. Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you. Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you. Grace be with you all. Amen."

In today's quote the children of God are again reminded to conduct our everyday lives in a manner so as to benefit, not only ourselves, but also those around us who might fall in need. And above all, we are to do all that we do to honor and glorify God.~

Lesson 1417

(Lesson 1417)(08-1815) Hebrews 12:12-29

"Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest, And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more: (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart: And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:) But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire."

In the first part of today's quote, Paul recounted how the early Hebrews were blessed and redeemed through and by their undying faith in the covenant God made with their Fathers and the promises He made to, and through, His prophets.

In the latter part of this quote, Paul said, "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire."

This statement, in essence, means that all the intents and promises of the Old Testament were made into one end. That end being, as promised, the coming of eternal salvation through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, God in man, who is the one redeemer for all and throughout all time.~

Lesson 1416

(Lesson 1416)(08-17-15) Hebrews 12:1-11

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby."

In today's lesson, we are again reminded that mankind is not capable of providing sufficient sacrifice or justification for his/her own sin. The remittance of sin required/s the perfect blood of Jesus Christ.

This lesson also clearly establishes that the children of God who commit sins of the flesh while here on earth will be punished for those sins while yet here on earth. As Paul said, "For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth."

Receiving the wrath of Jesus should be a comfort for those of us whom have placed our faith in Him for it is a sure sign that we belong to Him and that He is with us to keep our paths straight.~

Lesson 1415

(Lesson 1415)(08-16-15) Hebrews Chapter 11

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect."

Today's is another wonderful lesson on how faith is now, and has always been, demanded by God.

Herein Paul demonstrates that every good accomplishment that has ever been achieved by God fearing men and women, was achieved through faith in God to deliver.

The wonderful things provided to the children of God here on earth come not because of the earthly deeds we do, or do not do, but rather because of our undying faith in God through Jesus Christ our promised redeemer.~

Lesson 1414

(Lesson 1414)(08-15-15) Hebrews 10:11-28

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation."

Today's quote further explains the similarities and differences between the old Testament Law of forgiveness through the shed blood of animals and the new Testament Law of faith through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.

The similarity is that in both instances death and blood were required. The most prominent difference is that only temporary forgiveness came from the blood of dead animals, whereas, the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ was a one-time-fits-all remitter of all sin for those who believe.~

Lesson 1413

(Lesson 1413)(08-14-15) Hebrews 10:1-10

"For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

Today's quote is yet another confirmation for the security of the believer. Herein, Paul confirmed that neither obedience to the law, nor abstinence from sin can accomplish a permanent spiritual cleansing. That fact was proven over and over throughout the Old Testament.

With no exceptions God required a blood sacrifice for the remittance of any sin. As Paul said, no amount of animal blood, no matter how many times it was offered, could ever remit all sin permanently. Therefore, Jesus, a perfect sinless human man, the Son of God, was sent and provided a perfect sacrifice to be offered only once for all sin for those who place their faith in Him.

There will be no more sacrifices for sin, Jesus is the last: "If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame." (Hebrews 6:6)

Jesus will not be crucified again for those who fail to believe in Him.~

Lesson 1412

(Lesson 1412)(08-13-15) Hebrews 9:15-28

"And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation."

Today's lesson is one of the most blessed in the entire bible. It is blessed because it thoroughly defines how the blood of Jesus Christ atoned for ALL the sins of those who place their faith in Him.

This quote also puts to rest the contention that parts of the old Law still preside over Christianity.

Herein, Paul very carefully explained how the old covenant was fulfilled when Jesus came and how the new law of faith was established when Jesus gave His life on the cross.

No matter how many different ways mankind tries to spin the gospel of Jesus Christ, one simple, un-refutable fact remains; "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 1411

(Lesson 1411)(08-12-15) Hebrews 9:1-14

"Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?"

Today's quote relates how the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ replaced the blood of goats and calves as the remitter of sin. The blood of Jesus became a one time fits all atonement for the sins of all who will put their faith in Him.

We should remember that this explanation, although it also applies to some today, was directed to the Jews who were still holding on the the traditions of the old Law which was fulfilled and done away by the coming of Christ.~

Lesson 1410

(Lesson 1410)(08-11-15) Hebrews Chapter 8

"Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."

In today's quote Paul explained how Jesus was sent to the house of Judah as a "new covenant" to the people, replacing the old law.

Although there are still many today who cling to the restrictions of the Law of Moses, herein, it is clearly established that the old law was done away with the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; "For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."~

Lesson 1409

(Lesson 1409)(08-10-15) Hebrews 7:12-28

"For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood. And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest, Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof. For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God. And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest: (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:) By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore."

Today's lesson confirms that when Jesus came to old Law was fulfilled and done away; "For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof. For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God."

This quote further confirms the everlasting "priesthood" of our Lord Jesus Christ, Paul said, "But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself."

Faith in the life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ is now, and has forever been, the ONLY means by which a lost soul can reunite him/herself with God the Father. "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 1408

(Lesson 1408)(08-09-15) Hebrews 7:1-11

"For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham: But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises. And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better. And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth. And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham. For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him. If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?"

Yesterday's lesson made note that Jesus was a high priest in the order of Melchisedec. Today's quote identifies who Melchisedec was and defines the authority he held over Abraham, the father of the Jews.

In essence, this lesson tells us that God the Father gave Jesus Christ supreme power over all of mankind just as Melchisedec had had authority over Abraham and his seed. And just as Abraham owed homage to Melchisedec, we today, including the Jews, owe homage to Jesus.

God also gave Jesus the power to fulfill all the demands that had been placed on the Jews by the Law. He has done just that for all of us whom have believed in Him.

We should remember that this letter was written by Paul to his Jewish brethren concerning the authority God has turned over to Jesus Christ exclusively for the purpose of eternally redeeming all of mankind who seek such eternal redemption. "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 28:18)~

Lesson 1407

(Lesson 1407)(08-08-15) Hebrews 6:7-20

"For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned. But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec."

Today's quote is a continuation of yesterday's in that it, not only instructs the children of God as to how we are to live our lives after salvation, but also again reaffirms the security of the believer.

Paul said, "But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things ACCOMPANY salvation, though we thus speak." Therein, it is demonstrated that salvation runs concurrent with the things we do in our every day lives and is NOT dependent upon those things.

Jesus, in everything He either wrote, or inspired, commanded that we behave ourselves in such a manner as to continually honor and glorify God. He gave us two simple rules as to how that is to be accomplished. After being asked; "Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 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. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."

Therefore, the sins for which the Holy Spirit will punish us are those things we do that either demonstrate our lack of love and respect for God, or those things which hurt others. In other words, if there is no victim, there is no sin.

The denial of Jesus Christ is a spiritual sin punishable by spiritual death and total separation from God, an eternity in a tormenting hell. However, if that sin has been forgiven and the soul has been sealed by the Holy Spirit, it can never again be subjected to Judgment so far as eternal salvation is concerned.~

Lesson 1406

(Lesson 1406)(08-07-15) Hebrews 6:1-6

"Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit. For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame."

Today's is one of the most important lessons establishing the security of the believer that is to be found anywhere in the New Testament.

The entirety of the doctrine of Jesus Christ relates that everlasting life in heaven, for any individual, can ONLY be attained by God's amazing grace through absolute faith in the life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The whole gospel of Jesus Christ also confirms that once a lost soul has been redeemed by faith in the blood of Jesus Christ that soul CANNOT be charged with ANY sin because whatever he/she does is shielded from the Father and he/she is "justified" by the blood of Jesus Christ so that his/her soul is sealed until the day of redemption by the Holy Spirit of that same Jesus Christ. "Therefore being JUSTIFIED by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ", (Romans 5:1) "Whosoever is born of God DOTH NOT COMMIT SIN; for his seed remaineth in him: and he CANNOT SIN, because he is born of God." (1 John 3:9) "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby YE ARE SEALED UNTO THE AY OF REDEMPTION." (Ephesians 4:30)

Sadly, there are many today who still contend that, by their own ungodly actions, a person can lose his/her salvation. If that were to be true, which it is clearly not, as Paul confirms herein, this lesson clearly establishes that there is NO re-redemption. We cannot re-crucify Jesus and, as is verified in today's quote, that would be the only means by which one could become re-redeemed.

The phrase, "one faith, one hope, and one baptism", refers to the baptism of everlasting faith in Jesus Christ as the only means by which sin can be eternally remitted and "justified".

In the first part of today's quote Paul established a hypothetical wherein one could lose his/her salvation. Through that we can easily see that, even if the hypothetical could be true, which it is not, there could be no redemption.~

Lesson 1405

(Lesson 1405)(08-06-15) Hebrews Chapter 5

"For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins: Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity. And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec. Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."

Today's quote warned that even the high priests were to make offerings for themselves seeing that they were themselves, also sinners.

The quote also again affirms the majesty of Jesus over all other prophets and designates Him as the one for all time redeemer of the lost.

The last part of this lesson demonstrates that the law and the prophets were only learners milk, while Jesus was the meat in God's plan of eternal salvation.~

Lesson 1404

(Lesson 1404)(08-05-15) Hebrews Chapter 4

"Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest. Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

Today's lesson reaffirms that the coming of Jesus Christ, our redeemer, was foretold from the beginning of time. "For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest." Jesus was that "rest".

This lesson also reaffirms that our salvation comes because of our faith in Jesus Christ, not because of the works we have or have not done. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life." (Titus 3:5-7)

Jesus faced the same temptations of life that has caused, and will continue to cause the fall of so many yet He remained wholly righteous. It is by taking the righteousness of Christ upon ourselves through faith in Him that by God's grace we enter into His rest.~

Lesson 1403

(Lesson 1403)(08-04-15) Hebrews Chapter 3

"Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house. For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God. And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief."

In today's quote, Paul demonstrated how Jesus was to be exalted over Moses and all the prophets.

He reaffirmed that those Jews, including Moses and his house, overcame sin by holding on to their faith in God just as we rise above sin today by holding on to our faith in the life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 1402

(Lesson 1402)(08-03-15) Hebrews Chapter 2

"Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted."

In today's quote Paul explained how, before the coming of Jesus Christ, God dealt with the mankind by sending prophets and angels as messengers to deliver His commandments. He went to great lengths herein to explain the vast difference between Jesus and the angels of God.

Paul further explained that Jesus was sent as one from among the Jews, God's chosen people, so as to qualify Him as having experienced the every day burdens under which His Jewish brothers and sisters lived.

Paul established how that in order for Jesus to be qualified to carry the burden of sin for all mankind, He must first pay the ultimate price of life that God had demanded because of the inherited sin of Adam.

By being born a Jew and following the rules of the Law and offering Himself as a perfect, sin free sacrifice, Jesus removed the burden of sin for all who will place their faith in Him.~

Lesson 1401

(Lesson 1401)(08-02-15) Hebrews Chapter 1

"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?"

Today's lesson is a message from Paul to the Hebrews, his Jewish brothers and sisters. It is very important that as we study this quote, we should remember that this letter was written expressly to those who were knowledgeable of and had lived under the restrictions of Hebrew law, and those who were still attempting to inject parts of the Law into the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In today's quote, Paul makes it vividly clear that God had ordained Jesus, His only begotten Son, as Lord and Master of all the earth from the time of His recognition.

Referring to Jesus, Paul said, "But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows." This simply means that Jesus Christ replaced all previous spiritual authority over all mankind, including the Jews and their prophets.~

Lesson 1400

(Lesson 1400)(08-01-15) Philemon

Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house: Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel: But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen."

Today's quote is a letter to Philemon's family (The church in his house) containing a loving salutation and a request that they take in Onesimon, a man who was obviously very dear to Paul. So much, in fact, that Paul referred to him as his own son.~