(Lesson 2245)(01-31-18) Revelation 2:1-7
“Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.”
Today’s quote contains the first of a series of seven letters Jesus sent, by John, to the churches of Asia. I think its best to leave it up to each individual as to the purpose and intent of this letter. By the grace of God through prayer and the aid of the Holy Spirit, I believe we can each come to the truth.~
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
Lesson 2244
(Lesson 2244)(01-30-18) Revelation 1:7-19
“ Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter;”
In today’s lesson, John described the appearance of Jesus as He prepared to foretell the things that were to come before He will return to reclaim His own.
How blessed is that precious assurance that Jesus WILL return and take us home to glory.~
“ Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter;”
In today’s lesson, John described the appearance of Jesus as He prepared to foretell the things that were to come before He will return to reclaim His own.
How blessed is that precious assurance that Jesus WILL return and take us home to glory.~
Monday, January 29, 2018
Lesson 2243
(Lesson 2243)(01-29-18) Revelation 1:4-6
“John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
In today’s quote, John identified to whom this Revelation was intended, that being the “seven churches of Asia”. There are many who believe that John’s reference to the “seven churches” was a reference to seven physical churches that stood in existence at the time of his writing. I, along with several others, believe the reference is to certain dispensations of time and how those times reflected what was going on in the true Christian church during those time dispensations.
I will try to explain, as they appear, why I believe the upcoming lessons tend to verify that the “seven churches” actually represent church ages, or eras, and not the physical actions of those churches at that time of John’s writing.
There is another very important point made in today’s quote that should be taken to heart, that being how John, again, verified that it is a washing by the blood of Jesus Christ that cleanses us of sin and eternally saves us, NOT a bath, or baptism, in water. While refering to Jesus, John verified that it was “Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood”.~
“John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
In today’s quote, John identified to whom this Revelation was intended, that being the “seven churches of Asia”. There are many who believe that John’s reference to the “seven churches” was a reference to seven physical churches that stood in existence at the time of his writing. I, along with several others, believe the reference is to certain dispensations of time and how those times reflected what was going on in the true Christian church during those time dispensations.
I will try to explain, as they appear, why I believe the upcoming lessons tend to verify that the “seven churches” actually represent church ages, or eras, and not the physical actions of those churches at that time of John’s writing.
There is another very important point made in today’s quote that should be taken to heart, that being how John, again, verified that it is a washing by the blood of Jesus Christ that cleanses us of sin and eternally saves us, NOT a bath, or baptism, in water. While refering to Jesus, John verified that it was “Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood”.~
Sunday, January 28, 2018
Lesson 2242
(Lesson 2242)(01-28-18) Revelation 1:1-3
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”
Today’s quote begins our study of the book of Revelation. In verse three of this quote, John relayed a promise from God that should thrill the heart of every soul who takes the time to read and study this book. John said, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”
What a simple and easy way to be “blessed”. We will pave the way for that promised blessing as we begin this study in to Revelation. Praises to God our Father.~
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”
Today’s quote begins our study of the book of Revelation. In verse three of this quote, John relayed a promise from God that should thrill the heart of every soul who takes the time to read and study this book. John said, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”
What a simple and easy way to be “blessed”. We will pave the way for that promised blessing as we begin this study in to Revelation. Praises to God our Father.~
Saturday, January 27, 2018
Lesson 2241
(Lesson 2241)(01-27-18) Jude 1:2-25
“Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”
In today’s lesson Jude, like the others before him, warned the church about the coming of those who would distort the pure doctrine of Jesus Christ for their own personal gain.
Jude and the others were right, the world today is full of evil and flambouyent men and women who, because of their greed and avarice, use a distorted version of the gospel of Jesus Christ to enrich themselves by preying upon thousands and thousands of unknowing lost souls.~
“Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”
In today’s lesson Jude, like the others before him, warned the church about the coming of those who would distort the pure doctrine of Jesus Christ for their own personal gain.
Jude and the others were right, the world today is full of evil and flambouyent men and women who, because of their greed and avarice, use a distorted version of the gospel of Jesus Christ to enrich themselves by preying upon thousands and thousands of unknowing lost souls.~
Friday, January 26, 2018
Lesson 2240
(Lesson 2240)(01-26-18) Jude Chapter One
“Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:”
In today’s quote, Jude confirms that the salvation of a believer’s soul is uninterrupted and eternal. That salvation IS NOT dependent upoe whether or not a person lives a perfect, sin free life. Or, whether or not that forgiveness is requested for each individual sin. Herein, Jude confirmed that assertion to be fact when he addressed his letter to; “them that are *SANCTIFIED by God the Father, *AND PRESERVED in Jesus Christ”.
*Sanctified, defined by the dictionary; “To set apart for sacred use; consecrate.” According to that same dictionary, to “consecrate” is to “make holy”.
*Again, according to the dictionary, the to ‘preserve’, is “to keep from harm, damage, danger, evil etc,; to protect; to SAVE.”
In all, today’s lesson verifies the eternal security of the believer. ~
“Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:”
In today’s quote, Jude confirms that the salvation of a believer’s soul is uninterrupted and eternal. That salvation IS NOT dependent upoe whether or not a person lives a perfect, sin free life. Or, whether or not that forgiveness is requested for each individual sin. Herein, Jude confirmed that assertion to be fact when he addressed his letter to; “them that are *SANCTIFIED by God the Father, *AND PRESERVED in Jesus Christ”.
*Sanctified, defined by the dictionary; “To set apart for sacred use; consecrate.” According to that same dictionary, to “consecrate” is to “make holy”.
*Again, according to the dictionary, the to ‘preserve’, is “to keep from harm, damage, danger, evil etc,; to protect; to SAVE.”
In all, today’s lesson verifies the eternal security of the believer. ~
Thursday, January 25, 2018
Lesson 2239
(Lesson 2239)(01-25-18) 3 John Chapter One
“The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth. I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church. Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true. I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee: But I trust I shall shortly see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name.
In today’s quote, John first salutes and congratulates Gaius for his continuous devotion to the work of Jesus Christ. He then warns Gaius of a man called Diotrephes who, as an obvious leader in the church, appeared to have set out to destroy the church by separating its membership from the very elders who had established it. Sadly, many of our churches today have also been infiltrated by those who are filled with the same malicious desires as those of Diotrephes. The Lord’s church was then, and will always remain under fire from the disciples of Satan. However, we are blessed by the knowledge that His church will prevail; “Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will buile my church; and the gates of hell shll not prefail against it." (Matthew 16:18)~
“The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: Because that for his name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth. I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church. Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true. I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee: But I trust I shall shortly see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name.
In today’s quote, John first salutes and congratulates Gaius for his continuous devotion to the work of Jesus Christ. He then warns Gaius of a man called Diotrephes who, as an obvious leader in the church, appeared to have set out to destroy the church by separating its membership from the very elders who had established it. Sadly, many of our churches today have also been infiltrated by those who are filled with the same malicious desires as those of Diotrephes. The Lord’s church was then, and will always remain under fire from the disciples of Satan. However, we are blessed by the knowledge that His church will prevail; “Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will buile my church; and the gates of hell shll not prefail against it." (Matthew 16:18)~
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Lesson 2238
(Lesson 2238)(01-24-18) 2 John Chapter One
“The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever. Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father. And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen.”
In the first part of today’s quote, John, again, confirms that we were commanded from the beginning that we should love one another.
We are, again, warned to beware of “antichrists”, who will preach false doctrines. John tells us that we should reject them and have no communication with them.
As we well know, today, there are thousands who would distort the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Satan’s army is massive, the knowledge of which should encourage us to study unceasingly to show ourselves approved before God. We should keep His message in our hearts and on our lips that Jesus is the virgin born Son of God and that by faith in Him we can have everlasting life.~
“The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; For the truth's sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever. Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love. I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father. And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen.”
In the first part of today’s quote, John, again, confirms that we were commanded from the beginning that we should love one another.
We are, again, warned to beware of “antichrists”, who will preach false doctrines. John tells us that we should reject them and have no communication with them.
As we well know, today, there are thousands who would distort the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Satan’s army is massive, the knowledge of which should encourage us to study unceasingly to show ourselves approved before God. We should keep His message in our hearts and on our lips that Jesus is the virgin born Son of God and that by faith in Him we can have everlasting life.~
Tuesday, January 23, 2018
Lesson 2237
(Lesson 2237)(01-23-18) 1 John 5:16-21
“If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness. And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.”
The first part of today’s lesson tells us that there is a sin unto death, a sin that will condemn one’s eternal soul to hell. That sin is the rejection of the Holy Spirit and God’s saving grace through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the latter part of the lesson, John again tells us that if we are “in” Jesus, we “cannot” sin; “We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.”, therefore our salvation is eternal once we have submitted ourselves to the *baptism that immerses our souls into Jesus Christ; “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been *baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:26-27) ~
*The references to baptism is not a reference to water baptism, but rather a baptism, or immersion, into the righteousness of Jesus Christ by faith in Him.
“If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death. We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness. And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.”
The first part of today’s lesson tells us that there is a sin unto death, a sin that will condemn one’s eternal soul to hell. That sin is the rejection of the Holy Spirit and God’s saving grace through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the latter part of the lesson, John again tells us that if we are “in” Jesus, we “cannot” sin; “We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.”, therefore our salvation is eternal once we have submitted ourselves to the *baptism that immerses our souls into Jesus Christ; “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been *baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:26-27) ~
*The references to baptism is not a reference to water baptism, but rather a baptism, or immersion, into the righteousness of Jesus Christ by faith in Him.
Monday, January 22, 2018
Lesson 2236
(Lesson 2236)(01-22-18) 1 John 5:14-15
“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.”
Today’s short lesson relates the confidence we, the children of God, can have in knowing that our every prayer will be answered, so long as the answer is within the will of God.~
“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.”
Today’s short lesson relates the confidence we, the children of God, can have in knowing that our every prayer will be answered, so long as the answer is within the will of God.~
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Lesson 2235
(Lesson 2235)(01-21-18) 1 John 5:7-13
“For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”
In today’s quote, John defines the three elements of the Holy Triune, the three dispensations of God’s dealings with mankind. The three elements are, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Those elements make up one supreme God.
John also said that there are three defining elements of God on earth today. Those elements are; “the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.” To me, the “Spirit” represents the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, the “water” represents Jesus, or God in man on earth, the “blood” represents the life giving blood of Jesus Christ. Again, those three are one.
It is important to make these distinctions so that we understand the three means by which God has interacted with mankind from the beginning, through the life, death, burial, resurrection and anscension of Jesus, even until today.~
“For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”
In today’s quote, John defines the three elements of the Holy Triune, the three dispensations of God’s dealings with mankind. The three elements are, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Those elements make up one supreme God.
John also said that there are three defining elements of God on earth today. Those elements are; “the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.” To me, the “Spirit” represents the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, the “water” represents Jesus, or God in man on earth, the “blood” represents the life giving blood of Jesus Christ. Again, those three are one.
It is important to make these distinctions so that we understand the three means by which God has interacted with mankind from the beginning, through the life, death, burial, resurrection and anscension of Jesus, even until today.~
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Lesson 2234
(Lesson 2234)(01-20-18) 1 John 5:1-6
“Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.”
This lesson reassures that we, the eternally saved, are secured, not by the earthly things we do, but rather by the faith we have in Jesus Christ.
The lesson also tells us that those of us who love God and are saved by his grace, will indeed keep His commandments. Those commandments being that we love God with all that we are and that we love our neighbors as we love ourselves.
There are some who contend that the use of the phrase “came by water”, as it is applied in the last part of today’s quote, is in some way a reference to water baptism. I believe that to be a false contention and that the term actually is in reference to the “water” birth, or natural birth as pointed out in John 3:5 in part, “Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” Jesus was born of water, (natural birth by a human mother, a virgin), and born of the Spirit, (His Father was the Holy Spirit). Therefore Jesus was born of the water and of the Spirit. We are saved by first being naturally born of a human mother, and then being REBORN by the Holy Spirit. ~
“Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.”
This lesson reassures that we, the eternally saved, are secured, not by the earthly things we do, but rather by the faith we have in Jesus Christ.
The lesson also tells us that those of us who love God and are saved by his grace, will indeed keep His commandments. Those commandments being that we love God with all that we are and that we love our neighbors as we love ourselves.
There are some who contend that the use of the phrase “came by water”, as it is applied in the last part of today’s quote, is in some way a reference to water baptism. I believe that to be a false contention and that the term actually is in reference to the “water” birth, or natural birth as pointed out in John 3:5 in part, “Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” Jesus was born of water, (natural birth by a human mother, a virgin), and born of the Spirit, (His Father was the Holy Spirit). Therefore Jesus was born of the water and of the Spirit. We are saved by first being naturally born of a human mother, and then being REBORN by the Holy Spirit. ~
Friday, January 19, 2018
Lesson 2233
(Lesson 2233)(01-19-18) 1 John Chapter Four
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”
The first part of this lesson warns of the coming of the antichrist. The remaining part of the lesson explains how to identify a brother/sister in Christ. This lesson demonstrates that those of us who profess to know God and openly teach the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ can be easily identified by the way we live our lives, and most importantly, by how we treat those around us, our neighbors.
This is a very important lesson, especially with today’s political and social turmoil. It is imperitive that true Christian people do everything within our power to lessen the divisiveness and preach ever more diligently, the love and saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.~
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”
The first part of this lesson warns of the coming of the antichrist. The remaining part of the lesson explains how to identify a brother/sister in Christ. This lesson demonstrates that those of us who profess to know God and openly teach the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ can be easily identified by the way we live our lives, and most importantly, by how we treat those around us, our neighbors.
This is a very important lesson, especially with today’s political and social turmoil. It is imperitive that true Christian people do everything within our power to lessen the divisiveness and preach ever more diligently, the love and saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.~
Thursday, January 18, 2018
Lesson 2232
(Lesson 2232)(01-18-18) 1 John 3:11-24
“ For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.”
This lesson tells us, in essence, that there are only two commandments that we, the children of God, are to obey. “This is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another”.
It is relatively easy to spot a truly Christian person by the way they treat those around them.~
“ For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous. Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.”
This lesson tells us, in essence, that there are only two commandments that we, the children of God, are to obey. “This is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another”.
It is relatively easy to spot a truly Christian person by the way they treat those around them.~
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
Lesson 2231
(Lesson 2231)(01-17-18) 1 John 3:6-10
“Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.”
Today’s lesson confirms that once a soul is saved, that spirit cannot ever again be found guilty of sin; “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he CANNOT SIN”.
That does NOT mean that one cannot continue to sin in the flesh. It only confirms that because of the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ into a saved individual, that believing individual is immune from the condemnation of sin, and is “justified” for those sins that might be committed.~
“Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.”
Today’s lesson confirms that once a soul is saved, that spirit cannot ever again be found guilty of sin; “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he CANNOT SIN”.
That does NOT mean that one cannot continue to sin in the flesh. It only confirms that because of the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ into a saved individual, that believing individual is immune from the condemnation of sin, and is “justified” for those sins that might be committed.~
Tuesday, January 16, 2018
Lesson 2230
(Lesson 2230)(01-16-18) 1 John 3:1-5
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.”
Today’s lesson confirms that those who believe in Jesus Christ have become the “sons of God”. That contention was accomplished when John said, “Beloved, NOW ARE WE the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.”
Today’s lesson confirms that those who believe in Jesus Christ have become the “sons of God”. That contention was accomplished when John said, “Beloved, NOW ARE WE the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”
Monday, January 15, 2018
Lesson 2229
(Lesson 2229)(01-15-18) 1 John 2:18-29
“Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.”
In today’s quote, John foretells the coming of the antichrist. Also, herein, John preached that those of us whom have given our souls over to the care of the Holy Spirit, can rest assured in the knowledge that we are founded in both God the Father and the Son.~
“Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.”
In today’s quote, John foretells the coming of the antichrist. Also, herein, John preached that those of us whom have given our souls over to the care of the Holy Spirit, can rest assured in the knowledge that we are founded in both God the Father and the Son.~
Sunday, January 14, 2018
Lesson 2228
(Lesson 2228)(01-14-18) 1 John 2:12-17
“I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”
In today’s lesson, John tells us that the material things, and lusts of this earth, will surely pass away, but the love and promise of God through Jesus Christ will last forever.~
“I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”
In today’s lesson, John tells us that the material things, and lusts of this earth, will surely pass away, but the love and promise of God through Jesus Christ will last forever.~
Saturday, January 13, 2018
Lesson 2227
(Lesson 2227)(01-13-18) 1 John 2:1-11
“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.”
In today’s quote, John again declares that even though we are eternally saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, we are expected to do all that we can to conduct our daily activities within the perfect will of God.
It is easy to spot the truly saved by the way they treat those around them.~
“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.”
In today’s quote, John again declares that even though we are eternally saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, we are expected to do all that we can to conduct our daily activities within the perfect will of God.
It is easy to spot the truly saved by the way they treat those around them.~
Friday, January 12, 2018
Lesson 2226
(Lesson 2226)(01-12-18) 1 John Chapter One
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin, If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”
In today’s quote, John speaks to a group of prospective Christians as he prepares them to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. He first declares that God is light and that all souls should walk in that light by the blood of Jesus. He also made it clear that if one professes to be without sin before having been cleansed by that blood, he/she is a liar. In essence, the point is made that all humanity are sinners without the imputed righteousness of God through the soul saving blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.~
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin, If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”
In today’s quote, John speaks to a group of prospective Christians as he prepares them to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. He first declares that God is light and that all souls should walk in that light by the blood of Jesus. He also made it clear that if one professes to be without sin before having been cleansed by that blood, he/she is a liar. In essence, the point is made that all humanity are sinners without the imputed righteousness of God through the soul saving blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.~
Thursday, January 11, 2018
Lesson 2225
(Lesson 2225)(01-11-18) 2 Peter Chapter Three
“This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”
In today’s lesson, Peter assured us all that even though we seem far away from the days when Jesus gave Himself for the sins of the world, His promise of eternal salvation and the promise of His to return still stands.
While continuing to, ever more increasingly, spread the true gospel of Jesus Christ in faith, knowing that He will return to fulfull His promise.
It is up to us to overcome the work of those who would corrupt the devine word of God.~
“This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”
In today’s lesson, Peter assured us all that even though we seem far away from the days when Jesus gave Himself for the sins of the world, His promise of eternal salvation and the promise of His to return still stands.
While continuing to, ever more increasingly, spread the true gospel of Jesus Christ in faith, knowing that He will return to fulfull His promise.
It is up to us to overcome the work of those who would corrupt the devine word of God.~
Wednesday, January 10, 2018
Lesson 2224
(Lesson 2224)(01-10-18) 2 Peter Chapter Two
“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad the madness of the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginninng. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.”
In today’s quote, Peter warned about the danger of “false prophets” and what will inevitably come for those who follow after them. I believe Peter’s description of the influence of false prophets depicts today’s, so-called Christian situation exactly. Daily, we see many highly regarded preachers, or “televangelists”, corrupting massive numbers of unsuspecting souls with their ungodly, heretical rhetoric.
As devoted children of God, it behooves us all to ever more loudly proclaim, in it’s purest form, the free gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Eternal salvation depends on nothing other than the grace of God and one’s own willingness to believe in His resurrected Son.~
“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man's voice forbad the madness of the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginninng. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.”
In today’s quote, Peter warned about the danger of “false prophets” and what will inevitably come for those who follow after them. I believe Peter’s description of the influence of false prophets depicts today’s, so-called Christian situation exactly. Daily, we see many highly regarded preachers, or “televangelists”, corrupting massive numbers of unsuspecting souls with their ungodly, heretical rhetoric.
As devoted children of God, it behooves us all to ever more loudly proclaim, in it’s purest form, the free gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Eternal salvation depends on nothing other than the grace of God and one’s own willingness to believe in His resurrected Son.~
Tuesday, January 9, 2018
Lesson 2223
(Lesson 2223)(01-09-18) 2 Peter 1:13-21
“Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me. Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance. For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
In today’s quote, Peter, knowing that he was fast approaching the time of his own death, reassured those early Christians with first hand knowledge of the coming and glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.~
“Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me. Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance. For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
In today’s quote, Peter, knowing that he was fast approaching the time of his own death, reassured those early Christians with first hand knowledge of the coming and glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.~
Monday, January 8, 2018
Lesson 2222
(Lesson 2222)(01-08-18) 2 Peter 1:1-12
“Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth.”
In today’s quote, Peter admonishes the disciples of Christ to remain dedicated to the work of our Lord. He made it very clear that we are far more apt to do the right thing if we hold Jesus Christ near and dear to our hearts than if we neglect Him.
Although Peter was prone to allow elements of the old Hebrew law to filter back into his preaching, he remained faithful to the fact that soul saving righteousnes comes ONLY from God, through faith in Jesus Christ; “Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust."~
“Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth.”
In today’s quote, Peter admonishes the disciples of Christ to remain dedicated to the work of our Lord. He made it very clear that we are far more apt to do the right thing if we hold Jesus Christ near and dear to our hearts than if we neglect Him.
Although Peter was prone to allow elements of the old Hebrew law to filter back into his preaching, he remained faithful to the fact that soul saving righteousnes comes ONLY from God, through faith in Jesus Christ; “Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust."~
Sunday, January 7, 2018
Lesson 2221
(Lesson 2221)(01-07-18) 1 Peter 5:5-14
“Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand. The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son. Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.”
In today’s quote Peter advised younger Christians to respect their elders and to patiently await their calling.
Peter also, again, admonished all the children of God to be humble and respectful of one another.~
“Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand. The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son. Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.”
In today’s quote Peter advised younger Christians to respect their elders and to patiently await their calling.
Peter also, again, admonished all the children of God to be humble and respectful of one another.~
Saturday, January 6, 2018
Lesson 2220
(Lesson 2220)(01-06-18) 1 Peter 5:1-4
“The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”
Today’s quote encourages the elders in the church to willingly oversee and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ.~
“The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”
Today’s quote encourages the elders in the church to willingly oversee and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ.~
Friday, January 5, 2018
Lesson 2219
(Lesson 2219)(01-05-18) 1 Peter 4:12-19
“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”
Today’s quote relates two kinds of suffering that the children of God may endure. First there is the suffering that we can bring upon ourselves because of our disobedience to the will of God. Second, there is the suffering that we bear because of our devotion to the work of the Lord. That suffering is to be taken on with great joy knowing that we suffer because of the good we do. Blessed be those who suffer for the Lord’s sake. It is only fitting that we suffer for Him because He suffered so for us.~
“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”
Today’s quote relates two kinds of suffering that the children of God may endure. First there is the suffering that we can bring upon ourselves because of our disobedience to the will of God. Second, there is the suffering that we bear because of our devotion to the work of the Lord. That suffering is to be taken on with great joy knowing that we suffer because of the good we do. Blessed be those who suffer for the Lord’s sake. It is only fitting that we suffer for Him because He suffered so for us.~
Thursday, January 4, 2018
Lesson 2218
(Lesson 2218)(01-04-18) 1 Peter 4:7-11
“ But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
Today’s quote, again, advises the children of God to remain humble, to be good to one another and to, above all, give all the praise and glory to God in all things.~
“ But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
Today’s quote, again, advises the children of God to remain humble, to be good to one another and to, above all, give all the praise and glory to God in all things.~
Wednesday, January 3, 2018
Lesson 2217
(Lesson 2217)(01-03-18) 1 Peter 4:1-6
“ Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.”
Today’s quote draws a very distinct line between those of us who believe that the eternal salvation of one’s soul, is accomplished by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, and those who believe that they must work out, and maintain, their own salvation.
Jesus, knowing that the dead could no longer commit sins, preached assurance to those whom had demonstrated faith in God in their earthly lives, so as to impute His righteousness into their everlasting spirit thereby qualifying them for everlastin life. Although the fleshly bodies of the dead to whom Jesus preached had already been condemned, their eternal souls were saved because of their faith in God to provide a redeemer as He had promised since the beginning.
The dead, who had believed in the promise God made to His people, were saved by the same “baptism” whereby, we today, are saved. That “baptism” being a total immersion into the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ imputed into us through faith in Him. ~
“ Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.”
Today’s quote draws a very distinct line between those of us who believe that the eternal salvation of one’s soul, is accomplished by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, and those who believe that they must work out, and maintain, their own salvation.
Jesus, knowing that the dead could no longer commit sins, preached assurance to those whom had demonstrated faith in God in their earthly lives, so as to impute His righteousness into their everlasting spirit thereby qualifying them for everlastin life. Although the fleshly bodies of the dead to whom Jesus preached had already been condemned, their eternal souls were saved because of their faith in God to provide a redeemer as He had promised since the beginning.
The dead, who had believed in the promise God made to His people, were saved by the same “baptism” whereby, we today, are saved. That “baptism” being a total immersion into the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ imputed into us through faith in Him. ~
Tuesday, January 2, 2018
Lesson 2216
(Lesson 2216)(01-02-18) 1 Peter 3:18-22
“For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.”
Today’s lesson relates that Jesus Christ is the ONLY remitter of sins and that it is through His perfect sacrifice that one can access the righteousness necessary to achieve eternal life.
Sadly, there are many who contend that one must be immersed (baptized or washed) in water to become “clean” enough to enter heaven and use parts of today’s quote to assure that contention. That misrepresentation of scriptural intent is one of the most erroneous and damning notions confronting Christianity today. As Jesus said, “ I am the way, the truth, and the life, no mam cometh to the Father but by me.” If one’s faith is in water baptism for “the remission of sins”, then that one’s faith CANNOT, at the same time, be in the blood of Christ Jesus for that same remission.
Today’s reference to the saving of Noah’s family simply relates that the eight were lifted up and rescued by the water through Noah’s faith in God. Noah’s faith was exercised by His building of the Ark as God had commanded.
Baptism does indeed save us, however the baptism (immersion) that saves our eternal soul is NOT a baptism or immersion into water. That baptism is an immersion, by faith, into the perfect body of our Lord Jesus Christ as He was sacrificed for the sins of those who will come to believe in Him.~
“For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.”
Today’s lesson relates that Jesus Christ is the ONLY remitter of sins and that it is through His perfect sacrifice that one can access the righteousness necessary to achieve eternal life.
Sadly, there are many who contend that one must be immersed (baptized or washed) in water to become “clean” enough to enter heaven and use parts of today’s quote to assure that contention. That misrepresentation of scriptural intent is one of the most erroneous and damning notions confronting Christianity today. As Jesus said, “ I am the way, the truth, and the life, no mam cometh to the Father but by me.” If one’s faith is in water baptism for “the remission of sins”, then that one’s faith CANNOT, at the same time, be in the blood of Christ Jesus for that same remission.
Today’s reference to the saving of Noah’s family simply relates that the eight were lifted up and rescued by the water through Noah’s faith in God. Noah’s faith was exercised by His building of the Ark as God had commanded.
Baptism does indeed save us, however the baptism (immersion) that saves our eternal soul is NOT a baptism or immersion into water. That baptism is an immersion, by faith, into the perfect body of our Lord Jesus Christ as He was sacrificed for the sins of those who will come to believe in Him.~
Monday, January 1, 2018
Lesson 2215
(Lesson 2215)(01-01-18) 1 Peter 3:14-17
“But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.”
Today’s quote is an admonition for the children of God to be, knowledgeable, humble and longsuffering in our work for the Lord. We are to study God’s word so as to be prepared to answer any question regarding our faith. I regularly incounter many who claim the mantel of Jesus Christ, and profess to have given their hearts to Him, but yet haven’t a clue how to defend a challenge to their belief.
We, today’s disciples of Christ, should much more seriously take on our obligation to learn, teach and defend the word of God at all times and under any conditions. ~
“But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.”
Today’s quote is an admonition for the children of God to be, knowledgeable, humble and longsuffering in our work for the Lord. We are to study God’s word so as to be prepared to answer any question regarding our faith. I regularly incounter many who claim the mantel of Jesus Christ, and profess to have given their hearts to Him, but yet haven’t a clue how to defend a challenge to their belief.
We, today’s disciples of Christ, should much more seriously take on our obligation to learn, teach and defend the word of God at all times and under any conditions. ~
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