Hebrews 6
1So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. 2You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
This scripture shows us some of the basic or fundamental principles of Christianity.
1) Repentance and forgiveness. 2) Faith in God 3) Baptisms 4) The laying on of hands 5) The resurrection of the dead 6) Eternal judgement 7) Moving on….
There are 4 main Baptisms
Baptism of repentance. (Johns baptism)
Baptism into Christ (the baptism of death and resurrection)
Baptism of the Holy Spirit (The baptism of power)
Baptism of fire.
Baptism of repentance. (Johns baptism)
John’s baptism was a sign to the outside world of repentance, of washing away of sins and returning to God. It was like a sign post to indicate the coming of the Messiah. Mat 3:2 and 8-9 read Acts 13:24
Jesus was baptised by John to fulfil all righteousness. It was symbolic of his act of substitution for us and as an example.
Mat 3:15
Jesus baptism was also a symbol of the finishing of the old dispensation (under the law) and the beginning of the new dispensation (under grace).
God showed him to be his son and the Holy Spirit alighted on him immediately after coming out of the water establishing him as the Messiah. This was the beginning of Jesus public ministry. John 1:32-34 Acts 1:22
Baptism into Christ (the baptism of death and resurrection)
Romans 6:3-5 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. 5If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection.
Colossians 2:9-15 For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body.b 10So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.
11When you came to Christ, you were “circumcised,” but not by a physical procedure. Christ performed a spiritual circumcision—the cutting away of your sinful nature.c 12For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.
13You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. 14He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. 15In this way, he disarmedd the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross.
Galations 3:26-27 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
We can see that through baptism into Christ we are united with Him in death. Baptism signifies death to sin and death to self, it is the action of burying the old man or the old lifestyle.
It is also the action of being raised from the dead through faith in God.
We are Physically and openly identified with Christ in His death and resurrection.
2 Corinthians 5:14-17. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.d 15He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them. 16So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
Acts 19:1-7 Shows us that the baptism into Christ supersedes the baptism of john and normally (not always) precedes the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Note that those who were baptized according to Johns baptism were baptized again into Christ.
Acts 19:1-7
There he found some disciples 2and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit whena you believed?”
They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”
3So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?”
“John’s baptism,” they replied.
4Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5On hearing this, they were baptized intob the name of the Lord Jesus. 6When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tonguesc and prophesied. 7There were about twelve men in all.
Who should be baptized and when should it occur.
Every person who believes on the Lord Jesus Christ should be baptized and it should take place as soon as they have the understanding of it.
Mathew 28:19-20 The great commission.
19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them ina the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.
Mark 16: 15 -18 15He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. 16Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”
Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 8:12 12But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
How is it done
Mark 1:10 Immediately coming up out of the water, He saw the heavens opening, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon Him;
Acts 8:38 And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him.
Acts 10:47 Can anyone keep these people from being baptized with water? They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have."
We know from scripture that water was used to baptize. Even the children of Israel were figuratively baptized in the cloud and in the Sea. The scripture doesn’t however specifically teach of a method to be used when baptizing and I think the reason for this is that the importance lies in the willingness of the heart to show obedience in this act of faith.
That being said, I personally believe that being dipped under the water is symbolic of being buried with Christ and then being raised again. Ill say it another way, putting the old nature in the grave and rising up a whole new person.
I also believe that baptism should be done in a public place and is a testimony to others. (Christ was put to death in a public place)
Baptism of the Holy Spirit (The baptism of power)
John and other prophets foretold it, (Mark 1:8, Joel 2:28, Isaiah 32:15)
Jesus promised it, Luke 24:49 And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven. Acts 1:5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.
The believers received it. (acts 2:1-4) Read
The Holy Spirit is Gods Spirit in us who gives us the power to carry out the Great commission.
Baptism of fire. (The wow factor)
A burning desire to do the will of God.
Fire tests and proves all things.
This baptism is not seen much today, but will be seen again soon.
Another teaching.
PS…
When we are baptised into Christ , we take on a new identity: That is the identity of Christ. In doing this we leave behind our old identities, they become null and void. Colossians 3:9-10 says, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
2 Corinthians 5-17…Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
I used to be known as Des the Drunk and idolater but now I am becoming known as Des the Christian and speaker of the word. My old identity is passing away and my new identity is becoming more apparent.
In the same way, those who were identified with a contrary religion or a pagan practice cease to be identified in that way and instead become identified as children of God and heirs with Christ.
Colossians 3:11
Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.
The scripture goes even further to include the so called “Christian religions”
1 Corinthians 1:12-13
What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ.” 13Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?
The fact is We are baptized into Christ and those of us who were known as Baptist, Catholic, Pentecostal, Anglican and so on are now known as Christ. The body of Christ, the Son of God, the heir to the Kingdom….THATS US MATE.
The one Unifying factor, The only common denominator…..Christ.
John 17:20-23 My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
Summing up.
Baptism into Christ is an ongoing attitude of the heart that is initiated with a physical act as a testimony to the world.
Steps;
1) Believe…… Acts 16:31
2) Confess (Tell somebody) …… Romans 10:9
3) Repent (turn away from your way and accept Gods way) ……Acts 3:19
4) Be baptized …… Acts 2:38 (you may need other believers to help you with this)
5) Receive the Holy Spirit ……Acts 2:38
6) Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you)
Monday, November 29, 2010
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
THE (SCIENTIFIC) DEATH OF JESUS
For the next 60 seconds, set aside what ever you're doing and take this opportunity!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=J6NwgmV267U
THE (SCIENTIFIC) DEATH OF JESUS
At the age of 33, Jesus was condemned to the death penalty.
At the time crucifixion was the "worst" death. Only the worst criminals condemned to be crucified. Yet it was even more dreadful for Jesus, unlike other criminals condemned to death by crucifixtion Jesus was to be nailed to the cross by His hands and feet.
Each nail was 6 to 8 inches long.
The nails were driven into His wrist. Not into His palms as is commonly portrayed. There's a tendon in the wrist that extends to the shoulder. The Roman guards knew that when the nails were being hammered into the wrist that tendon would tear and break, forcing Jesus to use His back muscles to support himself so that He could breath.
Both of His feet were nailed together. Thus He was forced to support Himself on the single nail that impaled His feet to the cross. Jesus could not support himself with His legs because of the pain so He was forced to alternate between arching His back then using his legs just to continue to breath. Imagine the struggle, the pain, the suffering, the courage.
Jesus endured this reality for over 3 hours.
Yes, over 3 hours! Can you imagine this kind of suffering? A few minutes before He died, Jesus stopped bleeding.
He was simply pouring water from his wounds.
From common images we see wounds to His hands and feet and even the spear wound to His side. But do we realize His wounds were actually made in his body. A hammer driving large nails through the wrist, the feet overlapped and an even large nail hammered through the arches, then a Roman guard piercing His side with a spear. But before the nails and the spear Jesus was whipped and beaten. The whipping was so severe that it tore the flesh from His body. The beating so horrific that His face was torn and his beard ripped from His face. The crown of thorns cut deeply into His scalp. Most men would not have survived this torture.
He had no more blood to bleed out, only water poured from His wounds.
The human adult body contains about 3.5 liters (just less than a gallon) of blood.
Jesus poured all 3.5 litres of his blood; He had three nails hammered into his members; a crown of thorns on his head and, beyond that, a Roman soldier who stabbed a spear into his chest.
All these without mentioning the humiliation He passed after carrying his own cross for almost 2 kilometers, while the crowd spat in his face and threw stones (the cross was almost 30 kg of weight, only for its higher part, where his hands were nailed).
Jesus had to endure this experience, so that you can have free access to God.
So that your sins could be "washed" away. All of them, with no exception! Don't ignore this situation. JESUS CHRIST DIED FOR YOU! For you, who now read this. Do not believe that He only died for others (those who go to church or for pastors, bishops, etc).
He died for you! It is easy to joke or make foolish comments, but when it comes to God, sometimes you feel ashamed to talk to others because you are worried of what they may think about you.
Accept the reality, the truth that JESUS IS THE ONLY SALVATION FOR THE WORLD.
God has plans for you, show all your friends what He experienced to save you. Now think about this! May God bless your life!
60 seconds with God...
For the next 60 seconds, set aside what you're doing and take this opportunity!
It is because of our wrongdoing that we die, but Jesus has payed that debt by dying in our place.
If you accept what He did for you, the death debt is paid and you will rise again to live forever.
If you do not accept what He did then you will pay the debt yourself and die forever.
Romans 6:23, For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
What do I do?
Romans 10;9-11
9If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
10For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced
You can say this simple prayer
Dear God, I believe that Jesus Christ is your son, that He died in my place and that you raised Him from the dead. I ask that you forgive me of all wrongdoing and make me clean and new.
I say that Jesus Christ is Lord, amen.
Jesus has paid the debt, you are now SAVED.
If you are not ashamed to do this, please, follow Jesus' instructions. He said(Matthew 10:32 &33): "Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven; but whosoever denies me before others, I also will deny before my Father in heaven".
Yes, I love God. He is my source of life and my saviour. He keeps me alive every day,
Des,
Mondoroks
Please feel free to link to this Blog or use it in an email.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=J6NwgmV267U
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=J6NwgmV267U
THE (SCIENTIFIC) DEATH OF JESUS
At the age of 33, Jesus was condemned to the death penalty.
At the time crucifixion was the "worst" death. Only the worst criminals condemned to be crucified. Yet it was even more dreadful for Jesus, unlike other criminals condemned to death by crucifixtion Jesus was to be nailed to the cross by His hands and feet.
Each nail was 6 to 8 inches long.
The nails were driven into His wrist. Not into His palms as is commonly portrayed. There's a tendon in the wrist that extends to the shoulder. The Roman guards knew that when the nails were being hammered into the wrist that tendon would tear and break, forcing Jesus to use His back muscles to support himself so that He could breath.
Both of His feet were nailed together. Thus He was forced to support Himself on the single nail that impaled His feet to the cross. Jesus could not support himself with His legs because of the pain so He was forced to alternate between arching His back then using his legs just to continue to breath. Imagine the struggle, the pain, the suffering, the courage.
Jesus endured this reality for over 3 hours.
Yes, over 3 hours! Can you imagine this kind of suffering? A few minutes before He died, Jesus stopped bleeding.
He was simply pouring water from his wounds.
From common images we see wounds to His hands and feet and even the spear wound to His side. But do we realize His wounds were actually made in his body. A hammer driving large nails through the wrist, the feet overlapped and an even large nail hammered through the arches, then a Roman guard piercing His side with a spear. But before the nails and the spear Jesus was whipped and beaten. The whipping was so severe that it tore the flesh from His body. The beating so horrific that His face was torn and his beard ripped from His face. The crown of thorns cut deeply into His scalp. Most men would not have survived this torture.
He had no more blood to bleed out, only water poured from His wounds.
The human adult body contains about 3.5 liters (just less than a gallon) of blood.
Jesus poured all 3.5 litres of his blood; He had three nails hammered into his members; a crown of thorns on his head and, beyond that, a Roman soldier who stabbed a spear into his chest.
All these without mentioning the humiliation He passed after carrying his own cross for almost 2 kilometers, while the crowd spat in his face and threw stones (the cross was almost 30 kg of weight, only for its higher part, where his hands were nailed).
Jesus had to endure this experience, so that you can have free access to God.
So that your sins could be "washed" away. All of them, with no exception! Don't ignore this situation. JESUS CHRIST DIED FOR YOU! For you, who now read this. Do not believe that He only died for others (those who go to church or for pastors, bishops, etc).
He died for you! It is easy to joke or make foolish comments, but when it comes to God, sometimes you feel ashamed to talk to others because you are worried of what they may think about you.
Accept the reality, the truth that JESUS IS THE ONLY SALVATION FOR THE WORLD.
God has plans for you, show all your friends what He experienced to save you. Now think about this! May God bless your life!
60 seconds with God...
For the next 60 seconds, set aside what you're doing and take this opportunity!
It is because of our wrongdoing that we die, but Jesus has payed that debt by dying in our place.
If you accept what He did for you, the death debt is paid and you will rise again to live forever.
If you do not accept what He did then you will pay the debt yourself and die forever.
Romans 6:23, For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
What do I do?
Romans 10;9-11
9If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
10For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced
You can say this simple prayer
Dear God, I believe that Jesus Christ is your son, that He died in my place and that you raised Him from the dead. I ask that you forgive me of all wrongdoing and make me clean and new.
I say that Jesus Christ is Lord, amen.
Jesus has paid the debt, you are now SAVED.
If you are not ashamed to do this, please, follow Jesus' instructions. He said(Matthew 10:32 &33): "Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven; but whosoever denies me before others, I also will deny before my Father in heaven".
Yes, I love God. He is my source of life and my saviour. He keeps me alive every day,
Des,
Mondoroks
Please feel free to link to this Blog or use it in an email.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=J6NwgmV267U
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Some more on Unity
Unity a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all. Colossians 3:11
I will write this another way for Clarity;
Unity a renewal in which there is no distinction between protestant and catholic, religious and nonreligious, uneducated, homeless, working class and executive, but Christ is all, and in all.
Check this out http://sethphilip.blogspot.com/2008/12/unity-for-task.html
I will write this another way for Clarity;
Unity a renewal in which there is no distinction between protestant and catholic, religious and nonreligious, uneducated, homeless, working class and executive, but Christ is all, and in all.
Check this out http://sethphilip.blogspot.com/2008/12/unity-for-task.html
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Union in Christ
Jesus Comforts His Disciples
1“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4You know the way to the place where I am going.”
Jesus the Way to the Father
5Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
6Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7If you really knew me, you would knowb my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
8Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”
9Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves. 12I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. 14You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit
15“If you love me, you will obey what I command. 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will bec in you. 18I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. 21Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him.”
22Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?”
23Jesus replied, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
25“All this I have spoken while still with you. 26But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. (how does the world give) Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
28“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. 30I will not speak with you much longer, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on me, 31but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me.
God is The God of union.
God is in Christ is in the Holy Spirit is in us.
There are four main unions in place. They are;
1) The God-God union, The Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit are one. One can not function without the other and are inseparable. The devil has tried to separate them in many different religions, claiming that 1 or the other doesn’t exist or is of lesser consequence than the other, therefore nullifying the power of God to the people that believe in that religion.
2) The God-man union, God created us to be His companions, His friends, sharing in His creation with Him for all eternity. The devil throughout history has made a point of trying to separate this union through sin and unbelief. The relationship between God and mankind, over time, has gone from “walking together in the cool of the day” to “will the true god please stand up and what has God ever done for me anyway”.
3) The man-man union or the church-church union. The early church were all in one accord and had all things in common. The gospel was preached, the poor were fed and the widows were cared for and the
Holy Spirits power was present. They had a structure of apostles, elders, deacons and laborers all of which had a roll to play in the day to day life of the church (the bride of Christ) as a whole. The devil has continued to try and separate the church by introducing contentious issues about the law, the opinions of men, the introduction of pagan rituals and idolatry
4) The man-woman union. The mirror image of the union of God and the church. God designed marriage to be a replica or to be similar to the design of the God-man relationship. A perfect permanent union that brings fourth fruit, “more companions” and should never be separated by man. The devil separates this union with adultery, fornication, promiscuity and counts marriage as an outdated religious non event that is to be frowned upon.
The Christian marriage is the union that we see as the most abused in these days and is the outward sign of the condition of mankind as a whole.
The desicration of the marriage is the direct result of the decline of the other 3 unions and a form of completion of satans desire to undermine Gods perfect plan for us. Ie; the God-man union.
Gods way is perfect union through Christ and obedience.
If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him John 14;23
The devils way is total separation from God. The end result is eternity in the lake of fire.
Which way will you choose.
Read Luke 6;20-49
1“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4You know the way to the place where I am going.”
Jesus the Way to the Father
5Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
6Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7If you really knew me, you would knowb my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
8Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”
9Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves. 12I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. 14You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit
15“If you love me, you will obey what I command. 16And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will bec in you. 18I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. 21Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him.”
22Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?”
23Jesus replied, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
25“All this I have spoken while still with you. 26But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. (how does the world give) Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
28“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. 30I will not speak with you much longer, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on me, 31but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me.
God is The God of union.
God is in Christ is in the Holy Spirit is in us.
There are four main unions in place. They are;
1) The God-God union, The Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit are one. One can not function without the other and are inseparable. The devil has tried to separate them in many different religions, claiming that 1 or the other doesn’t exist or is of lesser consequence than the other, therefore nullifying the power of God to the people that believe in that religion.
2) The God-man union, God created us to be His companions, His friends, sharing in His creation with Him for all eternity. The devil throughout history has made a point of trying to separate this union through sin and unbelief. The relationship between God and mankind, over time, has gone from “walking together in the cool of the day” to “will the true god please stand up and what has God ever done for me anyway”.
3) The man-man union or the church-church union. The early church were all in one accord and had all things in common. The gospel was preached, the poor were fed and the widows were cared for and the
Holy Spirits power was present. They had a structure of apostles, elders, deacons and laborers all of which had a roll to play in the day to day life of the church (the bride of Christ) as a whole. The devil has continued to try and separate the church by introducing contentious issues about the law, the opinions of men, the introduction of pagan rituals and idolatry
4) The man-woman union. The mirror image of the union of God and the church. God designed marriage to be a replica or to be similar to the design of the God-man relationship. A perfect permanent union that brings fourth fruit, “more companions” and should never be separated by man. The devil separates this union with adultery, fornication, promiscuity and counts marriage as an outdated religious non event that is to be frowned upon.
The Christian marriage is the union that we see as the most abused in these days and is the outward sign of the condition of mankind as a whole.
The desicration of the marriage is the direct result of the decline of the other 3 unions and a form of completion of satans desire to undermine Gods perfect plan for us. Ie; the God-man union.
Gods way is perfect union through Christ and obedience.
If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him John 14;23
The devils way is total separation from God. The end result is eternity in the lake of fire.
Which way will you choose.
Read Luke 6;20-49
Monday, September 20, 2010
Faith in God
Get the basics: Faith in God
Hebrews 6
1So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. 2You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
This scripture shows us some of the basic or fundamental principles of Christianity.
1) Repentance and forgiveness. 2) Faith in God 3) Baptisms 4) The laying on of hands 5) The resurrection of the dead 6) Eternal judgement 7) Moving on….
1) Faith in God.
Hebrews 11:1 NIV Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
World English Bible
Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen.
John 20:29 Jesus said “blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Even though we can’t see God, we can see the evidence of Him
Romans 1:20 New Living Translation
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
Just by observing nature, Gods existence is proved over and over again.
We also have the scriptures, Gods word, written by the hand of man that not only bares witness to His existence but to His love and nurturing of mankind throughout history.
Read Hebrews 11
We have Jesus, Gods word clothed in flesh, who is a witness to God through miracles and mighty works. He is the author and the finisher of our faith. Heb 12:2 . In other words He started it and He will see it through to completion.
The Holy Spirit bares witness through power, His gifts and the testimony of the word in our own body.
Luke 24:49 (NLV) Heb 2:4 Heb 10:15-16
We people also bare witness to Gods existence and love for us by the word of our testimony, overcoming the evil one and enduring to the end while being conformed to the image of Christ.
Rev 12:11
There are many different kinds of faith but they all have common principals.
Common faith, saving faith, forgiveness faith, healing faith, authority faith, miracles faith, signs and wonders faith, Gift of faith.
Common faith, we all have it, I flick the switch and the light comes on. I know it is going to work and expect it to happen. I can’t see the power that makes this happen and I can’t fully understand how and why it works or where it comes from. But I know it works.
Hebrews 11:1 NIV Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
When I first learnt to drive a car, my father told me “put your foot on the brake and the car will stop.
What did I do, I put my foot on the brake and guess what….the car stopped.
I didn’t ask him to explain the process or question why we should stop the car.
I didn’t cry, dad! Help me put my foot on the brake, help me put my foot on the brake, Please Dad! make me do it.
No ….I just did it…..and the car stopped.
I believed the word of my father, then did the word of my father, then received the promise of my father.
In other words, hear and believe the word, do the word, receive the promise with evidence.
All faith works on these principals. Here are some examples.
Saving faith:
1) Hear and believe the word….Romans 10;9-10, 9 That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
2) Do the word…..Say this out loud, “I believe that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead”.
3) Receive the promise; the promise is verse 10, you are now justified and saved.
God also gives us evidence (proof) of this occurrence by sending the Holy Spirit.
John 20:22 Acts 1:8 Acts 2:38
Forgiveness faith:
1) Hear and believe…..1 john 1:9, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
2) Do the word….. Say this out loud, “I confess such and such, it was the wrong thing to do, please forgive me.
3) Receive…..you are now forgiven of sin and cleansed of all unrighteousness.
The evidence; The desire to continue in and chase after sin is gone.
The desire to do good and to lead other people the same way has come instead.
Healing faith; Mark 16:18, James 5:14-16,
Authority faith; Luke 10:19, Mathew 16:19 Mathew 10:1
Miracles faith: Acts 6:8 Galations 3:5
Signs and wonders faith, read exodus chapters 7-11 and 13 for some "wow factor".
Gift of faith.
Hebrews 11:6….And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Let me put this another way….when you come to Him, it indicates that you believe that He exists…(the first act of faith)…this is pleasing to God and He rewards you.
We must take the step. Just like Peter. We must come to Him.
Romans 12:3….as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.
How do I get faith in God
Romans 10:17 …Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
How do I get more faith in God
faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
Mans way…."I won’t believe it unless I see it."
Gods way…. "Believe it and you will see it."
If you are not a follower of Christ you can start here.
The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news
Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit
Steps:
1 Believe
2 Confess (tell somebody)
3 Repent (turn away from your way and turn to Gods way)
4 Be baptized (you will need other believers to help you with this)
5 Receive the Holy Spirit (He will guide you in all things)
6 Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you)
Hebrews 6
1So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. 2You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
This scripture shows us some of the basic or fundamental principles of Christianity.
1) Repentance and forgiveness. 2) Faith in God 3) Baptisms 4) The laying on of hands 5) The resurrection of the dead 6) Eternal judgement 7) Moving on….
1) Faith in God.
Hebrews 11:1 NIV Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
World English Bible
Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen.
John 20:29 Jesus said “blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Even though we can’t see God, we can see the evidence of Him
Romans 1:20 New Living Translation
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
Just by observing nature, Gods existence is proved over and over again.
We also have the scriptures, Gods word, written by the hand of man that not only bares witness to His existence but to His love and nurturing of mankind throughout history.
Read Hebrews 11
We have Jesus, Gods word clothed in flesh, who is a witness to God through miracles and mighty works. He is the author and the finisher of our faith. Heb 12:2 . In other words He started it and He will see it through to completion.
The Holy Spirit bares witness through power, His gifts and the testimony of the word in our own body.
Luke 24:49 (NLV) Heb 2:4 Heb 10:15-16
We people also bare witness to Gods existence and love for us by the word of our testimony, overcoming the evil one and enduring to the end while being conformed to the image of Christ.
Rev 12:11
There are many different kinds of faith but they all have common principals.
Common faith, saving faith, forgiveness faith, healing faith, authority faith, miracles faith, signs and wonders faith, Gift of faith.
Common faith, we all have it, I flick the switch and the light comes on. I know it is going to work and expect it to happen. I can’t see the power that makes this happen and I can’t fully understand how and why it works or where it comes from. But I know it works.
Hebrews 11:1 NIV Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
When I first learnt to drive a car, my father told me “put your foot on the brake and the car will stop.
What did I do, I put my foot on the brake and guess what….the car stopped.
I didn’t ask him to explain the process or question why we should stop the car.
I didn’t cry, dad! Help me put my foot on the brake, help me put my foot on the brake, Please Dad! make me do it.
No ….I just did it…..and the car stopped.
I believed the word of my father, then did the word of my father, then received the promise of my father.
In other words, hear and believe the word, do the word, receive the promise with evidence.
All faith works on these principals. Here are some examples.
Saving faith:
1) Hear and believe the word….Romans 10;9-10, 9 That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
2) Do the word…..Say this out loud, “I believe that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead”.
3) Receive the promise; the promise is verse 10, you are now justified and saved.
God also gives us evidence (proof) of this occurrence by sending the Holy Spirit.
John 20:22 Acts 1:8 Acts 2:38
Forgiveness faith:
1) Hear and believe…..1 john 1:9, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
2) Do the word….. Say this out loud, “I confess such and such, it was the wrong thing to do, please forgive me.
3) Receive…..you are now forgiven of sin and cleansed of all unrighteousness.
The evidence; The desire to continue in and chase after sin is gone.
The desire to do good and to lead other people the same way has come instead.
Healing faith; Mark 16:18, James 5:14-16,
Authority faith; Luke 10:19, Mathew 16:19 Mathew 10:1
Miracles faith: Acts 6:8 Galations 3:5
Signs and wonders faith, read exodus chapters 7-11 and 13 for some "wow factor".
Gift of faith.
Hebrews 11:6….And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Let me put this another way….when you come to Him, it indicates that you believe that He exists…(the first act of faith)…this is pleasing to God and He rewards you.
We must take the step. Just like Peter. We must come to Him.
Romans 12:3….as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.
How do I get faith in God
Romans 10:17 …Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
How do I get more faith in God
faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
Mans way…."I won’t believe it unless I see it."
Gods way…. "Believe it and you will see it."
If you are not a follower of Christ you can start here.
The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news
Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit
Steps:
1 Believe
2 Confess (tell somebody)
3 Repent (turn away from your way and turn to Gods way)
4 Be baptized (you will need other believers to help you with this)
5 Receive the Holy Spirit (He will guide you in all things)
6 Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you)
Friday, July 23, 2010
Repentance and Forgiveness
Hebrews 6
1So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. 2You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
This scripture shows us some of the basic or fundamental principles of Christianity.
1) Repentance and forgiveness. 2) Faith in God 3) Baptisms 4) The laying on of hands 5) The resurrection of the dead 6) Eternal judgement 7) Moving on….
Repentance
The literal meaning of repent is “to turn back”. Re = back or again, Pent (greek pentos) = to turn. Some dictionary meanings are;
To change the mind, or the course of conduct, on account of regret or dissatisfaction or To be sorry for sin as morally evil, and to seek forgiveness; to cease to love and practice sin.
Matthew 11:20 Matthew 3:2 Jesus and the disciples preached; “Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near”
In other words; cease to love and practice sin, for the kingdom of heaven is near.
2 Cor 7:10, Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
Acts 3:19 Luke 24:47 Acts 2:38
How do I repent.
See the error (revelation of the word). Admit you are wrong (confess and ask forgiveness). Stop doing it (application of the word).
Forgiveness
Dictionary meaning;
1. to grant pardon for or remission of (an offense, debt, etc.); absolve.
2. to give up all claim on account of; remit (a debt, obligation, etc.).
3. to grant pardon to (a person).
4. to cease to feel resentment against: to forgive one's enemies.
5. to cancel an indebtedness or liability of: to forgive the interest owed on a loan.
Isaiah 43:25 "I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.
Jerimiah 31;34
We have all heard of “Forgive and forget”. It is also Gods way to restore and heal.
Galatians 6:1 Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted.
James 5:15-16 15And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
I have heard it said that it is hard to forgive, that may be so, if you rely on your feelings or have a desire of revenge or hold a grudge.
The truth is, it is easy to forgive, it is an act of faith, a choice and not a feeling.
In the Lords prayer we say “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”.
How can we hold a transgression against another person when God has forgiven our many transgressions and even released us from the bondage to the nature of sin? He has accepted us as sinless, in equal standing with Christ.
How dare we
The scripture says in Mark 11:25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. And in "Matthew 6:14 "For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Forgiveness is expected of us and is an attitude of the heart.
So how do I forgive someone.
1) As an act of faith; tell them that you forgive them, say it out loud, pray for them.
2) As an attitude of the heart; decide not to hold a grudge or hate the person, remember God forgave you, ask him to deal with any ill feelings and to take away the hurt.
Here is a sample prayer of forgiveness.
Father, I forgive (name) for the sin he committed against me.
He owes me nothing and I hold nothing against him.
I pray that you forgive him and set us free of any hurt or resentment.
I decide to love (name) and pray for complete restoration (healing, deliverance, salvation)
I have found that when I pray in this way that God will bring about the forgiveness, heal the feelings restore the relationship and cause the sin to be forgotten.
The other side of the coin.
Unforgivness opens the door to all kinds of nasty’s, ie; resentment, bitterness, hatred, sickness, disease, poverty, wretchedness and eventually Death.
So lets lock the door on the devil.
FORGIVE AND LIVE, KIDS…
1So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. 2You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
This scripture shows us some of the basic or fundamental principles of Christianity.
1) Repentance and forgiveness. 2) Faith in God 3) Baptisms 4) The laying on of hands 5) The resurrection of the dead 6) Eternal judgement 7) Moving on….
Repentance
The literal meaning of repent is “to turn back”. Re = back or again, Pent (greek pentos) = to turn. Some dictionary meanings are;
To change the mind, or the course of conduct, on account of regret or dissatisfaction or To be sorry for sin as morally evil, and to seek forgiveness; to cease to love and practice sin.
Matthew 11:20 Matthew 3:2 Jesus and the disciples preached; “Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near”
In other words; cease to love and practice sin, for the kingdom of heaven is near.
2 Cor 7:10, Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
Acts 3:19 Luke 24:47 Acts 2:38
How do I repent.
See the error (revelation of the word). Admit you are wrong (confess and ask forgiveness). Stop doing it (application of the word).
Forgiveness
Dictionary meaning;
1. to grant pardon for or remission of (an offense, debt, etc.); absolve.
2. to give up all claim on account of; remit (a debt, obligation, etc.).
3. to grant pardon to (a person).
4. to cease to feel resentment against: to forgive one's enemies.
5. to cancel an indebtedness or liability of: to forgive the interest owed on a loan.
Isaiah 43:25 "I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.
Jerimiah 31;34
We have all heard of “Forgive and forget”. It is also Gods way to restore and heal.
Galatians 6:1 Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted.
James 5:15-16 15And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
I have heard it said that it is hard to forgive, that may be so, if you rely on your feelings or have a desire of revenge or hold a grudge.
The truth is, it is easy to forgive, it is an act of faith, a choice and not a feeling.
In the Lords prayer we say “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”.
How can we hold a transgression against another person when God has forgiven our many transgressions and even released us from the bondage to the nature of sin? He has accepted us as sinless, in equal standing with Christ.
How dare we
The scripture says in Mark 11:25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. And in "Matthew 6:14 "For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Forgiveness is expected of us and is an attitude of the heart.
So how do I forgive someone.
1) As an act of faith; tell them that you forgive them, say it out loud, pray for them.
2) As an attitude of the heart; decide not to hold a grudge or hate the person, remember God forgave you, ask him to deal with any ill feelings and to take away the hurt.
Here is a sample prayer of forgiveness.
Father, I forgive (name) for the sin he committed against me.
He owes me nothing and I hold nothing against him.
I pray that you forgive him and set us free of any hurt or resentment.
I decide to love (name) and pray for complete restoration (healing, deliverance, salvation)
I have found that when I pray in this way that God will bring about the forgiveness, heal the feelings restore the relationship and cause the sin to be forgotten.
The other side of the coin.
Unforgivness opens the door to all kinds of nasty’s, ie; resentment, bitterness, hatred, sickness, disease, poverty, wretchedness and eventually Death.
So lets lock the door on the devil.
FORGIVE AND LIVE, KIDS…
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Unity of the church.
1 Corinthians 1:10
10I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. 11My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. 12What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephasa”; still another, “I follow Christ.”
13Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized intob the name of Paul?
You can pararhrase this verse ie I follow the anglican or the baptist and so on
We are called to be of one accord
Acts 2:46
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from
house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
Acts 1:14
All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with
the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers
Acts 2:1
1When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and resteda on each one of them. 4And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
10I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. 11My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. 12What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephasa”; still another, “I follow Christ.”
13Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized intob the name of Paul?
You can pararhrase this verse ie I follow the anglican or the baptist and so on
We are called to be of one accord
Acts 2:46
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from
house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
Acts 1:14
All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with
the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers
Acts 2:1
1When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and resteda on each one of them. 4And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Get the basics then move on.
Hebrews 6
1So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deedsa and placing our faith in God. 2You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
Does everyone understand the basics of Christianity.
Can you explain it to an unbeleiver efectively
Romans 10;9-11
9If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
10For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced
Acts 16:31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household."
Mark 1:15
The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news
Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit
Steps:
1 Believe
2 Confess (tell somebody)
3 Repent (turn away from your way and turn to Gods way)
4 Be baptized (you will need other believers to help you with this)
5 Receive the Holy Spirit (He will guide you in all things)
6 Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you)
Hebrews 6
1So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deedsa and placing our faith in God. 2You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.
Does everyone understand the basics of Christianity.
Can you explain it to an unbeleiver efectively
Romans 10;9-11
9If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
10For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced
Acts 16:31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household."
Mark 1:15
The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news
Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit
Steps:
1 Believe
2 Confess (tell somebody)
3 Repent (turn away from your way and turn to Gods way)
4 Be baptized (you will need other believers to help you with this)
5 Receive the Holy Spirit (He will guide you in all things)
6 Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you)
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Beginning of The End
Have a look at the State of this world, what a mess.
Luke 21;25
Earthquakes in strange places, giant waves that kill thousands, Terrorists threatening and causing destruction. Incurable disease, war and starvation are everywhere.
Fire, Flood, Volcano, OIL SPILL!!!
All is not well folks.
Jesus foretold that these things would happen.
Luke 21;7-11
7The disciples asked him, "Teacher, when will this happen? What will be the sign when all this will occur?" 8Jesus said, "Be careful that you are not deceived. Many will come using my name.They will say, 'I am he!' and 'The time is near.' Don't follow them! 9"When you hear of wars and revolutions, don't be terrified! These things must happen first, but the end will not come immediately."
10Then Jesus continued, "Nation will fight against nation and kingdom against kingdom. 11There will be terrible earthquakes, famines, and dreadful diseases in various places. Terrifying sights and miraculous signs will come from the sky.Luke 21;25
25"Miraculous signs will occur in the sun, moon, and stars. The nations of the earth will be deeply troubled and confused because of the roaring and tossing of the sea. 26People will faint as they fearfully wait for what will happen to the world. Indeed, the powers of the universe will be shaken. Mathew 24:29-31 29“Immediately after the distress of those days “‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’c 30“At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. 31And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other. These signs are happening right now, in our lifetime. Time is very short. Don't put it off any longer, Repent now, you know you must. What do I do? Romans 10;9-11 9If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. 11As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced Acts 16:31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit 1 Believe 2 Confess (tell somebody) 3 Repent (turn away from your way and turn to Gods way) 4 Be baptized (you will need other believers to help you with this) 5 Receive the Holy Spirit (He will guide you in all things) 6 Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you) |
Mankind's wealth
What we build up on earth will be lost forever.
2 Confess (tell somebody)
3 Repent (turn away from your way and turn to Gods way)
4 Be baptized (you will need other believers to help you with this)
5 Receive the Holy Spirit (He will guide you in all things)
6 Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you)
What we build up in the kingdom of God will be ours forever.
Mankind’s Wealth
15Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
16And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. 17He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’
18“Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’
20“But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’
Mankind’s Destiny
Genesis 3:19 By the sweat of your face You will eat bread, Till you return to the ground, Because from it you were taken; For you are dust, And to dust you shall return."
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
Hebrews 9:27
And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment,
Mankinds Salvation
22Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. 24Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! 25Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his lifeb? 26Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
27“Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! 29And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. 30For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
What we all must do
Acts
Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,
Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 6:20 "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal;
Romans 6:23
The payment for sin is death, but the gift that God freely gives is everlasting life found in Christ Jesus our Lord
1 Believe
2 Confess (tell somebody)
3 Repent (turn away from your way and turn to Gods way)
4 Be baptized (you will need other believers to help you with this)
5 Receive the Holy Spirit (He will guide you in all things)
6 Get a bible and read it (the Holy Spirit will teach you)
Sunday, May 23, 2010
1st Post
Hello to all, my name is Des and I am a Christian, a follower of Christ. I have started this blog with the intention of sharing what I know about Christ and being a Christian. Why not read this for a start and comment if you like.
John 1;1-3
1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was with God in the beginning.
The word of God is the most powerful force that man (the universe) has ever known. It has more power than the greatest cyclone the strongest earthquake or the hottest fire.
It brought the world into being, separated the day from night and set the stars in the sky. The spoken word brought forth the animals and plants and caused them to reproduce after their own kind.
Gen 2:7
God formed man from the dust and breathed life into him.
Gen 1:26
And gave him rule (dominion, authority) over all the earth.
Gen 2:17
And then gave His word, ” for when you eat of it you will surely die”
Gen 3: 6 Gen 3:23
Man sinned (Disobeyed the word of God). In doing this man (Adam) effectively handed the rule or authority over the earth to satan, (sin) and was cast out of the garden of eden.
Mankind reproduced and multiplied on the earth and the sin increased until the time of the flood.
During this period of time mankind had no rules or law to live by, they were allowed to live according to their own will.
Their sins became so great that God had to flood the entire earth to cleanse it of sin.
This period of time allows us to see that mankind can not survive by his own will. Without the word of God we will surely die. Romans says “the wages of sin is death”
Next is The Law
After the flood, man again multiplied and started to fill the earth.
Again sin was ever present among the people.
God, through Moses introduced the law (the 10 commandments; Deut chapter 10 onwards) for man to live by, He gave man an intricate set of rules and regulations so that no matter what a person did or where he went there was a law to point them in the right direction.
Mankind continually disobeyed these words of God and continued to cause his own self destruction.
It is impossible for people to keep every law of God because of the nature of sin that has been passed down through the generations, even from Adam.
Romans , (new living translation) When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned
Romans , (new living translation) When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned
This time of the law is like an example, ie; even with an intricate set of guidelines to show the way man does not keep the word of God.
And now, the main event…..Jesus
God took the word, that created the universe, that separated night from day, that put the sun and moon in the sky, that gave authority over all the earth to man,
God took that word and clothed him in flesh. John 1;14
JESUS
Do you know what Jesus did.
He is the only person …ever… to keep the word of God
Without the law he kept the word of God… he used his own free will to choose the will of God
With the law, he kept the word of God… because he followed the law perfectly.
Even after 40 days of starvation he would not break the word of God when being temped by satan, in fact he spoke the word to overcome him.
Jesus is the only person to have ever lived on the face of the earth who has the right, of his own free will, to eternal life.
Then he gave up that life….
Jesus, of his own free will died on the cross.
He submitted to the most dreadful punishment and then gave up his life so that you and I can have the inheritance (eternal life) that Adam gave away.
He didn’t stop there, he took all the sin, the broken word, the sickness and the suffering into hell and took the keys of hell and death off the devil and then rose from the dead. Death could not hold him, because he kept the word of God
The authority that Adam gave to the devil by breaking the word, Jesus took from the devil by keeping the word and gave it back to those who believe.
Please read this http://tinyurl.com/2cuhdsd to find out more.
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