Lesson 1460

(Lesson 1460)(09-30-15) Revelation 1:4-6

"John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Today's is another very short quote, but in it we can find some very, very important information concerning what actually "washed" away the sins of those of us whom have placed our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

There are many so called churches today who contend that water baptism literally washes away sin or, they believe a lost soul must submit to water baptism for remission of sins. Both contentions are false and are proven so by what John said in the latter part of today's quote, referring to Jesus, John said; "Unto him that loved us, and WASHED US FROM OUR SINS IN HIS OWN BLOOD". Water is totally incapable of washing away anything other than the "filth of the flesh". However, baptism (immersion) into the blood of Jesus Christ washes away sins. 1 Peter 3:21; "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:"

Another reference that verifies what I have said is Matthew 26:28, "For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS."

Also Romans 3:25, "Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation THROUGH FAITH IN HIS BLOOD, TO DECLARE THIS RIGHTEOUSNESS FOR THE RIMISSION OF SINS that are past, through the forbearance of God;"

These false doctrines that mislead lost souls to place their faith in water baptism, instead of having the entirety of their faith in the saving blood of Jesus Christ, should be challenged with by truth of the gospel at every opportunity.

It is the duty of the children of God to teach the true doctrine of Jesus Christ and to do our best to clarify the distortions that are made to that ultimate truth.~

Lesson 1459

(Lesson 1459)(09-29-15) Revelation 1:1-3

"The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand."

Today's lesson is the beginning of our study into probably the most studied book of the New Testament. There is a reason why Revelation is the most studied book, and that reason is quoted in today's lesson; "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand."

In that quote, Jesus promised a blessing to all who study and obey the guidance of this book.

I will readily admit that of all the times I have studied it, the vast majority of its meaning still remains a mystery to me. But, if for no other reason that to receive the promised blessing, we should, and will, continue to study every element of it until it becomes clear.~

Lesson 1458

(Lesson 1458)(09-28-15) Jude Chapter 1

"Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called: Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen."

Today's quote is a letter Jude, through the divine influence of God, intended for the whole of the church. In it, he, like the other Apostles, warned of those who would come into the church preaching all manner of vile and heretical doctrines.

Today, we, the children of God, are faced with the same challenge. It is up to us to make a thorough study of the entirety of God's word so that we are able to separate the truth from the lies that Satan proposes in our midst.

God's plan to usward is a simple one, He only asks that we believe in Him, and place our faith in the sacrifice He provided for the remittance of our sins. That sacrifice is His only begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ who lived a virgin borne, perfect human life, died, arose and ascended back to the Father God.~

Lesson 1457

(Lesson 1457)(09-27-15) 3 John Chapter 1

"The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth. I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church. Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true. I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee: But I trust I shall shortly see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name."

In today's quote, John praises Gaius for his charity, both within the church membership and also toward those strangers outside the church.

John also recognized that there were, even then, bad apples within the church, as is herein demonstrated by his mention of Diotrephes and his evil activity.

It behooves us, the children of God, to follow the practices of Gaius in that we should be always charitable toward those who suffer, both within and without the church. We should aslo stand forever vigilant against those who would distort and misapply the soul saving gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 1456

(Lesson 1456)(09-26-15) 2 John Chapter 1

The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever. Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father. And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen."

In this letter the first point John stresses is that we love one another. He also again warned of those who teach false doctrines. We are clearly instructed to shun those who would alter the true gospel of Jesus Christ for their own purposes.

Sadly, there are far too many so called Christian religious denominations that have already, very effectively, distorted the true doctrine of Jesus Christ by including all manner of needless rituals and ceremonies in their heretical teachings.

God makes very few demands on children, we are to Love Him with all that we are, and we are to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. As Jesus, in essence said, upon those two commandment hang all the commandments that apply to us. ~

Lesson 1455

(Lesson 1455)(09-25-15) 1 John 5:13-21

"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness. And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen."

This lesson again confirms the security of the believer and assures us that God remains in the hearts of all who will but believe in the Him through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Herein, John again touched on the the difference between the sins of the spirit and the sins of the flesh. A sin in the spirit is a sin "unto death" whereas a sin in the flesh can and will be forgiven upon confession and repentance.

No sin in the flesh is charged against our eternal soul because those sins are "justified" in the sight of God. The eternal souls of the saved are protected from the effects of sin and are "sealed" by the Holy Spirit "until the day of redemption. ~

Lesson 1454

(Lesson 1454)(09-24-15) 1 John 5:6-12

"This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life."

Today's quote relates the existence of God in the three forms He has taken throughout the history of our existence.

This lesson relates how through the workings of the Holy Triune ("the operation of God"), eternal salvation has come to all of those who will accept it.

In the beginning, God appeared as the firmament, and is represented in this text by "water". The "blood", starting with Abraham, through the history of the Jews, then through the life, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ, is representative of God's interaction with us.

The spirit, (the Holy Spirit) is the means by which God has related to mankind form the ascension of Jesus Christ through today.

Eternal salvation is achieved by the acceptance of all three parts of the Holy Triune. In addition, one must accept the undeniable and perfect sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ, as God in human form, as the means by which our redemption was made manifest.

In essence, this lesson verifies the awesome magnitude and grace of our loving God, in all His forms.

"He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life."~

Lesson 1453

(Lesson 1453)(09-23-15) 1 John 5:1-5

"Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

In today's quote, John again assures us that our "faith" is what overcomes the world, NOT the physical "good" deeds that we do.

To be born of God is to be eternally free from ALL the sin that is inherent in mankind. Once a lost soul has accepted the righteousness of God through Jesus Christ, that soul is forever protected against the condemnation of sin because God Himself is reborn into that soul.

John also further stresses the importance of loving and caring for those around us.~

Lesson 1452

(Lesson 1452)(09-22-15) 1 John Chapter 4

"Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also."

In today's quote, John again affirms that all that is required of a child of God, after he/she is has been born again in the spirit of Jesus Christ, is that he/she obey the two "great" commandments that Jesus gave us in Matthew 22:37-40; "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."

If we strictly adhere to these two simple commandments, we will reflect the image of righteousness that God desires of His people.~

Lesson 1451

(Lesson 1451)(09-21-15) 1 John 3:14-24

"We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us."

Today's is a beautiful lesson to the born again children of God. This quote reiterates the importance of loving and caring for those around us as it also demonstrates that those who don't care for their neighbors are easily identified as lost and without God.

In the latter part of the quote John very clearly defines the essence of God's plan of salvation; "And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment."

Nothing I can say will make that lesson any clearer.~

Lesson 1450

(Lesson 1450)(09-20-15) 1 John 3:1-13

"Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 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. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you."

Today's lesson is a part of the clearest support for the security of the believer that can be found in the New Testament.

Herein, John makes it crystal that a true, reborn child of God cannot sin. He then goes further to demonstrate that those of us whom are saved by the grace of God will do everything in our power to live a life that reflects the righteousness that has been imputed into us through the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. And, toward the end of the quote, John explains how we are to go about reflecting that imputed righteousness, "In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another." "We should love one another"! That is also the second great commandment that Jesus gave us that we should love our neighbor as ourself.

If we indeed love God with all that we are and love one another as ourselves, as this lesson demands, we will project the righteousness that both Jesus and John demanded of us as children of God.

We should always be wholly considerate of others in every thing we do.~

Lesson 1449

(Lesson 1449)(09-19-15) 1 John 2:18-29

"Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him."

Today's lesson is yet another warning against those "antichrists" who confuse and alter the true meaning of the Gospel of Christ. Jesus Himself said there would come deceivers and false teachers who would try to destroy His truth; His prophecy has proven to be true many, many times over.

There are several major groups in the world today who flying the Christian banner while teaching blatant, unscriptural heresy. Those groups, Roman Catholicism and Mormonism, to name just two, have completely abandoned the doctrine that Jesus taught to create their own false doctrine whereby millions of lost souls have been deceived.

It behooves those of us who are indeed the true children of God through the shed blood of Jesus Christ to continually raise the warning against and expose those false teachers whom John called "antichrists".

The last part of today's quote again reassures us that through the righteousness of Jesus Christ we are also righteous; "If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him." "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)~

Lesson 1448

(Lesson 1448)(09-18-15) 1 John 2:1-17 Continued from yesterday.

"Today's lesson is a continuing explanation of what is and is not sin so far as one's eternal soul is concerned.

As was explained in yesterday's lesson, the sin that condemns one's eternal soul to hell, is a sin that consumes both body and spirit. That kind of sin is inherent in every one of us because of the disobedience of Adam and the condemnation to death that God placed upon him. Therefore, Unless we accept, by faith, the sacrifice of the virgin borne, only begotten son of God, and are reborn in the Spirit, we are damned to an eternity in hell. "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)

However, once we have accepted that perfect sacrifice and have placed our souls in the hands of Jesus Christ, we are forever immune to ANY sin in the spirit. "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)

"That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is Spirit is spirit". We definitely continue to sin in the flesh because our flesh is conceived and born in sin.

We will always be sinners in the flesh and if we don't repent those sins and ask forgiveness, those sins will go with us until we sit at the "judgment seat of Christ" to receive our just rewards for the good we have done as well as the punishment we will receive for the bad we have done; "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 1447

(Lesson 1447)(09-17-15) 1 John 2:1-17

"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever."

To try and explain how a person can be a sinner yet not be charged with sin, today's lesson is an extension of yesterday's in that we will discuss further what sin truly is and how sin is accounted and to whom and what it is accounted.

"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." Therefore, the reborn SPIRIT of a child of God cannot sin. (1 John 3:9)

Make note that becoming eternally saved by the rebirth of a lost soul only applies to the spiritual inner being, not the outer carnal flesh; "That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit" We must understand that the flesh of mankind is doomed in sin from the fall of Adam and will not be cleansed of that sin until his/her body is glorified at the resurrection.

The part of a person that is cleansed of ALL sin upon rebirth is the spiritual being; "that which is born of the Spirit is spirit".

To establish what is being discussed here, and to also establish its truth we refer to what Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3:3-7; "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again."

When Jesus told Nicodemus that he must be born again, He most certainly was NOT referring to a physical rebirth. Being "born again" as Jesus so clearly implied, is simply a rebirth of the spiritual, or inner, man/woman. As Jesus said herein, we must first be born of "water" (the flesh) and then be reborn in the spirit. We all commit sins of the flesh on a daily basis. However, once we have given our spiritual selves to Jesus Christ, through faith in Him, our sins are forever JUSTIFIED" and our souls are kept safe by the Holy Spirit until, "the day of redemption".

NOTE: This very important discussion will continue in tomorrows lesson. ~

Lesson 1446

(Lesson 1446)(09-16-15) 1 John 2:1-17

"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever."

Today's quote is widely misunderstood to bolster the false contention that a lost soul must live without sin to maintain eternal salvation. The quote does indeed assure us that those who truly live in sin will not inherit eternal life. But, what is living in sin? Is it the failure to obey the ridiculously oppressive rules mankind has imposed upon himself? The answer to that question is an unequivocal NO! The rules that mankind imposes upon himself do not determine what is or is not sin. To truly sin, one must break one of the two commandments Jesus Himself imposed on His followers; "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." (Matthew 22:37-40 in part.) Unless the things we do cause hurt to someone else, they are NOT sin. As we will see in the third chapter of 1 John, it is IMPOSSIBLE for a born again child of God to commit sin.

We must remember that when Jesus completed His sacrifice and ascended to the Father, all the sins of those who believe in Him were forever forgiven. The commandments that we must obey are not the burdensome laws of the Old Testament nor the silly rules that are placed on us by another sinner claiming to be "holier than thou", but rather, they are those two commandments Jesus Himself commanded us to obey as written in the previous quote from Matthew.

If we do indeed love God with all our being and we truly love our neighbors as we love ourselves, we will have obeyed all that is necessary to fulfill the requirements John put forth in today's quote; "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.".~

Lesson 1445

(Lesson 1445)(09-15-15) 1 John Chapter 1

"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."

In today's quote, John completely destroyed the common contention that one can live an earthly life that is without sin.

Sadly, there are millions who believe that if there is just one sin that has not been asked to be forgiven that day, their soul at the time of death has no possibility of eternal salvation. That contention is true only as it applies to those whose faith lies in their own ability to live above sin, or, those who pray for forgiveness every second of every day.

If one has accepted the virgin borne only begotten Son of God as their savior and intercessor, the sins he/she might commit are JUSTIFIED through the soul cleansing blood of Jesus Christ, as Paul said in Romans 4:4-8; "Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin."

If we say we are above sin, John said we are liars. "If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."

How then does a sinner become righteous enough to attain everlasting life? The answer is simple. The only means by which a lost soul can achieve perfect righteousness is by having that righteousness imputed into him/her through faith in the perfection and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ: (Romans 4:3) "For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness."The faith of Abraham qualified him as wholly righteous in the sight of God just as Paul said, "his faith is counted for righteousness".

Mankind will NEVER be able to conquer sin without Jesus Christ. Those who rely upon their own good works to get them past the Judgment are in for a very sad awakening.

It behooves us all to pray daily that the truth of the gospel of Jesus be taught to every soul before His glorious return.~

Lesson 1444

(Lesson 1444)(09-14-15) 2 Peter 3:10-18

"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."

Today's lesson is a dire warning to those who reject the saving grace of God as it is offered through faith Jesus Christ.

However, for those of us whom have accepted the soul saving sacrifice of Jesus Christ and are in that perfect state of grace that makes us "without spot, and blameless" in the eyes of God, our eternity will be a new destiny, a place of everlasting heavenly peace.~

Lesson 1443

(Lesson 1443)(09-13-15) 2 Peter 3:1-9

"This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."

This lesson again warns that there will be many who simply "scoff" at the word of God and reject it as a well written mythological tale. That prophesy has already proven itself to be true and continues to do so. To many millions alive in the world today, God's word mean's absolutely nothing and is to be disregarded and not taken at all seriously. What a sad, sad testament to those of us who will be held accountable for not sufficiently spreading His precious word.~

Lesson 1442

(Lesson 1442)(09-12-15) 2 Peter 2:4-22

"For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad the madness of the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire."

In today's lesson, Peter very accurately describes the condition of the world today. It is blatantly apparent that today the lusts of the flesh take precedent over all else in the lives of the vast majority of those who falsely claim Christianity.

In the latter portion of this quote Peter makes it clear that those casual Christians, those who for a short time falsely claim a belief in Christ and then go right back to the same state of sinful condemnation they have always known, will inherit the same eternal fate as those who never have claimed to accept the soul saving sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ, in the first place.~

Lesson 1441

(Lesson 1441)(09-11-15) 2 Peter 2:1-3

"But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not."

Today's is a very short lesson but it carries profound prophetic truth. Herein, Peter prophesied that there would be; "false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies".

That divine prophesy was perfectly accurate. While Christianity was still in it's infancy, some Jews who claimed to have accepted Christ, including (I believe) even some of Jesus' chosen Apostles, began to tear away at the new law of salvation by grace through faith. They did that by either establishing their own heretical doctrine or by trying to pull some of the weak in faith from the early church back into the restraints of the old Hebrew law. Which, as we know had already been "fulfilled" by Jesus Christ Himself.

At that time the "damnable heresy", which would eventually become Roman Catholicism, was also taking root.

Those distortions of the doctrine of Jesus Christ, and the many heretical sects that have spun from them are today overwhelming distractions from the true gospel of Jesus Christ.

The power and influence of Satan is their greatest strength, therefore, it behooves every one of us who still adhere to the true doctrine of Jesus Christ to do every thing in our power, through prayer and the Holy Spirit, to overcome the influence of Satan by constantly teaching the word of God to whomever is willing to listen.

The time is right for the awesome return of our Savior we must do all we can to prepare for His return. There will be NO second chances.~

Lesson 1440

(Lesson 1440)(09-10-15) 2 Peter Chapter 1

"Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me. Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance. For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."

In the body of today's quote, Peter encouraged us to be wholly faithful to the doctrine of Jesus Christ while always giving the honor and glory to God.

In the last portion of the lesson, Peter again gives testament to his witness of Jesus Christ and the authenticity of Jesus' existence as the virgin borne, only begotten son of God who was openly recognized as such by God Himself when He said; "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." ~

Lesson 1439

(Lesson 1439)(09-09-15) 1 Peter Chapter 5

"The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand. The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son. Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen."

In today's quote, Peter encouraged the entire membership of the church, today's membership included, to continuously work together toward the common good of our brothers and sisters in Christ and to work tirelessly to honor and glorify God while spreading the good news of His saving grace.

In the middle of this lesson Peter said; "your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour". That statement was true then and seemingly more true today. For that reason we should be ever more vigilant in our faith and continuously on guard knowing that Satan is still alive and thriving. His only goal is to undo everything that is done in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. We, the children of God, should live in a state of constant prayer for one another in our efforts to overcome the influence of Satan.~

Lesson 1438

(Lesson 1438)(09-08-15) 1 Peter 4:10-19

"As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator."

The first part of this lesson tells us that we are to worship our Lord by applying the unique talents that each of us might have. If we have the ability to teach, we should by all means teach however, wherever, and whenever we can. If we have the ability to lead then we should apply that skill for the purposes of the gospel.

The latter part of the lesson again encourages us to live our lives in accordance with the gospel of Jesus Christ and to suffer the trials that come our way in a manner so as to always honor and glorify God.~

Lesson 1437

(Lesson 1437)(09-07-15) 1 Peter 4:1-9

"Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging."

In today's lesson, Peter again explained that in order to achieve righteousness, one must suffer. However we, the children of God, are protected from that suffering because the righteousness of Jesus Christ has been imputed into us through our faith in Him. "For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit".

So far as the salvation of the eternal soul is concerned, what we do or do not do after we have believed on Jesus Christ means nothing. However, as it concerns our everyday lives, if we choose to live outside the perfect will of God, we will pay the cost either by suffering here on earth or we will be called to account at the judgment seat of Christ; "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)

Jesus made it very clear that no human other than Himself, either saved of unsaved, can live above sin in the flesh; "And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God." (Mark 10:18)~

Lesson 1436

(Lesson 1436)(09-06-15) 1 Peter 3:12-22

For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him."

As Paul did in his many letters to the churches, Peter, in the first part of today's quote, admonished the early Christian Jews to be vigilant in their efforts to live pure, Godly lives so as reflect their faith and to prevent the wrath of God through Jesus Christ. This lesson applies equally to all of us today.

In the last part of the quote, peter made reference to Noah and how, with his family, he was saved from the flood of water and physical death by the Ark; "God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him."

Today there are many who contend that Peter's statement, "baptism doth also now save us". affirms that water baptism is a pre-requisite to eternal salvation. In truth, nothing could be more wrong. That contention is promptly disavowed later in the same quote by the qualifier Peter provided for the original statement. "not by the putting away of the sins of the flesh", but rather "the answer of a good conscious toward God by the resurrection of Jesus Christ". Clearly it was the "resurrection of Jesus Christ" that remitted sin, water has nothing whatsoever 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)~

Lesson 1435

(Lesson 1435)(09-05-15) 1 Peter 3:7-11

"Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it."

In today's lesson, we husbands are instructed to "honor" our wives knowing that together as husband and wife are one in the Lord.

The last part of the lesson, in essence, instructs us to avoid the appearance of evil and to adhere to the two great commandments as they are presented in Matthew 12:30-31: "thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Matthew 12:30-31)~

Lesson 1434

(Lesson 1434)(09-04-15) 1 Peter 3:1-6

"Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement."

Today's lesson contains concise and clear instructions as to how Christian women are to conduct themselves.

It would be foolish for me to try and expand upon these simple instructions except to state that, according to the Apostle Paul, women are equal with men in the sight of God; "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." (Galatians 3:28)~

Lesson 1433

(Lesson 1433)(09-03-15) 1 Peter 2:13-25

"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."

Today's lesson clearly tells us that as Christian people we should obey the demands of those placed in authority over us, no matter what they might require us short of rejecting the omniscience of God and our Lord Jesus Christ. We are to uphold our obligation to authority without resentment and without fail.

Although it is sometimes extremely difficult to bend to the seemingly unfair demands placed on us by those who have power over us it behooves us as children of God to honor those things that are written into law.

Our only means of overcoming tyranny is to place it in the hands of God through constant, humble prayer. God will righteously judge those who misuse us and we will be graciously rewarded for our humility.~

Lesson 1432

(Lesson 1432)(09-02-15) 1 Peter 2:1-12

"Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation."

In today's quote Peter reassured those believing Jews, who were scattered abroad, that Jesus was indeed the "cornerstone" of His church and that they were to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as representatives of His church.

It would be a grand and glorious thing if today we, the representatives of that same one true church, would heed these lessons of encouragement by setting ourselves apart as beacons toward, and examples of, the full, undefiled gospel of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 1431

(Lesson 1431)(09-01-15) 1 Peter 1:13-25

"Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you."

In this quote, Peter admonishes us all to live up to the standards set out for us by Jesus Christ.

We should struggle daily to be a bright beacon for the truth of the gospel, being living examples of God's amazing grace.

God has promised, through His Son, to give us, (the children of God), anything we ask for, if we show ourselves to be worthy. I should clarify that being "worthy" does not mean one must be a perfect human being, Jesus has already taken care of the perfect part for those of us who have placed our faith in Him. Being "worthy" means that one has totally trusted in Jesus Christ to lead every aspect of one's life, every minute of every day.~