What are Christians called to? Are we called to be holy, set apart by God? Is that what the word saint means? Are all Christians saints?
To all who are in Rome, loved by God, called as saints. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:7 HCSB)
Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both their's and our's: (1 Corinthians 1:2 KJV)
Is it a permanent calling?
For God's gifts and his call can never be withdrawn. (Romans 11:29 NLT)
Is it wrong to talk to saints who have died? Are they awake or asleep until the resurrection? What does Jesus’ transfiguration teach us?
And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. (Matthew 17:2-3 NASB)
Was this a vision of future resurrected saints looking back in history or did they speak of events still in their future?
And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. (Luke 9:30-31 ESV)
Are deceased saints really aware of events here on earth?
When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?” (Revelation 6:9-10 NIV)
Are we also called into fellowship with Jesus?
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9 ESV)
Should we be vain and arrogant about our calling, or humble? Are mostly foolish and weak people without much influence called? Is that designed by God to put the wise and strong of this world to shame?
Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. (1 Corinthians 1:26-27 NIV)
Did God call the righteous or sinners?
Go and learn what the Scriptures mean when they say, ‘Instead of offering sacrifices to me, I want you to be merciful to others.’ I didn't come to invite good people to be my followers. I came to invite sinners. (Matthew 9:13 CEV)
Is our calling holy, not according to our works, but because of God’s plan and grace?
… God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity (2 Timothy 1:8-9 NASB)
Must we make an effort to confirm our calling?
Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble (2 Peter 1:10 NKJV)
When Matthew was called, did he choose to follow Jesus?
As Jesus continued on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at a kiosk for collecting taxes. He said to him, “Follow me,” and he got up and followed him. (Matthew 9:9 CEB)
What was a rich young man’s choice, when Jesus called him to be a follower? What did Jesus say to him?
Jesus replied, “If you want to be perfect, go sell everything you own! Give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven. Then come and be my follower.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he was very rich. (Matthew 19:21-22 CEV)
Do some respond to the call, but are not chosen? In the parable of the wedding feast, we see a man who was not properly clothed, and therefore kicked out of the royal wedding celebrations.
But when the king came in to look over the dinner guests, he saw a man there who was not dressed in wedding clothes, and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ And the man was speechless. Then the king said to the servants, ‘Tie his hands and feet, and throw him into the outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth in that place.’ (Matthew 22:11-13 NASB)
Did the guest at the wedding figuratively not put on the righteousness of Christ, the sanctification of the Holy Spirit? How many are like this, called but not chosen?
For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22:14 NKJV)
Can we rely on mere human righteousness?
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. (Isaiah 64:6 KJV)
Why are many called but not chosen? Does the parable of the bags of gold or talents teach us that our calling entails responsibility? What happened to the lazy servant?
‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ (Matthew 25:28-29 NIV)
How did Paul view his personal responsibility towards his calling?
I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. (Philippians 3:14 NLT)
To what kind of life have we been called?
God didn't choose you to be filthy, but to be pure. (1 Thessalonians 4:7 CEV)
but just as he who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all of your behavior (1 Peter 1:15 WEB)
Will we respond to our calling like Matthew, or walk away like the rich young man? Are we diligent or lazy in our calling? Have we put on Christ or are we self-satisfied with our own righteousness which is like filthy rags? You decide!
Christmas
Christmas is a season mixed with good and evil. Let’s learn about the good from Luke 2.
A Decree
“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.” (Luke 2:1-5 NKJV)
Bethlehem was surrounded by sheep herds, to be offered in the Temple sacrifices. How symbolic that the Lamb of God should be born there.
Delivered
“So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:6-7 NKJV)
The word inn is a weak translation. They were probably staying with relatives, who had several extra “lodging rooms” available, but these were filled, so Joseph and Mary probably stayed in an attached barn, the lowest of circumstances.
Shepherds
“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8-12 NKJV)
Shepherds were poor, yet angels invited them to celebrate the birth of Christ. It’s not wrong to celebrate the birth of Christ. Wealthy local dignitaries were not invited.
Angels
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’ So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.’” (Luke 2:13-15 NKJV)
Men from one of the lowliest professions celebrated with the angels. We too are invited.
“And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.” (Luke 2:16-20 NKJV)
Do we glorify and praise God for this birth?
Circumcision and Dedication
“And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord’), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, ‘A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.’” (Luke 2:21-24 NKJV)
Leviticus 12 gives more details, 40 days of purification, a lamb to be offered, unless you were poor, only doves and pigeons. This gives us a glimpse into Joseph and Mary’s finances.
Simeon
“And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: ‘Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.’” (Luke 2:25-32 NKJV)
Since the early centuries this section has been set to music and called the Song of Simeon. It is sometimes sung before departing an evening church service.
“And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, ‘Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’” (Luke 2:33-35 NKJV)
Imagine attending church and someone saying something similar to you.
Anna
“Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:36-38 NKJV)
Because of her closeness to God, she was instantly aware of what was going on, giving God thanks.
Return to Nazareth
“So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” (Luke 2:39-40 NKJV)
Puritans ignore Christmas. It was never a Bible mandate. It was not celebrated by Christians until hundreds of years later. Many people have a completely worldly, materialistic Christmas, filling children’s heads with lies. Let’s rejoice with the shepherds, angels and two wise and faithful senior citizens. Let’s join the angels singing “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” You decide!
A Decree
“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.” (Luke 2:1-5 NKJV)
Bethlehem was surrounded by sheep herds, to be offered in the Temple sacrifices. How symbolic that the Lamb of God should be born there.
Delivered
“So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:6-7 NKJV)
The word inn is a weak translation. They were probably staying with relatives, who had several extra “lodging rooms” available, but these were filled, so Joseph and Mary probably stayed in an attached barn, the lowest of circumstances.
Shepherds
“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8-12 NKJV)
Shepherds were poor, yet angels invited them to celebrate the birth of Christ. It’s not wrong to celebrate the birth of Christ. Wealthy local dignitaries were not invited.
Angels
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’ So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.’” (Luke 2:13-15 NKJV)
Men from one of the lowliest professions celebrated with the angels. We too are invited.
“And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.” (Luke 2:16-20 NKJV)
Do we glorify and praise God for this birth?
Circumcision and Dedication
“And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord’), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, ‘A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.’” (Luke 2:21-24 NKJV)
Leviticus 12 gives more details, 40 days of purification, a lamb to be offered, unless you were poor, only doves and pigeons. This gives us a glimpse into Joseph and Mary’s finances.
Simeon
“And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: ‘Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.’” (Luke 2:25-32 NKJV)
Since the early centuries this section has been set to music and called the Song of Simeon. It is sometimes sung before departing an evening church service.
“And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, ‘Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’” (Luke 2:33-35 NKJV)
Imagine attending church and someone saying something similar to you.
Anna
“Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:36-38 NKJV)
Because of her closeness to God, she was instantly aware of what was going on, giving God thanks.
Return to Nazareth
“So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” (Luke 2:39-40 NKJV)
Puritans ignore Christmas. It was never a Bible mandate. It was not celebrated by Christians until hundreds of years later. Many people have a completely worldly, materialistic Christmas, filling children’s heads with lies. Let’s rejoice with the shepherds, angels and two wise and faithful senior citizens. Let’s join the angels singing “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” You decide!
Bible E-Course 23a - What is Salvation?
What is salvation? How does it work? In Greek the word for Savior or Deliverer is σωτήρ (soter) and so we call the study of salvation soteriology.
The word save means to liberate, deliver or rescue. We must look at the context to understand what kind of salvation is being referred to.
Temporal Salvation
When enthusiastic Christians ask others if they have been saved, do they even know what that means? In the case of ancient Israel, they were saved from slavery in Egypt.
Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians... (Exodus 14:30 KJV)
We may be saved from sickness.
O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; if you save me, I will be truly saved. My praises are for you alone! (Jeremiah 17:14 NLT)
We may be saved from our enemies.
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us (Luke 1:68-71 ESV)
Eternal Salvation
More important than temporary physical salvation is eternal salvation from hell. That salvation is on offer to the whole world because of one man.
They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42 NIV)
That man is the Son of God.
We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. (1 John 4:14 NASB)
Salvation can refer to being saved from physical problems, but ultimately and primarily refers to being saved from death and hell.
Salvation is a Gift
Eternal salvation is a gift to those who believe. It is not earned.
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 NKJV)
Many people misunderstand this verse believing it says that faith is the gift. That seems to make sense in English. But in Greek the words “grace” and “faith” are feminine, and the word “saved” is masculine, and the word “that” is neuter. In Greek grammar, the word “that” cannot apply to any of them alone. The gift can be the concept “by grace you have been saved,” a phrase that Paul uses twice. The gift can also mean the concept “by grace you have been saved through faith.” Paul clarifies this elsewhere.
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. (Romans 3:23-25a ESV)
What is God’s free gift?
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23 ESV)
What is grace? Grace is an undeserved kindness, given freely as a gift.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men (Titus 2:11 KJV)
What saves us?
But God was merciful! We were dead because of our sins, but God loved us so much he made us alive with Christ, and God's gift of undeserved grace is what saves you. (Ephesians 2:5 CEV)
Grace is an undeserved gift of God.
Saving Faith
What is the only requirement for receiving the gift of salvation?
From infancy, you have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:15 WEB)
When will salvation be revealed?
You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:5 HCSB)
What kind of faith is required, one that is just a dead claim but does nothing, or a living faith, alive with good works?
What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? 17 In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. (James 2:14-17 NASB)
What is the end result of our faith?
for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:9 NIV)
Salvation is a free gift. It is not of works lest any of us should boast, but saving faith is evident by good works. Do you receive God’s undeserved gift? You decide!
The word save means to liberate, deliver or rescue. We must look at the context to understand what kind of salvation is being referred to.
Temporal Salvation
When enthusiastic Christians ask others if they have been saved, do they even know what that means? In the case of ancient Israel, they were saved from slavery in Egypt.
Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians... (Exodus 14:30 KJV)
We may be saved from sickness.
O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; if you save me, I will be truly saved. My praises are for you alone! (Jeremiah 17:14 NLT)
We may be saved from our enemies.
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us (Luke 1:68-71 ESV)
Eternal Salvation
More important than temporary physical salvation is eternal salvation from hell. That salvation is on offer to the whole world because of one man.
They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42 NIV)
That man is the Son of God.
We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. (1 John 4:14 NASB)
Salvation can refer to being saved from physical problems, but ultimately and primarily refers to being saved from death and hell.
Salvation is a Gift
Eternal salvation is a gift to those who believe. It is not earned.
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 NKJV)
Many people misunderstand this verse believing it says that faith is the gift. That seems to make sense in English. But in Greek the words “grace” and “faith” are feminine, and the word “saved” is masculine, and the word “that” is neuter. In Greek grammar, the word “that” cannot apply to any of them alone. The gift can be the concept “by grace you have been saved,” a phrase that Paul uses twice. The gift can also mean the concept “by grace you have been saved through faith.” Paul clarifies this elsewhere.
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. (Romans 3:23-25a ESV)
What is God’s free gift?
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23 ESV)
What is grace? Grace is an undeserved kindness, given freely as a gift.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men (Titus 2:11 KJV)
What saves us?
But God was merciful! We were dead because of our sins, but God loved us so much he made us alive with Christ, and God's gift of undeserved grace is what saves you. (Ephesians 2:5 CEV)
Grace is an undeserved gift of God.
Saving Faith
What is the only requirement for receiving the gift of salvation?
From infancy, you have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:15 WEB)
When will salvation be revealed?
You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:5 HCSB)
What kind of faith is required, one that is just a dead claim but does nothing, or a living faith, alive with good works?
What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? 17 In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. (James 2:14-17 NASB)
What is the end result of our faith?
for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:9 NIV)
Salvation is a free gift. It is not of works lest any of us should boast, but saving faith is evident by good works. Do you receive God’s undeserved gift? You decide!
God with Us
The world’s most important birth was about to take place. Why was it almost unknown? What was Joseph's dilemma? What were the baby’s names? Was Mary a perpetual virgin? Let’s look at Matthew 1:18-25.
Joseph’s Dilemma
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:18 NKJV)
Joseph, betrothed to Mary, found her pregnant. At that time, a groom typically prepared a home for his bride, which could take a year. When all was prepared, he came to collect his bride, like Christ comes for the Church. Joseph decided to cancel the wedding privately for Mary’s sake.
Joseph’s Mercy
Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. (Matthew 1:19 NKJV)
Imagine being engaged, feeling betrayed, yet loving her and not wanting to disgrace nor punish her. An angel says, it’s of God and her son would bring salvation. You marry her knowing there will be gossip. You also know the child’s name, Jesus (God saves) and Immanuel (God with us).
Name Him Jesus
But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21 NKJV)
Jesus’ name means “YHWH (the Lord) saves.” His name is the hope of the whole world (Matthew 12:15-21). Jesus’ name heals (Mark 9:38-40). We should take Jesus' name seriously and pray for blasphemers. His Greek name is sometimes abbreviated ΙΗΣ[1], IHS in English letters, a sign seen in churches everywhere.
[1] Greek capital letters Iota-Eta-Sigma, biblestudytools.com, newadvent.org/cathen, christogenea.org
God with Us
So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:22-23 NKJV)
Jesus is the cornerstone of Christianity, His birth, resurrection, salvation, divinity and humanity. In 451 AD, the last Ecumenical Council recognized by most Protestants, came to the greatest historical consensus on Christ, affirming the Trinity, Christ's virgin birth, his humanity and his deity, and his two natures in one person.
Jesus means Joshua. Two Joshuas were forerunners of Jesus. Joshua the son of Nun conquered 31 cities in Canaan beginning around 1400 BC. Joshua and the promised land symbolize Jesus and eternal life. Joshua the son of Jozadak was a high priest (Haggai 1). Jesus is our high priest (Hebrews 8:3-5).[2]
[2] newadvent.org/cathen; The Oxford History of the Biblical World. 1998. Oxford University Press; biblearchaeology.org; orthodoxytoday.org)
Perpetual Virginity?
Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, 25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus. (Matthew 1:24-25 NKJV)
Was Mary a Perpetual Virgin? Jesus had siblings (Mark 6:3, Matthew 13:55, John 7:3, Acts 1:14, 1 Corinthians 9:5). The Greek word for cousins was not used. In John 19:26-27 Mary is a spiritual mother, not without her own children to look after her.
Psalm 69 is quoted several times in the New Testament, referring prophetically to Jesus.
Those who hate me without a cause (Psalm 69:4; cf. John 15:25)
zeal for Your house has eaten me up (Psalm 69:9a; cf. John 2:17)
the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me. (Psalm 69:9b; cf. Romans 15:3)
And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. (Psalm 69:21; cf. John 19:28-29)
It also states plainly that Jesus’ mother had other children.
I have become a stranger to my brothers, And an alien to my mother’s children; (Psalm 69:8 NKJV cf. Isaiah 53:3; Mark 3:21; Luke 8:19; John 7:3-5)
Let’s not be deceived by those who hide doctrinal errors behind claims to infallibility, but repent and seek the truth.
God was born a baby in a stable, suffered, died, was raised again, founded a church, sits now at God’s right hand and will come again to bring about world peace. He offers us the gift of eternal life. Will you accept it? You decide!
Joseph’s Dilemma
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:18 NKJV)
Joseph, betrothed to Mary, found her pregnant. At that time, a groom typically prepared a home for his bride, which could take a year. When all was prepared, he came to collect his bride, like Christ comes for the Church. Joseph decided to cancel the wedding privately for Mary’s sake.
Joseph’s Mercy
Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. (Matthew 1:19 NKJV)
Imagine being engaged, feeling betrayed, yet loving her and not wanting to disgrace nor punish her. An angel says, it’s of God and her son would bring salvation. You marry her knowing there will be gossip. You also know the child’s name, Jesus (God saves) and Immanuel (God with us).
Name Him Jesus
But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21 NKJV)
Jesus’ name means “YHWH (the Lord) saves.” His name is the hope of the whole world (Matthew 12:15-21). Jesus’ name heals (Mark 9:38-40). We should take Jesus' name seriously and pray for blasphemers. His Greek name is sometimes abbreviated ΙΗΣ[1], IHS in English letters, a sign seen in churches everywhere.
[1] Greek capital letters Iota-Eta-Sigma, biblestudytools.com, newadvent.org/cathen, christogenea.org
God with Us
So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:22-23 NKJV)
Jesus is the cornerstone of Christianity, His birth, resurrection, salvation, divinity and humanity. In 451 AD, the last Ecumenical Council recognized by most Protestants, came to the greatest historical consensus on Christ, affirming the Trinity, Christ's virgin birth, his humanity and his deity, and his two natures in one person.
Jesus means Joshua. Two Joshuas were forerunners of Jesus. Joshua the son of Nun conquered 31 cities in Canaan beginning around 1400 BC. Joshua and the promised land symbolize Jesus and eternal life. Joshua the son of Jozadak was a high priest (Haggai 1). Jesus is our high priest (Hebrews 8:3-5).[2]
[2] newadvent.org/cathen; The Oxford History of the Biblical World. 1998. Oxford University Press; biblearchaeology.org; orthodoxytoday.org)
Perpetual Virginity?
Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, 25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus. (Matthew 1:24-25 NKJV)
Was Mary a Perpetual Virgin? Jesus had siblings (Mark 6:3, Matthew 13:55, John 7:3, Acts 1:14, 1 Corinthians 9:5). The Greek word for cousins was not used. In John 19:26-27 Mary is a spiritual mother, not without her own children to look after her.
Psalm 69 is quoted several times in the New Testament, referring prophetically to Jesus.
Those who hate me without a cause (Psalm 69:4; cf. John 15:25)
zeal for Your house has eaten me up (Psalm 69:9a; cf. John 2:17)
the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me. (Psalm 69:9b; cf. Romans 15:3)
And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. (Psalm 69:21; cf. John 19:28-29)
It also states plainly that Jesus’ mother had other children.
I have become a stranger to my brothers, And an alien to my mother’s children; (Psalm 69:8 NKJV cf. Isaiah 53:3; Mark 3:21; Luke 8:19; John 7:3-5)
Let’s not be deceived by those who hide doctrinal errors behind claims to infallibility, but repent and seek the truth.
God was born a baby in a stable, suffered, died, was raised again, founded a church, sits now at God’s right hand and will come again to bring about world peace. He offers us the gift of eternal life. Will you accept it? You decide!
Bible E-Course 22c - The Word of God
What does it mean to say that something is the word of God?
The Bible
Is the Bible the Word of God? The Scriptures and the Word of God are sometimes treated synonymously throughout the Bible.
Example 1: God said the following.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. (Genesis 12:3 NIV)
This is also described as something that scripture said.
Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ (Galatians 3:8 NIV)
Example 2: We read what God said.
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (Exodus 9:16 NIV)
Elsewhere this is something that scripture said.
Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’ (Romans 9:17 NIV)
Example 3: David asked a question.
Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?” (Psalm 2:1 NIV)
Peter and John concluded that God said this.
You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?' (Acts 4:24-25 NIV)
So the word of God can refer to scripture.
If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture can’t be broken), (John 10:35 WEB)
The phrase “word of God” can also mean various other things depending on context.
A Quote from God
Can the word of God mean a quote from God?
But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying… (1 Kings 12:22 KJV)
What followed the word “saying” was the word of God in that context. Again we read:
But it happened that same night, that the word of God came to Nathan, saying… (1 Chronicles 17:3 NASB)
In both these cases the word of God was what God actually said, a quote from God. This is the narrowest definition of the phrase.
God’s Commandments
Can the word of God refer to God’s commandments? The Pharisees say:
they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. (Matthew 15:6 NIV)
Preaching
Can the word of God refer to public preaching?
So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, (Luke 5:1 NKJV)
So, the word of God can refer to something we hear.
Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” (Luke 11:28 NLT)
Can it refer to what people speak?
And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:31 ESV)
So both ends of a discourse, the speaking and hearing, can be described as the word of God.
Jesus
Is Jesus also the Word of God?
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-3, 14 NKJV)
Depending on context, the phrase “word of God” can be narrowly a quote from God, and more broadly God’s commandments, public preaching, the person of Jesus and even the scriptures. Do you believe in the Word of God? You decide!
The Bible
Is the Bible the Word of God? The Scriptures and the Word of God are sometimes treated synonymously throughout the Bible.
Example 1: God said the following.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. (Genesis 12:3 NIV)
This is also described as something that scripture said.
Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ (Galatians 3:8 NIV)
Example 2: We read what God said.
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (Exodus 9:16 NIV)
Elsewhere this is something that scripture said.
Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’ (Romans 9:17 NIV)
Example 3: David asked a question.
Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?” (Psalm 2:1 NIV)
Peter and John concluded that God said this.
You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?' (Acts 4:24-25 NIV)
So the word of God can refer to scripture.
If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture can’t be broken), (John 10:35 WEB)
The phrase “word of God” can also mean various other things depending on context.
A Quote from God
Can the word of God mean a quote from God?
But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying… (1 Kings 12:22 KJV)
What followed the word “saying” was the word of God in that context. Again we read:
But it happened that same night, that the word of God came to Nathan, saying… (1 Chronicles 17:3 NASB)
In both these cases the word of God was what God actually said, a quote from God. This is the narrowest definition of the phrase.
God’s Commandments
Can the word of God refer to God’s commandments? The Pharisees say:
they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. (Matthew 15:6 NIV)
Preaching
Can the word of God refer to public preaching?
So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, (Luke 5:1 NKJV)
So, the word of God can refer to something we hear.
Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” (Luke 11:28 NLT)
Can it refer to what people speak?
And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:31 ESV)
So both ends of a discourse, the speaking and hearing, can be described as the word of God.
Jesus
Is Jesus also the Word of God?
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-3, 14 NKJV)
Depending on context, the phrase “word of God” can be narrowly a quote from God, and more broadly God’s commandments, public preaching, the person of Jesus and even the scriptures. Do you believe in the Word of God? You decide!
Matthew 11 Offended by Jesus
Was John the Baptist offended by Jesus? If He walked the earth today would we be offended by Him? Let’s examine the real Jesus and being offended at Jesus in Matthew 11:2-11.
Are You the One?
And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Matthew 11:2-3 NKJV)
After preparing the way for Jesus, John the Baptist doubted. Was Jesus the ONE? He was different from what John and even the disciples expected. He was a pacifist not a freedom fighter. Jesus ate and drank with sinners. John was an ascetic under a Nazirite vow who did not drink alcohol. Like John, Jesus preached repentance and the kingdom, but He also turned the other cheek and healed people.
Are we as disappointed in Jesus? He did not encourage many things that our denominations push - tongues, Sabbaths, prayers to Mary, rosaries, nationalism, or a materialistic health-wealth gospel. He condemned abusive, authoritarian religious leadership. He preached to the poor about giving and self-sacrifice, and a kingdom not of this world.
Are we frustrated by Jesus? John was an activist and revolutionary. Jesus was a healer and teacher. Jesus did not make John a disciple. John looked for a political Messiah to free the Jews from Rome. Are we disappointed with Jesus, His life of poverty and dying on a cross or do we wait patiently for His return?
Offended by Jesus
Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” (Matthew 11:4-6 NKJV)
Jesus warned of the danger of doubt. It can cause us to be offended. What do we think about when we hear about Jesus, a little baby in a manger, or someone who heals people and preaches to the poor? Instead of an imaginary Jesus of our wishes, let us get to know the real Jesus and be grateful for who He really is.
Is our salvation found in the ways of this world? Jesus used no worldly methods. The blind received sight, the lame walked, lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised up, and the poor heard the good news. This is what the Messiah looks like. He is the one.
Have we created a fake Jesus in our minds? Do vain human traditions picture the truth about Jesus? Denominationalism, politics, and traditions only divide us. Do we build a Jesus that we created, because we are disappointed with the simplicity of the real Jesus? The real Jesus unites us.
I Send My messenger
As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. For this is he of whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.’ (Matthew 11:7-12 NKJV)
A reed shaken by a wind describes preachers who teach what's popular, the latest wind, not timeless truths. The early church rescued December from paganism to rejoice with the angels and shepherds over a birth. But Christmas can still be a pagan festival, merchandising for profit, focusing on gifts, parties, the pressure to spend, and filling our children's heads with lies. There is still a voice of one crying in the wilderness. Let’s rescue Christmas from its ever present paganism.
The Violent Take it by Force
“Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. (Matthew 11:11-12 NKJV)
God’s kingdom suffered violence when John was murdered. Violent people take over the church with evil motives. The Greek word can also be translated as zeal and certainly ardent zeal in the face of opposition is needed for Christians to enter God’s kingdom. Christianity is not the easy path. It is an ongoing spiritual battle against evil.
Do we know the real Jesus or have we created a fictitious Jesus? Are we expecting Him to create a cushy Disneyland for us now, or do we look forward to that day when He will return and take over the governments of this world? Have we put our faith in the real Jesus?
Are You the One?
And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Matthew 11:2-3 NKJV)
After preparing the way for Jesus, John the Baptist doubted. Was Jesus the ONE? He was different from what John and even the disciples expected. He was a pacifist not a freedom fighter. Jesus ate and drank with sinners. John was an ascetic under a Nazirite vow who did not drink alcohol. Like John, Jesus preached repentance and the kingdom, but He also turned the other cheek and healed people.
Are we as disappointed in Jesus? He did not encourage many things that our denominations push - tongues, Sabbaths, prayers to Mary, rosaries, nationalism, or a materialistic health-wealth gospel. He condemned abusive, authoritarian religious leadership. He preached to the poor about giving and self-sacrifice, and a kingdom not of this world.
Are we frustrated by Jesus? John was an activist and revolutionary. Jesus was a healer and teacher. Jesus did not make John a disciple. John looked for a political Messiah to free the Jews from Rome. Are we disappointed with Jesus, His life of poverty and dying on a cross or do we wait patiently for His return?
Offended by Jesus
Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” (Matthew 11:4-6 NKJV)
Jesus warned of the danger of doubt. It can cause us to be offended. What do we think about when we hear about Jesus, a little baby in a manger, or someone who heals people and preaches to the poor? Instead of an imaginary Jesus of our wishes, let us get to know the real Jesus and be grateful for who He really is.
Is our salvation found in the ways of this world? Jesus used no worldly methods. The blind received sight, the lame walked, lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised up, and the poor heard the good news. This is what the Messiah looks like. He is the one.
Have we created a fake Jesus in our minds? Do vain human traditions picture the truth about Jesus? Denominationalism, politics, and traditions only divide us. Do we build a Jesus that we created, because we are disappointed with the simplicity of the real Jesus? The real Jesus unites us.
I Send My messenger
As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. For this is he of whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.’ (Matthew 11:7-12 NKJV)
A reed shaken by a wind describes preachers who teach what's popular, the latest wind, not timeless truths. The early church rescued December from paganism to rejoice with the angels and shepherds over a birth. But Christmas can still be a pagan festival, merchandising for profit, focusing on gifts, parties, the pressure to spend, and filling our children's heads with lies. There is still a voice of one crying in the wilderness. Let’s rescue Christmas from its ever present paganism.
The Violent Take it by Force
“Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. (Matthew 11:11-12 NKJV)
God’s kingdom suffered violence when John was murdered. Violent people take over the church with evil motives. The Greek word can also be translated as zeal and certainly ardent zeal in the face of opposition is needed for Christians to enter God’s kingdom. Christianity is not the easy path. It is an ongoing spiritual battle against evil.
Do we know the real Jesus or have we created a fictitious Jesus? Are we expecting Him to create a cushy Disneyland for us now, or do we look forward to that day when He will return and take over the governments of this world? Have we put our faith in the real Jesus?
Bible E-Course 22b - Bible Canon
The Christian Bible forms the measure of our faith. While tradition, reason and experience can contribute in valuable ways to our faith, they are not always the teachings of Jesus, the prophets and apostles. Let’s look at the canon of the Bible.
Compiling the Bible over thousands of years is called canonization. Canon means rule or measure and the Bible canon is thus the measure of the Christian faith. Canonization was a process whereby over time, ancient documents were deemed as authoritative and thus incorporated into the Bible by believers.
The Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures were put together in a gradual process beginning with the earliest records compiled by Moses and concluding with Ezra. The New Testament canon was widely recognized long before any official acceptance.
Factors involved in deciding which books ought to be in the New Testament included that each piece was to be of apostolic origin, catholic (that is, universally accepted), Christ-centered, orthodox in its teaching, and contain internal evidence supporting it.
The number of books in the Christian Bible varies across Protestant, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Assyrian Eastern traditions. However, we all agree on the same central 66 books. The canon was already widely recognized and later confirmed during many North African meetings of church leaders known as the Councils of Carthage from 397 to 419 AD.
Inerrancy and infallibility
Inerrancy is a term that is much maligned and misunderstood. It is not found in the Bible. Rather, it is a negative synonym to the positive biblical word truth.
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. (John 17:17 NIV)
Is understanding the Bible important?
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV)
Inerrant explains truth to a world that no longer believes in absolute truth. It does not include translation errors. It means that the Bible will not fail in its purpose.
Inerrancy is not a perfect word but is widely used among conservative Christians and usually limited to describing the original writings. Inerrantists recognize that no later translation of the Bible is perfect.
Another proposition is the infallibility of the Bible. Some believe it’s a better word, some think it is equal, and others consider it to be inferior to inerrancy. Infallibility means that the Bible is completely trustworthy as a guide to salvation and faith. It will accomplish its purpose.
How to Understand the Bible
Interpretation
How can we understand the Bible? Do we need heaven to help us understand? Did the Holy Spirit aid the apostles in accurately recalling events of Christ’s earthly ministry that they would eventually write down?
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. (John 14:26 NASB)
Does something or someone lighten our path?
There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. (John 1:9 NASB)
The most widely accepted process of understanding the Bible among faithful experts is to start with exegesis. That means to prayerfully extract as best we can the original meaning. We don’t begin by shoving our culture backwards into history. Rather, we begin in the past, with their culture, their grammar, genre, history, and ask questions like “What did the author intend?”, “What did God intend?”, “What does the text actually say?”, and “What does the text NOT say?”
The process of exegesis is already done in large part down through history by dedicated theologians and other researchers who understand the original languages and study ancient history. One of the very best places to start is by using trusted conservative commentaries. Beware! Some Bible commentaries are written by people who do not believe that all scripture is God breathed. They sow doubt and not faith.
It is almost a useless exercise asking a group Bible Study questions like, “What does this verse mean to you?” In reality, we should not care what people THINK a text means. We should want to know what it actually means. That’s where experts who write commentaries help.
Application
The whole process of studying the Bible should take us from the historical context through a modern application into our hope of eternity. This process is also called hermeneutics. Since ancient times, Bible students have studied four different facets of hermeneutics: a literal, moral, allegorical and anagogical lesson. The last of these deals with the afterlife. Any passage of scripture can involve all four facets.
Application can be a joyful journey of Christian discussion. The application step is where everyone can be an expert. How does a passage of Scripture apply to business, politics, church, farm, community and family?
The application step can also be dangerous, legalistic and even heretical. We may be tempted to have legalistic man-made rules which supersede God’s law, vain traditions and even heresy.
The Holy Spirit’s Help
The Holy Spirit helps us understand the Bible. However, we need to be careful, pray for discernment, and test or prove the spirits.
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1 NASB)
Many people have gone off in crazy directions claiming that the Holy Spirit led them there. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Bible to our understanding, but He also lights up the understanding of others who can advise us. Going it alone is dangerous for any Christian. Conservative Bible commentaries, written by those who actually believe the Bible, are excellent counselors.
Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14 ESV)
Of course, the Holy Spirit is our main advisor.
… these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit… that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual… they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:9-14 ESV)
May our hearts be flooded with heavenly light.
I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. (Ephesians 1:18 NLT)
Do you believe that God inspired a handbook for all humanity? Do you believe it to be a record of His dealings with mankind through many generations? Do you believe it contains a blueprint of His eternal plan for us? You decide!
Compiling the Bible over thousands of years is called canonization. Canon means rule or measure and the Bible canon is thus the measure of the Christian faith. Canonization was a process whereby over time, ancient documents were deemed as authoritative and thus incorporated into the Bible by believers.
The Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures were put together in a gradual process beginning with the earliest records compiled by Moses and concluding with Ezra. The New Testament canon was widely recognized long before any official acceptance.
Factors involved in deciding which books ought to be in the New Testament included that each piece was to be of apostolic origin, catholic (that is, universally accepted), Christ-centered, orthodox in its teaching, and contain internal evidence supporting it.
The number of books in the Christian Bible varies across Protestant, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Assyrian Eastern traditions. However, we all agree on the same central 66 books. The canon was already widely recognized and later confirmed during many North African meetings of church leaders known as the Councils of Carthage from 397 to 419 AD.
Inerrancy and infallibility
Inerrancy is a term that is much maligned and misunderstood. It is not found in the Bible. Rather, it is a negative synonym to the positive biblical word truth.
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. (John 17:17 NIV)
Is understanding the Bible important?
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV)
Inerrant explains truth to a world that no longer believes in absolute truth. It does not include translation errors. It means that the Bible will not fail in its purpose.
Inerrancy is not a perfect word but is widely used among conservative Christians and usually limited to describing the original writings. Inerrantists recognize that no later translation of the Bible is perfect.
Another proposition is the infallibility of the Bible. Some believe it’s a better word, some think it is equal, and others consider it to be inferior to inerrancy. Infallibility means that the Bible is completely trustworthy as a guide to salvation and faith. It will accomplish its purpose.
How to Understand the Bible
Interpretation
How can we understand the Bible? Do we need heaven to help us understand? Did the Holy Spirit aid the apostles in accurately recalling events of Christ’s earthly ministry that they would eventually write down?
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. (John 14:26 NASB)
Does something or someone lighten our path?
There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. (John 1:9 NASB)
The most widely accepted process of understanding the Bible among faithful experts is to start with exegesis. That means to prayerfully extract as best we can the original meaning. We don’t begin by shoving our culture backwards into history. Rather, we begin in the past, with their culture, their grammar, genre, history, and ask questions like “What did the author intend?”, “What did God intend?”, “What does the text actually say?”, and “What does the text NOT say?”
The process of exegesis is already done in large part down through history by dedicated theologians and other researchers who understand the original languages and study ancient history. One of the very best places to start is by using trusted conservative commentaries. Beware! Some Bible commentaries are written by people who do not believe that all scripture is God breathed. They sow doubt and not faith.
It is almost a useless exercise asking a group Bible Study questions like, “What does this verse mean to you?” In reality, we should not care what people THINK a text means. We should want to know what it actually means. That’s where experts who write commentaries help.
Application
The whole process of studying the Bible should take us from the historical context through a modern application into our hope of eternity. This process is also called hermeneutics. Since ancient times, Bible students have studied four different facets of hermeneutics: a literal, moral, allegorical and anagogical lesson. The last of these deals with the afterlife. Any passage of scripture can involve all four facets.
Application can be a joyful journey of Christian discussion. The application step is where everyone can be an expert. How does a passage of Scripture apply to business, politics, church, farm, community and family?
The application step can also be dangerous, legalistic and even heretical. We may be tempted to have legalistic man-made rules which supersede God’s law, vain traditions and even heresy.
The Holy Spirit’s Help
The Holy Spirit helps us understand the Bible. However, we need to be careful, pray for discernment, and test or prove the spirits.
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1 NASB)
Many people have gone off in crazy directions claiming that the Holy Spirit led them there. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Bible to our understanding, but He also lights up the understanding of others who can advise us. Going it alone is dangerous for any Christian. Conservative Bible commentaries, written by those who actually believe the Bible, are excellent counselors.
Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14 ESV)
Of course, the Holy Spirit is our main advisor.
… these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit… that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual… they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:9-14 ESV)
May our hearts be flooded with heavenly light.
I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. (Ephesians 1:18 NLT)
Do you believe that God inspired a handbook for all humanity? Do you believe it to be a record of His dealings with mankind through many generations? Do you believe it contains a blueprint of His eternal plan for us? You decide!
Matthew 3 Preparing the Way for Christ
Is believing without repenting valid? Why did both Jesus and John the Baptist preach repent? Let’s learn why in Matthew 3:1-12.
Preaching & Teaching (vs 1)
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea (Matthew 3:1)
In the Bible the word "preach" means “announce” the Gospel publicly (Matthew 3:1-2; 4:17). We call an in-house sermon preaching, but the Bible calls it teaching. Preaching was public. Teaching was instructing believers (Matthew 28:19-20). What did John preach?
Repent (vs 2a)
and saying, “Repent” (Matthew 3:2a)
Repent of what? What was wrong? What’s wrong with our world? The meaning here is “a change of heart.” Does our world need to change? Repentance brings hope of a new beginning.
Is repentance then just a one time thing? Big “R” repentance is when one first turns from sin to God. Little “r” repentance is like course corrections on our pilgrimage. In this life we never stop repenting.
God’s Kingdom (vs 2b)
“… for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:2b)
John’s announcement of repentance had a great sense of urgency, “the kingdom of heaven is near.” The rule of God or heaven is now in the lives of those who accept him. A modern equivalent is saying that God is now taking control.1
1 The Gospel of Matthew, The New International Commentary of the New Testament, R. T. France, 2007, Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Co, p. 102
Wilderness (vs 3)
For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’ ” (vs 3)
John did not preach in Jerusalem or the temple. He preached both in the literal wilderness and the spiritual wilderness of a sinful world. An international trade route passed here. Hence, the analogy of preparing the way and paths. How interesting that there is one way, but many paths. That is like Christianity as one way, but with many denominations.
Country Preacher (vs 4)
Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. (vs 4)
John the baptizer was a wilderness preacher dressed in poor country rags, challenging established religion, likely seen by religious leaders as a rebel. He emphasized repentance, a change of heart. John did not encourage the repentant to make a sin offering (Leviticus 5), but to be baptized in water. He paved the way for a new high priest who would also baptize people with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Baptized (vs 5-6)
Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. (vs 5-6)
We are introduced to one of the most important newscasters of all history. His announcement was made in the wilderness at the edge of Roman imperial control. This last of the Old Testament prophets was dressed in the simple clothing of poor farming folk like Elijah. Where Israel crossed the Jordan to become God’s kingdom on earth, John announced the kingdom of heaven.
Snakes (vs 7)
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (vs 7)
John’s preaching was the uncomfortable truth. Like Jesus, he said repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and called religious leaders snakes. What was needed?
Fruits (vs 8)
Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, (vs 8)
True repentance is accompanied by fruits, action. The unasked question is: What must change? The root cause of all our planet’s ills is spiritual and so is the solution. What are the necessary fruits?
but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. (Acts 26:20)
If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (James 2:15-17)
What happens if we don’t bear fruit?
Good Fruit (vs 9-10)
and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (vs 9-10)
What is good fruit?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)
that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; (Colossians 1:10)
How did John speak of Jesus?
A More Powerful One (vs 11)
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (vs 11)
A bishop’s mitre hat pictures tongues of fire of Pentecost. The pouring out of the Holy Spirit is also symbolized by water poured out on the head, practiced by some in baptism.
Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. (Acts 2:3)
Baptism with fire has a double meaning. The unrepentant will also be tossed into a lake of fire.
And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:15)
What does the lake of fire do?
Unquenchable Fire (vs 12)
“His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” (vs 12)
This seems to describe annihilation in hell. Other scriptures seem to describe eternal suffering, not annihilation. Let’s leave that on the shelf until Christ’s return? The bottom line? Hell bad; heaven good; choose heaven. Jesus spoke more about hell than any other in the entire Bible. Should we follow John’s and Christ’s example calling for repentance?
That this is a rebellious people, Lying children, Children who will not hear the law of the Lord; Who say to the seers, “Do not see,” And to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us right things; Speak to us smooth things, prophesy deceits. Get out of the way, Turn aside from the path, Cause the Holy One of Israel To cease from before us.” (Isaiah 30:9-11)
Outro/Take Home
Have we in the contemporary church failed God, by preaching smooth things? Instead of a hollow motivational speech do we need to get back to preaching repentance and the kingdom of God like John and Jesus? You decide!
Preaching & Teaching (vs 1)
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea (Matthew 3:1)
In the Bible the word "preach" means “announce” the Gospel publicly (Matthew 3:1-2; 4:17). We call an in-house sermon preaching, but the Bible calls it teaching. Preaching was public. Teaching was instructing believers (Matthew 28:19-20). What did John preach?
Repent (vs 2a)
and saying, “Repent” (Matthew 3:2a)
Repent of what? What was wrong? What’s wrong with our world? The meaning here is “a change of heart.” Does our world need to change? Repentance brings hope of a new beginning.
Is repentance then just a one time thing? Big “R” repentance is when one first turns from sin to God. Little “r” repentance is like course corrections on our pilgrimage. In this life we never stop repenting.
God’s Kingdom (vs 2b)
“… for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:2b)
John’s announcement of repentance had a great sense of urgency, “the kingdom of heaven is near.” The rule of God or heaven is now in the lives of those who accept him. A modern equivalent is saying that God is now taking control.1
1 The Gospel of Matthew, The New International Commentary of the New Testament, R. T. France, 2007, Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Co, p. 102
Wilderness (vs 3)
For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’ ” (vs 3)
John did not preach in Jerusalem or the temple. He preached both in the literal wilderness and the spiritual wilderness of a sinful world. An international trade route passed here. Hence, the analogy of preparing the way and paths. How interesting that there is one way, but many paths. That is like Christianity as one way, but with many denominations.
Country Preacher (vs 4)
Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. (vs 4)
John the baptizer was a wilderness preacher dressed in poor country rags, challenging established religion, likely seen by religious leaders as a rebel. He emphasized repentance, a change of heart. John did not encourage the repentant to make a sin offering (Leviticus 5), but to be baptized in water. He paved the way for a new high priest who would also baptize people with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Baptized (vs 5-6)
Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. (vs 5-6)
We are introduced to one of the most important newscasters of all history. His announcement was made in the wilderness at the edge of Roman imperial control. This last of the Old Testament prophets was dressed in the simple clothing of poor farming folk like Elijah. Where Israel crossed the Jordan to become God’s kingdom on earth, John announced the kingdom of heaven.
Snakes (vs 7)
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (vs 7)
John’s preaching was the uncomfortable truth. Like Jesus, he said repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and called religious leaders snakes. What was needed?
Fruits (vs 8)
Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, (vs 8)
True repentance is accompanied by fruits, action. The unasked question is: What must change? The root cause of all our planet’s ills is spiritual and so is the solution. What are the necessary fruits?
but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. (Acts 26:20)
If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (James 2:15-17)
What happens if we don’t bear fruit?
Good Fruit (vs 9-10)
and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (vs 9-10)
What is good fruit?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)
that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; (Colossians 1:10)
How did John speak of Jesus?
A More Powerful One (vs 11)
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (vs 11)
A bishop’s mitre hat pictures tongues of fire of Pentecost. The pouring out of the Holy Spirit is also symbolized by water poured out on the head, practiced by some in baptism.
Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. (Acts 2:3)
Baptism with fire has a double meaning. The unrepentant will also be tossed into a lake of fire.
And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:15)
What does the lake of fire do?
Unquenchable Fire (vs 12)
“His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” (vs 12)
This seems to describe annihilation in hell. Other scriptures seem to describe eternal suffering, not annihilation. Let’s leave that on the shelf until Christ’s return? The bottom line? Hell bad; heaven good; choose heaven. Jesus spoke more about hell than any other in the entire Bible. Should we follow John’s and Christ’s example calling for repentance?
That this is a rebellious people, Lying children, Children who will not hear the law of the Lord; Who say to the seers, “Do not see,” And to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us right things; Speak to us smooth things, prophesy deceits. Get out of the way, Turn aside from the path, Cause the Holy One of Israel To cease from before us.” (Isaiah 30:9-11)
Outro/Take Home
Have we in the contemporary church failed God, by preaching smooth things? Instead of a hollow motivational speech do we need to get back to preaching repentance and the kingdom of God like John and Jesus? You decide!
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