Matthew 20:17-19 ESV


Jesus’ Ministry and Death and Resurrection

Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, who is the second person of our triune God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – left his throne in heaven, came to earth, was born as a baby to a human mother, conceived of the Holy Spirit, with God the Father as his birth father. So when he lived on the earth, Jesus was fully God and yet fully man, yet without sin. And at around the age of 30 he began his 3 years of ministry with 12 handpicked disciples.

Jesus Christ, during his years of ministry on the earth, healed the sick and afflicted, raised the dead, delivered people from demons, performed all sorts of miracles, fed the hungry, and comforted the sorrowful. But his primary ministry was to share the gospel of salvation with the people, so he began by telling the people that they needed to repent of (turn away from) their sins, and they needed to follow him/God in obedience to his commands.

But most of the Jews did not accept him for who he was/is, their promised Messiah, and many of the religious rulers and people of influence opposed him strongly and harassed him at every turn. They were always criticizing him, looking for ways to trip him up with his words, and laying traps for him, hoping that he would fall into the traps (not physical but mind traps). For they were jealous of him and of his temporary popularity among the people.

So, they plotted and they carried out his death on a cross, which is what Jesus was predicting here would happen to him. But their plan backfired on them, for Jesus was resurrected from the dead on the third day, as he said he would, and he appeared to many people and to his remaining eleven disciples (Judas, the disciple who betrayed him, hung himself). And then he ascended back to heaven. And then he sent his Holy Spirit to indwell and to empower his followers to continue on in the ministry of sharing the gospel.

And the truth of the gospel is continuing to go forth via the Lord’s servants and messengers who are willing to tell people the truth, even if it costs them their lives. For the message of the gospel brings to us the hope of life eternal with God and salvation from our bondage to sin. For Jesus Christ died on that cross that we might die with him to sin and live to him and to his righteousness. He died to free us from our slavery (addiction) to sin so that we can now live godly and holy lives in obedience to him, in his power.

Opposition to the Truth of the Gospel

But there are still people on this earth who are opposed to the truth of the gospel, and many of them are the religious, some of them pastors and elders of church congregations. Now they may not be followers of liturgical and ceremonial laws, like the Pharisees were, but they have their own religion of choice which they follow. But in both cases they are those who are also following the ways of man and of the flesh and not of the Spirit. And many of them are sinning in secret like the Pharisees were, too.

And so many of them are on the all out attack against the servants of the Lord and against the truth of the gospel, and they are teaching a diluted and altered gospel message which makes room for people to continue living in deliberate and habitual sin without guilt or remorse. For they are opposed to Jesus’ message which says to follow Christ we must deny self, die daily to sin and to self, and follow our Lord in obedience to his commands (under the New Covenant).

And so what they are teaching is that we can make a one-time profession of faith in Jesus Christ, have all our sins forgiven (past, present, and future), and have heaven guaranteed us when we die, but regardless of how we live. But Jesus said that if we hold on to our old lives of living in sin and for self that we will lose them for eternity. But if for his sake we die with him to sin and live to him and to his righteousness, then we have eternal life with him. For he also said that not everyone who says to him, “Lord, Lord,” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one DOING the will of God the Father.

[Luke 9:23-26; Matthew 7:21-23; Romans 6:1-23; 1 John 3:4-10]

But what Jesus taught is not the message of the gospel which is widely being spread across America today. What is widely being taught is a gospel which is created in the minds of humans based off Scriptures taught outside their context and twisted to say what humans want them to say, to appease their own fleshly appetites. And that gospel does not put sin to death in the life of the sinner, but it pampers them in their sin and teaches them that heaven is secured for them regardless of how much or how often they sin.

So, if we are teaching what Jesus and Paul and the other apostles taught, in context, we are going to be treated much the same way in which Jesus was treated. And in some countries, Christians are being severely persecuted and put to death. In America we are not yet at that point, but if you are teaching what Jesus taught, you are most likely being persecuted, rejected, hated, cast aside, mocked, falsely accused and opposed strongly. But we are to rejoice in our suffering because we are sharing in the fellowship of Christ’s sufferings, becoming like him in his death, to the glory of God. Amen!

Persecution of Christ’s Followers: [Matt 5:10-12; Matt 10:16-25; Matt 24:9-14; Lu 6:22-23; Lu 21:12-19; Jn 15:1-21; Jn 16:33; Jn 17:14; Ac 14:22; Rom 5:3-5; Phil 3:7-11; 1 Pet 1:6-7; 1 Pet 4:12-17; 2 Tim 3:12; 1 Thess 3:1-5; Jas 1:2-4; 2 Co 1:3-11; Heb 12:3-12; 1 Jn 3:13; Rev 6:9-11; Rev 7:9-17; Rev 11:1-3; Rev 12:17; Rev 13:1-18; Rev 14:1-13]

For Our Nation

An Original Work / September 11, 2012

Bombs are bursting. Night is falling.
Jesus Christ is gently calling
You to follow Him in all ways.
Trust Him with your life today.
Make Him your Lord and your Savior.
Turn from your sin. Follow Jesus.
He will forgive you of your sin;
Cleanse your heart, made new within.

Men betraying: Our trust fraying.
On our knees to God we’re praying,
Seeking God to give us answers
That are only found in Him.
God is sovereign over all things.
Nothing from His mind escaping.
He has all things under His command,
And will work all for good.

Jesus Christ is gently calling
You to follow Him in all ways.

Men deceiving: We’re believing
In our Lord, and interceding
For our nation and its people
To obey their God today.
He is our hope for our future.
For our wounds He offers suture.
He is all we need for this life.
Trust Him with your life today.

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“I’m convinced that people want leaders that appeal to the best of America, and not simply appeal to our worst instincts,” Hutchinson, 72, said in an interview on ABC New that aired Sunday, noting that a formal announcement would come later this month in his hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas.

The GOP primary field is still in its early stages. Trump announced a third presidential campaign last year, while Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor and US ambassador to the United Nations, became the first major rival to challenge him when she announced her bid in February. A number of other Republicans, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence, have been making moves suggesting they are considering presidential bids.

GameFi and charity work: Together we help stray cats.

1. GameFi - The combination of gaming and financial investment.

GameFi (Game Finance) is a new trend in the world of gaming industry and cryptocurrency. In recent years, the GameFi trend has grown rapidly and attracted the attention of many players around the world. It combines features of gaming and finance to create a unique experience for players. GameFi games often have a token issuance feature, where players can earn virtual money and use it to purchase in-game items or even exchange it for real money.

The special thing about GameFi is that it is changing the way players approach and engage with electronic games. Instead of just being for entertainment, GameFi offers players the opportunity to earn money or create passive income by investing in tokens within the game. Additionally, GameFi is also attracting the attention of those who are passionate about digital finance, as it provides them with a way to combine investing in cryptocurrency with their love for gaming.

1. GameFi - Play games, do charity, and help the community.

GameFi is not just a game to make money, but it can also be combined with humanitarian activities. For example, we can create a game related to helping stray cats. Players will be paid daily for playing the game and accumulating a certain amount of money. They can use this money to support rescuing and caring for abandoned or lost cats, or they can use the money to buy sand, food, and supplies for their own pets, so that they can have a better life.

With this form, players can not only have fun but also do volunteer work and contribute to the community. This is a great way to combine playing games and doing volunteer work, helping people and animals in need.

Therefore, if you are a game enthusiast and want to contribute to society, join GameFi and play community-minded games such as helping stray cats. You will not only have great experiences but also be a part of helping and caring for vulnerable creatures.

1. Join the Fairy Cat game - Together, let's protect stray cats.

Do you love cats and want to help the stray cats around you? Join the game Fairy Cat to create a fund to help homeless cats for yourself and for other cat lovers to earn extra income. Fairy Cat is the latest game designed for the cat lover community, with a message calling for our community to focus on protecting stray cats.

With Fairy Cat, you can enjoy a combination of gaming and charity work. By participating in the game, you will have the opportunity to earn game tokens, which you can convert into cash to buy sand and food for your cats or donate to homeless cats. Additionally, you can participate in various activities of the game to earn more rewards and exciting prizes.

The benefits of the Fairy Cat game do not just stop at providing entertainment, but it also helps you understand more about love and responsibility for pets. Join Fairy Cat to help the cats in need and simultaneously enjoy the fun of this exciting game!

Since we have what God communicated to us expressed by words, everything comes down to what the words mean. In all languages, single words are used to describe different meanings or nuances. In English, the word "run" is used to describe different things, things that don't mean the same thing. One can say a number of different statements that use the word "run," but the statements are not related or describe the same action. We can say, "she likes to run for exercise," meaning the physical act of moving faster than walking. We can go into the woods and see a deer run, a path that has been created by numerous deer traveling on the same path, creating a distinctive appearance. A man can say, "I will run for office." We can say, "that engine runs just fine." We can say, "that business runs itself," or "I run a business." I can say, "I'm going to run to the store." One word with different meanings.
Three things determine the exact meaning of a word, in a specific circumstance, in any language. The first is the definition. The example above shows the need for context, how a word is being used, and what purpose it is describing. And third, what does your culture say the word means?
This is the biggest hurdle for one whose mother tongue is English and who has grown up in a culture of English speakers when reading an English translation of Scripture is to get past our culture and language and to discover the Jewish meaning of things in the N.T., to discover what did the Hebrew/Aramaic words spoken to Jewish people, in Jewish culture, from a Jewish theological perspective based on the O.T. mean. It is very easy to put our understanding of the words we read and to use our understanding to try and figure out what Scripture is teaching. This is one of the biggest problems today across the land. On top of that, the "teaching" has been geared to ignore or strip away the Jewish meaning of the New Testament.

Jeff Benner, an expert on ancient Biblical Hebrew, says, "Proper Biblical study depends on the study of the original Hebraic context of Scripture. Far too many do not understand that to discover the proper, accurate meaning of words, one has to look at the cultural background of words." You ought to check out his books. Very informative and helpful in the study of Old Testament Scripture, which helps in understanding New Testament Scripture.

When I study anything in Scripture, much of my time is spent learning the meaning of words. The three words we need to define in this study are, baptize, repent, and remission and the Greek words they are translated from.

The translators had to find a Greek word that described the physical act of what was going on, starting with event found in Mat 3:7, Lk 3:3, and John 1:28, where full immersion was taking place, a Greek equivalent word to the Hebrew word Tevilah, which describes full immersion, either of people or any utensils to be used in service at the Temple. The Greek word that best fit was "baptizo," which meant to dip, plunge, submerge, or immerse in a liquid, dipping a cloth into die, a flood covering a house or a ship sunk to the bottom. The word, as used in Greek, had no religious significance or nuance attached to it or was used to describe "people" being immersed in water. No pagan religions used this word.

While the word baptizo, translated as "baptize," was never used as a word describing the physical action of a "Christian" ceremony," at some point in time, it did gain that meaning in the Gentile culture. This common Greek word had a spiritual significance attached to it.

In the Greek manuscripts and in Strong's, we find the Greek word baptisma, translated as "baptism." The interesting thing about this Greek word(?) is that it is never used outside of the New Testament, which means it wasn't a word known or used by those who spoke Greek! Baptisma was never used in conversation by the general population or found in any ancient Greek correspondence or documents, which can only mean one thing to me. This is a made-up word, created to give the illusion that the word has a specific meaning, used to describe a made-up Christian rite or ceremony! Otherwise, why would this unknown word in Greek exist? What better way to change something that has been a part of Jewish culture and practice for thousands of years than to alter it and rename it as a "Christian" practice?
I've always thought that one of the biggest tragedies and gross unrighteousness in translating Scripture into English was that no Jewish Rabbis or scribes were involved with the translation work! Do you think King James would have allowed such a thing? I promise you that if there had been any Rabbis or Jewish scribes involved, and if they had had any authority over the final work, the New Testament we have today would look a lot different! They would have rejected the word baptisma, and the English word "baptism" would have never been used!
If you look up the definition of baptisma in Strong's, you will read: from a derivative of bapto; to make overwhelmed (fully wet); USED ONLY (IN THE N.T.) OF CEREMONIAL ablution, especially (tech) of the ordinance of Christian baptism. Ordinance here is used to mean a law, a command, meaning something you must do, something you have to do! Strong calls it a "ceremony!" Another definition is: That which is defined as a RITE of immersion in water AS COMMANDED BY CHRIST!

Isn't "being baptized" one of the big things you must do in the Evangelical/Christian world? After "getting saved" by saying a few words or praying a "sinners prayer," the next, most important step is to "get baptized?" If you have already been attending a particular church building and you get "saved," they will be all over you to "get baptized!" The need to "get baptized" will be mentioned, or you will hear a sermon about it. Many church buildings will schedule a "Baptism Sunday" for all of those who haven't made the crucial step of "getting baptized." Some church buildings will baptize every Sunday. If you travel to Israel as part of a church group, you can rest assured getting baptized in the River Jordan or the Lake of Gallie is on the itinerary. If you switch church buildings and want to be a member, one of the first questions you will be asked is, "Have you been baptized?" And even if you have been baptized, some church buildings will insist that your prior baptism is "no good" and you must be baptized again, under their roof, by one of their staff members.

Why all the fuss? Even though it will be acknowledged that baptism isn't necessary for salvation, it is important because baptism is:

1. A Christian ceremony in which a person has water poured over their head, or the body is completely covered in water for a short time in order to show that a person has become a member of a Church.

2. A Christain Sacrament marked by the ritual use of water and admitting the recipient into the Christian community.

3. A Ceremonial immersion in water or application of water as an initiatory rite.

4. Public declaration of one's faith in Christ and membership in a local body of Christians.

5. As a sign that one has been justified by faith.

6. A public declaration that one is identified with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.

7. To represent one's new birth as a Christian.

I think that covers the gamut of reasons. But let me ask one of my favorite questions? Where is any of this taught or explained in the New Testament? The fact is that these definitions, "reasons" to "get baptized," were originally copied from the Mystery Religions. And these "reasons" didn't appear until hundreds of years after the ascension of Christ.
And let's not forget that the Catholic Church used "baptism" as a weapon against the Jews! Over the centuries, the Catholic Church would force Jews to convert by being "baptized" or killed! For a Jew to go through a "Christian" baptism was the most humiliating thing a Jew could do. Forced conversion by baptism was also used against hundreds of thousands of pagans. The Catholic Church always used it against any indigenous people that were conquered by the military and then ruled by the Catholic priests. You can look this up! So much for a voluntary step of faith!

And let me make one thing clear! YESHUA NEVER COMMANDED ANYONE TO BE BAPTIZED! This concept of "baptizing" was not a part of Judaism! It was not commanded by God in the Torah! No O.T. prophet foretold of it. Yeshua never added anything to God's word! It was never a part of Jewish culture, history, or practice! Where do people get the idea that this was something Yeshua commanded? By using the "text proof" method! That is, using one passage, one verse, or part of a verse to "establish" a truth or doctrine. That is impossible to do in Scripture!
And what is the single verse used as the "proof text" that Yeshua commanded all believers to be baptized? Mat 28:19, Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
There is only one small problem with this. This verse was added to the text sometime in either the 4th or 5th centuries! This is another thing you can look up. Just because something is in an English translation of Scripture does not mean it is a part of the original text! It doesn't mean that Jesus ever spoke these words! There are three big problems here. 1. If "Christian baptism" was a priority, why would Yeshua not instruct it when he began public work? Why would he wait until just before he ascended? 2. Where do we ever see Yeshua talk about baptism or give instruction before he ascended? In all verses about baptism, where is there mention of being baptized in the Godhead? No book in the New Testament ever brings up anything about baptizing in the name of the Godhead. John the Baptist never baptized anyone in the name of the Godhead. In 1 Cor 1:17, Paul said that Yeshua didn't send him to baptize!

The Revelation of the Mystery.

The working service of the saints for the restoration of the cosmos

8c in all wisdom and insight 9 making know to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in himself 10 as a plan (dispensation) for the fullness of the appointed seasons, to head up all things in Christ the, things in heaven and things on earth (Eph.1:8-10).

The mystery of God’s will concerns the establishment of His Kingdom by the Christ; and how He purposes to do this through the redemption of the church into its inheritance; this will be accomplished through the working service of the members of Christ’s Body; which are called to build up one another in love, for the glorious manifestation of Christ with His body in the heavenly realm (Eph.1:5-7;14; 4:30 4:12-16; Col.1:4-5,23,25-29; Tit.1:1-3). Once the church enters its inheritance with Christ, as God’s glorious, enthroned image; the fullness of God’s glory (preeminent presence) will then begin to pervade out to all creation during the appointed seasons; where all the divinely assigned offices of authority that rule the cosmos and the earth ( that are ruled by the forces of darkness, Eph.6:12), will then be made subjugated under the preeminent headship of Christ (Isa.24:21), thus being filled with the glory of God, where He is all in all (Eph.1:18-23; 3:9-11; Col.1:14-21;cp.1Cor.15:24-28).

Here we have God’s secret plan in bringing order to the cosmos (i.e., the establishment of God’s Kingdom), through the redemption of the Church into its inheritance in the heavenly realm. This realm is currently occupied by the hostile spiritual forces of darkness (Eph.6:12; cp.Eph.1:3), thus, they have present control over the worlds system (the kingdom of darkness, Eph.2:1-3). Here lies the cosmic conflict, and the spiritual warfare that the church is called to engage in, in order to obtain possession of the inheritance (Eph.6:12-18), that God may establish order to the cosmos through the rein of Christ (cp. Heb.2:8). This will be accomplished by our being energized by God’s Spirit that dwells within us, by the same power that raised Christ from the dead (Eph. 1:18-20). For by our spiritual union with Christ in His heavenly enthronement at the right hand of God (Eph.2:5-6), we are to exercise His spiritual authority by faith in corporate practice over the powers of darkness; with the one hope of the appearing with Christ in glory (Eph.1:18; 4:1; 6:12; 1 Tim1:1). This is done by imaging the character of the father, learned through the knowledge of the Son of God (Eph.4:13b, 20-32). By the power of His spirit, we are all to be made mature in Christ (Col1:28-29; 4:13c); and when the members of the body are corporately grown in righteousness, and selflessness love (Phil.1:1-4), being built up in the truth and love of God, bearing the fruits of righteousness (Eph.4:15; 5:9), we will be well pleasing to the father by our works, and by the faithful, joyful enduring witness (Col.1:10-12), its members will have filled up the sufferings of Christ through their selfless sacrificial love (Col.1:24; Eph.5:1-2;Phil.1:27-30). By this, the church will be the holy and without blemish offering to God for the restoration of the cosmos; then entering its inheritance in the heavenlies at the epiphany of Christ, partaking in the glory of His priestly intercession for the restoration of the cosmic order (Eph.1:4; Col.1:22; cp. 2 Tim.2:10,12; Tit. 2:13; cp. Phil.2:9-10; Eph.1:20-23).

The hope of the glory of the kingdom that would come from the inherence that was to be received by Christ from God, was made known unto the sons of men in the past ages (Ps.2:7-8; 110:1). But their understand was not according to the knowledge “as” was given to the Apostle Paul, this is because this mystery concerning Christ was hidden in God from the ages and generations of men, but was revealed exclusively to Paul (while in prison after Israels historical judgment Acts.28:25-28), and then revealed to the apostles-prophets that helped Paul in laying the foundational truths of this new revelation to the different assembles (Eph.2:20; 4:11), and this mystery concerns a called-out company that is composed of members from among the nations; this Church has been allotted an inheritance with Christ as the corporate New Man (Eph.2:15; 4:24; Col.3:10), as joint-heirs over the government of the Cosmos and joint-members (in a mystical union with Christ by the spirt) of the body of His flesh (Eph.5:30), and co-sharers of the royal priestly glory, that God promised to the image (Eph. 3:1-6; Ps.8; cp. Eph1:20-23); when this company enters its inheritance, they will share in the glory of the theophany of God with Christ, being made manifest with Him as the body of His glory at the right hand of God (Tit.2:13; Phil.3:21-22; Col.3:1-4).

Here we have the mystery of the gospel, the mystery of Christ, the gospel of the glory of God, where Gods glorious power is manifested through Christ’s body by their mystical union with Him in His heavenly enthronement, it is the gospel of our salvation (from the powers of death, and the prince of the power of this age, Eph.2:1-8; 6:19; Col.4:3;1 Tim1:11); it is deliverance unto our inheritance in Gods heavenly kingdom (2 Tim.4:18), as co-sharers of the glory rewarded to Christ and His Body for fulfilling the commission given to the image, to interceded on behalf of the human condition; for the restoration of the cosmos as God’s house, where He will have fellowship with mankind (Rev.21:3).

The body of Christ is built up to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (Eph.4:13), when the gift of his headship to the church (His preeminent authority) is being harmoniously manifested through each member (spiritually) that they have become perfect in Christ; all the members of the body having grown up into him through the love and knowledge of the truth; which its members are to corporately manifest towards to one to another (Eph.4:7,12-16,cp. 1:20-23). When this is accomplished, Christ who is currently hid in the glory of God, will then be made manifest at the right hand of God, and we with him, as the body of his glory (Col.3:3-4; 1 Tim.4:16; Phil.3:21-22).

This is the mystery of our devotion, for He was manifested in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached among the nations, and believed on in the world, and taken up in glory (1 Tim.3:16). Here we have the mystical union with Christ and his body in our working service to proclaim the truth, and through our belief in expressing the truth of the heavenly kingship of Christ over our lives, the body shall be taken up in glory; where the appointed seasons will have arrived for hm to reveal that He is the king of Kings and lord of lords (1Tim.6:13-16), in the establishment of Gods Kingdom, this is why the church is said to be the fullness of all the offices of government that are to be filled with the glory of God (Eph.1:22-23). Because it is by the redemption of the church to its inheritance at the manifestation of Christ in glory. From which Gods glory will then pervade the cosmos subjugating all under the authoritative headship of Christ.

By the victorious enthronement of those that were low and trusted in God, over the high rebellious spiritual forces of darkness; the church that is Christ’s body will forever be a testimony in the ages to come to all creation of God’s grace, glory, power, and kindness toward us who trusted and believed, we will forever be the praise of His glory who first hoped in Christ (Eph.1:6,12,18, 21-22; 2:7,21-22). BY our performing this work that we may appear with Him in heaven, partaking in the sufferings of His intercession for the rescue of the human condition, for the fulness of the seasons, that God may head up all under Christ, and be all in all, dwelling amongst mankind forever. Amen!

28 Since these people refused even to think about God, he let their useless minds rule over them. That's why they do all sorts of indecent things. 29 They are evil, wicked, and greedy, as well as mean in every possible way. They want what others have, and they murder, argue, cheat, and are hard to get along with. They gossip, 30 say cruel things about others, and hate God. They are proud, conceited, and boastful, always thinking up new ways to do evil.

These people don't respect their parents. 31 They are stupid, unreliable, and don't have any love or pity for others. 32 They know God has said that anyone who acts this way deserves to die. But they keep on doing evil things, and they even encourage others to do them. (CEV)

There is not much that angers more than this prophecy from Romans, the first chapter. Folks absolutely refuse to believe they have been turned over to Reprobate Minds by Yahova. The sadest part is the Church Buildings, on any LORD's Day are full of these folks. They are in the correct place to hear the truth but it must go in one ear and out the other. They walk out of the Fellowship of Believers, a.k.a. the Church Yashua is returning for, and are not the least bit changed.

How in the world can I make such an assertion? Before 1/1/1990 I was clawing my way into Nashville in a Beer Joint, hoping the Houston Rodeo Association would give me the same deal they had made with Clint Black. When the offer arrived, Ruah, the Holy Spirit, had just brought this old man to his knees with the realization that Yashua had hung on that cross to purify me.

Am I worthy of Sainthood? Is anyone, save Yashua? Am I different? You had better believe I am, I haven´t had so much as a sip of 101-proof Wild Turkey since the week before the New Year, that year. And on top of that, I have read through the Scriptures numerous times as I taught classes of children, teenagers, and, Elder Men. Reading through the Scripture, for the purpose of seeking after Yashua, Yahova, and, Ruah changes your perspective on everything.

Salmonella outbreak in flour. As of earlier they have not yet discovered which brand. The are saying not to eat anything with uncooked flour such as cookie dough, etc.

The Revelation of the Mystery.

The working service of the saints for the restoration of the cosmos

8c in all wisdom and insight 9 making know to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in himself 10 as a plan (dispensation) for the fullness of the appointed seasons, to head up all things in Christ the, things in heaven and things on earth (Eph.1:8-10).

The mystery of God’s will concerns the establishment of His Kingdom by the Christ; and how He purposes to do this through the redemption of the church into its inheritance; this will be accomplished through the working service of the members of Christ’s Body; which are called to build up one another in love, for the glorious manifestation of Christ with His body in the heavenly realm (Eph.1:5-7;14; 4:30 4:12-16; Col.1:4-5,23,25-29; Tit.1:1-3). Once the church enters its inheritance with Christ, as God’s glorious, enthroned image; the fullness of God’s glory (preeminent presence) will then begin to pervade out to all creation during the appointed seasons; where all the divinely assigned offices of authority that rule the cosmos and the earth ( that are ruled by the forces of darkness, Eph.6:12), will then be made subjugated under the preeminent headship of Christ (Isa.24:21), thus being filled with the glory of God, where He is all in all (Eph.1:18-23; 3:9-11; Col.1:14-21;cp.1Cor.15:24-28).

Here we have God’s secret plan in bringing order to the cosmos (i.e., the establishment of God’s Kingdom), through the redemption of the Church into its inheritance in the heavenly realm. This realm is currently occupied by the hostile spiritual forces of darkness (Eph.6:12; cp.Eph.1:3), thus, they have present control over the worlds system (the kingdom of darkness, Eph.2:1-3). Here lies the cosmic conflict, and the spiritual warfare that the church is called to engage in, in order to obtain possession of the inheritance (Eph.6:12-18), that God may establish order to the cosmos through the rein of Christ (cp. Heb.2:8). This will be accomplished by our being energized by God’s Spirit that dwells within us, by the same power that raised Christ from the dead (Eph. 1:18-20). For by our spiritual union with Christ in His heavenly enthronement at the right hand of God (Eph.2:5-6), we are to exercise His spiritual authority by faith in corporate practice over the powers of darkness; with the one hope of the appearing with Christ in glory (Eph.1:18; 4:1; 6:12; 1 Tim1:1). This is done by imaging the character of the father, learned through the knowledge of the Son of God (Eph.4:13b, 20-32). By the power of His spirit, we are all to be made mature in Christ (Col1:28-29; 4:13c); and when the members of the body are corporately grown in righteousness, and selflessness love (Phil.1:1-4), being built up in the truth and love of God, bearing the fruits of righteousness (Eph.4:15; 5:9), we will be well pleasing to the father by our works, and by the faithful, joyful enduring witness (Col.1:10-12), its members will have filled up the sufferings of Christ through their selfless sacrificial love (Col.1:24; Eph.5:1-2;Phil.1:27-30). By this, the church will be the holy and without blemish offering to God for the restoration of the cosmos; then entering its inheritance in the heavenlies at the epiphany of Christ, partaking in the glory of His priestly intercession for the restoration of the cosmic order (Eph.1:4; Col.1:22; cp. 2 Tim.2:10,12; Tit. 2:13; cp. Phil.2:9-10; Eph.1:20-23).

The hope of the glory of the kingdom that would come from the inherence that was to be received by Christ from God, was made known unto the sons of men in the past ages (Ps.2:7-8; 110:1). But their understand was not according to the knowledge “as” was given to the Apostle Paul, this is because this mystery concerning Christ was hidden in God from the ages and generations of men, but was revealed exclusively to Paul (while in prison after Israels historical judgment Acts.28:25-28), and then revealed to the apostles-prophets that helped Paul in laying the foundational truths of this new revelation to the different assembles (Eph.2:20; 4:11), and this mystery concerns a called-out company that is composed of members from among the nations; this Church has been allotted an inheritance with Christ as the corporate New Man (Eph.2:15; 4:24; Col.3:10), as joint-heirs over the government of the Cosmos and joint-members (in a mystical union with Christ by the spirt) of the body of His flesh (Eph.5:30), and co-sharers of the royal priestly glory, that God promised to the image (Eph. 3:1-6; Ps.8; cp. Eph1:20-23); when this company enters its inheritance, they will share in the glory of the theophany of God with Christ, being made manifest with Him as the body of His glory at the right hand of God (Tit.2:13; Phil.3:21-22; Col.3:1-4).

Here we have the mystery of the gospel, the mystery of Christ, the gospel of the glory of God, where Gods glorious power is manifested through Christ’s body by their mystical union with Him in His heavenly enthronement, it is the gospel of our salvation (from the powers of death, and the prince of the power of this age, Eph.2:1-8; 6:19; Col.4:3;1 Tim1:11); it is deliverance unto our inheritance in Gods heavenly kingdom (2 Tim.4:18), as co-sharers of the glory rewarded to Christ and His Body for fulfilling the commission given to the image, to interceded on behalf of the human condition; for the restoration of the cosmos as God’s house, where He will have fellowship with mankind (Rev.21:3).

The body of Christ is built up to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (Eph.4:13), when the gift of his headship to the church (His preeminent authority) is being harmoniously manifested through each member (spiritually) that they have become perfect in Christ; all the members of the body having grown up into him through the love and knowledge of the truth; which its members are to corporately manifest towards to one to another (Eph.4:7,12-16,cp. 1:20-23). When this accomplished, Christ who is currently hid in the glory of God, will then be made manifest at the right hand of God, and we with him, as the body of his glory (Col.3:3-4; 1 Tim.4:16; Phil.3:21-22).

This is the mystery of our devotion, for He was manifested in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached among the nations, and believed on in the world, and taken up in glory (1 Tim.3:16). Here we have the mystical union with Christ and his body in our working service to proclaim the truth, and through our belief in expressing the truth of the heavenly kingship of Christ over our lives, the body shall be taken up in glory; where the appointed seasons will have arrived for hm to reveal that He is the king of Kings and lord of lords (1Tim.6:13-16), in the establishment of Gods Kingdom, this is why the church is said to be the fullness of all the offices of government that are to be filled with the glory of God (Eph.1:22-23). Because it is by the redemption of the church to its inheritance at the manifestation of Christ in glory. From which Gods glory will then pervade the cosmos subjugating all under the authoritative headship of Christ.

By the victorious enthronement of those that were low and trusted in God, over the high rebellious spiritual forces of darkness; the church that is Christ’s body will forever be a testimony in the ages to come to all creation of God’s grace, glory, power, and kindness toward us who trusted and believed, we will forever be the praise of His glory who first hoped in Christ (Eph.1:6,12,18, 21-22; 2:7,21-22). BY our performing this work that we may appear with Him in heaven, partaking in the sufferings of His intercession for the rescue of the human condition, for the fulness of the seasons, that God may head up all under Christ, and be all in all, dwelling amongst mankind forever. Amen!

Video Talk

Isaiah 58:1-8 ESV


This just happens to be one of my favorite biblical passages. I guess one of the main reasons is that I hate hypocrisy. And that is what this is largely about. And I love serving my Lord and showing his love to other people, which is what is encouraged here. But this love is not human love, but it is the love of God which comes from God and is within those of us who follow Jesus Christ with our lives. So this love considers what is best for others, it is not selfish, and it works to meet people’s legitimate needs, not just physical needs, but their spiritual needs, too, speaking the truth to them in love.

Now there are a lot of Christians (or people just professing faith in Jesus Christ) who are big on religious practice but they are short on love and on following the Lord in obedience, and on living godly and holy lives to the glory of God. And so they go through the motions of religious exercise, sometimes to be noticed by others, or they do so hoping God will be pleased with their performance. But he sees right through performance, and he gets right down to the heart of the matter, which he did here.

For there are a lot of religious people who perform certain religious exercises, some of them with good motives, and some of them not. But some of them perform these religious exercises, like fasting, for example, hoping to get God’s approval, and hoping he will be pleased with them. But some of these people are not truly worshiping the Lord. For they are still serving themselves, and they are still sinning against God and other humans, and they are not walking in obedience to the Lord and to his commands. So, they are like the Pharisees, perhaps.

So, the Lord is letting all of us know here what pleases him and what does not, and he does this in the New Testament, too, particularly where he warned his disciples against the Pharisees and their hypocrisy and how they were not to do the things that the Pharisees did. For our religious exercises, if they are not of God, and if all we are doing is going through the motions, but our hearts are not right with God, because we are still walking in sin, those religious exercises mean nothing to God, and he is not pleased.

So, what our Lord desires is our lives on his altar as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to him, no longer conformed to the ways of this sinful world, but being transformed in heart and mind to be like Jesus in character. And he wants us setting a godly example for others to follow of what it means to be a follower of Christ. And it involves daily dying to sin and denying self and following Jesus Christ in obedience to his New Covenant commands. And then we are to lead others to do the same.

And then we are to love people with the love of God in being hospitable, and in caring for and meeting people’s legitimate needs. And I always add a word of caution here because there are so many con artists out there in the world, and so many scammers, and so many liars and deceivers and manipulators who know how to work (manipulate) people and the system, so this calls for much spiritual discernment and the leading of the Holy Spirit to know who is real and who is not, and who is telling lies, and who is telling the truth. And some of these people work together in teams as professional scam artists.

But love people, even your enemies, and even those who do evil against you, and pray for them, and do good to them, even if they despitefully use you and take advantage of your kindness and your generosity. Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you, and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then God will bless you, in other words, and he will be with you, and he will lead and guide you all the way.

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For Our Nation

An Original Work / September 11, 2012

Bombs are bursting. Night is falling.
Jesus Christ is gently calling
You to follow Him in all ways.
Trust Him with your life today.
Make Him your Lord and your Savior.
Turn from your sin. Follow Jesus.
He will forgive you of your sin;
Cleanse your heart, made new within.

Men betraying: Our trust fraying.
On our knees to God we’re praying,
Seeking God to give us answers
That are only found in Him.
God is sovereign over all things.
Nothing from His mind escaping.
He has all things under His command,
And will work all for good.

Jesus Christ is gently calling
You to follow Him in all ways.

Men deceiving: We’re believing
In our Lord, and interceding
For our nation and its people
To obey their God today.
He is our hope for our future.
For our wounds He offers suture.
He is all we need for this life.
Trust Him with your life today.

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The Revelation of the Mystery.

The working service of the saints for the restoration of the cosmos

8c in all wisdom and insight 9 making know to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in himself 10 as a plan (dispensation) for the fullness of the appointed seasons, to head up all things in Christ the, things in heaven and things on earth (Eph.1:8-10).

The mystery of God’s will concerns the establishment of His Kingdom by the Christ; and how He purposes to do this through the redemption of the church into its inheritance; this will be accomplished through the working service of the members of Christ’s Body; which are called to build up one another in love, for the glorious manifestation of Christ with His body in the heavenly realm (Eph.1:5-7;14; 4:30 4:12-16; Col.1:4-5,23,25-29; Tit.1:1-3). Once the church enters its inheritance with Christ, as God’s glorious, enthroned image; the fullness of God’s glory (preeminent presence) will then begin to pervade out to all creation during the appointed seasons; where all the divinely assigned offices of authority that rule the cosmos and the earth ( that are ruled by the forces of darkness, Eph.6:12), will then be made subjugated under the preeminent headship of Christ (Isa.24:21), thus being filled with the glory of God, where He is all in all (Eph.1:18-23; 3:9-11; Col.1:14-21;cp.1Cor.15:24-28).

Here we have God’s secret plan in bringing order to the cosmos (i.e., the establishment of God’s Kingdom), through the redemption of the Church into its inheritance in the heavenly realm. This realm is currently occupied by the hostile spiritual forces of darkness (Eph.6:12; cp.Eph.1:3), thus, they have present control over the worlds system (the kingdom of darkness, Eph.2:1-3). Here lies the cosmic conflict, and the spiritual warfare that the church is called to engage in, in order to obtain possession of the inheritance (Eph.6:12-18), that God may establish order to the cosmos through the rein of Christ (cp. Heb.2:8). This will be accomplished by our being energized by God’s Spirit that dwells within us, by the same power that raised Christ from the dead (Eph. 1:18-20). For by our spiritual union with Christ in His heavenly enthronement at the right hand of God (Eph.2:5-6), we are to exercise His spiritual authority by faith in corporate practice over the powers of darkness; with the one hope of the appearing with Christ in glory (Eph.1:18; 4:1; 6:12; 1 Tim1:1). This is done by imaging the character of the father, learned through the knowledge of the Son of God (Eph.4:13b, 20-32). By the power of His spirit, we are all to be made mature in Christ (Col1:28-29; 4:13c); and when the members of the body are corporately grown in righteousness, and selflessness love (Phil.1:1-4), being built up in the truth and love of God, bearing the fruits of righteousness (Eph.4:15; 5:9), we will be well pleasing to the father by our works, and by the faithful, joyful enduring witness (Col.1:10-12), its members will have filled up the sufferings of Christ through their selfless sacrificial love (Col.1:24; Eph.5:1-2;Phil.1:27-30). By this, the church will be the holy and without blemish offering to God for the restoration of the cosmos; then entering its inheritance in the heavenlies at the epiphany of Christ, partaking in the glory of His priestly intercession for the restoration of the cosmic order (Eph.1:4; Col.1:22; cp. 2 Tim.2:10,12; Tit. 2:13; cp. Phil.2:9-10; Eph.1:20-23).

The hope of the glory of the kingdom that would come from the inherence that was to be received by Christ from God, was made known unto the sons of men in the past ages (Ps.2:7-8; 110:1). But their understand was not according to the knowledge “as” was given to the Apostle Paul, this is because this mystery concerning Christ was hidden in God from the ages and generations of men, but was revealed exclusively to Paul (while in prison after Israels historical judgment Acts.28:25-28), and then revealed to the apostles-prophets that helped Paul in laying the foundational truths of this new revelation to the different assembles (Eph.2:20; 4:11), and this mystery concerns a called-out company that is composed of members from among the nations; this Church has been allotted an inheritance with Christ as the corporate New Man (Eph.2:15; 4:24; Col.3:10), as joint-heirs over the government of the Cosmos and joint-members (in a mystical union with Christ by the spirt) of the body of His flesh (Eph.5:30), and co-sharers of the royal priestly glory, that God promised to the image (Eph. 3:1-6; Ps.8; cp. Eph1:20-23); when this company enters its inheritance, they will share in the glory of the theophany of God with Christ, being made manifest with Him as the body of His glory at the right hand of God (Tit.2:13; Phil.3:21-22; Col.3:1-4).

Here we have the mystery of the gospel, the mystery of Christ, the gospel of the glory of God, where Gods glorious power is manifested through Christ’s body by their mystical union with Him in His heavenly enthronement, it is the gospel of our salvation (from the powers of death, and the prince of the power of this age, Eph.2:1-8; 6:19; Col.4:3;1 Tim1:11); it is deliverance unto our inheritance in Gods heavenly kingdom (2 Tim.4:18), as co-sharers of the glory rewarded to Christ and His Body for fulfilling the commission given to the image, to interceded on behalf of the human condition; for the restoration of the cosmos as God’s house, where He will have fellowship with mankind (Rev.21:3).

The body of Christ is built up to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (Eph.4:13), when the gift of his headship to the church (His preeminent authority) is being harmoniously manifested through each member (spiritually) that they have become perfect in Christ; all the members of the body having grown up into him through the love and knowledge of the truth; which its members are to corporately manifest towards to one to another (Eph.4:7,12-16,cp. 1:20-23). When this accomplished, Christ who is currently hid in the glory of God, will then be made manifest at the right hand of God, and we with him, as the body of his glory (Col.3:3-4; 1 Tim.4:16; Phil.3:21-22).

This is the mystery of our devotion, for He was manifested in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached among the nations, and believed on in the world, and taken up in glory (1 Tim.3:16). Here we have the mystical union with Christ and his body in our working service to proclaim the truth, and through our belief in expressing the truth of the heavenly kingship of Christ over our lives, the body shall be taken up in glory; where the appointed seasons will have arrived for hm to reveal that He is the king of Kings and lord of lords (1Tim.6:13-16), in the establishment of Gods Kingdom, this is why the church is said to be the fullness of all the offices of government that are to be filled with the glory of God (Eph.1:22-23). Because it is by the redemption of the church to its inheritance at the manifestation of Christ in glory. From which Gods glory will then pervade the cosmos subjugating all under the authoritative headship of Christ.

By the victorious enthronement of those that were low and trusted in God, over the high rebellious spiritual forces of darkness; the church that is Christ’s body will forever be a testimony in the ages to come to all creation of God’s grace, glory, power, and kindness toward us who trusted and believed, we will forever be the praise of His glory who first hoped in Christ (Eph.1:6,12,18, 21-22; 2:7,21-22). BY our performing this work that we may appear with Him in heaven, partaking in the sufferings of His intercession for the rescue of the human condition, for the fulness of the seasons, that God may head up all under Christ, and be all in all, dwelling amongst mankind forever. Amen!

The Revelation of the Mystery.

The working service of the saints for the restoration of the cosmos

8c in all wisdom and insight 9 making know to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in himself 10 as a plan (dispensation) for the fullness of the appointed seasons, to head up all things in Christ the, things in heaven and things on earth (Eph.1:8-10).

The mystery of God’s will concerns the establishment of His Kingdom by the Christ; and how He purposes to do this through the redemption of the church into its inheritance; this will be accomplished through the working service of the members of Christ’s Body; which are called to build up one another in love, for the glorious manifestation of Christ with His body in the heavenly realm (Eph.1:5-7;14; 4:30 4:12-16; Col.1:4-5,23,25-29; Tit.1:1-3). Once the church enters its inheritance with Christ, as God’s glorious, enthroned image; the fullness of God’s glory (preeminent presence) will then begin to pervade out to all creation during the appointed seasons; where all the divinely assigned offices of authority that rule the cosmos and the earth ( that are ruled by the forces of darkness, Eph.6:12), will then be made subjugated under the preeminent headship of Christ (Isa.24:21), thus being filled with the glory of God, where He is all in all (Eph.1:18-23; 3:9-11; Col.1:14-21;cp.1Cor.15:24-28).

Here we have God’s secret plan in bringing order to the cosmos (i.e., the establishment of God’s Kingdom), through the redemption of the Church into its inheritance in the heavenly realm. This realm is currently occupied by the hostile spiritual forces of darkness (Eph.6:12; cp.Eph.1:3), thus, they have present control over the worlds system (the kingdom of darkness, Eph.2:1-3). Here lies the cosmic conflict, and the spiritual warfare that the church is called to engage in, in order to obtain possession of the inheritance (Eph.6:12-18), that God may establish order to the cosmos through the rein of Christ (cp. Heb.2:8). This will be accomplished by our being energized by God’s Spirit that dwells within us, by the same power that raised Christ from the dead (Eph. 1:18-20). For by our spiritual union with Christ in His heavenly enthronement at the right hand of God (Eph.2:5-6), we are to exercise His spiritual authority by faith in corporate practice over the powers of darkness; with the one hope of the appearing with Christ in glory (Eph.1:18; 4:1; 6:12; 1 Tim1:1). This is done by imaging the character of the father, learned through the knowledge of the Son of God (Eph.4:13b, 20-32). By the power of His spirit, we are all to be made mature in Christ (Col1:28-29; 4:13c); and when the members of the body are corporately grown in righteousness, and selflessness love (Phil.1:1-4), being built up in the truth and love of God, bearing the fruits of righteousness (Eph.4:15; 5:9), we will be well pleasing to the father by our works, and by the faithful, joyful enduring witness (Col.1:10-12), its members will have filled up the sufferings of Christ through their selfless sacrificial love (Col.1:24; Eph.5:1-2;Phil.1:27-30). By this, the church will be the holy and without blemish offering to God for the restoration of the cosmos; then entering its inheritance in the heavenlies at the epiphany of Christ, partaking in the glory of His priestly intercession for the restoration of the cosmic order (Eph.1:4; Col.1:22; cp. 2 Tim.2:10,12; Tit. 2:13; cp. Phil.2:9-10; Eph.1:20-23).

The hope of the glory of the kingdom that would come from the inherence that was to be received by Christ from God, was made known unto the sons of men in the past ages (Ps.2:7-8; 110:1). But their understand was not according to the knowledge “as” was given to the Apostle Paul, this is because this mystery concerning Christ was hidden in God from the ages and generations of men, but was revealed exclusively to Paul (while in prison after Israels historical judgment Acts.28:25-28), and then revealed to the apostles-prophets that helped Paul in laying the foundational truths of this new revelation to the different assembles (Eph.2:20; 4:11), and this mystery concerns a called-out company that is composed of members from among the nations; this Church has been allotted an inheritance with Christ as the corporate New Man (Eph.2:15; 4:24; Col.3:10), as joint-heirs over the government of the Cosmos and joint-members (in a mystical union with Christ by the spirt) of the body of His flesh (Eph.5:30), and co-sharers of the royal priestly glory, that God promised to the image (Eph. 3:1-6; Ps.8; cp. Eph1:20-23); when this company enters its inheritance, they will share in the glory of the theophany of God with Christ, being made manifest with Him as the body of His glory at the right hand of God (Tit.2:13; Phil.3:21-22; Col.3:1-4).

Here we have the mystery of the gospel, the mystery of Christ, the gospel of the glory of God, where Gods glorious power is manifested through Christ’s body by their mystical union with Him in His heavenly enthronement, it is the gospel of our salvation (from the powers of death, and the prince of the power of this age, Eph.2:1-8; 6:19; Col.4:3;1 Tim1:11); it is deliverance unto our inheritance in Gods heavenly kingdom (2 Tim.4:18), as co-sharers of the glory rewarded to Christ and His Body for fulfilling the commission given to the image, to interceded on behalf of the human condition; for the restoration of the cosmos as God’s house, where He will have fellowship with mankind (Rev.21:3).

The body of Christ is built up to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (Eph.4:13), when the gift of his headship to the church (His preeminent authority) is being harmoniously manifested through each member (spiritually) that they have become perfect in Christ; all the members of the body having grown up into him through the love and knowledge of the truth; which its members are to corporately manifest towards to one to another (Eph.4:7,12-16,cp. 1:20-23). When this accomplished, Christ who is currently hid in the glory of God, will then be made manifest at the right hand of God, and we with him, as the body of his glory (Col.3:3-4; 1 Tim.4:16; Phil.3:21-22).

This is the mystery of our devotion, for He was manifested in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached among the nations, and believed on in the world, and taken up in glory (1 Tim.3:16). Here we have the mystical union with Christ and his body in our working service to proclaim the truth, and through our belief in expressing the truth of the heavenly kingship of Christ over our lives, the body shall be taken up in glory; where the appointed seasons will have arrived for hm to reveal that He is the king of Kings and lord of lords (1Tim.6:13-16), in the establishment of Gods Kingdom, this is why the church is said to be the fullness of all the offices of government that are to be filled with the glory of God (Eph.1:22-23). Because it is by the redemption of the church to its inheritance at the manifestation of Christ in glory. From which Gods glory will then pervade the cosmos subjugating all under the authoritative headship of Christ.

By the victorious enthronement of those that were low and trusted in God, over the high rebellious spiritual forces of darkness; the church that is Christ’s body will forever be a testimony in the ages to come to all creation of God’s grace, glory, power, and kindness toward us who trusted and believed, we will forever be the praise of His glory who first hoped in Christ (Eph.1:6,12,18, 21-22; 2:7,21-22). BY our performing this work that we may appear with Him in heaven, partaking in the sufferings of His intercession for the rescue of the human condition, for the fulness of the seasons, that God may head up all under Christ, and be all in all, dwelling amongst mankind forever. Amen!

My body starts twitching and shaking after praying in tongues. I'm not sure what's going on. Is that common?

Faith plays a significant role in salvation, however, I believe that role is misunderstood by the vast majority of believers. That misunderstanding has lead to countless debates and arguments which can never be resolved because of both sides are wrong. For example, Calvinism and Arminianism, covenant theology and dispensationalism, Jews vs Gentiles, faith vs works, etc etc etc. All of these can be resolved by looking at faith in the proper way.


The role of faith is qualifying us for the Abrahamic covenant of righteousness by faith. Most Christians mistakenly believe that faith directly qualifies us for righteousness. However, this is incorrect. Faith directly qualifies us a descendants of Abraham, and it is descendants of Abraham (those with the same faith in the gospel which Abraham had) who inherit Christ's righteousness through Abraham's covenant.





When we have the same faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ that Abraham had, we are adopted as his descendants and become heirs of God's promise to him that he and his descendants would be made righteous.

Do you believe there is a connection between Colossians 2:15 and 1 Peter 3:19 ?? Is Colossians 2:15 alluding to 1 Peter 3:19 ?

I hear a lot of Christians saying that we live on a flat earth and nobody can go in or out the earth. Is the Bible clear on this subject?

.

Never got married and everyone else has. I feel like I’m missing out and there’s something wrong with me. It’s too late now because I’m too old and not that attractive anymore. Had tons of dates but never liked any of them. I liked those who didn’t like me. I keep praying for a husband and keep meeting losers. Now I’m too old to have kids. Did God send someone to me and I turned him away?

Who could host a Republican comedy show?

“People are heartbroken and angry, and the sense of powerlessness is really, really strong because our legislatures generally try to ignore this stuff, so we wanted to get in their faces today,” said Maryam Abolfazli, a volunteer with Awake TN.

Hundreds made their voices heard Thursday, from outside in the streets to inside the building.

“We shouldn’t have to come here to ask you to do what’s right to do your job,” Shaundealle Brooks said.

The large crowd inside the Capitol could be heard chanting, “Ban assault rifles.”

Outside the chamber doors, tense moments followed the rally. The outcry turned chaotic at times, especially as lawmakers came out of the chambers.

Capitol security had to clear a path for lawmakers, pushing through the crowd of protesters who demanded to be heard.


That's coming off the heels of this story

Hundreds of Kentucky students converged on the steps of the state Capitol Annex to protest the override. Many protesters moved inside once the legislature gaveled in, chanting and jeering loudly from the Capitol’s halls.

At first, Capitol security and Kentucky State Police struggled to remove the protesters from the gallery. After about half an hour, they resorted to using zip ties to apprehend the protesters and lead them out of the Capitol.

19 people were apprehended, each person was cited for criminal trespassing 3rd degree, and the Franklin County District Court allowed for them to be released on their own recognizance.



To be clear, I'm not trying say that these events are a perfect apples to apples comparison with the events of Jan 6th. However, I do feel that events like these (and in the CHAZ/CHOP --which to my knowledge, was treated very leniently) do exist on the same spectrum.

So, where on that spectrum of "normal protesting <-> barging into government buildings uninvited" does the line get drawn that takes an action from being a "slap on the wrist, you're free to go" to being "lengthy jail sentence"-worthy?

People can be a slave to sin. But before the civil war, we had what they call chattel when one person owned another. How could anyone ever think something like this should be legal? They talk about slavery in the Bible, but that had to do with debt and you could only hold a person for 7 years. Then you had to set them free. If it was a prisoner of war the Jubilee was every 50 years. So no matter what, slavery could not go from generation to generation the way it did in Southern or Rebel America.

Judge Thomas Parker cited constitutional protections of freedom of speech in issuing a temporary restraining order.

“If Tennessee wishes to exercise its police power in restricting speech it considers obscene, it must do so within the constraints and framework of the United States Constitution,” Parker wrote.

When I was 18 I lived out of a backpack. In the army, we live out of a duffel bag. We can only have what we can fit in the bag and carry with us. If it does not fit, or if we can not carry it on our backs, then we do not need it.

Should taxpayers pay for what people do not need? What do they need? The government seems to feel we have a poverty level and we need to live above that level to provide for our needs. Is that accurate?

The Hasidic say there is a lot we do not need. We may want to eat but if we are overweight then we do not need to eat. How much do we need to pay for a home? Musk seems to be wanting to determine that for us. He is building a small home and claims that is all he needs when he is on the job and working. Of course, he has rich friends that let him stay in their homes.

I really wonder. What do we need in life? Does a homeless person still have what they need?

Good morning all, please pray for me. I have been suffering from health problems. My health improved for a brief period of time. Now my condition is worse than every before. I have one foot in the wheelchair. My condition is self-inflicted albeit unintentionally. Now I suffer from anxiety as well as this medical condition.

For MONTHS I've prayed and prayed and prayed, no relief. I've read my Bible, no relief. I tithe, no relief. I haven't gone to church in a year. I was given a copy of Our Daily Bread, which I threw away. My family and 'friends' are indifferent towards my condition. Believe me, I've tried praying and reading. Yet I feel as if God does not want to hear me. It's as if he cuts me off halfway, as would a stern and indifferent father would do to their son.

I frequently hear of people passing away at work. I see men in wheelchairs. I see commercials advertising life insurance on TV. I'm currently searching for 'alternative' methods of relief.

Pray for me because I can no longer pray for myself. Thanks.

Well this is surprising given the influence of Rick Warren and the Saddleback church...

"Southern Baptist Convention Disfellowships Saddleback Church

One of the country’s biggest and best-known megachurches, Saddleback Church, is no longer a part of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) after bringing on a female teaching pastor last year.

Saddleback was among five churches with female pastors who were deemed “no longer in friendly cooperation” with the denomination at a meeting of the SBC Executive Committee in Nashville on Tuesday.

The Lake Forest, California, congregation ordained three women from the stage in May 2021, a decision that rattled some Southern Baptists who believe the role of pastor is reserved for men. Then last year, Saddleback selected Andy Wood as Rick Warren’s successor and the church’s lead pastor, and his wife Stacie Wood came on as a teaching pastor."... Southern Baptist Convention Disfellowships Saddleback Church

I personally think this is just another issue that divides Christians rather than unite, as we saw in the Adventist church with womans ordination, but then what is the answer.