Lesson 2037

(Lesson 2037)(05-31-17) 1 Corinthians 1:12-17

"Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect."

Today's is a summation of all the lessons that are derived from the above quote wherein Paul dismissed the importance of water baptism.

As is apparent in the quote, many members of the church at Corinth were seemingly giving more worship and adoration to the men who had baptized (ritually cleansed) them in water than they were giving to Jesus Christ Himself, the One who's blood had baptized their souls unto eternal redemption. Paul called them out on that very point by saying, "is Christ divided?", was Paul crucified for you?"

Paul was a practicing Jew until he was struck down on the road to Damascus and was converted, he totally understood that water baptism was, and is still, a Jewish tradition that had then, and still has, NO bearing on the condition of the soul of a believer who has been saved by the blood of Jesus Christ. That is evident by what Paul said at the very end of the quote; "FOR CHRIST SENT ME NOT TO BAPTIZE, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect."

Paul was very careful to preach the gospel just as Jesus had instructed. He knew that if he varied from the truth in the slightest, those slight misrepresentations could lead to confusion such as had evidently taken over the church at Corinth. NOWHERE in ANY of Paul's writings did he EVER appear to be preaching the idea that one need be baptized (bathed) in water in order to be eternally saved.~

Lesson 2036

(Lesson 2036)(05-30-17) 1 Corinthians 1:12-17

"Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect."

Today we will further analyze Paul's intentions as he made the above statements to the church membership at Corinth.

In the final part of the quote Paul said, "For Christ sent me NOT TO BAPTIZE, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect."

For those who contend that water baptism is essential to eternal life, this statement alone, coming from the man who, as he traveled on the road to Damascus was handpicked by Jesus Christ to be the designated minister of the gospel to the Gentiles, should be sufficient proof that water baptism has nothing to do with the salvation. Instead, water baptism is/was a means by which perspective Christians can/could be prepared for, and introduced to, the good news of everlasting life through faith in Jesus Christ as per the rules of the old Law.

In the next part of the quote, Paul makes clear his divine purpose which was indeed "to preach the gospel". That gospel being; "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).

In the very last part of the quote, Paul said he was to preach the gospel, "not with wisdom of words" That means that NOT to use long winded, pointless sermons wherein he added such rituals as water baptism etc, as essential steps to the eventual salvation of one's eternal soul, it would have rendered the ACTUAL means of eternal salvation, "the cross of Christ" of none effect.~

Tomorrow we will summarize the full intent of Paul's message about the "contentions" among the members of the church at Corinth.

Lesson 2035

(Lesson 2035)(05-29-17) 1 Corinthians 1:12-17

"Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect."

Today's lesson is continued from the same quote as yesterday's wherein Paul begins to unwind, and condemn, the "contentions" that had arisen among the membership of the church at Corinth.

At this point we should re-establish that the "baptized", as it is applied in the above quote, does NOT refer the the baptism of the Holy Ghost that eternally saves the souls of the Lost, bur rather, it refers to the same water baptism of a kind as that which was administered by John the Baptist.

It should be noted that the word "baptized" as it is applied herein is used in reference to a ritual water immersion that was practiced by the Jews as was required by the old Law. It should also be noted that water baptism has NO bearing upon the eternal condition of one's soul. Water baptism was required of all Jews under the Law as a prerequisite cleansing before entering into any type of religious worship service, such as prayer, offering a sacrifice or entering any tabernacle or the temple, for any purpose. Jesus was baptized in water, not to become the Son of God, but rather, because He was an obedient Jew and was required to do so in preparation to surrender Himself as a perfectly obedient sacrifice for the sins of mankind. This is why Paul could say, as he did in the quote, "For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel". ~

Tomorrow's lesson will taken from the same quote as today's and will help further explain Paul's intentions.

Lesson 2034

(Lesson 2034)(05-28-17) 1 Corinthians 1:12-17

"Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect."

Today's quote contains several very important points. Therefore, we will attempt to cover them one by one and then compose a summary of all of them at the end of these next lessons.

In the very first part of Paul's statement to the members of the church at Corinth, he defined them as having "contentions" among them. It is obvious, by what he wrote in today's quote, that those contentions had to do with whom each group of the separate groups believed should be more respected in the church. Some obviously felt that the men who had "baptized" them should be looked upon as more of an authority in the church than some of the others who had "baptized".

Paul knew that all of that was trivial nonsense and that no one individual among his peerage was more or less important, or more or less qualified as baptizers. In truth, it made no difference who baptized whom, or for that matter, even IF they were "baptized" in water. Paul was driving home the point that it was Jesus Christ, the perfectly righteous Redeemer who should be recognized as the ONLY One who could save their eternal souls by baptizing them with the Holy Ghost. That baptism being the only baptism that ultimately matters.~

We will continue with lessons from today's quote tomorrow.

Lesson 2033

(Lesson 2033)(05-27-17) 1 Corinthians 1:10-11

"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you."

Today's lesson is a very short one but it is also a very important one, in that it establishes the context for the statements Paul made in the rest of this part of first Corinthians. Note that in this series of lessons Paul is wrote to try and clear up the "contentions" that were within the church at Corinth at that time.~

Lesson 2032

(Lesson 2032)(05-26-17) 1 Corinthians 1:1-9

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

Today's quote is Paul's salutation to the Christians at Corinth.

Lesson 2031

(Lesson 2031)(05-25-17) Romans 16:17-27

"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord. Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen."

In the beginning of today's quote, Paul warned the Christians in Rome to avoid those who would stir up divisions in the church.

NOTE: I am convinced that this warning was directly related to the beginnings of Roman Catholicism. I say that because the tenets of Roman Catholicism are in direct contrast with the doctrine of Jesus Christ crucified.

In the end of the letter, Paul was careful to give all the Glory to God. Just as we should today in every thing we do.~

Lesson 2030

(Lesson 2030)(05-24-17) Romans 16:1-16

"I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also. Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us. Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord. Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved. Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of Aristobulus' household. Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of Narcissus, which are in the Lord. Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord. Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren which are with them. Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints which are with them. Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you."

In today's quote, Paul sent blessings and salutations from all the other churches to his fellow Christians in Rome.~

Lesson 2029

(Lesson 2029)(05-23-17) Romans 15:26-33

"For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things. When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me; That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints; That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen."

In the first part of today's quote, seeing that the Macedonians had donated money to the church at Jerusalem, Paul related that he would personally take those donations to Jerusalem.

The significance of that action is that the donations were taken from the Gentiles in the church at Macedonia and presented to the Jews in the church at Jerusalem at a time when the Jews in Jerusalem were attempting to put all manner of restrictions upon the Gentiles in the church.

In the latter part of the quote, Paul asked for prayer that God would eventually lead him to Rome.~

Lesson 2028

(Lesson 2028)(05-22-17) Romans 15:12-25

"And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God, That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost. I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God. For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed, Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation: But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand. For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you. But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you; Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company. But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints."

In today's quote, Paul declared himself to be the prophesied minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles. He explained how the foretold coming of Jesus, the "root of Jesse" was to extend God's saving grace to the Gentiles.

In the latter part of the quote Paul did a little bragging on the way he had stuck to and preached the pure, undefiled, gospel of Jesus Christ just as it had been presented to him by Jesus Himself.~

Lesson 2027

(Lesson 2027)(05-21-17) Romans 15:8-11

"Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people."

There is a very important point made in today's quote which every sincere bible student should make special note. Therein, and by saying, "Now I say that Jesus Christ was a MINISTER OF THE *CIRCUMCISION for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy". In that statement, Paul specifically confirmed that Jesus' ministry was primarily to the Jews in preparation for the coming of the new law of salvation by grace through faith. The rules that pertain to Christianity did not, and could not, begin until Jesus had fully completed His appointed sacrificial task.

What all that means is that up until the moment Jesus had completed the fulfilling of the old Law and ascended into the heavens, where He took His rightful place beside God the Father, the restrictions and rules of the Law of Moses remained in full effect.

This is important because there are some today who misapply scripture taken from the ministry of Jesus to construct all manner of false doctrines. Jesus Himself warned us of that; "many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many." (Matthew 24:11 in part) ~

Lesson 2026

(Lesson 2026)(05-20-17) Romans 15:1-7

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

In this lesson, Paul calls upon all Christianity to simply obey the two "great" commandments.

He calls us to love God above all else and to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. We are to lift up the least and weakest among us, and to feed those that hunger, both physically and spiritually.

Also in this lesson, Paul said, "whatsoever things were written aforetime (The Old Testament, for the most part.) were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope". In modern terms, that means that the commandments that were given to the Jews, prior to the coming of Jesus Christ, were not there to be a set of rules and a guide as to how mankind could achieve total righteousness to the point of eternal salvation, but rather they are a lesson intended to educate mankind to the fact that God has, from the beginning, had our eternal interests foremost in His mind. The Old Testament and the history of the Jews act as a "schoolmaster" that teaches us God's plan and, at the coming of Jesus Christ, exposes the outcome of that plan by exposing mankind to His plan of eternal salvation by His Grace through faith in the blood of Christ.~

Lesson 2025

(Lesson 2025)(05-19-17) Romans 14:10-23

"But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. Let not then your good be evil spoken of: For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin."

In today's quote, Paul encouraged the Christians in Rome, and thereby us, to ignore the trivial earthly customs of their/our brothers and sisters in the church. (This does NOT include those things that believed to be essential steps to the salvation of one's eternal soul, such as ritual water baptism. One who places his/her faith in water baptism as an essential step to salvation robs Jesus of half of that one's faith, leaving one half of that person's faith in Jesus, and the other half in water baptism.)

Today, as in the days of Paul's ministry, there are Christian Groups who promote all manner of differing ritualistic behavior upon their membership believing that to do, or not to do, certain rituals, is, or is not, a sin. And also today, just as in Paul's day, there are some who adamantly refuse to accept the customary behavior of those who don't believe what they see as restrictions and demands of the gospel precisely as they do. Therefore, this lesson should encourage all of us, who have faith in the righteousness of Jesus Christ to redeem our eternal souls, no matter what trivial restrictions or rules we might put upon ourselves for God's sake, to come together in our common faith and ignore the earthly rituals that have no bearing on that faith.~

Lesson 2024

(Lesson 2024)(05-18-17) Romans 14:1-9

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

In today's quote, Paul explained that we, the children of God, and members of the church that Jesus established, are not to judge the intent of those around us. He knew that there were those who might believe slightly different about some lesser elements of our faith. As an example, Paul was referring to some who believed that the Jewish rules of the Sabbath were to be honored, while some didn't. He also exampled those who might believe some foods to be unclean while some don't believe it matters. The overriding point is that the trivial differences in the way we believe about carnal things does not matter to God as it concerns our eternity, so long as our faith in Jesus Christ abides over all else.

Am I saying that those who believe in such things as water baptism and personal perfection as necessary steps to achieving eternal life are acceptable in Christ's church? NO, because they are not!

Those who believe such things can't really have perfect faith in Jesus Christ because a part of their faith is dedicated to their own earthly actions. One cannot have a split faith and be a child of God. We must believe that Jesus is the savior with NO caveats. Salvation is in an either or fashion, there is no half saved category in God's plan of eternal salvation. "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 2023

(Lesson 2023)(05-17-17) Romans 13:11-14

"And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof."

In today's quote, Paul expressed the fundamentals of how the children of God are to conduct themselves in their everyday lives. His instructions demand no commentary, the instructions are very clear within themselves.~

Lesson 2022

(Lesson 2022)(05-16-17) Romans 13:6-10

"For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law."

Today's quote relates that, as the children of God, not only are we to obey the laws of our land, but we are also to pay the taxes that are imposed upon us as well as our debts to others.

Paul also said, "love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law". If we truly love one another we will do nothing that might bring harm to someone else. Being a child of God is easy, we are only required to treat others as we would have them treat us.

"Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law."~

Lesson 2021

(Lesson 2021)(05-15-17) Romans 13:1-5

"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake."

In today's quote, Paul, in essence, instructed the membership of the church in Rome to obey the laws of the land. He did so knowing that, in general, civil laws seldom contradict the rules of righteousness that God has laid out for His children. If one simply loves God with all that they are, and also treats all of mankind as God would have us do, that one should never be found in disobedience of any civil law.

In total contradiction with what Paul taught herein, there are today, far too many so-called Christians who set themselves apart to judge the actions of their fellow man/woman based on what they perceive to be "right" instead of simply obeying the laws as they are set out by governmental authority and backed by, not only this scripture, but others such as 1 Peter 2:13-15, "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".

Let it be known that what I have said herein is NOT an instruction that permits obeying carnal law over the "great" commandments that Jesus left for us, which are; "The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:30-31 in part.) Again, if we simply follow these two commandments, we will be in obedience with the laws of the land.~

Lesson 2020

(Lesson 2020)(05-14-17) Romans 12:6-21

"Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."

Today's quote contains a list of the things that, if done, set the children of God apart from the unbelievers.

It is an absolute shame that the vast majority of "Christianity" will not even attempt to live by many of the standards Paul has laid out in this lesson.~

Lesson 2019

(Lesson 2019)(05-13-17) Romans 12:4-5

"For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another."

In today's quote, Paul made it vividly clear that those of us whom have been born again are ALL equal within the Church. This concept is again verified in Galatians 3:27-28, "For as many of you as have been baptized (Immersed) into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither MALE NOR FEMALE: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."

This lesson should, once and for all, put away the notion that women are inferior to men within the church. However, there are positions in the church that can, by explicit order, only be occupied by men. Two examples are; " 1 Timothy 3:2, "A bishop then must be blameless, the HUSBAND OF ONE WIFE, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;". And 1 Timothy 3:12, "Let the deacons be the HUSBANDS OF ONE WIFE, ruling their children and their own houses well." A woman cannot be a husband.~

Lesson 2018

(Lesson 2018)(05-12-17) Romans 12:1-3

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith."

In today's quote, Paul exhorted the Roman Christians, as well as those of us today who are believers, to carry them/ourselves in a manner befitting their/our expressed beliefs. In essence, as Christians, the born again children of God, and members of the church Jesus Christ established, we are to keep ourselves away from even the appearance of sin. (Remember, "sins" are those things we do that breach one or both of the two "great" commandments that Jesus imposed upon us whereby we are to love God with all that we are, and to love our fellow man/woman as we love ourselves.) This is NOT a commandment to obey the old Hebrew Law as some today would have us believe. Rather it is an exhortation to always do those things in our dealings with one another that are right in the sight of God.

"By their fruits ye shall know them" (Matthew 7:20 in part)~

Lesson 2017

(Lesson 2017)(05-11-17) Romans 11:25-36

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

In today's quote, Paul further explained how through the Jews salvation came to the Gentiles. And likewise, he explained how, through the Gentiles, salvation had also been promised to those Jews who would come to believe in our Lord Jesus Christ.

By stripping the tree of all its branches, (because of the failure of the law), and allowing both Jews and Gentiles to be grafted in, God fulfilled the promise redemption for all who believe.

In the latter part of today's quote, Paul, just as those of us who are saved today should, gave all praise, honor and glory to God for His Plan, or as some say, His "operation".

Lesson 2016

(Lesson 2016)(05-10-17) Romans 11:22-24

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

Today's quote relates how God's treatment of the Old Testament Jews was to the eventual great benefit of the Gentiles.

God made an example of the Jews by allowing them to demonstrate that mankind is incapable of living a sin free life worthy of eternal redemption from the death sentence that was imposed on Adam for his disobedience in the Garden.

The ultimate irony of this lesson is that even though Paul made that fact vividly clear, the vast majority of so-called Christians today still contend that one must live a perfect, sin-free life in order to maintain ones eternal salvation, OR be faithful to ask forgiveness for every sin we commit. That contention flies directly into the face of bible scripture; "grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption." (Ephesians 4:30 in part) If were are indeed, as I most certainly believe the saved are, "sealed unto the day of redemption", then there is NO WAY that seal can be removed. Therefore, once we have believed in the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ and He has given our souls over to the securing of the Holy Spirit, our lives here on earth have NO bearing on our eternal redemption.

The sins of those who have believed in Jesus Christ have been JUSTIFIED and are no longer charged as "sin" against our reborn spiritual beings. "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 2015

(Lesson 2015)(05-09-17) Romans 11:12-21

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

In today's quote, Paul issued a stern warning to the Christian Gentiles. In that warning, speaking of the Jews, Paul said,because of unbelief they (the Jews) were broken off, and thou (the Gentiles) standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee."

This is a warning that Today's "Christians" should definitely take to heart as they continue in their high-minded, self-righteous ways.
Jesus gave another warning to all of us; "I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15-16)~

Lesson 2014

(Lesson 2014)(05-08-17) Romans 11:1-11

"I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying, Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work. What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day. And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling block, and a recompence unto them: Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway. I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy."

Today's quote again relates how it was all a part of God's master plan that the Jews would fail under the law.

Herein, Paul affirms that he is both a Jew and the chosen apostle to the Gentiles. As he states in today's quote, even though the Jews were used to demonstrate that salvation through the law was impossible, they were given the same chance to believe in God's grace as would eventually be given also to the Gentiles. Salvation would come to those Jews who believed in God's promise just as surely as it came to the Gentiles who accept Jesus Christ. Salvation came then, as well as now, by FAITH.~

Lesson 2013

(Lesson 2013)(05-07-17) Romans 10:22-26

"What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory, Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God."

Today's lesson again reaffirms that, from the beginning, God's promise was to the Gentiles as well as to those Jews who have already, and may come to believe on our Lord Jesus Christ.

The last part of this lesson relates that, although the Gentiles were at first called "not loved", upon the completion of the ministry of Jesus and their acceptance of Him, they were called "Children of the living God".~

Lesson 2012

(Lesson 2012)(05-06-17) Romans 10:12-21

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

In this lesson Paul made it clear that, in the sight of God, there is no preference. His grace is sufficient for every individual, no matter their lineage.

This lesson also qualifies called out preachers as the main means by which the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the promise of eternal life, is to be spread throughout a lost world. "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?"

Paul, again in the latter part of today's quote, ridiculed the Jews for their continued unbelief.~

Lesson 2011

(Lesson 2011)(05-05-17) Romans 10:1- 11

"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."

Today's lesson is generally self explanatory and needs very little commentary. It, again, confirms that eternal salvation CANNOT be achieved by the "good" deeds of the Law.

The point that Paul was trying so hard to make to his brother and sister Jews, (And to those who today still believe that maintaining a life without sin is necessary to achieve and maintain everlasting life.), is that the ONLY thing that can purify a mortal soul to the point of reunion with Father God is that righteousness which is imputed into that lost soul through FAITH in the life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of His only begotten Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. "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 2010

(Lesson 2010)(05-04-17) Romans 9:24-33

"Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God. Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved: For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth. And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

Today's quote, along with yesterday's establishes that although God made a covenant with the Jews in particular, He used many of them simply as pawns. Thereby allowing them to fail to demonstrate that mankind, in all, is incapable of living a life of righteousness worthy of a renewal before God or eternal life.

As is demonstrated in today's quote, the ONLY path to the renewal of the spirit (eternal salvation) is through faith. And, as these lessons confirm, that has been true since the fall of Adam.

The allowed failure of the Jews can be summed up in the following passage; "But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."

Because the Jews tried to live out their own righteousness, instead of, by faith, relying on God to impute that righteousness.~

Lesson 2009

(Lesson 2009)(05-03-17) Romans 9:14-23

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

Todays quote is the first of a two part lesson concerning the predisposition, or predestination, of some throughout the history of mankind.

Herein, Paul pointed out that Pharaoh, like many who are mentioned in the bible, was predisposed to stand against the will of God so that God could teach the Jews a lesson while also demonstrating His omnipotence to the rest of the world.

Judas Escariot was also doomed from the beginning because God chose him to the vessel that betrayed Jesus to die.

In essence, the first part of this lesson establishes that God used a few certain men/women to work evil so that the failure of mankind to abide by the will of God could be established and so that the ultimate good (eternal redemption) could be afforded to the many. "Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth."~

NOTE: We will continue this lesson tomorrow.

Lesson 2008

(Lesson 2008)(05-02-17) Romans 9:6-13

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

Today's quote explains that not all the descendants of Abraham are Jews yet all of his descendants are still a part of the covenant God made with Abraham. Only the descendants of Isaac are actually Jews by blood. The descendants of Ishmael, the son of Rebecca, though always a part of God's covenant of redemption with Abraham, are not Jews.

This knowledge is important because it helps us understand that the Covenant that God made with Abraham was a covenant of faith to ALL his descendants and not a covenant that was exclusively with the Jews.

The latter part of today's quote demonstrates Sarah's hatred for Rebecca and Esau. Though God had already planned that her son Jacob, even though he was the younger of Isaac's sons, would inherit the birthright. ~

Lesson 2007

(Lesson 2007)(05-01-17) Romans 9:1-5

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

Today's lesson is a short one but nevertheless an important one. Herein, Paul made it very clear that he was saddened by the actions of his blood kinsmen (The Jews) as they held on to the restrictions of the Law while rejecting the grace of God through Jesus Christ.

Even today there are many who still contend that adhesion to the rules of the old Law is required to attain everlasting life. As Paul made vividly clear in his letter to the Romans, the deeds of the Law have nothing to do with the perfection of the spirit. The ONLY thing that can purify the spirit of the a lost man to the point of eternal salvation is faith in the perfect righteousness of our Lord Jesus Christ. "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)~