Lesson 2183

(Lesson 2183)(11-30-17)  Hebrews 12:1-3
    “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.”

    In today’s lesson, we are encouraged to keep our minds set toward Jesus Christ. Disallowing the constant distractions of earthly life while binding ourselves to His eternal grace and His soul saving message to usward.
    “Thou shalt love thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all they mind. This is the frist and great commandment. The Second is like unto it, Thou shalt love they neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”~

Lesson 2182

(Lesson 2182)(11-29-17)  Hebrews Chapter 11
    “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions. Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.”

    This lesson explains what faith is, it’s history and affect on and among the heroes of the bible, and how it provides the ONLY means by which all mankind can have everlasting life. “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.” (Ephesianhs 2:8-9)~

Lesson 2181

(Lesson 2181)(11-28-17)  Hebrews 10:23-39
    “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used. For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.”

    In the first part of today’s quote, the author makes the statement; “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
    There are many among today’s “Christians” who contend that the author meant that a Christian should attend “church” every time the doors are opened. In fact, that statement simply instructs the children of God to stay in touch with one another, continously uplifting and encouraging each other so as to remain faithful the work to which we have been appointed. As members of the body of Jesus Christ, we are challenged to look out for one another and to assure that we all maintain our vigilance in doing the Lord’s work.
    Later in the quote, the author maintained that if a person could fall away from the grace of God that there would be; “no more sacrifice for sins”.
    The quote, in general, warned the Jews that Faith in Jesus is the ONLY means by which a lost soul can attain eternal life and that a return to the Law would lead nowhere but to their eternal distruction.~

Lesson 2180

(Lesson 2180)(11-27-17)  Hebrews 10:1-22
    “For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.”

   In todays quote, the author explained that no amount of animal sacrifice can ever be sufficient to assure eternal salvation. Therefore, God sent Jesus Christ as the perfectly righteous sacrifice so that those who will place their faith in Him will be assured of everlasting life through His imputed rithteousness, having their souls eternally sealed by the Holy Spirit. “Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption”. (Ephesians 4:30)~

Lesson 2179

(Lesson 2179)(11-26-17)  Hebrews 9:11-28
    “But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”

   In today’s quote, the author explained the difference between the offerings, made under the Law of man for the sake of man, to the redeeming sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for ALL mankind.
    This explanation was mainly intended for the Jews because the Law of Moses only ever applied to them.
    The lesson herein, for the rest of us, however, is that Jesus Gave His life as a redeeming sacrifice only once but for ALL mankind forever.
    Another very important lesson from today’s, is that there will be NO other redeeming sacrifice made. “So Christ was ONCE offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”~

(Lesson 2178)(11-25-17)  Hebrews 9:1-10
    “Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing, Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.”

    Today’s quote speaks of the “first” covenant and describes the first tabernacle that was built during the days of Moses. It also relates how the high priest was the only one having the authority to enter into the “second” tabernacle wherein he would offer, once a year, blood as a sacrifice for himself and the “errors of the people”. There was yet another tabernacle mentioned that had not yet been established which would be for the “holiest of all”, our Lord Jesus Christ.
    In the final part of the quote, the author explained the purpose of the “first” tabernacle wherein  ritual sacrifices were offered by the people to the priests. Those “gifts and sacrifices” served no particular purpose other than obedience to the Law and could not perfect the sins of the people.~

Lesson 2177

(Lesson 2177)(11-24-17)  Hebrews Chapter Eight
    “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.”

    In today’s quote, the author again established our Lord Jesus Christ as the ultimate high priest of all people. He also established that through the perfection and sacrifice of that same Jesus, the old law of works was fulfilled and the new law of salvation by grace through faith was born.
    Everlasting life cannot be attained by works of the flesh, such as water baptisms, because it is a gift specifically for those who believe in the life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. If one must work for something, that something is certainly NOT a gift, that something, if worked for, is earned. Paul makes that point very clear in Romans 4:4-5; “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.”
    Mankind cannot achieve perfect righteousness by his own good works, that righteousness must be imputed into him/her through faith in Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 2176

(Lesson 2176)(11-23-17)  Hebrews 7:8:23-28
    “And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.”

   Today’s quote further relates the proof that Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, is the last and only hope for the lost. Jesus is the chosen priest above all others and the only one to indure forever. Everlasting salvation can be attained ONLY through faith in His perfectly righteous life and the supreme sacrifice He made by offering of that life as payment for all sin.
    “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6)

Lesson 2175

(Lesson 2175)(11-22-17)  Hebrews 7:8:11-22
    “If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron? For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood. And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest, Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof. For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God. And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest: (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:) By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.”

    Today’s quote clearly relates that the law and commandments that were given to Moses and the Jews, were never meant to be an assured means by which a lost soul could acchieve eternal redemption from sin. Yet sadly, and  in spite of what God’s promise herein declares, the majority of so-called “Christianity” contends that one must obey ALL the rules and commandments of the Mosaic Law, while completely refraining from sin, to attain eternal salvation. Today’s quote clearly establishes why that contention is untrue. Melchisedec, and Jesus were appointed by God the Father to be high priests to all people, NOT just the Jews, as were those priests appointed according to the Law of Moses.
    The most important thing that should be taken from this lesson, is the fact that eternal salvation comes by faith in Jesus Christ, the ultimate High Priest. It DOES NOT come because of anything we might do here in earth, other than to rely on the imputed 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)~

Lesson 2174

(Lesson 2174)(11-21-17)  Hebrews 7:8:1-10
    “For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually. Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham: But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises. And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better. And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of whom it is witnessed that he liveth. And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham. For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.”

    In today’s quote, the author established that Melchisedec was the chosen high priest before Moses was born and long before Moses was given the laws that were to govern the Jews.
    Therein, the author goes to great length to explain the greatness and Godly position of Melchisedec so as establish him as the most high priest before the coming of Jesus Christ who was predestined to be the ultimate high priest and savior of the world.
    As the quote relates, Melchisec was honored by Abraham himself even before the everlasting covenant was made.
    The author of today’s quote related all this information about Melchisedec so as to demonstrate by the comparison to Jesus, just how truly majestic is our Lord Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 2173

(Lesson 2173)(11-20-17)  Hebrews 6:7-20
    “For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned. But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

    Today’s quote further verifies the promise God made to those of us who have faith in Jesus Christ that we are assured of un-revokable and eternal life upon the acceptance, through faith, of the righteousness of Jesus Christ imputed into us by that faith. That promise is assured from the mouth of God in today’s quote when the author said, “Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the *immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two *immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”
*Immutable is defined as: an item or state that cannot be changed or altered after it has been created. Therefore, once a lost soul has been saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, that soul CANNOT, ever again be lost.~

Lesson 2172

(Lesson 2172)(11-19-17)  Hebrews 6:1-6
    “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit. For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.”

   When the author of today's quote said, “leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ”, he set up a hypothetical situation that could not, in reality, exist within the truth of the doctrine of Jesus Christ. That hypothetical was that if a saved individual were to “fall from grace” by committing some sin, that person would again become lost and bound for eternal damnation in hell.
    After the hypothetical, the author clearly stated that “it is impossible for those who were once enlightened” to fall away. He then said that, in essence, that if one could indeed lose his/her salvatiof  a, in order for that one to regain his/her salvation, that one would need Jesus to be brought back to earth and re-crucified. As the author clearly established, that will NEVER happen.
    Therefore, the contention, made by many of today’s “Christian” denominations, that a lost soul can lose his/her salvation after having once been saved, is herein proven to be false.

Lesson 2171

(Lesson 2171)(11-18-17)  Hebrews Chapter Five
    “For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins: Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity. And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins. And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec. Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”

    In today’s quote, the author of this letter compared Jesus to what a Jewish high priest should have been. By his comparison to Melchisedec, the author expressed that Jesus was perfect in that He accomplished everything that was required of a high priest, and more. 
    Jesus, the only begotten Son of God, lived a perfect life worthy of His chosen status as a sacrifice for the sins of all mankind.~

Lesson 2170

(Lesson 2170)(11-17-17)  Hebrews Chapter Four
    “Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest. Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

    In today’s qoute, the author assures us that those who believe in Jesus Christ have entered into the “rest” of completion, as God the Father did on the seventh day after creating the heavens, the earth and all things therein, “For we which have believed do enter into rest”.
    The author referenced the ancient Jews as “we” in the first part of the quote and warned that the ancient Jews, although they were the first to hear the word, rejected it. He warned the Hebrews, to whom this letter was written, not to make the same mistake.
    To Christianity today, the outstanding lesson is that the ONLY way of securing eternal life is through the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ which is obtained by total faith in Him.~

Lesson 2169

(Lesson 2169)(11-16-17)  Hebrews Chapter Three
    “Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house. For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God. And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.”

    In today’s quote, the author encouraged the Hebrews to faithfully hold on to their faith in Jesus Christ. He also reminded the Hebrews of the fate of those who fell away and denied the leadership of Moses as they escaped Egyptian bondage. He warned them not to repeat the error that caused those Jews to be disallowed entry into the promised land.

    This lesson should also be a warning to those today who distort the the gospel of Jesus Christ, by adding to and taking from God’s simple plan for eternal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ crucified.~

Lesson 2168

(Lesson 2168)(11-15-17)  Hebrews Chapter Two
    “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.”


    Today’s quote further qualifies Jesus as being above the angels in that He is the Son of God and also places Him lower than the angels so that He would realize the suffering and temptation of mortal mankind, rising above it all while living a perfect, sin-free life so as to be a fitting sacrifice for the sins of all who will put their faith in Him.~

Lesson 2167

(Lesson 2167)(11-14-17)  Hebrews Chapter One
    God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”


    Today’s quote reaffirms God as the Master of the universe and affirms Jesus as the only begotten Son of God in human form.~

Lesson 2166

(Lesson 2166)(11-13-17)  Philemon
    “Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house: Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel: But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;  Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.”

   Today’s lesson is Paul’s letter to Philemon, extending Christian greetings to Philemon and asking that he/ and the others who formed the church that was in his house, accept Onesimus as one of their own.
   The quote is verification that church membership is to be verified by letters sent from one church to another.~

Lesson 2165

(Lesson 2165)(11-12-17)  Titus Chapter Three
    “Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself. When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter. Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. And let our's also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.”
    Today’s quote relates more of Paul’s instructions to Titus. While referring to methot the means by which a lost soul can receive eternal life, Paul said, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR SAVIOUR”.
    There are many so-called Christian isms who contend that by making that statement, Paul asserted that one must be “washed”, or “baptized”, in water to be eternally saved. In fact, the statement Paul made concerning the “washing of regeneration”, actually confirms that the baptism that assures our eternal salvation is the same baptism spoken of by John the baptist when he said “He will baptize you with the Holy Ghost”, and  that is provided to the lost “abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour”. If it is a baptism provided by Jesus Christ, it CANNOT be a baptism in water. ~

Lesson 2164

(Lesson 2164)(11-11-17)  Titus Chapter Two
     “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you. Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.”

    Today’s quote relates more of the instructions that Paul submitted toTitus concerning what and how he was to teach the children of God in the churches.~

Lesson 2163

(Lesson 2163)(11-10-17)  Titus Chapter One
    “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour; To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour. For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, for filthy lucre's sake. One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, the Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.”

    In today’s quote, Paul instructed Titus to organize churches in Crete and to ordain both preachers and elders. He again, as he did in his letter to Timothy, listed the requirements for those positions.
    Paul also warned of those who would attempt to distort the word of God, by saying, “For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, for filthy lucre's sake.” It behooves us all to make note that Paul again referred specificly to the Jews, (the circumcision).~

Lesson 6162

(Lesson 2162)(11-9-17  “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correc(Lessontion, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”       
   
    Today’s quote should be doubly noted by every soul who takes up the cross and attempts to teach a lost world about God’s saving grace.
    Through prayer and the guidance of the Holy Ghost, the written word (the bible) is all we need to keep our lives on a path befitting a child of God. With God’s holy word, we can lead the lost to the soul saving grace of God through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
    The wisdom of mankind cannot compare to the divinely inspired word of our Living God, in ANY respect.
    Read it, pray to learn it, and teach it.~

Lesson 2161

(Lesson 2161)(11-08-17)  2 Timothy 3:1-15
     “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as their's also was. But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”

    “The first part of today’s quote speaks loudly for itself and requires no commentary. The times that Paul referred to therein are obviously upon the earht now. The true teachers of the gospe of Jesus Christ are very few.
    The latter part of the quote again warns the children of God to watch out for those who will come to teach heresies and try to lure God’s people away from the truth. They too, are already among us.
    It behooves every child of God to redouble his/her efforts to feed the lost souls so as to bring them to the free saving grace of God through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.~  

Lesson 2160

(Lesson 2160)(11-07-17)  2 Timothy 2:22-26 
    “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.”

    In today’s lesson, Timothy was instructed to teach the true doctrine of Jesus Christ and to avoid those who would try to cause confusion and dissension in the church.
    We, the children of God, are to be “gentle” in our communication of God’s word so as to allow the lost to make the right decisions concerning their own souls salvation without feeling pressured into possibly making the wrong choices. There are many preachers today, who sadly appear more interested in simply making the sale and running up attendance numbers than they are in securing the eternities of those they claim to teach.
    God’s word will sell itself, pure and undistorted, if it is presented in the manner that Jesus gave to His chosen teachers.~

Lesson 2159

(Lesson 2159)(11-06-17)  2 Timothy 2:19-2   
    “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.”

   Today’s lesson tells us that the saved are secured by God, noting that “The Lord knoweth them that are His”. We are also reminded herein that every child of God should strive toward Godliness in every aspect of our daily lives.
    The latter part of today’s quote states that there will be different postions in heaven depending upon the way the saved have lived their lives here on earth, “in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour”. In the final part of the quote, we are assured that if we live our earthly lives according to God’s will, we will be among those who are honored and “among those who are meet for the Master’s use”.
    In my mind the most important assurance in today’s lesson is that our salvation is secured throughout eternity. “Grieve not the Holy Spirit WHEREBY YE ARE SEALED UNTO THE DAY OF REDEMPTION”(Ephesians 4:30)~

Lesson 2158

(Lesson 2158)(11-05-17)  2 Timothy 2:15
    “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

   For today’s lesson we will revert back to the first verse of yesterday’s quote wherein Paul Told Timothy to be a workman who is ”rightly dividing the word of truth”.
    Paul applied that instruction to studying God’s word as a requirement so as to assure that if one chooses, or is chosen as were Paul and Timothy, to teach it, that one will be teaching the true gospel of Jesus Christ in a manner that pleases God, in every respect.
    Today there are far too many “teachers” who are doing the work of Satan by spreading distortions of God’s word, as well as downright heresies, because they do not take the time to study so as to “rightly” divide “the word of truth”. A perfect example of one such distortion is the false doctrine that requires water “baptism” as pre-requisite to eternal salvation. Almost all religious isms teach that eternal salvation from sin comes by grace (as a gift) through faith in Jesus Christ, many of those same isms contend that one must also be baptized in water to gain the same salvation while “rightly dividing” the word clearly establishes that if one’s faith is in the old Hebrew Law, or in some other earthly ritual such as water baptism, then that one’s faith cannot be entirely in Jesus Christ.
    In order for a lost soul to gain eternal salvation from sin, that lost soul need only to believe that Jesus Christ lived, died, was resurrected from the grave on the third day and later ascended to the Father in heaven as a required sacrifice for the sins of all those who will place their faith in Him ONLY.
    “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 2157)(11-04-17)  2 Timothy 2:15-18
    “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.”

    Today’s is another very good lesson to us all. Herein, Paul instructed Timothy to study to show himself approved before God. Every Christian should strive to accomplish that same approval.
    The second part of today’s lesson tells us to avoid vain and senseless “babblings” that can both distract from the gospel of Jesus Christ, and cause discontent among the faithful.
    We should keep our bible discussions clean and directly to the point.~  

Lesson 2156

(Lesson 2156)(11-03-17)  2 Timothy 2:11-15
    “It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

   Today’s lesson contains the promise of eternal salvation to those of us whom have placed our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
    Therein, Paul encouraged Timothy to continue teaching the lost about God’s saving grace and  nonproductive annot allowing them to confuse others with non-productive and trivial earthly issues.~

Lesson 2155

(Lesson 2155)(11-02-17)  2 Timothy 2:1-10
    “Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things. Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.”

    In today’s lesson, Paul encouraged Timothy to impart his knowledge of the true gospel of Jesus Christ on to those who would learn it and willingly teach it to others. Paul then told Timothy to not become bogged down with the trivial things of this earth so as to impede his own zeal to teach.
    In that last part of the quote Paul explained how salvation does not stop the troubles that follow us all here on this earth. But, by and through the power of the Holy Spirit we can overcome it all.~

Lesson 2154

(Lesson 2154)(11-01-17)  2 Timothy Chapter 1
     Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
    I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
    For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
    Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
    This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.”

   In the first part of today’s quote, Paul praised Timothy’s devotion and encouraged him to continue diligently preaching the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul also praised the faith and devotion of Timothy’s mother and grandmother, Eunice and Lois. Paul’s acknowledgment of those to devoted Christian women gives creedence to the continuing influence of women in the church even today.
    It behooves us to note that Paul explained that preachers are not called because of their ‘good works’ or because they might be esteemed above others, they are called because they were chosen by God from the very beginning, Paul said, “be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began”.
    In the last part of the quote, Paul referred to those in asia who had turned against him, two of whom were Phygellus and Hermogenes. We must remember that even at that early date in Christiandom, there were those who were defecting from the churches Paul had established and were co-mingling rituals of Judaism and Paganism with Christianity. Paul struggled against those who were preaching the influence of the old law throughout his entire ministry. He even fought with Peter over that issue.~